What are MOL students like?

MOL students are working adults with college degrees who have demonstrated effectiveness in leading and managing others in the workplace (private sector, profit/non-profit, or ministry related). They believe their future effectiveness will significantly benefit through growth in leadership, organizational efficiency and management skills. MOL students highly value the integration of their faith and a biblical worldview into these areas.

Admission

Biola University has a strong evangelical Christian commitment and requires that all accepted applicants be evangelical believers in Jesus Christ. However, Biola does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in the admission of students, employment and the educational programs or activities it conducts.

Requirements

The following are necessary to apply to the M.A. in Organizational Leadership:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  • A grade point average (GPA) equivalent to a "B" average or higher. A limited number of applicants with lower GPAs may be admitted with probationary status.
  • A minimum of three years' managerial or leadership experience.
  • A completed MOL application submitted by the stated deadlines.
  • Three references (on forms provided in application packet) from people qualified to assess the applicant's potential for leadership and organizational excellence.
  • 1-2 paragraphs summarizing past leadership experience*
  • A current resumé.
  • A personal interview.

Admission of International Students

International students - Follow the special admissions procedures described in the international graduate student admissions instructions. International students may apply for either spring or fall, but should be aware that international applications can take 6-9 months to process. TOEFL scores and Affidavit of Support may be required. The MOL is offered in a distance format (the Modular program) which is open to international students. This distance format does include a residency on-campus in the U.S., so international students will still need to apply for a student visa to participate in the program.

English Proficiency

It is essential that non-native, English-speaking students be able to understand lectures in English and also be able to express their thoughts clearly in both written and spoken English. Admission into academic programs at Biola University is based upon the understanding that students score 600 or higher on the TOEFL, or proof that they are actively making progress in obtaining this level of English proficiency.

*For application purposes, "Leadership" is defined has "having responsibility for influencing a group of people toward a common goal". This experience can be gained in the workplace or in a ministry/volunteer setting. However, experience gained in college, such as student leadership positions, will not be considered toward the leadership experience requirement.