Academics
Diploma, Certificate, Bachelor’s and Masters-Level Program
Diploma in Theology (Dip. Th. Residential): This two-year English course provides quality theological training to pastors, evangelists, and lay believers who are dedicated to Christian work but do not fulfill the basic requirements for entry to a bachelor’s-level program. This is also designed for people who have constraints for undertaking a three-year course.
Bachelor of Theology (B. Th. Residential): Candidates with a minimum 12th grade pass join this English course. A three-year B. Th. lays the foundation for basic knowledge in scripture and theology, and equips students for practice in various forms of Christian ministry. Special coaching in reading and writing skills and language training-English and Hindi—are provided to ensure that students gain basic educational skills for life.
Bachelor of Theology (B. Th. by Extension): Candidates who qualify for B. Th. but unable to afford a residential course enroll in this English course. Course materials and tutorials will be provided from NIBS. Suggested readings and assignments are essential and time-bound requirements of this program that provides trainees to pursue theological education while not leaving their ministry or work. Students will take part in the final examinations and graduation ceremony with the regular batches of students at NIBS.
Master of Divinity (M.Div. Residential): Candidates with B. Th. from an accredited seminary and preferably a few years in some form of Christian ministry can complete this course in two years. Persons with a bachelor’s degree from professional or degree colleges (and with no bachelor’s degree in theology) are to join the three year track. Intensive academic training with the opportunity to undertake field research and ministry exposure under the mentoring of senior faculty are special features of this course. By the end of the course, students will have developed the necessary skills for teaching, research, and leadership in Christian ministry anywhere in the world.
Master of Theology (M Th. Residential): M Th. is offered at NIBS in Practical Theology specializing in Holistic Child Development (HCD) and Pastoral Theology and Counselling (PTC). Candidates with M.Div. / B.D. from accredited/affiliated seminaries preferably with some years of ministry involvement are eligible to join this program.
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry and Leadership (B.A. CML, Non-Residential): Pastors, leaders, and dedicated believers with minimum 12th pass qualification and less than 60 years of age can join this Malayalam course. This course will help the learners to invigorate the leadership of the church and acquaint them to deal with contemporary issues and changes. Moreover, it will help them develop training methods to adequately meet challenges within and outside the church.
Transfer of Credits: Transfer of some credits is allowed in the B. Th. and M. Div. programs from accredited theological institutions. It is normally limited to elective credits, though in some cases, credits may be transferred for required courses. A maximum of 60 credit hours from recognized institutions are transferable for the B. Th. degree, while not more than 30 credits may be transferred for M Div.