Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

What you'll study

The curriculum moves beyond introductory ministry courses to advanced theological and ministerial formation. Emphases include spiritual formation, advanced biblical studies, Christology, special topics in Old and New Testament, and church leadership—with an intentional focus on multi-ethnic ministry and contextualizing the gospel.

• Representative course codes: BIL-530, CONG-545, LEAD-549, PCRE-560, REL-539, SPIR-510, THE-535, CHST-563, WSHP-565
• BIBL-580, BIBL-588 (or HBR-523), BIBL-590 (or GRE-523), CHST-587, MISS-585, PROC-589
• Advanced formation and practicum courses: SPIR-512, SPIR-514, THEO-581, THEO-590, WSEM-550, WSEM-555
• Higher-level and residency-related courses: SPIR-620, SPIR-622, SPIR-624, CONG-630, CONG-635, LEAD-680, MISS-650, PCRE-670, WSHP-665

Entry requirements

• Baccalaureate from an institution accredited by an ICETE member or by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
• Baccalaureate conferred no more than five years prior to admission.
• Undergraduate degree must meet educational standards for ordination for The Wesleyan Church or the Church of the Nazarene; applicants who do not meet these standards may petition the program director.
• Minimum cumulative GPA 2.75 overall and 3.0 in the discipline of ministry.
• Official transcript required.
• Two recommendations: one from a pastor or denominational supervisor and one from an undergraduate ministerial professor.
• A three- to four-page autobiography and statement of ministry purpose describing God’s direction for the applicant’s ministry or service.
• A criminal history background check is required if a felony is disclosed on the application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for pastoral leadership, staff roles in local churches, and service in Christian organizations. The programme’s residency component and leadership courses aim to equip students to lead congregational ministry, mentor others, and serve in multi-ethnic and diverse ministry contexts.

Scholarships & funding angle

The program highlights affordability: scholarships are offered and are noted to increase in the second year alongside reduced tuition rates. Financial aid options include grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and potential employer reimbursement. The program is 75 credit hours in total; specific tuition charges and estimated cost of attendance are available through the institution’s financial aid resources.