Pacific Christian College of Ministry & Biblical Studies — Organization Profile
Pacific Christian College of Ministry & Biblical Studies is the ministry-training college within Hope International University (HIU). Based in Fullerton, California, the college focuses on preparing students for professional and parachurch ministry through Bible- and theology-centered education paired with supervised experience. As part of HIU, Pacific Christian College serves undergraduate and graduate students who want their academic work to connect directly to church leadership, ministry practice, and Christian service.
The college’s leadership describes an educational philosophy that blends “education and experience,” emphasizing analytical engagement with life, ministry, theology, and the biblical text. In practice, this means students are not only trained in classroom settings, but also encouraged to develop ministry competencies through structured, hands-on learning. Pacific Christian College’s approach is framed by the belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” reinforcing that Christian vocation and ministry formation extend beyond one job title or role.
At the undergraduate level, Pacific Christian College lists several ministry-focused majors that connect biblical studies to ministry settings. These include Biblical Studies, Worship Arts, Children & Family Ministry, Church Ministry, Intercultural Studies (Missions), and Youth & Family Ministry. Across these programs, the college highlights learning from faculty and practitioners while equipping students to serve in local churches, missions contexts, and other ministry environments.
A distinctive feature of Pacific Christian College’s ministry preparation is its residency requirement for students in ministry-focused degrees. The college notes that one to two years of residency is built into Ministry, Bible, Worship Arts, and Intercultural Studies degrees, with students earning credit through ministry experience at a church near the Fullerton campus or, in some cases, out of state. Intercultural Studies majors may also have options to complete residency credits overseas in consultation with academic advisors. This residency model is designed to embed students in real ministry responsibility and develop leadership readiness prior to graduation.
At the graduate level, Pacific Christian College offers ministry and biblical studies pathways that include graduate certificates and degrees such as a Master of Arts in Ministry and a Master of Divinity. These options are intended for students pursuing deeper theological preparation, leadership development, and ministry skill-building in ways that support long-term service and vocational clarity.
Those who want to engage with Pacific Christian College can do so through HIU’s admissions pathways by scheduling a visit, requesting information, and applying. Churches can also participate by exploring what it means to become a residency church, aligning with the college’s commitment to form leaders through supervised ministry practice. Supporters who value ministry training within Christian higher education can connect through HIU’s giving opportunities that help sustain students and programs.
Key Links
- Pacific Christian College (Undergraduate Overview): https://www.hiu.edu/undergraduate-on-campus/academics/colleges/pacific-christian-college-of-ministry-and-biblical-studies
- Pacific Christian College (Graduate Overview): https://www.hiu.edu/graduate-students/academics/colleges/pacific-christian-college-of-ministry-and-biblical-studies
- Residency Information: https://www.hiu.edu/undergraduate-on-campus/academics/colleges/pacific-christian-college-of-ministry-and-biblical-studies/residency/
- Undergraduate On-Campus Admissions: https://www.hiu.edu/undergraduate-on-campus/admissions/
- Apply Now: https://www.hiu.edu/apply-now/
- Request More Info: https://admissions.hiu.edu/
- About HIU: https://www.hiu.edu/about-hiu/
- Contact HIU: https://www.hiu.edu/about-hiu/contact-hiu.php
- Donate (HIU Giving Form): https://hiuweb.formstack.com/forms/give
Contact Information
- Phone: 888-352-4673
- Phone: 714-879-3901
- Mailing address: 2500 E. Nutwood Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92831
Socials
- https://www.facebook.com/Hope-International-University-541871552526355/
- https://www.youtube.com/@HopeInternationalUniv
Leadership
- Dr. Carl Toney — Dean and Professor of Biblical Studies
- Paul H. Alexander, Ph.D. — University President
