Biola University

What you'll study

The curriculum combines core biblical and theological formation with practical ministry training and concentration-specific coursework. Core elements include:

• Biblical and Theological Foundations — foundational coursework to study and apply Scripture and to understand central Christian doctrines.
• Spiritual Formation Core (SFC) — a five-course sequence focused on life in the Spirit through practices such as prayer, retreats, small groups, spiritual direction and theology of spiritual growth (requirement varies for Messianic Jewish Studies and Spiritual Formation concentrations).
• Area of Specialization — the majority of credits are taken in a chosen concentration.
• Biblical Languages — required series in Hebrew and Greek; students may begin with either language.
• Electives — some concentrations include flexible elective credits to pursue particular interests.

Available concentrations are Evangelism and Discipleship; Messianic Jewish Studies (on-campus in New York and Los Angeles; hybrid); Missions and Intercultural Studies; Pastoral and General Ministries; Pastoral Care and Counseling; and Spiritual Formation. Delivery options vary by concentration.

Entry requirements

The course page does not list specific admissions criteria. Prospective applicants should consult the Talbot admissions office or the program’s admissions webpage for exact requirements, application procedures and any prerequisite expectations.

Career prospects

The MDiv is the flagship professional degree for those pursuing ordination and vocational ministry. Graduates commonly serve as pastors, youth ministers, church leaders or administrators, missionaries and intercultural workers, and in pastoral care roles such as biblical counseling, conflict resolution and grief ministry. The Spiritual Formation concentration equips students for roles in spiritual direction and soul care; alumni also serve in chaplaincy and educational positions at undergraduate and graduate levels.

Scholarships & funding angle

The program page does not provide specific scholarship listings. Students should explore Talbot and Biola financial aid options, institutional scholarships, denominational support, and vocational ministry grants to offset the program cost; the site lists cost per credit as $745 for budgeting purposes.