Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A.

School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences

Explore Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A.

What can happen when you answer God's call?
Anything.

Biblical and theological study is both academic and deeply personal. It equips us to answer life’s biggest questions, like who is God and what is the purpose of humanity?

As a biblical and theological studies major at Fresno Pacific University, you’ll engage a wide array of ideas, while using biblical text as a primary source. You’ll reenact first-century Jerusalem in full costume or study environmental issues through a faith-based lens. You'll take courses taught by well-traveled faculty with expertise in pastoral ministry, literature, missions and archeology.

Through the study of scripture, your passion for ministry will come alive as you learn what it means to live a God-centered life.

Program Highlights

  • Take advantage of service opportunities with global organizations like the Mennonite Central Committee and more
  • Choose from study abroad opportunities, including a summer trip to Israel
  • Apply for scholarships dedicated to Biblical and Theological Studies students

Emphases*

Biblical Literature

Biblical Literature invites you into the stories and teachings of the Bible, exploring both the Old and New Testaments. Courses discuss the life and teachings of Paul, biblical narrative, and biblical interpretation throughout history. Electives allow you to choose subjects that fit your personal interests and help meet your future goals.

Biblical Studies

Biblical Studies will have you reading the Bible like Jesus as you take an active approach to learning ancient Hebrew and Greek languages in which Scripture was originally written. Both Old and New Testaments are examined, as well as methods of interpreting the text today.

Religious Studies

The Religious Studies emphasis will broaden your understanding of the dimensions of diverse religious traditions and how they engage with Christianity.

Theology and Ethics

Theology and Ethics explores the practical difference that faith makes in everyday life and the lives of Christians around the globe. Examine core Christian beliefs and how they shape an understanding of the arts, the environment, justice, peacemaking, and the complex world around you.

* The Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Upcoming Events

Emphases Catalog*

Biblical Literature

Program Director: Melanie Howard, Ph.D.

Overview

The biblical and theological studies major nurtures faithful and critical reflection on Christian tradition through three primary lenses: the study of Scripture, the study of theological and ethical discourse, and the study of other religious traditions. Students are invited to delight in a richer understanding of and witness to the Scriptures in conversation with both the Christian church and the world. A majority of graduates pursue careers in church or church-related ministry or mission; some pursue graduate studies in Bible, theology, or religious studies. Other graduates have been successful in careers in law, community transformation, business, consulting, and teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Biblical Literacy & Interpretation: Students will demonstrate both knowledge of Old and New Testament biblical texts (with reference to their literary, historical, and social settings) and the application of appropriate exegetical methods to their interpretation of these texts while generating theological syntheses from those texts.
  2. Theological, Ethical, & Moral Reasoning: Students will exhibit competency in critical assessment of Christian theological and ethical positions within their contexts, with a special focus on Anabaptist perspectives.
  3. Religious Literacy & Interfaith Perspectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of dimensions of diverse religious traditions and the ways in which Christian and other religious communities engage each other.
  4. Integration: Students will integrate their academic biblical, religious, and theological learning with their faith commitments and lived practice.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Required Core Courses (34 units)

  • BIB 304 - Paul and His Letters Credits 3
  • BIB 428 - Biblical Theology Credits 3
  • BIB 442 - Methods in Biblical Interpretation Credits 3
  • BIB 483 - Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies Credits 1
  • COM 480 - Narrative Credits 3
  • REL 455 - Christians and Religious Neighbors Credits 3
  • REL 460 - Religions of the World Credits 3
  • THEO 300 - Introduction to Theology and Ethics Credits 3
  • THEO 465 - Theological Ethics of Conflict and Peacemaking Credits 3
  • 3 Units OT Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 310, BLIT 311, BLIT 312, BLIT 315, BLIT 316, BLIT 317, BLIT 319, BLIT 320, BLIT 321, BLIT 322, BLIT 323, BLIT 324, BLIT 325, BLIT 326, BLIT 327, BLIT 360H or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

  • 3 Units of NT Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 313, BLIT 330, BLIT 331, BLIT 332, BLIT 333, BLIT 334, BLIT 335, BLIT 336, BLIT 337, BLIT 338, BLIT 338H, BLIT 339, BLIT 340, BLIT 341, BLIT 342, BLIT 343, BLIT 345, BLIT 346, BLIT 347, BLIT 348, BLIT 349, BLIT 365 or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

  • 3 Units of Any Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 310, BLIT 311, BLIT 312, BLIT 313, BLIT 315, BLIT 316, BLIT 317, BLIT 319, BLIT 320, BLIT 321, BLIT 322, BLIT 323, BLIT 324, BLIT 325, BLIT 326, BLIT 327, BLIT 330, BLIT 331, BLIT 332, BLIT 333, BLIT 334, BLIT 335, BLIT 336, BLIT 337, BLIT 338, BLIT 338H, BLIT 339, BLIT 340, BLIT 341, BLIT 342, BLIT 343, BLIT 345, BLIT 346, BLIT 347, BLIT 348, BLIT 349, BLIT 360H, BLIT 365, or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

Elective Courses (6 units)

Choose a minimum of 6 units from the following:

  • BIB, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix (except BIB-300, BIB-314, BIB-438, BIB-439, BIB-446, BIB-448, BIB-449, BIB-451, and BIB-453)
  • BLIT, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • GRK, any course with this prefix
  • HEB, any course with this prefix
  • MIN, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • REL, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • THEO, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • COM 368 - Ancient and Medieval Rhetoric Credits 3 or
  • HIST 368 - Ancient and Medieval Rhetoric Credits 3
  • ART 330 - Art and Religion Credits 3
  • COM 395 - Text and Performance Credits 3
  • HIST 325 - History of Christianity Credits 4
  • HIST 360 - Greece: Drama and Paideia in the Polis Credits 4
  • HIST 364 - Classical Mythology Credits 3
  • HIST 365 - Rome: Politics, Pagans and Patristics Credits 4
  • HIST 367 - The Ancient Near East Credits 3
  • LIT 460 - Critical Approaches to Literature Credits 3
  • PHIL 331 - Ancient Philosophy Credits 3
Biblical Studies

Program Director: Melanie Howard, Ph.D.

Overview

The biblical and theological studies major nurtures faithful and critical reflection on Christian tradition through three primary lenses: the study of Scripture, the study of theological and ethical discourse, and the study of other religious traditions. Students are invited to delight in a richer understanding of and witness to the Scriptures in conversation with both the Christian church and the world. A majority of graduates pursue careers in church or church-related ministry or mission; some pursue graduate studies in Bible, theology, or religious studies. Other graduates have been successful in careers in law, community transformation, business, consulting, and teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Biblical Literacy & Interpretation: Students will demonstrate both knowledge of Old and New Testament biblical texts (with reference to their literary, historical, and social settings) and the application of appropriate exegetical methods to their interpretation of these texts while generating theological syntheses from those texts.
  2. Theological, Ethical, & Moral Reasoning: Students will exhibit competency in critical assessment of Christian theological and ethical positions within their contexts, with a special focus on Anabaptist perspectives.
  3. Religious Literacy & Interfaith Perspectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of dimensions of diverse religious traditions and the ways in which Christian and other religious communities engage each other.
  4. Integration: Students will integrate their academic biblical, religious, and theological learning with their faith commitments and lived practice.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Required Core Courses (37 units)

  • BIB 304 - Paul and His Letters Credits 3
  • BIB 428 - Biblical Theology Credits 3
  • BIB 442 - Methods in Biblical Interpretation Credits 3
  • BIB 483 - Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies Credits 1
  • REL 455 - Christians and Religious Neighbors Credits 3
  • REL 460 - Religions of the World Credits 3
  • THEO 300 - Introduction to Theology and Ethics Credits 3
  • THEO 465 - Theological Ethics of Conflict and Peacemaking Credits 3
  • 3 Units OT Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 310, BLIT 311, BLIT 312, BLIT 315, BLIT 316, BLIT 317, BLIT 319, BLIT 320, BLIT 321, BLIT 322, BLIT 323, BLIT 324, BLIT 325, BLIT 326, BLIT 327, BLIT 360H or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

  • 3 Units of NT Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 313, BLIT 330, BLIT 331, BLIT 332, BLIT 333, BLIT 334, BLIT 335, BLIT 336, BLIT 337, BLIT 338, BLIT 338H, BLIT 339, BLIT 340, BLIT 341, BLIT 342, BLIT 343, BLIT 345, BLIT 346, BLIT 347, BLIT 348, BLIT 349, BLIT 365 or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

  • 3 Units of Any Biblical Literature. Select from the following:

    • BLIT 310, BLIT 311, BLIT 312, BLIT 313, BLIT 315, BLIT 316, BLIT 317, BLIT 319, BLIT 320, BLIT 321, BLIT 322, BLIT 323, BLIT 324, BLIT 325, BLIT 326, BLIT 327, BLIT 330, BLIT 331, BLIT 332, BLIT 333, BLIT 334, BLIT 335, BLIT 336, BLIT 337, BLIT 338, BLIT 338H, BLIT 339, BLIT 340, BLIT 341, BLIT 342, BLIT 343, BLIT 345, BLIT 346, BLIT 347, BLIT 348, BLIT 349, BLIT 360H, BLIT 365, or BLIT 400  Credits / Units: 3

  • Two semesters of one biblical language (6 units). Select from the following:

  • GRK 106 - Classical Greek I Credits 3 and
  • GRK 107 - Classical Greek II Credits 3 or
  • HEB 115 - Beginning Biblical Hebrew I Credits 3 and
  • HEB 116 - Beginning Biblical Hebrew II Credits 3

Electives (3 units)

Choose a minimum of 3 units from the following:

  • BIB, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix (except BIB-300, BIB-314, BIB-438, BIB-439, BIB-446, BIB-448, BIB-449, BIB-451, and BIB-453)
  • BLIT, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • GRK, any course with this prefix
  • HEB, any course with this prefix
  • MIN, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • REL, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • THEO, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • COM 368 - Ancient and Medieval Rhetoric Credits 3 or
  • HIST 368 - Ancient and Medieval Rhetoric Credits 3
  • ART 330 - Art and Religion Credits 3
  • COM 395 - Text and Performance Credits 3
  • COM 480 - Narrative Credits 3
  • HIST 325 - History of Christianity Credits 4
  • HIST 360 - Greece: Drama and Paideia in the Polis Credits 4
  • HIST 364 - Classical Mythology Credits 3
  • HIST 365 - Rome: Politics, Pagans and Patristics Credits 4
  • HIST 367 - The Ancient Near East Credits 3
  • LIT 460 - Critical Approaches to Literature Credits 3
  • PHIL 331 - Ancient Philosophy Credits 3
Religious Studies

Program Director: Melanie Howard, Ph.D

Overview

The biblical and theological studies major nurtures faithful and critical reflection on Christian tradition through three primary lenses: the study of Scripture, the study of theological and ethical discourse, and the study of other religious traditions. Students are invited to delight in a richer understanding of and witness to the Scriptures in conversation with both the Christian church and the world. A majority of graduates pursue careers in church or church-related ministry or mission; some pursue graduate studies in Bible, theology, or religious studies. Other graduates have been successful in careers in law, community transformation, business, consulting, and teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Biblical Literacy & Interpretation: Students will demonstrate both knowledge of Old and New Testament biblical texts (with reference to their literary, historical, and social settings) and the application of appropriate exegetical methods to their interpretation of these texts while generating theological syntheses from those texts.
  2. Theological, Ethical, & Moral Reasoning: Students will exhibit competency in critical assessment of Christian theological and ethical positions within their contexts, with a special focus on Anabaptist perspectives.
  3. Religious Literacy & Interfaith Perspectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of dimensions of diverse religious traditions and the ways in which Christian and other religious communities engage each other.
  4. Integration: Students will integrate their academic biblical, religious, and theological learning with their faith commitments and lived practice.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Required Core (19 units)

  • BIB 428 - Biblical Theology Credits 3
  • BIB 442 - Methods in Biblical Interpretation Credits 3
  • BIB 483 - Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies Credits 1
  • REL 455 - Christians and Religious Neighbors Credits 3
  • REL 460 - Religions of the World Credits 3
  • THEO 300 - Introduction to Theology and Ethics Credits 3
  • THEO 465 - Theological Ethics of Conflict and Peacemaking Credits 3

Emphasis Courses (9 units)

  • REL 405 - Philosophy of Religion Credits 3
  • REL 418 - Culture, Religion and the Church Credits 3
  • REL 452 - World Christianity Credits 3

Emphasis Required Electives (6 units)

Choose a minimum of 6 units from the following:

  • THEO 425 - Theological Ethics and the Environment Credits 3
  • THEO 430 - Contemporary Theologies Credits 3
  • THEO 434 - Following Jesus Radically Credits 3

Electives (6 units)

Choose a minimum of 6 units from the following:

  • ART 330 - Art and Religion Credits 3
  • HIST 325 - History of Christianity Credits 4
  • HIST 364 - Classical Mythology Credits 3
  • PS 390 - Religion and Politics in America Credits 4
  • PSY 460 - Psychology of Religion Credits 3
  • REL 350 - Interfaith Scholar Weekend Credits 1
  • REL 415 - Religion, Health, and Healing Credits 3
  • REL 465 - Religions of India Credits 3
Theology and Ethics

Program Director: Melanie Howard, Ph.D.

Overview

The biblical and theological studies major nurtures faithful and critical reflection on Christian tradition through three primary lenses: the study of Scripture, the study of theological and ethical discourse, and the study of other religious traditions. Students are invited to delight in a richer understanding of and witness to the Scriptures in conversation with both the Christian church and the world. A majority of graduates pursue careers in church or church-related ministry or mission; some pursue graduate studies in Bible, theology, or religious studies. Other graduates have been successful in careers in law, community transformation, business, consulting, and teaching.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Biblical Literacy & Interpretation: Students will demonstrate both knowledge of Old and New Testament biblical texts (with reference to their literary, historical, and social settings) and the application of appropriate exegetical methods to their interpretation of these texts while generating theological syntheses from those texts.
  2. Theological, Ethical, & Moral Reasoning: Students will exhibit competency in critical assessment of Christian theological and ethical positions within their contexts, with a special focus on Anabaptist perspectives.
  3. Religious Literacy & Interfaith Perspectives: Students will demonstrate an understanding of dimensions of diverse religious traditions and the ways in which Christian and other religious communities engage each other.
  4. Integration: Students will integrate their academic biblical, religious, and theological learning with their faith commitments and lived practice.

Locations Offered

Main Campus Fresno

Required Core Courses (28 units)

  • BIB 428 - Biblical Theology Credits 3
  • BIB 442 - Methods in Biblical Interpretation Credits 3
  • BIB 483 - Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies Credits 1
  • REL 455 - Christians and Religious Neighbors Credits 3
  • REL 460 - Religions of the World Credits 3
  • THEO 300 - Introduction to Theology and Ethics Credits 3
  • THEO 425 - Theological Ethics and the Environment Credits 3
  • THEO 430 - Contemporary Theologies Credits 3
  • THEO 434 - Following Jesus Radically Credits 3
  • THEO 465 - Theological Ethics of Conflict and Peacemaking Credits 3

Elective Courses (12 units)

Choose a minimum of 6 units from the following:

  • BIB, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix (except BIB-300, BIB-314, BIB-438, BIB-439, BIB-446, BIB448, BIB-449, BIB-451, and BIB-453)
  • BLIT, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • GRK, any course with this prefix
  • HEB, any course with this prefix
  • MIN, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • REL, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • THEO, any 300- or 400-level course with this prefix
  • ART 330 - Art and Religion Credits 3
  • HIST 325 - History of Christianity Credits 4
  • HIST 350 - American Religious History Credits 3
  • HIST 360 - Greece: Drama and Paideia in the Polis Credits 4
  • HIST 364 - Classical Mythology Credits 3
  • HIST 365 - Rome: Politics, Pagans and Patristics Credits 4
  • HIST 367 - The Ancient Near East Credits 3
  • HIST 380 - Reformation History and Theology Credits 4
  • HIST 410 - Modern Latin America: History, Politics And Culture Credits 3
  • HIST 450 - History of Political Theory and Ideas Credits 3
  • HIST 455 - Historical Peacemakers Credits 4
  • LIT 400 - Medieval Life, Thought and Literature Credits 3
  • PHIL 110 - Introduction to Philosophical Ethics Credits 3
  • PHIL 331 - Ancient Philosophy Credits 3
  • PHIL 335 - Modern Philosophy Credits 3

  • Choose a minimum of 6 units from the following:

  • REL 405 - Philosophy of Religion Credits 3
  • REL 418 - Culture, Religion and the Church Credits 3
  • REL 452 - World Christianity Credits 3
* The Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Three-year Degree Option

This academic program is available as a three-year bachelor's degree or as a standard four-year bachelor’s degree.

Sample Curriculum Map

Below is a sample curriculum map for this program. This map serves as an example of how courses are set up to ensure completion of the degree in three years. The course listing is based on a sample year and follows a fall, spring and summer academic year. Some courses are only offered on odd or even years. An advisor will work with you to create a curriculum map that is unique to you.

Biblical Literature

Year 1

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 100 Jesus and the Christian Community 3
  Science (Lab) 4
COM 110 Written Communication 3
MATH 120 Principles of Mathematics 4
CP 152 First-Year Seminary 0
  Foreign Language 1
  Total units 17

Spring

Code Title Units
  Humanities GE 1
COM 120 Oral Communication 3
BIB 441 Biblical Interpretation: to 18th Century 3
  Foreign Language 2 3
  Social Science GE 1 3
CP 152 First-Year Seminar 1
  PE 1
  Total units 17

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 120 Ancient Civilizations 4
BLIT 310-349 NT Biblical Literature 3
  Social Science GE 3
  Total units 10

Year 2

Fall

Code Title Units
THEO 300 Introduction to Theology and Ethics 3
  Humanities GE 2
  Science 3
BIB 304 Paul and His Letters 3
BLIT 310-349 OT Biblical Literature 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 442 Biblical Interpretation: 19th-21st Centuries 3
REL 460 Religions of the World 3
  Focus Series 1 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 140 Modern Civilizations 4
HIST 130 Medieval and Early Modern Civilizations 4
KIN 120 Concepts of Wellness 3
  Total units 11

Year 3

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 428 Biblical Theology 3
  Focus Series 2 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
BLIT 310-349 OT or NT Biblical Literature 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 483 Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies 1-3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
     
  Total units 13-15
Biblical Studies

Year 1

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 100 Jesus and the Christian Community 3
HIST 120 Ancient Civilizations 4
COM 110 Written Communication 3
MATH 120 Principles of Mathematics 4
CP 152 First-Year Seminar 1
  Physical Education 1
  Total units 15

Spring

Code Title Units
  Humanities GE 1 3
COM 120 Oral Communication 3
BIB 441 Biblical Interpretation: to 18th Century 3
  Science (Lab) 4
  Social Science GE 1 3
CP 152 First-Year Seminar 1
  Total units 17

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 130 Medieval and Early Modern Civilizations 4
KIN 120 Concepts of Wellness 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 10

Year 2

Fall

Code Title Units
THEO 300 Introduction to Theology and Ethics 3
  Humanities GE 2 3
  Science 3
BIB 304 Paul and His Letters 3
BLIT 310-349 OT Biblical Literature 3
  Biblical Language 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 442 Biblical Interpretation: 19th-21st Centuries 3
REL 460 Religions of the World 3
  Focus Series 1 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Biblical Language 2
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 140 Modern Civilizations 4
  Social Science GE 2 3
BLIT 310-349 NT Biblical Literature 3
  Total units 10

Year 3

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 428 Biblical Theology 3
  Focus Series 2 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
BLIT 310-349 OT or NT Biblical Literature 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 483 Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies 1-3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 13-15
Theology and Ethics

Year 1

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 100 Jesus and the Christian Community 3
HIST 120 Ancient Civilizations 4
COM 110 Written Communication 3
MATH 120 Principles of Mathematics 4
  Physical Education 1
  Total units 15

Spring

Code Title Units
  Humanities GE 1
COM 120 Oral Communication 3
BIB 441 Biblical Interpretation: to 18th Century 3
  Science (Lab) 4
  Social Science GE 1 3
CP 152 First-Year Seminar 1
  Total units 17

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 130 Medieval and Early Modern Civilizations 4
KIN 120 Concepts of Wellness 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 10

Year 2

Fall

Code Title Units
THEO 300 Introduction to Theology and Ethics 3
  Humanities GE 2 3
  Science 3
BIB 304 Paul and His Letters 3
BLIT 310-349 OT Biblical Literature 3
THEO 465 Theologial Ethics of Conflict and Peacemaking 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 442 Biblical Interpretation: 19th-21st Centuries 3
REL 460 Religions of the World 3
  Focus Series 1 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
THEO 425 Theological Ethics and the Environment 3
THEO 430 Contemporary Theologies 3
  Total units 18

Summer

Code Title Units
HIST 140 Modern Civilizations 4
  Social Science GE 2 3
BLIT 310-349 NT Biblical Literature 3
  Total units 10

Year 3

Fall

Code Title Units
BIB 428 Biblical Theology 3
  Focus Series 2 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
BLIT 310-349 OT or NT Biblical Literature 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 18

Spring

Code Title Units
BIB 483 Projects in Biblical and Religious Studies 1-3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Emphasis Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Elective 3
  Total units 13-15
* The Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A. requires that students choose an emphasis.

Possibilities Await
With an FPU Education

Whether you're a high school student, transfer student or parent, you'll find all the resources you need including application steps, tuition & financial aid, transfer and orientation information.

First Steps to Admission

  • Submit an application for admission (online or printable mail-in)
    * Admission applications are free, no discount codes required.
  • Send official copies of your transcripts to FPU.
  • Complete the FAFSA. It can be completed starting October 1st. (FAFSA Code: 001253)
Recommended High School Courses for Admission
  • 4 years of college preparatory English
  • 3 years of college preparatory mathematics
  • 2 years of social studies
  • 1 year of laboratory science
  • 1 year of performing art
  • 3 years of the same foreign language with a C- or better
Things to Keep in Mind

Fresno Pacific University’s accepted students have average GPAs of 3.2-3.6. Please speak with an admission counselor to discuss your eligibility.

All application materials should be submitted online or mailed to:

Office of Undergraduate Admission
Fresno Pacific University
1717 S. Chestnut Ave. #2005
Fresno, CA 93702
ugadmis@fresno.edu

Non-traditional Admission

Steps for Re-application

For those students who have applied to FPU’s traditional undergraduate program within the past 2 years and did not attend. Students who applied more than 2 years ago will need to resubmit a full application for admission:

  1. Fill out the re-application form
  2. Submit any missing documents or updated transcripts
Steps for Re-admission

Former FPU students who have not been enrolled in and/or have not submitted a leave of absence form for the previous semester are required to re-apply for admission to FPU:

  1. Fill out the re-admission form
  2. Submit official transcripts from other educational institutions attended during absence from FPU
Steps for Non-matriculated Admission

Students interested in taking classes, usually for personal or professional development, or to transfer to another institution, and is not interested in a degree from FPU. Non-degree students are not eligible for federal, state or institutional aid. Other requirements, class limits and pre-requisites may apply. See the academic catalog for more information:

  1. Fill out the Application for Admission indicating Non Matriculating/Non-Degree status non-matriculation application
  2. Submit proof of high school graduation or equivalent
  3. Some classes may require a pre-requisite course. If required, a college transcript will need to be provided
  4. Personal essays are not required
Auditing a class

Students wishing to audit a class at FPU may apply for audit status. Audit classes are not eligible for financial aid and students will not receive course credit.

  1. Fill out the Application for Admission indicating audit status
  2. Personal essays are not required

Four-Year Graduation Guarantee

Four-year graduation guarantee graphic

Earning a degree in four years allows you to get a head start on achieving your goals of entering the work force or starting graduate school. FPU guarantees graduation within four years in the traditional undergraduate areas of study. We commit to providing the courses, advising, instruction and preparation. If you fulfill your responsibilities and are unable to graduate in four years, you will receive the needed courses the following semester at no cost in tuition or fees.

Incoming requirements

This guarantee is limited to basic graduation requirements of 120 minimum units including general education, upper-level and elective courses sufficient for a single major with no minor.

  • Where options between courses are available, students are not guaranteed their first choice.
  • This guarantee does not apply to “fifth-year” programs (teacher education credential requirements) or minimum units beyond graduation requirements (CPA qualifications, etc.) beyond the basic four-year bachelor’s degree.
  • The guarantee does not apply to transfer students or to FPU's degree completion programs.
  • Students not able to register for the courses needed within four years must complete the free course(s) within two terms of the end of four years (e.g. a summer and fall for those completing four years in the spring; or spring and summer for those completing four years in the fall).
  • The four-year period may be extended for students required to leave the university for up to one year (see the Leave of Absence section) for medical, military or personal reasons.
Student responsibilities
To qualify for the guarantee students must:
  • Meet with your mentor during the fall semester of the freshman year.
  • Finalize a major and begin prerequisite or lower-division major courses by the second semester of the freshman year and keep that major until graduation.
  • Complete at least 32 units per year (average 16 per semester) with passing grades in each course.
  • Maintain a cumulative 2.0 GPA and remain in good standing behaviorally with the university.
  • Meet with the mentor each semester for advising before registration opens and take the courses approved by the adviser/mentor that complete general-education and major requirements, in the appropriate sequence and as they become available.
  • Register within the first week of registration every semester to gain a spot in the classes needed.
  • Notify mentor if unable to register for an approved course so that an alternative plan can be made.
  • Apply for financial aid and submit required documents by appropriate deadlines.
  • Keep student account up-to-date. (Accounts not up-to-date may be placed on hold, preventing registration for courses.)
  • Complete required courses successfully (see Academic Policies section for minimum acceptable grades) without dropping required or approved courses during a semester.

Two-Year Transfer Guarantee for ADT Pathways

FPU guarantees a student with an Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) from the California Community College system, can complete their degree in just two years. If a student meets the qualification requirements, fulfills the responsibilities under the program, and are unable to complete their major in a 2-year period, FPU will assume all additional tuition costs needed to complete their undergraduate degree at FPU.

Incoming requirements
  • 60 transferable units [grades of C- or better] from the California Community College system with a completed ADT (Associate Degree for Transfer)
  • Selected an ADT matched (similar) pathway from FPU’s undergraduate degree programs
  • Have completed the necessary pre-requisites in the discipline specific to intended major
  • Have at least a 2.4 transfer GPA
Student responsibilities
To qualify for the guarantee students must:
  • Enroll in an average of 15- 18 units per semester; not including repeated courses.
  • Remain in good academic standing by maintaining an institutional grade point average of 2.0 or higher
  • Enroll in the required number of consecutive semesters: 3-4 semesters depending on number of units transferred in
  • Make up units for any failed or withdrawn courses during the guarantee period, which may require you to take more than 15-18 units per semester
    • For TUG you may have to enroll in a summer semester.
  • Fulfill all graduation requirements, including core curriculum, major requirements, and upper division course work requirements.
    • Two Year Guarantee: complete enough upper division courses to have at least 40 upper division units by the end of the 4-semester time frame.
  • Take all required courses during the semester recommended by your Academic Advisor.
  • Register for all upcoming courses during the registration period.
  • Any courses from a Community College with “D+” or lower are non-transferable and require additional courses and semesters to graduate.
  • This guarantee may not apply to students starting in a spring or summer semester start (TUG only).
  • This guarantee is limited to basic graduation requirements: 120 minimum units including general education, upper-level and elective courses sufficient for a single major.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition & Fees

2023-2024
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $34,960
Student body fee $598
Total Tuition and Fees $35,548
Room $5,018
Board $5,130
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $45,696
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,248
Summer Session $500
Private Music Instruction $400
2022-2023
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $33,614
Student body fee $574
Total Tuition and Fees $34,188
Room and Board $8,884
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $43,072
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,218
Summer Session $400
Private Music Instruction $400
2021-2022
Total Cost Item Amount
12-18 units (full time) per year $32,954
Student body fee $498
Total Tuition and Fees $33,452
Room and Board $8,710
Total Tuition, Fees & Board $42,162
Per-Unit Costs Amount
Per unit / Overload $1,177
Summer Session $300
Private Music Instruction $400

Room & Board Rates

Freshman / Sophmore Housing
Module* Fall Spring
Modules $4,313 $4,313
Jost Modules $4,619 $4,619 

* Full Access Meal Plan Included in Cost (Full Access Required)

Junior / Senior Housing
Suites & Houses Fall Spring
Room only $2,068 $2,068
Room-70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $2,719 $2,719
Room - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,276 $3,276
Room - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $4,400 $4,400
Jost Hall (4 person), Willow Gardens (4 person) & Kriegbaum Apartments (3 person) Fall Spring
Apartment - Room only $2,694 $2,694
Apartment - 70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,345 $3,345
Apartment - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,902 $3,902
Apartment - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $5,026 $5,026
Willow Gardens & Jost Hall  Apartments: 3 Person Fall Spring
Apartments - Room only $3,306 $3,306
Apartments - 70 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $3,958 $3,958
Apartments - 140 Block Meal Plan (included in cost) $4,514 $4,514
Apartments - Full Access Meal Plan (included in cost) $5,639 $5,639
Stand-Alone Meal Plans Fall Spring
70 Block $651 $651
140 Block $1,208 $1,208
Full Access Meal Plan $2,332 $2,332

* Residents living in the Houses or Willow Gardens Apartments may stay over Christmas break at no extra charge providing they are returning for spring semester. Otherwise, residents must check out at the regular fall check-out dates.

Notes about housing
  • For housing placement purposes only, class standing for the fall semester will carry throughout the entire year (both fall and spring semesters).
  • Residents living in the houses or Willow Gardens Apartments may stay over Christmas break at no extra charge providing they are returning for spring semester. Otherwise, residents must check out at the regular fall check-out dates.
  • Meal plan contract dates will follow the traditional semester.

If you have questions that pertain specifically to housing or what housing you qualify for, please contact Residence Life at (559) 453-5696. Or visit our website at studentlife.fresno.edu/living-campus.

Financial Aid

Freshman Scholarships

Based on a student’s academic GPA. Academic GPA’s are calculated by FPU on a weighted, 4.0 scaled and based on core academic classes in grades 10-12. Renewable if a minimum GPA is maintained.

Name GPA Amount
Paragon   Full Tuition
President's 4.00 GPA and above $18,000
Dean's 3.75-3.99 GPA $15,000
Heritage 3.50-3.75 GPA $14,000
Faculty 3.25-3.49 GPA $12,000
Founder's Below a 3.0 GPA $8,000

Transfer Scholarships 

To be considered for a Transfer Academic Scholarship, you must have 12 or more transferable, post-high school units. GPA’s are based on transferable units and calculated by FPU.

Name GPA Amount
Transfer Scholar 3.50 GPA and above $14,000
Transfer Achievement 3.0-3.49 GPA $10,000
Transfer Academic 2.40-2.99 GPA $7,500
Transfer Partnership Below a 2.4 GPA $6,000

Performance-based Scholarships

Name Amount
Athletic $500 to Full Tuition
Music $400 to $10,000
Theatre Arts $500 to $4,000
Art/Design $500 to $4,000

Other FPU Grants and Scholarships

Name Amount
FPU Possibilities Scholarship Full Tuition
Church Match $500 to $1,500
International Scholarship up to $6,000
Mennonite Brethren Award $4,000
Out of State Student Scholarship $4,000
Other Awards $100 to $10,000

Federal and State Grants

Name Amount
Cal Grant A $9,358
Cal Grant B $1,648
Pell Grants $750 to $7,395
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant $1,000

Federal Loans and Work Study

Name Amount
Federal Direct $3,500 to $7,500
PLUS Loan Up to remaining cost
Workstudy Contingent on employment

Private Scholarships

Alumni, parents, friends, businesses and foundations have generously provided a special set of scholarships available to students attending Fresno Pacific.

View Private Scholarships

Photo of Alexandra Green

Alexandra Green

Mathematics

The grants, the academic awards, the transfer scholarship – all of it makes it so much more affordable to attend FPU. I know that school isn’t cheap for anyone, but FPU helped me realize that I could actually come to this school because they were going to help me so much financially.

Net Price Calculator

Now that you’ve seen the financial aid opportunities available to FPU students, we can estimate what your true cost may be to attend Fresno Pacific. Please keep in mind that this is just a computer generated, general estimate and may not capture all aid available, please work with your FPU Student Financial Services advisor to discover your true net price.

Calculate for First-Time FreshmanCalculate for Transfer

Career Opportunities

With this degree, you’ll be equipped to serve the church and your community. Courses will prepare you for work in teaching, pastoral ministry, missions, non-profit and parachurch organizations, or to pursue seminary or graduate studies.

Possible Careers

  • Youth pastor
  • Ministry director
  • Missionary
  • Non-profit director

Career Development Happens Here

The staff in our Career Development and Experiential Learning Center are here to help you prepare to enter the working world. Whether your a freshman or an FPU alum, there are a number of resources and trainings offered to help you find the internship and job you’re looking for.

  • Resume writing classes
  • Career assessments, exploration & planning
  • Job search and networking opportunities
  • and much more

Visit the Career Development Center