The Bachelor’s Degree in Theology and Philosophy is designed to prepare individuals for service in the local church, the academy, or the marketplace. A degree in Theology and Philosophy will nurture your interest in Christian doctrines and the big questions that shape human existence. Theology will come alive as students study deeply in community with classmates and learn from experts many areas of Christian thought.
Graduates will be equipped to serve in a variety of pastoral and educational roles, and will have an easy pathway provided to begin a master’s degree program. Graduates will be prepared for vocational ministry, further theological education, or other forms of Christian ministry.
Why Pursue My Bachelor’s in Theology and Philosophy at IWU?
This IWU undergraduate degree program emphasizes practical application, experience, and critical thinking skills. At IWU, Christian beliefs aren’t just ideas to be examined; they are the means by which we encounter God’s transformative spirit. Students don’t merely learn about the theology or philosophy, they encounter God in fresh ways through deep study of big ideas. Faculty in the School of Theology and Ministry love to connect with students and invest in their spiritual, academic, and personal growth. Students in any IWU theology major will encounter theology professors who care about them and are invested in their education and faith.
What will I Learn in this Bachelor’s in Theology and Philosophy Program?
Throughout this Theology and Philosophy bachelor’s degree program, students will participate in classes such as Doctrine of Holiness, Faith and Reason, Ethics and Values, Theology of Sex, Patristic Theology, and more. Additionally, this program is built on a foundation of spiritual formation, practical ministry, and biblical and theological studies to ensue all pastoral counselors have the proper spiritual as well as mental health support skills needed to succeed.
What Makes IWU Different?
IWU has provided on-campus education for more than 100 years.
Faith-integrated curriculum and a commitment to changing the world.
Center for Student Success for counseling, tutoring, and more!
Coursework for your theology and philosophy degree covers:
Admission to Professional Majors
Admission to the majors within the Division of Practical Theology may require a formal screening process separate from the initial declaration of intent. The process includes the successful completion of the prescribed courses designated by each major. Students need to have a GPA of 2.25 cumulative and 2.5 in the coursework required for the major. Students must also file application forms including a written essay and references. In some cases a personal interview with school faculty may also be required. Enrollment in some advanced courses in the division is restricted to those admitted to these majors. A student needs to start the application to the major process by the end of their sophomore year (60 credit hours) and after the successful completion of the designated courses in his or her respective majors. Delay on this process will prohibit students from enrolling in advanced courses in their professional major.
Continuation in Professional Majors
Students must maintain a cumulative 2.25 GPA and a 2.50 academic GPA in coursework required for the major. Failure to do so may necessitate repeating courses or withdrawal from the major. The School of Theology and Ministry faculty reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student who in its judgment fails to satisfy the standards of Christian character, moral integrity, and social fitness required for a professional minister.
Wesleyan Students
Students anticipating future service in The Wesleyan Church should include Wesleyan Church History/Discipline (REL-431) among their elective courses. The Christian Ministries and Pastoral Ministries majors are specifically designed to meet all the academic requirements for ordination in The Wesleyan Church. Any deviation from the course requirements should be approved in writing by both the Dean and the Executive Director of Education and Clergy Development for The Wesleyan Church. Students who are members of The Wesleyan Church should be in contact with their District Board of Ministerial Development (DBMD) prior to applying for admission to the professional majors.
Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org, 312-263-0456. Other accreditations and associations of Indiana Wesleyan University are available at www.indwes.edu/about/iwu-profile/accreditation.
