Bachelor’s Degree Program

Print this Page

Admissions Information

This additional information is specific to the Bachelor’s Degree Programs. To obtain admissions information which is common to all undergraduate programs, see the Admissions Information page.

Admissions Standards

Previous Educational Experience

The University requires that applicants have a high school diploma representing a minimum of 15 units. The University recommends that 12 of these units be distributed in the following manner:

4 units of English
3 units of social studies
2 units of foreign language
2 units of science
1 unit of mathematics

An official highschool transcript must be submitted.

Home-Schooled Students

The University welcomes applications from home-schooled students. A transcript of subjects studied and grades, including a cumulative grade point average should accompany the application. If the transcript does not include grades, please include an explanation of the method of evaluation. An independent evaluation of academic progress by a qualified educator may also be included with the transcript. Home-schooled applicants should also submit official SAT or ACT results. If the home-schooled applicant chooses to take the General Educational Development (GED) tests, a copy of the GED diploma and an official statement of the test scores should be forwarded to the Admissions Office. Home-schooled applicants must send proof of graduation at the completion of their senior year unless they have submitted the official GED test scores.

GED Students

Applicants who hold a high school equivalency diploma on the basis of the GED tests are also considered for admission. Applicants must submit an official transcript of secondary school work completed, a copy of the GED diploma and an official statement of the test scores.

Transfer Students

Applicants seeking to transfer from another institution are required to submit an official transcript from the higher education institution(s) previously attended and a transfer reference form from an appropriate official of the institution, if possible. If less than 60 credits have been earned, an official high school transcript is also required.

Grades

Three factors are considered in relation to the applicant’s high school grades:

1. cumulative overall grade point average
2. class rank and school size
3. grade pattern from the freshman to senior year

It is normally expected that the applicant should rank in the upper half of the high school class and have a 2.0 or above grade point average (on a 4.0 system).

Transfer students are also expected to have attained at least a 2.0 GPA in previous post-secondary work.

SAT/ACT Test Scores

Applicants, including transfer applicants, are required to submit official SAT or ACT test scores. The University’s minimum standard is a combined score of 920 on the SAT test or a composite score of 19 on the ACT test. Students with scores under these minimum standards may be accepted provisionally on the basis of grades. This acceptance may be conditional upon participation in the University’s AIMS (Assistance in Mastering Studies) program. Additional departmental requirements are listed under the various programs.

Applicants exempt from this test requirement include those who have earned a bachelor’s degree, transfer applicants with more than 60 credits, those age 25 or older, those who request non-matriculant status, and auditors. Under extenuating circumstances, applicants may occasionally be admitted provisionally without test scores, on the condition that they take the SAT test at the earliest opportunity.

Early Admission

Applicants with outstanding academic records may apply for admission to the University in place of their senior year of high school. Application should be made at the end of their junior year of high school. In addition to following normal application procedures, early admission applicants should submit:

1. A written recommendation from a high school guidance counselor or administrator, including an assessment of the applicant’s social and emotional maturity, and assurance that the high school diploma will be granted upon satisfactory completion of the student’s freshman year at the University.
2. A written statement of approval from the applicant’s parents or guardians.

An interview may be required.

AIMS Program

Applicants scoring under 920 on the SAT or under 19 (composite) on the ACT may be accepted and placed in the AIMS program. AIMS (Assistance in Mastering Studies) provides academic support for the freshman year. The purpose of the program is to strengthen the students’ academic skills so that they develop their abilities and function satisfactorily in the academic setting of the University.

Interviews

A personal interview is not required for admission. However, an interview with an admissions counselor is recommended if an applicant is visiting the campus. On occasion, the Admissions Office may require an interview in order to clarify personal or academic issues pertaining to the student’s application.

Campus Visits

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to visit the University to experience life on campus. This can be done by attending one of the University View Days held several times a year or by arranging a personal visit. Visitors have the opportunity to meet with Admissions staff, faculty, administrators, and students, as well as attend classes and chapel (Mon/Wed/Fri), and eat in the dining commons. Prior arrangement is strongly encouraged. Students who wish to spend the night in residence halls may do so by scheduling a week in advance. Overnight visits are not permitted during finals week. The Admissions Office hours are weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visits may be scheduled by calling (800) 366-0049 or (215) 702-4242, or by e-mailing admissions@pbu.edu. Information about the View Day schedule can also be found at the web site: pbu.edu/admissions/undergrad.

When to Apply

Philadelphia Biblical University admits students for both Fall and Spring semesters. It is recommended that high school students apply toward the end of their junior year or early in their senior year. Once the applicant’s file is complete, a decision is made and the applicant notified within two weeks. The decision process may be delayed for applicants being considered for provisional admission.

Application Process

Complete and submit an application form with autobiography and application fee in accordance with the instructions enclosed with the application materials. Prospective students may apply online, request an application from the Academic Communications Office or download it from the PBU web site at www.pbu.edu.

Request official high school transcript(s) to be sent to the Admissions Office (with a final copy to be sent after graduation).

Request the official SAT or ACT score report to be sent to the Admissions Office. (Use the SAT code number 2661 or ACT code number 3658 when registering for the tests to have scores sent directly to Philadelphia Biblical University.)

Request a pastor’s reference to be completed and returned directly to the Admissions Office. The pastor’s reference should be completed by the pastor or youth pastor of the church the applicant attends. The references should not be completed by family members.

Although not a part of the admission process, all accepted applicants must complete and submit a PBU health form and meningitis form before attending classes.

In addition to the above steps, the transfer applicant should request that official transcripts be sent for work completed at other colleges.

In addition to the above steps, an international applicant should submit:

• One of three test scores: TOEFL or SAT or ACT (see International Applicant section)
• A fully completed International Financial Aid Form (IFAF).
• Proof of financial support (for students who wish to enter with an F-1 visa)
• A completed PBU health form.

Philadelphia Biblical University reserves the right to require updated information from applicants.

Admission to Academic Programs

Some academic programs have additional requirements. An entrance audition is required for those wishing to enter the School of Music and Performing Arts. The School of Education and Bachelor of Social Work Program also have additional requirements. Applicants should review the specific entrance requirements outlined in the respective departmental sections of this catalog. Admission to the University does not guarantee admission to an academic program.

Notification of Decision

Once the applicant’s file is complete a decision is made. A completed file consists of the application form, application fee, all required test scores, all required transcripts and pastor’s reference. Applicants are notified in writing usually within two weeks of the Admissions Committee decision on the completed file. The decision process may be delayed for applicants being considered for provisional admission. It is the University’s admissions policy to not give reasons for rejecting an applicant should that decision be made.

This additional information is specific to the Bachelor’s Degree Programs. To obtain financial information which is common to all undergraduate programs, see the Financial Information page.

Tuition and Fees 2004-2005

Cost for a resident student for the 2004-05 year is approximately $19,350; for a commuting student, $13,495. These figures do not include miscellaneous or music fees. The breakdown of these charges is as follows:

New Student Fees

Tuition

Dining and Residence Hall Fees

Student Services and Activity Fees

Miscellaneous Fees/Costs

Course Fees

Music Fees

(Note: During the fall and spring semesters, students enrolled in a music program do not pay this extra charge for required applied music credits. Anyone who studies privately for credit during the summer must pay this fee.)

Instrumental Rental Fee $25.00

(Applies to all students taking Class Woodwinds, Strings, Brass, Percussion, Piano or Instrumental Methods.)

Non-credit 1/2-Hour Lessons

Tuition Management Services (TMS)

This outside organization provides a convenient ten-month payment plan for PBU students and/or their parents. Students apply yearly and pay an annual enrollment fee of $50.00 with no interest or additional fees. Payments begin June 15. For more information about TMS, call the student accounts counselor at (215) 702-4207. Application forms are also available from the University.

Financial Aid Programs

PBU Scholarships and Grants

The University provides opportunities to new freshman and transfer students for both academic scholarships and need-based grants. These awards are available to full-time, matriculating undergraduates enrolled at the Langhorne Manor campus. Information on application and policies pertaining to these programs is available by contacting either the Financial Aid Office or the Admissions Office.

Endowed Scholarships

A number of scholarships provided by donor-funded endowments are made available to both new and continuing undergraduate students each year. In order to receive these scholarships, students must complete written applications distributed from the Financial Aid Office each spring. Most endowed scholarships have specific criteria related to academic program or performance, leadership, Christian service or professional goals. A list of these scholarships is found in the PBU Financial Aid Brochure.

Music Scholarships

The School of Music & Performing Arts awards a number of scholarships to entering music majors each year. Auditions are required. Categories include voice, piano, organ, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, and composition. Scholarships range in value from $3,000 ($300 per semester) to $15,000 ($1,500 per semester). The applicant should contact the School of Music & Performing Arts for information about audition procedures and dates.

Employment

On-campus jobs are held by students in the areas of food service, housekeeping, security, library, clerical services, maintenance, and the Athletic Department. Students are normally scheduled to work between 10 and 20 hours per week. Some opportunities exist for students to work full-time during breaks in the academic year as well as in the summer.

An important part of the Federal Work Study program is community service employment. Undergraduates who qualify may participate by tutoring elementary school students in a school district near the University.

To request the University’s current financial aid information, please contact the Financial Aid Office.

Email: financial.aid@pbu.edu

Telephone: (800) 366-0049

Student Life Information

This information is specific to the Bachelor’s Degree Programs. To obtain additional Student Life information which is common to all undergraduate programs, see the Student Life page.

Spiritual maturity is stressed at Philadelphia Biblical University. Chapel services, class devotions, annual conferences and regular church attendance provide opportunities for worship, instruction, and challenge. Class meetings, residence hall meetings, and Student Missionary Fellowship meetings offer the student the privilege and responsibility of regular intercessory prayer. Student Ministry requirements involving the student in outreach stimulate personal spiritual development. It is vital for the University community that individuals regularly assess their contribution to the spiritual welfare of the total body. Faculty members and counselors are available to discuss spiritual matters with students.

Every effort is made to provide help for students. Students are offered opportunity to secure guidance concerning their personal, spiritual, and academic life. Resident assistants offer counseling in the dormitories for resident students. The professional departments provide the added help of academic or vocational counseling. The Oasis Counseling Center offers counseling as well as support groups for students who feel they would like to talk with someone about personal issues.

Approximately 50 percent of the student body are commuters. A concentrated effort is made to include commuters in the activities and programs of the University. A Commuter Council is elected by commuters to represent their interests within the University structure. Attempts are also made to meet the special needs of married students.

The University’s residence halls are considered an educational context in which most of life’s demands can be encountered in microcosm. Students learn self-discipline, consideration for others, self-sacrifice, and other Christian virtues that contribute to a life of effective service. Christian fellowship is experienced on a day-to-day basis.

Life in the dormitory is supervised by the Resident Council composed of Resident Assistants, Resident Directors, and the Director of Resident Life. As employees of the University they are responsible to help students develop mature habits of Christian living, encourage Christian fellowship, counsel residents, discuss and resolve functional and interpersonal problems, and enforce University regulations. The policies that govern life in the residence halls are stated in the Student Handbook. Single students under the age of 22 are expected to live in the residence halls provided by the University unless commuting from home.

At the University, students enjoy friendships that become lifelong. To complement class and club activities, the University Social Committee plans monthly social functions for the entire University family. Activities include concerts, films, roller skating, class functions, a Spring Formal, and open house evenings in the residence halls.

The University has an intercollegiate athletic program for both men and women. PBU is affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association as an active member of Division III and with the National Christian College Athletic Association as a Division II member.

Sports for men include soccer, basketball, tennis, baseball, golf, and volleyball. Women’s sports include field hockey, soccer, basketball, softball, tennis, volleyball, cheerleading, and cross country.

An extensive intramural program provides opportunity for students to experience athletic competition in a recreational environment and profit from physical exercise. Intramural sports include a wide variety of individual and team sports for men and women.

Recreational facilities include a fitness center with varied exercise equipment as well as a gymnasium and field space. Four tennis courts are available for play as weather permits.

Extracurricular activities broaden the student’s base of education and deepen the level of personal experience. The development of abilities in extracurricular experiences is of prime importance to the student preparing for Christian ministry. The following student organizations provide opportunity for leadership growth.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC)

This group is designed to provide opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the University community. This group sponsors instructional, theological, musical, cultural, and social activities. It is devoted to fostering leadership training and spiritual guidance for students from divergent backgrounds.

Class Organizations

Each year classes elect officers who lead them in their social, devotional, and service activities. Retreats are often included in annual class events. In the freshman year, a faculty advisor is selected to guide the class through its University experience.

Commuter Council

Almost one-half of the students at PBU are commuters. The Commuter Council represents their unique interests and needs and in addition, assists entering students to get involved in University life.

Cultural Awareness Association

This group provides opportunities for ethnically direrse students to make the University aware of the unique contributions and characteristics of their ethnic communities. This is accomplished through social programming, formal and informal discussions, and chapel presentations.

InReach

The InReach Team is made up of upperclassmen who make a specific effort to build encouraging relationships with freshmen and new resident students on the main campus. They receive training in leadership, discipleship, and mentoring.

Milestone

The University yearbook staff prepares a record of the events and spirit of the year, and at the same time learns basic publication techniques.

Music Ensembles

As an important part of the ministry and outreach of the University, PBU music groups present sacred concerts at the University and in the Greater Philadelphia area. The Chorale takes an annual concert tour. Other musical groups include Chamber Singers, Hosanna, Joy, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Community Chorus, Chapel Choir, Brass Ensemble, and Handbell Choir. A description of each group appears in the course description section.

Academic Fellowship

Many academic departments have a student fellowship or organization which meets several times a semester. These groups stimulate interaction among students and encourage relationships with professionals in the same field.

Resident Council

The Resident Council is responsible of creating a living-learning environment in the residence halls. Members are selected by the Director of Resident Life.

The Scroll

As the official student newspaper, The Scroll offers students the challenge to utilize and develop journalistic skills in publishing the news that is of interest to the student body.

Student Missions Fellowship

This organization acquaints students with the various areas of missions outreach and sustains a prayer ministry for missionaries. Funds are raised for the purpose of sending students on summer missions assignments and to contribute to other missions projects.

Student Senate

The Student Senate is composed of elected representatives from each class and major extracurricular organizations. It serves as the student representative body and liaison between students and administration, and faculty.

Student Theological Society

This organization exists to foster spiritual growth and intellectual development by encouraging the exchange of theological concerns among students.

University Social Committee

Composed of representatives from each class and various student interest groups, this committee is responsible for the planning, publicity, and execution of all University social functions. It is an official component of the Student Senate.