The BWGI International Institute at
Columbia International University

Experiencing the
Transforming Life
of the Trinity

An accredited online MA in Ministry Studies for $500/month, at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

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Program Cost Timeline How It Works Accreditation Talk to Us

WHAT IS IT?

Christian Leaders Need an Experientially Rich, Competency-Based MA that focuses on Discipleship.

Unlike traditional seminaries that focus primarily on academic knowledge, CIU & BWGI stand apart by using Competency-Based Theological Training — so graduates emerge not just informed, but fully equipped.

MASTER of ARTS

Ministry Studies

36 CREDIT HOURS

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Seminary-Level Education At A Fraction of the Cost

$500

PER MONTH • PAY AS YOU GO

Complete your M.A. for as little as $8000.

No financial aid required. No hidden fees.
No relocation costs.

BWGI Courses are a one-time fee priced at $450.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

Earn Your Degree At Your Own Pace

ACCELERATED PATH

2 Years

Dedicated students who engage in 2 courses per term can complete the M.A. in as little as 2 years.

Unlock a Schedule Designed Around You

STANDARD PATH

3 Years

Balance ministry, family, and vocation while studying at a sustainable pace. No relocation required.

HOW IS THE PROGRAM DIFFERENT?

Built On What Actually Changes Lives.

At the heart of BWGI is a dedicated faculty and publishing arm focused on one central passion: introducing believers to the greatest love story in the universe — the eternal love shared among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
and the love they delight to share with us.

BWGI Grid with Parallax

Completely Online

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.

Rich History

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.

Competency Based Theological Education

CIU and BWGI use Competency-Based Theological Education — so you graduate with real discipleship skills, not just information. The CBTE program provides a streamlined, affordable approach to earning your degree while actively serving in your calling.

Multicultural Faculty

While most spiritual life and discipleship programs are shaped by a single cultural lens, BWGI has an internationally diverse faculty team.

Our online courses go far beyond borders. With an internationally varied student body, you won't just study about the global church — you'll learn alongside it.

Educationally Sound LMS

Unlike schools that simply digitize their classrooms, we apply evidence-based educational science at every level. Our faculty are trained in leading educational theories so every online interaction is purposeful, research-backed, and built to transform learners.

At the Heart of It All

The BWGI International Institute at Columbia International University exists to help believers experience and participate in the vibrant life of the Trinity. Discover refreshing, experientially rich courses designed to restore joy and depth to your walk with God — and find the life He has always intended for you.

WHAT COURSES ARE IN THE PROGRAM?

Course Program Details

- CBS 5000 - Succeeding in Seminary Credits: 0
BIBLE:
- BIB 5112 - Introduction to the Old Testament I Credits: 3
- BIB 5113 - Introduction to the Old Testament II Credits: 3
- BIB 5132 - Introduction to New Testament 1 Credits: 3
- BIB 5133 - Introduction to New Testament II Credits: 3
- BIB 5410 - Hermeneutics Credits: 3
THEOLOGY:
- ICS 6024 - Understanding Cultures & Worldviews Credits: 3
- MIN 5300 - Foundations of Spiritual Formation Credits: 3
- THE 6310 - Theology and Ethics 1 Credits: 3
- THE 6320 - Theology and Ethics 2 Credits: 3
- 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
MIN 6344 - Transformational Bible Teaching Credits: 3

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Your Path to the M.A. Christian Ministries
Six simple steps to your MA

HOW CREDIBLE IS THE DEGREE?

Regionally accredited. Globally respected.

Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

SACSCOC
Assoc. for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation

ABHE
The Association of Theological Schools - The Commission on Accrediting

ATS

Your M.A. in Ministry & Discipleship Starts With One Conversation.

Fully online. Accredited. As little as $8,000. Let's talk.

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The BWGI International Institute atColumbia International University

Experiencing theTransforming Life of the Trinity