This Master’s Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies is designed for students seeking to continue their Christian education in preparation for ministry, further graduate study, or as a completement to another career path. This program includes onsite and online coursework and is built on the foundation of STM undergraduate programs.
Graduates will be equipped to serve in local churches, higher education, or Christian organizations, and will have an easy pathway provided to begin a doctorate program.
Why Pursue My Master’s in Biblical and Theological Studies at IWU?
This IWU master’s degree program emphasizes practical application and experience. Students in the undergraduate Pastoral Ministries (Kern) Program can complete their bachelor’s and master’s in four years instead of five to seven, with scholarships available. Graduates will have a network of friends and colleagues to lean on through the joys and challenges of ministry. 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 Master’s in Biblical and Theological Studies Program?
Throughout this Biblical and Theological Studies master’s degree program, students will participate in classes centered on the Bible, theology, church history, and other areas. Students will also choose two specializations—a combination of Biblical Theology, Christian Thought, Greek Bible, and Hebrew Bible. Additionally, this program is built on a foundation of spiritual formation, practical ministry, and biblical and theological studies to ensure all graduates have the 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!
The curriculum for the Master’s in Biblical and Theological Studies 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.
