Talbot School of Theology

Mission

The mission of Talbot School of Theology is the development of disciples of Jesus Christ whose thought processes, character and lifestyles reflect those of our Lord, and who are dedicated to disciple making throughout the world. Both the nature and the purpose of Talbot School of Theology are elaborated more specifically in the following paragraphs and further expanded at various places throughout the catalog as noted under each heading.

Theologically

The theological position of Talbot School of Theology is Christian, protestant, and theologically conservative. The school is interdenominational by nature and is thoroughly committed to the proclamation of the great historic doctrines of the Christian church. It definitely and positively affirms historic orthodoxy in the framework of an evangelical and premillennial theology that is derived from a grammatico-historical interpretation of the Bible. It earnestly endeavors to make these great doctrinal truths a vital reality in the spiritual life of this present generation. The seminary aims to train students who believe and propagate the great doctrines of the faith as they are summarized in our Statement of Doctrine and Explanatory Notes.

Spiritually

It is the purpose of Talbot to develop in the lives of its students a spiritual life that is in harmony with the great doctrines taught, so that they may grow in the grace as well as in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Specifically, the goal is to educate and graduate students characterized by commitment to serving Christ, missionary and evangelistic zeal and a solid knowledge of the Scriptures. To accomplish these objectives, the seminary conducts a chapel program and gives attention to its students' ministry/service opportunities.

Academically

It is the purpose of the seminary to provide its students with the best in theological education so they may be equipped to preach and teach the Word of God intelligently and present it zealously to the world. In keeping with this goal, every department is geared to emphasize the clear and accurate exposition of the Scriptures. The biblical languages are utilized to expose the inner meaning of the inspired text. Bible exposition, whether by synthesis or analysis, presents a connected and related interpretation of the infallible Book. Systematic theology moves toward a well-organized and structured arrangement of biblical truth. Historical theology engages itself to acquaint the student with the progress of the inerrant Word among the household of faith throughout the Christian era. Philosophy furnishes the elements whereby the servant of Christ may give a well-developed reason for the faith that is within. Missions, Christian ministry and leadership, and Christian education strive to perfect in the student a skillful and winsome presentation of the truth, privately and publicly. Talbot stands for one faith, one integrated curriculum, one eternal Word of God and its effective proclamation to this generation with its multiplicity of needs.

Practically

It is the purpose of the seminary to prepare for the gospel ministry those who believe, live and preach the great historic doctrines of faith that have been committed to the church. To realize these broad objectives, the seminary offers nine degree programs, each with its own distinctive purpose.

Talbot's Spiritual Formation Core

Mission

The mission of the Spiritual Formation Core at Talbot School of Theology and the Institute for Spiritual Formation centers on students more deeply understanding and participating in life in Christ and cooperating with the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, whose purpose is to form persons into the image of Christ through union with the Triune God. A major objective is opening the heart in truth to the New Covenant work of Christ and the ministry of the Spirit in sanctification. The resulting change of character or fruit of the Spirit is accomplished through cooperation with the Indwelling Spirit and not by means of human efforts alone.

Purpose

The purpose of Talbot's Spiritual Formation Core is to:

  1. Train students in a basic knowledge of Spiritual Theology (the integrative study of Scripture and the ministry of the indwelling Holy Spirit regarding the nature, process and directives of spiritual transformation in Christ),
  2. Encourage students to exhibit and integrate the Double Knowledge of God and one's self through application in their own process of spiritual transformation, and
  3. Practice relational and caring skills focused on developing communities of growth in the body of Christ.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of Talbot's Spiritual Formation Core, graduates will be able to:

  1. Explain the basic elements of Spiritual Theology, namely, the nature, process, and practices of spiritual growth (ULO 1).
  2. Demonstrate how knowledge of self integrates with knowledge of God in one's own life (ULO 2).
  3. Demonstrate relational skills that develop community (ULO 3).
  4. Articulate how the biblical teaching on vocation shapes one's own understanding of vocation and gainful employment (ULO 1, 2, 3).

Each Program Learning Outcome (PLO) listed above references at least one of the University Learning Outcomes (ULO 1, 2, 3), which may be found in the General Information section of this catalog.

Courses

Students are required to take three main courses in the Spiritual Formation Core at Talbot (TTSF 501, TTSF 503 and TTSF 504). These courses will be completed sequentially during three semesters, beginning with the first semester at Talbot. Two semesters of individual Spiritual Direction/mentoring (TTSF 505, TTSF 506) are also required. The three main courses required in Talbot's Spiritual Formation Core (TTSF 501, TTSF 503 and TTSF 504) are taken in sequence to provide continuity in understanding the process of sanctification and for the development of community in cohort groups. Cohort groups of approximately twelve students will be formed in TTSF 501 and will remain together throughout the completion of the three courses in the Spiritual Formation Core.

Spiritual Retreats

Students are required to take three retreats of varying length and content for the purpose of spiritual growth. The first retreat is completed in the first semester in TTSF 501, which focuses upon opening the heart in truth in one's relationship with Christ and developing Christ-centered community. The second retreat is completed in the second semester in TTSF 503 for the purpose of exploring our human relationships in the body of Christ. The third retreat is taken in the third semester in TTSF 504, which focuses upon one's vocation in relation to the various calls of God in one's life, particularly one's personal call to ministry.

Baccalaureate Celebration

Upon completion of a student's Talbot degree program, there will be a celebration, commissioning and thanksgiving service. This evening service, attended by spouses, family members, mentors, and faculty, will focus on accomplishment, spiritual growth, thanksgiving, hooding, commissioning into ministry and acknowledgment of the people who encouraged and supported the student throughout the Talbot journey.

Men and Women at Talbot School of Theology

Women and men are created in the image of God (Gen. 1:27) and called to mutual submission (Eph. 5:21). This calling of two differently endowed equals to serve the other in oneness is the source of Scripture’s compelling and beautiful vision for human life. Talbot is committed to promoting this vision. 

Talbot sees flourishing human life as a divinely ordained means to reflect God in the world. Gender is intended to facilitate our flourishing, especially through our relationships with one another. It is a unique gift offered for the benefit of the other.

Talbot also affirms the unique ways each gender realizes its submission and deference for the sake of the other. In the New Covenant, both women and men are called to build up the body of Christ through the fruit and gifts of the Spirit. Talbot believes that Scripture teaches that God has called men to Christlike headship in the family and oversight as elders in the church. The sacrificial, God-oriented, and others-centered nature of this responsibility absolutely precludes domination, authoritarianism, and any other form of leadership that is contrary to the example of Christ. The family of God is called to mutual respect, interdependence, and love, reflecting a community in which all members are empowered by the Spirit to grow in Christlike character. 

Talbot offers its quality theological education to both men and women and supports the full participation of men and women in all ranks of administration, faculty, admissions, degree programs, student recruitment, and other aspects of university life, including speaking in chapels and university public events. As an educational institution, Talbot does not have authority for the ordination of anyone seeking vocational Christian ministry but recognizes this as the appropriate function of church bodies. At Talbot, we joyfully train men and women students for the callings affirmed by their churches.

As a university, Biola welcomes a range of theological perspectives on the roles of men and women that are consistent with the University’s Articles of Faith and Statement of Biblical Principles. As such, this particular statement is unique to Talbot among the schools of the university.

Talbot Women

The Talbot Women group (married/single Talbot students and wives of Talbot students) provides an opportunity for women to deepen their relationships with God, establish meaningful friendships with other women, grow together, pray together, and become equipped to serve our Lord and the church more effectively. Talbot Women meets each Tuesday evening during the Spring and Fall semesters. These meetings include a special speaker, a short discussion time, and an extended time of prayer in groups led by Talbot faculty wives. Each semester there is a different theme which ranges from practical ministry skills to the exploration of scripture and spiritual truths.

Spouse Tuition Reduction Scholarship

The "Spouse Tuition Reduction Scholarship" allows spouses of full-time students to take masters level seminary courses for academic credit at one-third of the standard tuition rate.

Chapel

The purpose of chapel is to provide opportunities for worship, instruction and exposure to current issues, ministries, missions and gifted individuals. Chapel is an important part of a student's educational experience, contributing significantly to individual spiritual formation and the unity of the seminary community.

Chapel services are conducted each Tuesday in the Calvary Chapel auditorium. Additional special chapels are held as announced. Joint University-wide chapel services are held several times a year. Students are required to attend Tuesday chapel services if they have classes either immediately before or after the chapel hour. This requirement also applies to the Thursday of the Lyman Stewart Lectures (Fall) and the Robert Saucy Lectures (Spring). Participation in the chapel services of the university community are also highly encouraged.

Lecture Series

Special lectures to supplement and enhance the seminary experience are held twice a year during the Tuesday/Thursday chapel hours. Lecture series are:

  • Lyman Stewart Lectures (Fall)
  • Robert L. Saucy Lectures (Spring)

Student Christian Service

The seminary recognizes the necessity of active service in Christian work while students are pursuing their courses of study. From the time of enrollment students are asked to engage in some type of approved weekly ministry. The high population density of Southern California creates extensive service opportunities of many types.

Field Education (Field Apprenticeship)

Field education, or field apprenticeship, is that part of the student's academic program in which there is active participation in a supervised experience within a church or parachurch setting. A full-time M.Div. student should register for field apprenticeship about once a year. A part-time M.Div. student should register for field apprenticeship once within every 18 credits completed. Certain M.A. programs may require field apprenticeship, as well. Details can be found in the particular M.A. curriculum charts.

After completing field apprenticeship courses TTPT 591, TTPT 592, and TTPT 691, M.Div. students become eligible to register for Field Apprenticeship IV (TTPT 791). This final course is more intensive and supervised, and includes: 

  1. Supervision by three (3) mentors each semester during their Field Apprenticeship courses to guide, counsel, and encourage them in their ministry experience.
  2. Seminars with other students registered for field apprenticeship.
  3. Mentoring from professors or ministry leaders on specific aspects of the student's experience.

The Biola Campus

The seminary has classroom, chapel and administrative office facilities located in Myers Hall, Feinberg Hall, the Grove, and Talbot East. Metzger Hall houses University administrative offices including the Admissions and Registrar's Offices.

In addition, the seminary shares the library, cafeteria, coffee shop, residences, gymnasium, health center and prayer chapel with Biola University. Also available are an all-weather jogging track, a soccer field, a baseball diamond, tennis courts and a short course Olympic swimming pool. See the General Information section for a full campus description.

Accreditation

Talbot is included within Biola University’s accreditation by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Talbot is also a member of the Association of Theological Schools, the internationally recognized accrediting body of seminaries and schools of divinity in the United States and Canada.

Talbot is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.

1. The following degree programs are approved:

  • Master of Divinity with specializations in:
    • Pastoral and General Ministries
    • Evangelism and Discipleship
    • Messianic Jewish Studies (New York, NY)
    • Missions and Intercultural Studies
    • Pastoral Care and Counseling
    • Spiritual Formation 
  • Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care
  • Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and Leadership
  • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Master of Arts with specializations in:
    • Bible Exposition
    • Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasian Context (Kyiv, Ukraine)
    • New Testament
    • Old Testament
    • Philosophy
    • Spiritual Formation
    • Theology
  • Master of Arts – Christian Apologetics
  • Master of Arts – Science and Religion
  • Master of Arts – Classical Theology
  • Doctor of Ministry
  • Doctor of Education in Educational Studies
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies

2. The following extension sites are approved as specified:

  • Kyiv, Ukraine – Approved Degrees: M.A., Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasian Context specialization
  • New York, NY – Approved Degrees: M.Div., Messianic Jewish Studies specialization

3. Talbot School of Theology is approved to offer comprehensive distance education.

Recognition

Talbot is recognized by the following agencies of the United States or California government:

  1. The United States Department of Health Education and Welfare, Office of Education.
  2. The Chaplaincy Branches of the Army, Navy and Air Force.
    1. Full-time seminary students are eligible to apply for commissions as second lieutenants or ensigns in the chaplaincy branches of the Army, Air Force or Navy, with eight weeks of active duty training optional during the summer vacation. 
    2. A course in chaplaincy orientation is offered by the department of Christian Ministry and Leadership.
  3. The Veterans Administration.
  4. The United States Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  5. The MFT program has been evaluated by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This program meets the MFT licensure requirements, pursuant to California Business and Professions Code (BPC) §4980.36, for students who began graduate studies on or after August 1, 2012.

Support Services

Employment

Students interested in on-campus employment can look for job openings using Handshake. Further questions should be directed to the University student employment office (Metzger Hall, upper level). 

Students may also secure off-campus employment in a wide variety of occupations. Local offices of the State of California Department of Employment can be very helpful in the location of these job openings.

Campus Dining

Biola proudly operates seven dining facilities, each with a chef-curated menu. Whether you want to sit-down for a made-from-scratch meal, grab a quick bite between classes, or re-fuel with coffee, there's a conveniently located café ready to serve you. All dining locations accept cash or credit card, but as a Biola Student, you are eligible for discounts every time you dine if you pay with your Biola ID card. When you use the Student Dollar tender on your ID card, you'll receive 10% off each dining purchase. Student Dollars are also accepted tender at other frequently-used locations including the Biola Store and public-use printers & copiers throughout campus.

Graduate Students planning to dine on campus regularly should consider one of our popular voluntary meal plans. Meal plans come with a pre-determined amount of meals in the main dining facility plus dining flex dollars that can be used at any of the eight campus eateries at your discretion.

For more information go to biola.edu/dining-services. Dining Services can be reached by e-mail at dining.services@biola.edu or by phone at 562-903-4872.

Single Graduate Student Housing

Biola provides two types of housing for full-time single graduate students.

Furnished housing is provided in houses owned by the University, and in apartment units leased by Biola from local complexes within walking distance of campus. These houses and two-bedroom apartments are furnished with major kitchen appliances (refrigerator and stove/oven), residence-hall style bedroom furniture, couch and dinette set. Residents pay a per person monthly rate based on the number of occupants per bedroom. The rate includes utilities except for telephone or internet service. No pets are allowed in Graduate Student Housing.

Married Housing

Biola University owns three apartment complexes with one and two-bedroom apartments for married graduate couples. The apartments are located on Rosecrans Avenue, within walking distance of campus. These apartments are unfurnished; stove/ovens and refrigerators are provided. Rent is paid monthly; residents arrange and pay for their own utilities, internet, and telephone service. For married couples to qualify, at least one spouse must be enrolled full time in a Biola University graduate program. No pets allowed in Married Housing.

For information, or to apply for Graduate/Married housing, contact:

Auxiliary Services
Student Services Building
13800 Biola Avenue
La Mirada, CA 90639-0001
Tel: (562) 944-0351 ext. 5814
E-mail: grad.housing@biola.edu

Admission Requirements

Correspondence concerning admission should be addressed to the Office of Graduate Admissions, which will supply the proper forms. When these application forms and all transcripts of previous academic training have been filed, accompanied by the application fee, an admissions decision will be made. Official notification will be sent by mail to the applicant. The application deadline for the Fall is July 1 and for the Spring is November 1. Applications may be submitted after these deadlines, but will be considered only if space is available and time allows. Late applications may be postponed to later terms.

Talbot School of Theology desires only qualified students and personnel who are committed to Jesus Christ. However, in the admission of students, the hiring of employees or the operation of any of its programs and activities, Talbot does not discriminate on the basis of the applicant's race, color, sex, handicap or national or ethnic origin.

Entrance requirements for each program are listed on the page describing that program under the heading, Admission Requirements.

Official documents presented for admission or evaluation become part of the student's academic file and normally cannot be returned or copied for distribution.

Admission of International Students

To succeed academically, students for whom English is not a primary language must show proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding academic English. Biola’s general language requirement for graduate programs is: TOEFL (iBT) 90+ (subscores 22+) and IELTS 7.

For more details on how, when, and where to take language tests, visit online:

Language tests are administered only at specific times, so candidates for admission should inquire about testing dates well in advance of the date of anticipated school term in the US.

Language Requirements for Specific Programs

TALBOT D.MIN, ED.D, PH.D. (SEE INDIVIDUAL DOCTORAL PROGRAMS FOR DETAILS), M.DIV. AND M.A. SPIRITUAL FORMATION AND SOUL CARE, AND M.DIV. CHARLES FEINBERG CENTER: MESSIANIC JEWISH STUDIES CONCENTRATION
  • TOEFL: 100 iBT or IELTS 7.5

For students who do not meet minimal TOEFL/IELTS requirements: Biola’s English Language (EL) program provides English language-only courses that can prepare students for Talbot’s graduate programs. Please refer to the Admission of English Language Learners section of the catalog for more information.

Arranged Courses

Arranged Courses are required courses or electives listed in the Catalog, but in which a student is unable to enroll due to a scheduling conflict. Arrangements may be made with a faculty member who agrees to guide the student in studying course content and fulfilling requirements individually apart from the scheduled class meeting. An Arranged Course form is used for adding this type of course to a student's schedule and is obtainable in the Office of the Registrar.

Independent Studies

Independent Studies are an integral part of the Biola University experience. An Independent Study is a course which does not appear in the Catalog, is initiated by the student, and the student then works independently toward the goals and objectives outlined by the professor on an Arranged Course form. Students who are in good standing and not on probation are eligible to enroll in an Independent Study.

A maximum of 6 credits may be taken by a student in independent study and/or arranged coursework during the student's degree program.

Theological Studies Digital Courses

These digital courses offer lectures in an MP3 format by outstanding biblical scholars. They are available as electives or prerequisites for degree-seeking Talbot students. Students desiring to purchase these courses for non-credit, personal use may contact the office of the Dean of Faculty. Students who experience irresolvable scheduling problems previous to graduation may use them to meet their requirements. They may not normally be used in lieu of required courses. The use of Theological Studies Digital Courses is limited as follows:

Elective Credits or Irresolvable Scheduling Problem

Master of Divinity 6 credits
Master of Arts 6 credits
Master of Arts in Christian Education Accelerated 2 credits
Certificate Programs 2 credits

Courses include a syllabus in a PDF format which provides a broad outline of the lectures, review questions and a bibliography. Requirements for credit include textbook assignments, collateral reading, research papers and examinations, all of which are outlined in a programmed syllabus.

Regular tuition fees are charged for each course regardless of the number of credits for which a student is already enrolled and include costs of the MP3 files and programmed syllabus. Students who desire graduate credit for Theological Studies Digital courses must meet the normal requirements for admission to Talbot and register for the courses through my.Account after a signature has been granted by the Dean of Faculty Office.

Note: A maximum of 10 credits may be taken by a student in a combination of independent study, arranged courses, and Theological Studies Digital Courses to be counted toward a student's program.

Thesis

A student who is writing a thesis must register in a thesis class each semester until the thesis is completed. (This requirement does not apply to the Master or Arts Theology specialization or to the Master of Arts — Classical Theology.)

Transfer of Credits

For a student who earned a master's degree at a previous accredited school or approved non-accredited school1, up to 50% of the credits of coursework with similar content may be shared and transferred toward another Master of Arts or Master of Divinity Talbot degree. For a student who did not complete a master's level degree at the previous school, all appropriate comparable course credits may be transferred (or fulfilled through Advanced Standing); however, a minimum of 24 credits of the Master of Arts or Master of Divinity degree requirement must be completed at Talbot. Up to 50% of a Talbot master’s degree may be satisfied by coursework transferred to Talbot (at least 50% of Talbot’s master's degree requirements must be taken at Talbot). All transferred coursework must be appropriate for the degree.

Transfer credit for acceptable work done in other graduate schools will be allowed for courses which are parallel to those required in the curriculum. Applicants who submit applications received by the application deadline will be provided with transfer credit decisions at the point of acceptance. Transfer credit for late applications will be accomplished during the first semester of study. Graduate courses with grades of C or above (a C- is not transferable) at accredited institutions or approved non-accredited institutions1 are accepted for transfer. 

1

A list of approved non-accredited institutions is available upon request from the Graduate Admissions office. In some cases, students from approved non-accredited schools may need to submit evidence of prior learning. For students who wish to receive advanced standing or transfer credit from a non-accredited institution that is not approved by Talbot, a review of prior learning will be required. Advanced standing or transfer of credit in these conditions is only granted upon faculty review and approval of demonstrated achievement of the relevant course learning outcomes.

Multiple Degrees

The programs in Talbot School of Theology are accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). ATS requires that shared credits between degrees may not exceed two-thirds of the degree receiving those credits. Additional master’s degrees from Talbot require a minimum of 18 unique credits (i.e., the higher credit program plus 18 credits).

Advanced Standing

Advanced Standing is available for Master's level degree programs. Advanced standing should be processed and granted no later than the conclusion of the first semester in order to confirm transfer credit and remaining degree requirements.

Advanced Standing for Professional Master's Degrees

(Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and Leadership, and Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care).

Accepted/admitted applicants who have taken undergraduate courses in biblical or theological studies (or psychology for the Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care) may request to earn Advanced Standing credit through prior learning assessment (PLA) based on their collegiate work. The collegiate work must have been completed at an accredited or approved non-accredited institution.1 Granting advanced standing credit requires faculty approval based on competency of course learning outcomes as evidenced through a PLA portfolio or challenge exam. 

Proof of competency in the subject area or evidence of how the course content has been used since taking the course is required. An evaluation will be made by the faculty and credits processed through the Office of the Registrar. To be considered, the student must have earned at least a B grade in the coursework being evaluated.

The maximum number of credits that may be received as advanced standing are as follows:

  • Master of Divinity: 24 credits
  • Christian Ministry and Leadership: 15 credits
  • Christian Ministry and Leadership in Pastoral Care and Counseling: 15 credits
  • Christian Ministry and Leadership in Preaching and Pastoral Ministry: 18 credits
  • Spiritual Formation and Soul Care: 12 credits
1

A list of approved non-accredited institutions is available upon request from the Graduate Admissions office. In some cases, students from approved non-accredited schools may need to submit evidence of prior learning. For students who wish to receive advanced standing or transfer credit from a non-accredited institution that is not approved by Talbot, a review of prior learning will be required. Advanced standing or transfer of credit in these conditions is only granted upon faculty review and approval of demonstrated achievement of the relevant course learning outcomes.

Advanced Standing for Academic Master's Degrees

Eligible students coming from accredited Bible colleges, Christian liberal arts colleges, or approved non-accredited institutions1 may request exemption from certain required courses. Normally, advanced standing requires two undergraduate courses, in the same discipline, to reduce one graduate course (6 credits undergraduate work for 3 credits of graduate work) for a limited amount of graduate credit. To qualify for advanced standing, the student must have earned a B grade in eligible coursework and provide evidence of competency of course learning outcomes through PLA portfolio or challenge exam. Once the student has been accepted into the degree program, an evaluation, following guidelines established by the faculty, will be made by the Office of the Registrar.

Depending on undergraduate coursework as it relates to the program specialization, the maximum number of credits that may be awarded as advanced standing are as follows:

  • M.A. Specializations: Bible Exposition, Old Testament, New Testament, Theology, Philosophy and Spiritual Formation: 15 credits
  • M.A. Apologetics: 12 credits (This is a 39 credit hour degree.)
  • M.A. Science and Religion: 12 credits (This is a 39 credit hour degree.)
1

A list of approved non-accredited institutions is available upon request from the Graduate Admissions office. In some cases, students from approved non-accredited schools may need to submit evidence of prior learning. For students who wish to receive advanced standing or transfer credit from a non-accredited institution that is not approved by Talbot, a review of prior learning will be required. Advanced standing or transfer of credit in these conditions is only granted upon faculty review and approval of demonstrated achievement of the relevant course learning outcomes.

Advanced Standing for Accelerated Master's Degrees

(Master of Divinity, Master of Arts Specializations: Bible Exposition, Biblical and Pastoral Ministry, Ministry and Leadership, New Testament, Old Testament, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Philosophy, Theology)

Advanced Standing will be given to those students who earn a B or better in Biola’s undergraduate courses, per the chart below. Biola has determined that a grade of B or better in undergraduate coursework is equivalent to that required by the graduate program. We have made this determination based on an extensive analysis of the differences between the undergraduate and graduate courses by the director of the Accelerated Masters Programs in the 2021-22 school year. As a result of this analysis, we have used graduate level papers and rubrics in these undergraduate courses in order to show equivalency. Because we have used appropriate means of assessment that students have the knowledge, competence, and/or skills that would normally be provided by the graduate level courses, we have determined that they may receive advanced standing with a grade of B or better. 

Torrey Honors students will receive advanced standing for doing the Torrey Honors Program per the chart below, upon completion of the entire Torrey program. Torrey students will show graduate equivalency for OT/NT Survey through taking Biola’s undergraduate OT/NT Challenge exams.

Advanced Standing Courses

Biola BBST & CEED Undergraduate Courses Corresponding Talbot Graduate Course(s) Applies to which Biola Undergraduates Graduate Credits Reduced
BBST 312 & upper-division BBST course (6 cr) TTBE 517 Hermeneutics All Biola Bible majors 3
BBST 165, 251, 354, and 413 or 414 (12 cr) TTTH 521 & TTTH 522 Theology I & II All Biola Bible majors 6
BBST 165, 251, and 354 (9 cr) TTTH 522 Theology II Most Biola students 3
BBST 321 & BBST 300/400 (6 cr) TTHT 514 Historical Theology All Biola Bible majors 3
BBST 450 Apologetics & BBST 300/400 (6 cr) TTPH 602 Apologetics Some Biola Bible majors 3
BLGR 101 & BLGR 102 Elem Greek Grammar I & II (6 cr) TTNT 501 & TTNT 502 Greek I & II Most Biola Bible majors 6
BLHE 101 & BLHE 102 Elem Hebrew Grammar I & II (6 cr) TTOT 603 & TTOT 604 Hebrew I & II Some Biola Bible majors 6
BLGR 201 & BLGR 202 Greek Exegesis I & II (6 cr) TTNT 503 Intro to Greek Exegesis Most Biola Bible majors 3
BLHE 201 Hebrew Exegesis I (3 cr) TTOT 703 Intro to Hebrew Exegesis Some Biola Bible majors 3
CEED 242 & CEED 330 (6 cr) TTPT 609 Expository Preaching CM and BT concentration 3
CEED 255 & CEED 313 (6 cr) TTPT 510 Evangelism & Disciple-making Strategies CM concentration 3
CEED 312 & CEED 300/400 (6 cr) TTPT 602 Pastoral Ministry CM concentration 3
CEED 326 & CEED 300/400 (6 cr) TTPT 707 Foundations of PCC CM concentration 2
Other
BBST 209, grade of C or higher Meets OT Survey prerequisite (most Talbot degrees) Most Biola students 0
BBST 209, grade of B or higher & upper-division OT elective TTBE 519 (for MA SF, MA SFSC) Most Biola students 3
BBST 210, grade of C or higher Meets NT Survey prerequisite (most Talbot degrees) Most Biola students 0
BBST 210, grade of B or higher & upper-division NT elective TTBE 520 (for MA SF, MA SFSC) Most Biola students 3
General Bible requirements (per 3 cr) General electives (e.g., TTOT, NT, BE, graduate general elective credits taken in other schools within Biola University)1 Most Biola students 1.5
Upper-division BBST electives (per 3 cr) General electives (e.g., TTOT, NT, BE, graduate general elective credits taken in other schools within Biola University)1 Biola Bible majors 2
Torrey Honors Students
Torrey program & BBST 312 TTBE 517 Hermeneutics Torrey Bible majors 3
Torrey program TTTH 522 Theology II Torrey students 3
Torrey program & BBST 413 or 414 TTTH 521 & TTTH 522 Theology I & II Torrey Bible majors 6
Torrey program TTHT 505 Patristic & Medieval Theo Torrey students 3
Torrey program & NT Challenge Exam Must take and pass with a 70% or better Biola’s NT Challenge exam to meet the NT Survey MA requirement Torrey students 3
Torrey program & OT Challenge Exam Must take and pass with a 70% or better Biola’s OT Challenge exam to meet the OT Survey MA requirement Torrey students 3
1

Elective credits to be granted are calculated last, after granting other advanced standing credits, because several Talbot degrees have no electives and students may maximize advanced standing credit limits with other courses first.

Biblical Languages Qualifying Examinations

Upon request, students may take qualifying examinations to test out of beginning biblical language courses. For details, see the “Requirements” tab for programs requiring Greek and/or Hebrew.

Course Prefixes

Course prefixes indicate:

CSAP Christian Apologetics
CSSR Science and Religion
ISAL Applied Linguistics
ISAN Anthropology
ISCL Intercultural Studies
TTBE Bible Exposition
TTCT Classical Theology
TTDE Doctor of Education
TTFT Marriage and Family Therapy
TTHE Thesis
TTHT Theology: Historical
TTMN Doctor of Ministry
TTNT New Testament Language and Literature
TTOT Old Testament and Semitics
TTPH Philosophy
TTPM Theology: Philosophical and Moral
TTPT Christian Ministry and Leadership
TTRL Research Languages
TTSF Spiritual Formation
TTSS Research and Writing: Special Studies
TTTH Theology: Systematic
TTTS Theological Studies Digital Courses

Graduation Information

Graduation Check

Graduate students must make an appointment with a graduate academic records and degree specialist in the Office of the Registrar to declare their intent to graduate. This should be done one year prior to graduation. Students declaring this intention late will be charged a late graduate graduation check fee of $100. This graduation check will be considered late after the last day of the Add period during the semester of a student's intended graduation.

Doctoral students must meet with their department advisor prior to contacting a graduate academic records and degree specialist.

Graduation with Honors

Those graduating with a grade point average of 3.50 or higher are elected to membership in Kappa Tau Epsilon, the Talbot scholastic honor society. This honor is noted on the permanent record card.

For graduation honors, students completing their program with a 3.50 GPA are graduated with Honors. Students with a 3.70 GPA are graduated with High Honors. Students with a 3.90 GPA are graduated with Highest Honors. GPA standards for honors must be met with no rounding of numbers.

Talbot Graduate Student Awards

The awards that follow are presented annually to qualified students on the basis of the criteria indicated:

  • The Alumni Award – Given by Alumni Relations to a continuing student who has demonstrated excellence and commitment in their seminary studies.
  • The Aquila Scholarship – Prestigious full-tuition award given to Talbot students who have been nominated by faculty for their Christian character, ministry, and scholarship.
  • The Bill Bynum Memorial Scholarship Award – To a Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Education in Educational Studies student who does exemplary work in the study and practice of Christian Education.
  • The David Charles Dunn Memorial Scholarship – To a student who, in God's strength, has overcome challenges to enroll in Talbot School of Theology.
  • The Dean's Award – Given by the Korean Student Scholarship to a student or students who have shown excellence in academic studies, faithfulness in Christian service, and in whose life the love of Jesus is reflected.
  • James L. Stamps Award – Award given to Talbot students who have been nominated by faculty for their Christian character, ministry, and scholarship.
  • The Robin Finley Memorial Award in Missions – To a continuing graduate student preparing to serve on the mission field.
  • Talbot Academic Excellence Award – Given to a continuing student who is strong academically, is deeply committed to learning and with career goals that include full-time ministry.
  • Talbot Memorial Scholarship Award – Given to a continuing M.Div. student preparing for the ministry who has demonstrated academic excellence, exceptional Christian commitment, and zeal for practical ministry.
  • The William W. Bass Memorial Scholarship Award – To a second or third-year student who has demonstrated a keen interest in Philosophy of Religion and/or Theology.

Dean

Ed Stetzer, Ph.D.

Dean of the Faculty

Scott B. Rae, Ph.D.

Dean of Academic Programs

Douglas S. Huffman, Ph.D.

Associate Deans

Douglas W. Geringer, Th.M., Douglas S. Huffman, Ph.D., Joanne J. Jung, Ph.D.

Distinguished Professors

Moreland

Professors

Anizor, Arnold, Berding, Bloom, Carr, Coe, Draycott, Eguizabal, Esqueda, Ganssle, Gomes, Hagg, Hazen, Horner, Hubbard, Huffman, Jung, Keehn, Lister, Lockett, Lunde, Manning, McKinley, McMartin, Naidu, Pickavance, Pierce, Price, Rae, Saucy, Smith, Stetina, Stetzer, J. Ten Elshof, Thoennes, Way, M. Williams

Associate Professors

Barber, Bishop, Byun, Cash, Flashman, Geringer, Z. Glaser, Greene, Hanger, Hernandez, Hultberg, Imes, D. Kim, McDowell, Peterson, Petitfils, Sanchez, Sappington, Shin, Song, Strobel, Trimm, Van Lant, T. Williams

Assistant Professors

Merrill, Phillips, Rhoades

Emeriti Faculty

Boersma, Curtis, Dirks, Edwards, Finley, Geivett, Hellerman, J. Kim, Leyda, Holloman, Issler, Johnson, Rhee, Talley, Wilkins

Affiliate Faculty

Barnewall, Lawson, McIntosh, Pifer, Porter

Visiting Scholar

Craig

Undergraduate Biblical and Theological Studies Faculty

Old Testament Chair: Charlie Trimm, Ph.D.
Theology Chair: Uche Anizor, Ph.D.
New Testament Chair: Darian Lockett, Ph.D.
Christian Ministries Chair: David Keehn, Ph.D.
Professors: Anizor, Berding, Carr, Draycott, Horner, Huffman, Jung, Keehn, Lister, Lockett, Lunde, McKinley, McMartin, Pierce, Stetina, Thoennes, M. Williams
Associate Professors: Byun, Hanger, Imes, Petitfils, Trimm, T. Williams

Undergraduate Greek Faculty

Professors: Arnold, Berding, Hubbard, Huffman, Lockett, Lunde, Manning
Associate Professors: Geringer, Hanger, Petitfils

Undergraduate Hebrew Faculty

Professor: Way
Associate Professors: D Kim, Trimm

Christian Apologetics Faculty

Director: Craig J. Hazen, Ph.D.
Professors: Bloom, Hazen, R. Smith
Associate Professor: McDowell

Christian Ministry and Leadership Faculty

Chair: Brandon Cash, Ph.D.
Professors: Eguizabal, Esqueda, Hagg, Stetzer
Associate Professors: Cash, Flashman, Shin, Song, Van Lant

Classical Theology Faculty

Chair: Rob B. Price, Ph.D.
Professors: Jenson, Price, Sanders
Associate Professors: A. Johnson, Peterson, Strobel

Doctor of Ministry Faculty

Director: Eddie J. Byun, D.Min.
Distinguished Professor: Moreland
Professors: Coe, Ganssle, McMahan, Stetzer
Associate Professors: Byun, Shin, Song

Educational Studies, Ph.D. and Ed.D. Faculty

Director: Octavio J. Esqueda, Ph.D.
Professors: Eguizabal, Esqueda, Jung

Intercultural Studies Faculty

Chair: Jamie N. Sanchez, Ph.D.
Professor: McMahan
Associate Professors: Greene, Sanchez, Sappington
Assistant Professor: Rhoades

Intercultural Studies, Ph.D. and D.I.S. Faculty

Chair: Jamie N. Sanchez, Ph.D.
Professor: McMahan
Associate Professors: Greene, Sanchez, Sappington
Assistant Professor: Rhoades

Marriage and Family Therapy Faculty

Chair: Berry J. Bishop, Psy.D.
Associate Professors: Bishop, Bland, Van Lant
Assistant Professors: Merrill, Phillips

New Testament Language and Literature Faculty

Chair: Moyer V. Hubbard, D.Phil.
Professors: Arnold, Hubbard, Manning
Associate Professors: Geringer, Hultberg

Old Testament and Semitics Faculty

Chair: Kenneth C. Way, Ph.D.
Professor: Hagg
Associate Professors: Glaser, Hernández, Imes, D. Kim

Philosophy Faculty

Chair: Greg E. Ganssle, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor: Moreland
Professors: Ganssle, Horner, Pickavance, Rae
Visiting Scholar: Craig

Science and Religion Faculty

Director: John A. Bloom, Ph.D., Ph.D.
Professors: Bloom, Hazen, R. Smith
Associate Professor: McDowell

Spiritual Formation Faculty

Chair: John H. Coe, Ph.D.
Associate Chair: Betsy A. Barber, Psy.D.
Professors: Coe, J. Ten Elshof
Associate Professors: Barber, Strobel
Assistant Professor: Merrill

Theology: Historical Faculty

Chairs: Ryan S. Peterson, Ph.D., Robert B. Price, Ph.D.
Professors: Naidu, Price
Associate Professor: Peterson

Theology: Systematic Faculty

Chairs: Ryan S. Peterson, Ph.D., Robert B. Price, Ph.D.
Professors: Naidu, Price, Saucy
Associate Professor: Peterson

Programs Offered

Talbot School of Theology offers the following degree programs:

Undergraduate

Masters

Doctoral

Candidates for degrees must demonstrate an exemplary Christian character, a commitment to communicate the truth of the Word of God, and a promise of usefulness in Christian service.

1

Students receiving a specialization in Bible Exposition, Old Testament, New Testament, Theology, Philosophy, Spiritual Formation, Biblical and Theological Studies/Diversified, or Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasian Context will have “Master of Arts” only printed on their diplomas.

Certificates

Additional educational options/programs offered through Talbot are highlighted below:

Talbot After Hours

Late afternoon and evening classes are regularly offered at the La Mirada campus. This arrangement provides an opportunity to take several courses each semester, when other responsibilities prevent enrollment as a full-time student. Courses offered are identical in content to those provided in the daytime schedule and are applicable toward the degree programs of the seminary.

Holy Land Studies

Talbot School of Theology will transfer up to 12 credits of elective credit for graduate-level courses taken at Jerusalem University College, Jerusalem, Israel. Study tours for credit are also offered.

Special Programs: Credit

Cru - Campus Crusade for Christ

Talbot's partnership with Cru (the United States ministry of campus Crusade for Christ) affords convenient and discounted theological training options for Cru staff members. As a partner theological institution with Cru's Institute of Biblical Studies (IBS), Talbot offers graduate level credit for selected IBS courses taken by qualified Cru staff members who are enrolled in Talbot master’s degree programs.

IBS offers courses to the Cru community throughout the year, in various locations (e.g., Orlando, FL; Fort Collins, CO; Los Angeles, CA). Qualified participants can apply to receive graduate level credit at Talbot for these courses (up to 11 credits may be granted for approved IBS courses). Students must submit a Special/Visiting Student Application and meet the minimum criteria to qualify. In addition to Cru's IBS tuition, students must pay $90 per unit for IBS course work that is taken for Talbot graduate level credit.

Qualified Cru staff members wishing to pursue a Talbot degree may apply up to 11 IBS credits toward the degree. The credits will be counted toward the student's Talbot degree upon full acceptance into a Talbot degree program. Students wishing to enroll in a degree program at Talbot must submit a full application and meet the admissions criteria for that program (see degree specific admissions criteria).

Further, Talbot's partnership with Cru allows for a limited number of scholarships for qualified full time and part time (level 2) Cru staff members. Scholarship amounts are updated annually and are set depending on the number of credit hours in which the student is enrolled. Further details on scholarship amounts and how to apply are available on Biola’s Financial Aid website.

Talbot courses are likewise offered in a number of formats (classroom, online, and hybrid), throughout the year, to help accommodate the schedules and educational needs of Cru members.

Talbot Bible Lands: Israel

Faculty Administrator: Kenneth Way, Ph.D.

The Talbot Bible Lands study tour is focused on the land of Israel which will be occasionally offered during the Summer session. See the faculty administrator for details about specific dates, syllabus and cost.

This study tour includes a survey of the physical features of the land of the Bible, stressing the correlation between geography, archaeology and biblical history. Preparatory map study and class previews provide the background prior to each trip in the field. Regions studied and visited include Jerusalem, Judean hill country, Benjamin/Samaria, Shephelah, Negev/Wilderness, Dead Sea region, Sharon plain, Jezreel Valley, Lower/Upper Galilee, Golan, and the Sea of Galilee.

Students will be granted 3 graduate credits for one of the following courses: TTBE 722 Directed Research: Physical and Historical Geography of Israel or TTNT 791 New Testament Seminar: Physical and Historical Geography of Israel or TTOT 791 Old Testament Seminar: Physical and Historical Geography of Israel.

Talbot - Charles L. Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies

Director: Gregory Hagg, Ph.D.
The Charles L. Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies offers a Master of Divinity in Messianic Jewish Studies in partnership between Chosen People Ministries and Talbot School of Theology. The program is designed to train men and women called to Jewish ministry as outreach workers, congregational leaders, or educators. Emphasis is on the study of biblical languages, Hebrew and Greek exegesis, and rabbinic texts. In addition, students gain a deeper understanding of Jewish religion, culture, sociology, and history, as well as spiritual formation, apologetics, and pastoral care and counseling.

Coursework is completed during the Fall and Spring semesters in New York City (the center of Jewish culture in America). Summer courses are held at Talbot's main campus in Southern California. A Certificate Program in Messianic Jewish Studies is also offered in New York.

For additional information, please review the M.Div. in Messianic Jewish Studies section in this catalog, or go to the Talbot School of Theology website.

Talbot en Español

Director: Dominick Hernández, Ph.D.
Talbot en Español existe con el fin de preparar a personas para una vida de ministerio centrado en el Evangelio y guiado por el Espíritu Santo. En el marco de la visión global de la Universidad de Biola, todos los programas académicos de Talbot en Español consisten de cursos en línea y completamente en Español. De esta manera, hispanoparlantes de todos los rincones del mundo pueden conjuntamente profundizar su conocimiento de las Escrituras, refinar su carácter, y desarrollar habilidades y prácticas contextualizadas para mostrar la verdad y el amor de Dios en el mundo.

Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos (Biblical and Theological Studies Certificate - Spanish)
La misión del Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos es profundizar el conocimiento de Dios y de su Palabra en aquellos que aún no han decidido ingresar en un programa completo de seminario pero que, sin embargo, desean crecer en su capacidad de ejercer un ministerio.

El Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos es ideal para líderes laicos de la iglesia, ancianos de la iglesia y ministros sin entrenamiento teológico formal. El Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos consta de seis cursos que pueden completarse en línea y proporciona los fundamentos de una educación teológica. Aquellos que quieran ver si un título completo de seminario es para ellos, pueden usar este certificado como una "prueba". Los cursos del certificado pueden aplicarse más adelante a una Maestría en Divinidad o a una Maestría en Artes.

Para obtener más información, por favor revise la sección de Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos en este catálogo, o vaya a la página web de la Escuela de Teología Talbot. También puede solicitar más información por teléfono (562) 903-6000 ext. 4598 o correo electrónico talbot.espanol@biola.edu.

For additional information, please review the Certificado en Estudios Bíblicos y Teológicos section in this catalog, or go to the Talbot School of Theology website.

Talbot - Kyiv Extension

Director: Mark Saucy, Ph.D.
Talbot School of Theology in cooperation with Kyiv Theological Seminary (KTS), Kyiv, Ukraine offers a Master of Arts degree with a specialization in Biblical and Theological Studies in the Eurasian Context. The vision of the program is to serve the needs of Eastern European and Russian evangelical churches for well-trained leadership in church planting and existing churches by providing discerning, evangelical biblical and theological scholarship and instruction. The extension assists churches, mission agencies, and other evangelical organizations in Eastern Europe, Europe, and Eurasia in training and retaining ministry leaders in the region by offering an accredited theological education. The degree program is offered on the Kyiv Theological Seminary campus in Kyiv, Ukraine. Faculty from KTS, Talbot, and other institutions in Europe and America provide a high level of theological education in an extension program that is fully accredited by The Association of Theological Schools.

For additional information, contact Dr. Mark Saucy or go to the Talbot School of Theology website.

Course Descriptions

Undergraduate

Graduate

Missions and Intercultural Studies for Talbot