Are you called to serve as a spiritual leader and guide others in their faith journey? Our Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theology, Minor in Biblical Languages, and Minor in Religion equip you with a strong biblical foundation and practical pastoral training for excellence in ministry.
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Why Religion
Why SWAU?
At Southwestern Adventist University, our Theology program is more than academic study—it is a calling to lead with knowledge, faith, and compassion. Designed to prepare future pastors and church leaders, this program equips students with a strong biblical foundation and hands-on ministry experience through intensive coursework, field evangelism, and pastoral mentorship.
Students engage deeply in biblical understanding and personal application while gaining essential skills in church leadership, administration, biblical preaching, and pastoral service. They also study biblical languages to enhance scriptural interpretation. With key experiential opportunities like the Pastoral Internship Program and Field School of Evangelism, students graduate prepared to serve faithfully and effectively in diverse ministry settings.
Curriculum and Courses
The Theology curriculum fosters both intellectual and spiritual growth. Students explore key areas such as biblical exegesis, systematic theology, church history, practical ministry, and pastoral counseling. Courses also focus on communication and preaching, helping students learn to craft and deliver sermons rooted in sound theology.
Field-based Learning Plays an Essential Role
In the Pastoral Internship Program, students are paired with experienced pastors who provide direct mentorship and support. The Field School of Evangelism offers real-world training in outreach and evangelistic strategies, further reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and spiritual leadership in action.
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Faculty & Mentorship
You will learn from professors who are both theologians and seasoned pastors. Their mentorship helps guide your growth, academically and spiritually, as you prepare for life in ministry.
Related Programs
Admission Requirements
Apply to SWAU to begin your journey in ministry. View the Admission Requirements to learn more about application steps, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
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What can you do with a degree in Theology?
A degree in Theology from SWAU prepares you to make a meaningful impact in churches, schools, hospitals, and communities around the world. You will be equipped to offer spiritual guidance, inspire through preaching, and lead with integrity.
Job Titles to Explore
- Pastor
- Youth Pastor
- Bible Teacher
- Chaplain
- Evangelist
- Missionary
- Church Administrator
- Conference Departmental Director
Employment Settings to Explore
- Local churches and denominational organizations
- K–12 schools and universities
- Hospitals and healthcare ministries
- Faith-based nonprofits and missions
- Youth and community outreach organizations
- Camp ministries and conference centers
Ways to Excel
Career Center
The Career Center can help you chart your path and connect with employers through internships, workshops, and job search resources.
Academic Advising Center
Work with your advisor to choose the courses and experiences that best support your professional goals.
Honors Program
Challenge yourself academically and professionally through the Honors Program. With advanced research and leadership opportunities, it’s an excellent way to stand out in the world of Advertising and PR.
A degree from Southwestern Adventist University is more accessible than you might think.
We are committed to helping every student find a clear, affordable path to graduation.
Scholarships & Grants
We believe hard work and dedication should be rewarded. That is why SWAU offers automatic academic merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores, as well as need-based aid and departmental awards.
- Merit Scholarships: Automatically awarded with admission
- Endowed & Donor-Funded Scholarships available
- Faith-based and church-matching scholarships for eligible students
- External scholarships are accepted from any organization
Apply for Scholarships
Your FAFSA, Your Counselor, Your First Step
Submitting your FAFSA is one of the best ways to unlock financial aid. Our financial counselors walk you through the process to ensure nothing is missed.
- SWAU FAFSA Code: 003619
- Get help submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Learn more about grants, loans, and federal work-study
- One-on-one financial counseling is available year-round
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
Schedule a Meeting with Financial Aid
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Estimate Your Cost
Use our Net Price Calculator to see what your true cost may be after scholarships and financial aid.
Community is at the heart of Southwestern Adventist University, where students are empowered to form lasting bonds and embrace personal growth.
From engaging events to supportive friendships, students form a community where they grow both academically and personally. This vibrant campus culture makes every day a new opportunity for students to thrive.
A Welcoming & Connected Community
SWAU is known for its friendly and tight-knit campus culture. Whether you are joining student organizations, participating in residence hall activities, or building lifelong friendships in small classes, you will feel seen and supported.
- Student Government & Leadership: Step into leadership through student association and other campus governance roles.
- Campus Events: Weekly activities, music festivals, and cultural events make every semester memorable.
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Faith & Spiritual Life
Faith is the foundation of everything we do at Southwestern Adventist University. Our Spiritual Life and Development Department (SLAD) creates a vibrant environment where students can grow spiritually, build community, and find purpose.
SLAD Programs and Opportunities:
- Worship Services: Weekly chapels and vespers for community reflection and renewal.
- Community Service: Service projects and volunteer opportunities that make a local impact.
- Church Ministries: Support and leadership roles in local churches and campus ministries.
- Mission Work: Domestic and international mission trips that let you live out your faith.
Join a community where faith is lived out in service, worship, and daily life.
Learn More About SLAD
Tutoring & Academic Support
Find personalized help and academic resources through our Tutoring Center, where peer tutors and workshops support your learning.
Athletics & Intramurals
Stay active and connected through intramural sports, cheering on the Knights at games, or working out in our campus gym and weight room. There’s a way for everyone to get moving and stay healthy.
Alumni Association
SWAU’s alumni network is a powerful resource for mentorship, networking, and lifelong friendships.
Course Catalog
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Ready to lead and serve as a pastor, evangelist, or spiritual mentor?
