The BWGI International Institute at
Columbia International University
WHAT PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED?
Two fully accredited online programs with a strong emphasis on spiritual life and discipleship.
M.A. Ministry Studies
Total credits (42)
Unlike traditional seminaries that focus primarily on academic knowledge, CIU and BWGI stand apart by using Competency-Based Theological Training (CBTE).
Graduates don’t just gain deep biblical knowledge — they emerge fully equipped with practical, ministry-ready skills and proven competencies to make a lasting impact in the world.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Earn Your Theological Degree at Your Own Pace
Take courses at your own pace and finish the program in as little as 2 years.
With 8-week-long courses, the program allows you to demonstrate mastery of biblical knowledge, leadership skills, and ministry competencies—without the constraints of a traditional semester schedule.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Not only can you complete the program in ½ the time, but pay a ¼ of the cost.
Exceptional Value & True Flexibility
For just $500 per month, you enjoy unlimited courses with a pay-as-you-go subscription that adapts perfectly to your schedule and pace.
This means you can earn your M.A. for as little as $8,000 or your M.Div. for approximately $14,000 — all without the burden of loans or financial aid. It’s an affordable, stress-free way to pursue the theological training God has placed on your heart.
Compared to well-known seminaries such as Dallas Theological Seminary, Gordon-Conwell, or Fuller, our program costs just one-third to one-quarter the price.
HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO OTHER PROGRAMS?
Not only can you complete the program in ½ the time, but pay a ¼ of the cost.
The Differences . . .
The full MA program is offered completely online, allowing you to study from anywhere without ever having to relocate or travel to South Carolina. This gives you the freedom to pursue your calling while staying rooted in your current life and ministry.
In contrast to other spiritual life and discipleship programs, BWGI has a large multicultural team — larger than most similar departments in schools throughout the world.
In contrast to traditional programs, CIU and BWGI use Competency-Based Theological Education. You’ll graduate with practical skills and experience in discipleship — not just information.
Since 1923, Columbia International University has been preparing students for ministry, leadership, and service worldwide. BWGI has a 29-year track record of changing lives around the world — including North America, Asia (especially China and India), and Australia.
Unlike many other schools, we follow a research-based educational approach in which all faculty members are trained to deliver effective teaching and improve student outcomes.
In contrast to traditional programs, CIU and BWGI use Competency-Based Theological Education. You’ll graduate with practical skills and experience in discipleship — not just information.
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CBS 5000 - Succeeding in Seminary Credits: 0
BIB 5132 - Introduction to New Testament 1 Credits: 3
BIB 5133 - Introduction to New Testament II Credits: 3
BIB 5410 - Hermeneutics Credits: 3
THE 6310 - Theology and Ethics 1 Credits: 3
THE 6320 - Theology and Ethics 2 Credits: 3
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Choose two courses from BIB, CHP, CNS, HIS, HOM, ICS, MIN or THE Credits: 6
INT 6110 - Foundations of Internships Credits: 0
INT 6217 - Focused Internship 1 Credits: 1.5
INT 6218 - Focused Internship 2 Credits: 1.5
MIN 6536 - Management Essentials for Christian Ministries Credits: 3
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HOM 6300 - Foundations of Biblical Preaching Credits: 3 or
MIN 6344 - Transformational Bible Teaching Credits: 3
M.Div. Ministry Studies
Course of Study (75)
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CBS 5000 - Succeeding in Seminary Credits: 0
BIB 5132 - Introduction to New Testament 1 Credits: 3
BIB 5133 - Introduction to New Testament II Credits: 3
BIB 5410 - Hermeneutics Credits: 3
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GRE 5110 - New Testament Greek I: Beginning Grammar Credits: 3
GRE 5111 - New Testament Greek II: Beginning Grammar Credits: 3
GRE 6210 - Greek III: New Testament Greek Exegesis Credits: 3
GRE 63xx - Greek IV: Exegetical Book Study - Credits: 3
or
HEB 5110 - Hebrew I: Beginning Grammar Credits: 3
HEB 5111 - Hebrew II: Beginning Grammar Credits: 3
HEB 6220 - Hebrew III: From Exegesis to Exposition Credits: 3
HEB 65xx - Hebrew IV: Exegetical Book Study - Credits: 3
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HIS 6221 - History of Global Christianity I Credits: 3
HIS 6231 - History of Global Christianity II Credits: 3
THE 6310 - Theology and Ethics 1 Credits: 3
THE 6320 - Theology and Ethics 2 Credits: 3
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HOM 6300 - Foundations of Biblical Preaching Credits: 3
MIN 6100 - Leadership and Ministry Skills Credits: 3
MIN 6344 - Transformational Bible Teaching Credits: 3
CNS 6404 - Short Term Counseling Credits: 3