Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion

Programme overview

The BA Biblical Literature and Languages trains students to relate Christian Scripture to life and vocation by combining spiritual formation, community-based learning, and study of original biblical languages. The program emphasises encountering Scripture as the living word of God, deep study in community, and mentoring from School of Theology and Ministry faculty. Students may add the Pastoral Ministries second major for additional professional preparation and access to specific scholarships and development opportunities. The program also offers an optional Summer in the Holy Land program (offered in odd years) that can provide up to 12 course credits toward the major.

What you'll study

• Core spiritual formation and practical ministry skills including inductive Bible study and systematic theology.
• Advanced Old Testament topics (examples cited include Pentateuch and Minor Prophets) and Advanced New Testament topics (examples cited include the Gospel of John and Paul’s Letters).
• Biblical languages coursework in Greek and Hebrew to support translation and textual interpretation.
• Geography, history, culture and language as applied to biblical exegesis and methods for teaching the Bible to others.
• Sample course codes referenced by the program: REL-200, CED-201, CED-202, CED-303, REL-350, REL-490, REL-270, BIL-202, THE-233, BIL-280, GRE-200, HBR-200, GRE-300, HBR-300, REL-382, CED-340.

Entry requirements

The published program page does not list specific entry criteria. Prospective students should consult Indiana Wesleyan University admissions for application steps and eligibility standards.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that draw on biblical expertise and language competency. The program lists potential careers including teaching pastor, discipleship pastor, Christian curriculum writer, Bible translation specialist, missionary, teacher in a Christian school, and college professor. The curriculum also supports entry into various industries and further graduate study.

Scholarships & funding angle

The Pastoral Ministries second major (Kern) provides access to scholarships and professional-development opportunities and can create a 3+2 pathway to a master-level practical theology credential. IWU’s School of Theology and Ministry highlights institutional support services and notes that students in some programs may access scholarships tied to specific program pathways; contact the university for exact scholarship options and eligibility.