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A Letter from the President
 Thank you for your interest in
Western Pennsylvania Theological Institute. The goal of WPTI is to provide outstanding Biblical and Theological
training to Fundamental Baptist believers who want to prepare themselves for
greater service unto our Lord.
Our name describes who we
are. We are located in New Kensington,
Pennsylvania, and our purpose is to provide training to those who reside in
this general vicinity. We desire to be a
help and support to local churches by providing sound, collegiate level
instruction for their members, while at the same time allowing these
individuals to continue to serve in their respective ministries. It has often been the case that men and women
who wanted further Bible training were forced to abandon their churches, as
well as their jobs, to get an education.
With WPTI this is no longer the case.
We are also a school of
Theology. We believe that a persons view of theology will ultimately
determine his ministry choices. Unfortunately, many of the Bible colleges of our land have abandoned courses in Theology, Bibliology, and Ecclesiology, and replaced them with courses in Methodology. Methods and practical instruction have their place, but they can never replace sound instruction in the truths of the Word of God. A student graduating from WPTI after four years of instruction will have
had theology classes every semester and taken courses dealing with every book of the Bible. The Scriptures are the light unto my path, and the able workman must be able to
rightly divide them.
Finally, an Institute is an
educational organization dedicated to the study of subject matter within a restricted field. We are not training people to become better businessmen - we are training them to become better servants of the Most High God. The education will be comprehensive and rigorous, and taught by a faculty that not only appreciates and understands the importance of the Word of God, but also applies that knowledge to their everyday lives.
I hope that you will prayerfully consider whether God wants you to be a part of Western Pennsylvania
Theological Institute. If you believe
God has called you to the pastorate or missions, or if you simply want to learn
more about the Bible so that you can serve more effectively in your own local
church, WPTI wants to be a help to you.
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Western Pennsylvania Theological Institute
Doctrinal Statement
1. The Scriptures
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men
under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit without any mixture or error, and
therefore is, and shall remain unto the end of the age, the only complete and
final Revelation of the will of God to man, the true center of Christian union,
and the supreme authority by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions
should be tried. We believe that the sixty-six books of the Bible, from Genesis
to Revelation, were verbally and plenarily inspired, so that not only the
thoughts of the Bible are inspired, but each and every word itself is
God-breathed. We believe that God, in faithfulness to His Word, has
Providentially preserved the Scriptures in their original languages. This
preservation extends not only to the ideas and doctrines of the Bible, but to
the very words themselves. We further believe that God has preserved these
words in the Massoretic text of the Old Testament, and the Textus Receptus of
the New Testament. We further believe that the only English version which is
faithful to the words of these texts, and therefore the only version that will
be used at WPTI, is the King James Version.
2.
The Godhead
We believe in one God, eternally existing
in three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3.
The Son
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ,
the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been born
of a virgin that He might reveal God and redeem sinful men. We believe in His
sinless life, and in His miracles. We believe that redemption was accomplished
through His death on the cross, and was made sure to us by His literal,
physical resurrection from the dead. He ascended to Heaven and is now exalted
at the right hand of God the Father, where He serves as the believer's great
High Priest.
4.Holy Spirit
We believe in the ministry of the Holy
Spirit: that He convicts the sinner; that He regenerates the one who believes;
that He indwells, seals, instructs, reproves, and guides the believer; and that
He fills and controls every life that is yielded to Him. We reject the modern
Charismatic Movement, because it is based upon a false understanding of the
apostolic Spiritual gifts.
5.Creation
We believe in direct and instant
creation that was accomplished in six literal, twenty-four hour days. We
rejected any theory (organic or theistic) of evolution. We believe that all men
are descended from the historical Adam and Eve.
6.
Man
We believe that man, in the person of
the first Adam, was created in innocence. By Adam's personal disobedience to
the revealed will of God, man became a sinful creature, thus plunging the whole
human race into condemnation and death so that now all mankind is born in sin
and shapen in iniquity, and become willful sinners by personal choice.
Therefore, men are without excuse before God, and have within themselves no
possible means of recovery or salvation.
7.
Salvation
We believe that the only escape from
the condemnation of sin is through the redemption wrought by Jesus Christ upon
the cross. We believe that salvation is the gift of God brought to sinful man
by grace, and received solely by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We
believe that faith in the finished work of Christ is the only condition of
salvation from sin, and that no works, however good, make that salvation more
secure. We believe that repentance is a change of mind and purpose toward God
prompted by the Holy Spirit, that it is characterized by godly sorrow for sin
as offensive to God and ruinous to the soul, and that true repentance is
inseparably linked to true faith.
8. Calvinism and Arminianism
We reject all theories, philosophies,
and theologies that are inconsistent with the Bible. We reject the systems of
Calvinism and Arminianism. We conclude Biblically that Christ died for all men
and that salvation is appropriated by individual choice by faith in Jesus
Christ. We reject an "unconditional election" to Heaven and a
predetermined sentence to Hell as being unbiblical. We believe that all who
receive the Lord Jesus Christ by faith are born again of the Holy Spirit, are
instantaneously the children of God, and are eternally secure.
9.
Satan
We believe in a literal devil who was
an agent in the fall of man. He is presently the prince of this world, and the
accuser of the brethren, and he will be judged and eternally punished in the
Lake of Fire.
10.
Church
We believe that the New Testament
church is a local assembly of baptized believers, assembled for worship,
edification, and obedience to the Great Commission. Baptism by immersion for
believers and the Lord's Supper are the only two ordinances of the church. The
pastor and the deacon are the only Scriptural offices.
11.
Future Events
We believe in the imminent rapture of
the believers, followed by a literal seven-year period of tribulation upon this
earth. The climax of the Tribulation will be the physical return of Christ to
earth to introduce the Millennial Davidic kingdom.
12.
The Eternal State
We believe in a literal Heaven and
Hell. Heaven is the place of eternal conscious joy for all who receive Jesus
Christ as their personal Savior. Hell is the place of eternal conscious
punishment in the Lake of Fire for all who reject Jesus Christ, and for those
who have never heard the gospel of Christ. We believe in the bodily
resurrection of all men - the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to
judgment and eternal punishment.
13.
Separation
We believe that all believers should
honor the Lord by a life of separation from the world's philosophies and
practices. This separation should affect the believer morally, personally, and
ecclesiastically. We stand in opposition to the Ecumenical Movement, New
Evangelicalism, Neo-Orthodoxy, and Cooperative Evangelism between churches who
are not of the same faith and practice.
Back to Table of Contents
Financial Information
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Tuition
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Full-time student*
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$100.00 per semester hour,
up to a maximum of $1200/semester
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Part-time student*
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$100.00 per semester hour
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Students auditing a course**
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$50.00 per semester hour
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Church member sit-in***
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$50.00 per course
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Fees
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Application fee
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$25.00 one time non-refundable
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Registration fee
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$10.00 each semester
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Late registration fee
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$25.00 per semester
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Transcript fee
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$5.00 per copy
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Finance charge
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$10.00 per month
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Return check fee
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$35.00 per check
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*Credit courses are classes
where all assignments are required, and the student receives both a grade and
credit.
**Audit courses are classes
where all assignments are required, but the student receives no credit.
The grades will be kept on file, and, should
the student decide at a later time that he desires credit for these classes, he
will be billed the remaining balance, and credit will be issued upon reception
of the tuition.
***Sit-in classes are taken
just for the classroom material. No
quizzes tests or papers will be required, and no credit or grade will be given
to the student.
Financial Policy:
- The Fall registration fee is due by August 15th. The Spring registration fee is due by January 15th.
- Fall and Spring semester tuition may be paid in full at the beginning of each semester, or it may be paid in four equal installments.
*Fall semester payments are due on August 15th; September 15th, October 15th,
and November 15th.
*Spring
semester payments are due on January 15th, February 15th, March 15th, and April 15th.
-Any
and all late payments will incur the $10/month finance charge.
- The full tuition must be paid prior to the final exam. Final exams will not be given to any
student whose full tuition and fees have not been paid.
- No grades or credit for the class will be given at the end of any semester
prior to the receipt of all tuition and fees.
- No student still owing tuition or fees will be allowed to enroll in new classes without
prior approval from the president of the Institute.
- All textbooks may be purchased from the Institute office or the instructor, and they must be paid for at the time of purchase. All students are responsible for any material from the textbooks required by the instructor from the first day of class, whether or not they have purchased the book.
- Fees are not refundable.
- Tuition refunds are computed as follows:
- Second week of classes 90%
- Third week of classes 80%
- Fifth week of classes 60%
- Seventh week of classes 40%
- Beyond the seventh week of classes, no refund is given.
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Note - It is the responsibility of the
student to request a refund in writing by submitting it to the academic dean. The date of submission will determine the
refund computation.
Note - For
those who may have chosen to pay on the installment plan, tuition payments are still
required in accordance with the schedule given above until the balance owed
for the amount of class periods attended is paid.
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Registration fees for Summer and Winter Block Classes are due one week prior to
the opening class of the first course being offered. Tuition
for Summer Block Classes should be paid in full by September 1st. Tuition for Winter Block Classes should be
paid in full by February 1st.
- Discounts
- Second week of classes 90%
- Immediate family members of WPTI faculty will receive a 75% deduction on tuition. They will be responsible for all fees.
- Full-time staff members of Harvest Baptist Church will receive a 10% deduction on the tuition per year that they have served on staff. Part-time staff members will receive a 5% discount per year that they have served on staff. They will be responsible for all fees. Discounts will be available following one full year of employment.
- Any student taking classes for credit can receive a 10% deduction on the cost of tuition by pre-paying the total bill no later than the first day of classes.
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Any student taking classes for credit can receive a 10% deduction on the cost of tuition by pre-paying the total bill no later than the first day of classes.
Back to Table of Contents
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Extended Course Definitions
BIBLE (BI)
Old
Testament Studies
BI 101.3 - Genesis: An expository study of the Book of
Genesis, with an emphasis on the Creation Account, the Noahic Flood, and the
Abrahamic Covenant, including a defense against the destructive criticism of
Genesis.
BI 103.2 - Pentateuch: A
survey analysis of the first five books of the Bible, with special emphasis
given to creation, the fall, the flood, and the tabernacle, as well as the
historical development of the Jewish Nation from Abraham through Moses and the
end of the wilderness wanderings.
BI 201.3
- Historical Books: A
systematic study of the Old Testament books from Joshua through Esther, with
special emphasis on the relationship between the Old Testament historical books
and the New Testament.
BI 203.3 - Poetical Books: An exegetical study of the Old
Testament books from Job through Song of Solomon, with emphasis on the theme,
the application of practical lessons, the composition of Hebrew poetry, figures
of speech, and Messianic prophecies.
BI 301.2 - Minor Prophets: A study of the chronological order of
the twelve minor prophets, Hosea through Malachi, along with the theme,
background, author, and recipient of each book.
Each prophet is surveyed with emphasis placed on their prophecies and
the impact of these prophecies on the Jewish Nation, as well as on Christians.
BI 303.3 - Daniel - Revelation: A study of the background and basic
content of the book of Daniel as compared to the book of Revelation. An analysis of the eschatological impact of
these books will be studied from a dispensational, pre-tribulational, and
pre-millennial position. Their prophetic
accuracy and fulfillment will be examined.
BI 401.3 - Major Prophets: An analytical study of the Old
Testament books from Isaiah through Ezekiel, with emphasis on the major
prophetic messages, the fulfillment of these prophecies, and their impact on
the Jewish Nation, as well as on Christians.
Back to Table of Contents
New Testament Studies
BI 102.2 - Life of Christ 1: A comprehensive and harmonistic study
of the earthly life and ministry of the LORD Jesus Christ as revealed in the
four Gospels, Matthew through John, with special emphasis on the example Christ
has left for Christians. The background
study will include the Inter-testamental period.
BI 104.2 - Life of Christ 2: A comprehensive and harmonistic study
of the earthly life and ministry of the LORD Jesus Christ as revealed in the
four Gospels, Matthew through John, with special emphasis on the example Christ
has left for Christians.
BI 105.2 - Life of Christ 3: A comprehensive and harmonistic study
of the earthly life and ministry of the LORD Jesus Christ as revealed in the
four Gospels, Matthew through John, with special emphasis on the example Christ
has left for Christians.
BI 202.2 - Acts: A historical study of the
foundation of the early New Testament Church, and the spread of the gospel to
all the world. Attention is given to the
New Testament Epistles and their relation to the historical nature of this
book.
BI 204.3 - Romans: An
exegetical study of Romans and the application of the doctrines found in this
book to the life of the believer, with special emphasis on Christ's completed work of salvation.
BI 302.3 - Pauline Epistles 1: A study of the background and basic
content of the books of I and II
Corinthians, Galatians, and I and II
Thessalonians. Emphasis will be given to major themes, backgrounds, doctrines,
personal applications of the lessons and warnings given to the believer, and
the difficulties of the Gentile churches.
BI 304.3 - Pauline Epistles 2: A study of the background and basic
content of the Prison Epistles. Emphasis
will be given to major themes, backgrounds, doctrines, personal applications of
the lessons and warnings given to the believer, and the difficulties of the
Gentile churches.
BI 404.3 - Pauline Epistles 3: A study of the background and basic content of the Pastoral Epistles.
Emphasis will be given to major themes, backgrounds, doctrines, and personal
applications to the pastor of a New Testament Baptist church.
BI 402.3 - Hebrews and General Epistles: A study of the background and basic
content of the books of Hebrews through Jude. Major themes, backgrounds, doctrines, personal applications of the
lessons and warnings given to the believer, and the difficulties of the Gentile
Churches and the Jewish Churches will be emphasized.
Back to Table of Contents
BIBLICAL LANGUAGES (BL)
BL 101.3 - Elementary Greek Grammar:
An introduction to the study of the basic grammar of New Testament Greek. (These classes must be taken in order).
BL 102.3
- Elementary Greek Grammar:
An introduction to the study of the basic grammar of New Testament Greek.
Prerequisite: BL 101.3 or equivalent.
BL 201.3 - Intermediate Greek Grammar:
A further and more detailed study of Greek grammar with an emphasis on the
syntax and relationship of words within the construction of the Greek
sentence. Extensive translating will be
done in I John. Prerequisite: BL 102.3
or equivalent.
BL 202.3 - Intermediate Greek Grammar:
A further and more detailed study of Greek grammar with an emphasis on the
syntax and relationship of words within the construction of the Greek
sentence. Prerequisite: BL 201.3 or
equivalent. (These classes must be taken
in order).
BL 301.2 - Exegesis of the Book of James:
A study of the principles and praxis of Greek exegesis with a practical
application in the text of James. This
course is designed to teach the student how to exegete so he may be able to
extract and apply the richness and fullness of the original intent and meaning
of passages from the original Greek text. Prerequisite: BL 202.3 or equivalent.
BL 302.2 - Exegesis of the Book of James:
A study of the principles and praxis of Greek exegesis with a practical
application in the text of James. This
course is designed to teach the student how to exegete so he may be able to
extract and apply the richness and fullness of the original intent and meaning
of passages from the original Greek text. Prerequisite: BL 202.3 or equivalent.
Back to Table of Contents
BIBLICAL STUDIES (BS)
BS 301.2 - Introduction to Missions:
This class will be a focused presentation of how modern missions and the
missionary are related to the Local Church. Subjects covered will include: the relationship of the missionary to a
supporting church, the relationship of a missionary to his pastor, the
relationship of the missionary to the pastor of a supporting church, the
accountability of the missionary to local churches, the missionary mind set
towards pastors, the relationship of the pastor to a missionary supported by
his church, the responsibility of the
church to the missionary, and the churchs mind set towards missionaries. Special emphasis will be given to methods to
strengthen the relationship of the missionary and local churches.
BS 301.3 - Cults: A study of heretical religions
and cults that claim the name of Christianity.
Special emphasis will be placed on a Biblical refutation of their
beliefs, and how their beliefs differ from the fundamental stand. Religions and cults to be considered will
include, but not be limited to: Roman Catholicism, Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventism,
and others.
BS 302.1 - Preparation for Missions: This class is designed to
help the student prepare for ministry on the mission field. Practical subjects to be covered will include
discerning the Lord's direction, determining support levels, working with
sending agencies, contacting pastors, presentation of the work to churches,
preparing a display, guidelines for equipment needed on the field, and dealing
with medical issues.
BS 302.2 - Pedagogy: A study
of the art of teaching, designed to prepare the prospective teacher with
techniques and materials to teach the Bible to children and young people.
BS 401.2 - Hermeneutics: A course designed to aid the student
in developing a systematic format of Bible study. Special emphasis is given to the
dispensational, grammatical, Theological, historical, and literal interpretation of Scripture passages. Some difficult passages are given special
attention.
BS 402.2 - Pastoral Theology: A study of the responsibilities and
duties of the pastor as laid out in the Scriptures. Emphasis will be placed on the practical
applications of the Word of God to the day to day workings of a Baptist
church. Special services such as
weddings, funerals, baptisms, and the Lord's Supper will be discussed.
BS 403.2 - Church and Law: A study of the current laws of our
nation and their impact upon local churches. Emphasis will be given to Finances,
Constitutions, Child Abuse, Counseling, and other areas of legal concern.
Back to Table of Contents
CHURCH HISTORY (CH)
CH 301.3 - Baptist History and Polity: A study of the history and heritage
of the Baptist church and the Anabaptist movement from the time of Christ
through the present; as well as a systematic study of the doctrines unique to
the Baptist belief, including the seven Baptist Distinctives
CH 302.3 - History of Fundamentalism: A study of the history of the
Fundamentalist movement, with emphasis on its Biblical basis, its battles with
modernism, and its current state.
CH 401.3 - History of Religion: A
study of the history of religious belief through the centuries, with a
particular emphasis on the history of a Christianity, "including Catholicism and
Protestantism."
CH 403.2 - Current Trends in Religion:
A study of modern trends in Theology including their leaders, thought process,
and the results on modern society. Special emphasis will be placed a Biblical refutation of their thought
and their methods of outreach. Movements
to be considered will include, but not be limited to: liberalism, new
evangelicalism, charismatic movement, spiritism, witchcraft, and the new
age/occult.
Back to Table of Contents
CHURCH MINISTRIES (CM)
CM 101.2 - Youth Work: An
extensive study of the developmental characteristics of the adolescent.This class is designed to prepare the
prospective youth worker with a proper philosophy of ministry, as well as
useful methods and principles to be incorporated into a successful youth
ministry.
CM 102.2 - Personal Evangelism: A
study on how to clearly define and relay the Gospel to another person. This course will examine methods of
approaching another person, personal soul winning, and discipling a new convert
personally and through the local church. Special emphasis will be placed on the discipleship program which is
needed to help ground the new believer in Biblical doctrine and helps him to
defend against false doctrine and false religions.
CM 201.2 - Church Music: A study
of sacred music, including its history, influence and place in the church
service. Scriptural music will be
contrasted with Contemporary Christian Music.
Basic styles and patterns of leading congregational singing, and the
basic choosing and ordering of music for special numbers will be
discussed. The student will develop a
practical music philosophy based on Scripture, as well as training in the basic
setting up and administration of a church music program.
CM 202.2 - Christian Home: A study
of the basic Bible principles and precepts concerning the Christian home. Special emphasis will be given to marriage,
husband and wife roles, husband and wife relationships, child training,
finances, Biblical priorities, the home verses the modern world, and the
relationship between the Christian home and the Fundamental church.
CM 303.2 - Personal/Church Financial Management:
A study on the structural
organizing of personal/church finances using Biblical principles. The course will cover such matters as
financial freedom, developing a Biblical value system, family finances, single
and double income budgets, credit card debt management, and how to balance the check
book as well as principles for the effective management of church finances.
CM 401.3 - Christian Education/Christian School: A
study designed to introduce the history, divine purposes, and methods of
training/teaching in and through the local church with emphasis on Christian
growth, equipping teachers and parents to train others, and various
philosophies of Christian education, as well as a survey of the growth of the
Christian School/ Home School movements.
CM 402.2 - Church Planting: A study
of the Biblical principles and practical methods for planting a New Testament
church. Special emphasis will be placed
on the Scriptural teachings concerning the necessity of starting churches, as
well as on various methodologies for establishing a Fundamental Baptist church.
Back to Table of Contents
GENERAL EDUCATION (GE)
GE 101.3 - English Grammar: A
study of the basic English skills needed to enable the student to operate
within standard grammatical construction and accepted usage.
GE 102.2 - Creationism: A survey
of the Biblical and scientific evidence that supports creationism, including a
critique of evolution, as well as discussions of catastrophism vs.
uniformitarianism and the young age of the earth vs. an ancient earth.
GE 103.2 - English Composition: A
course designed to teach and apply basic skills in the art of writing and communicating the students thoughts in a logical order, while adhering to the MLA guidelines and using effective vocabulary words.
GE 201.3 - Christian Counseling:
An introduction to the principles and practice of Biblical counseling so that ministers and laymen can give effective counsel and apply Biblical principles to various issues, guiding individuals to Biblical solutions for decisions in typical life situations. Different age
groups will be addressed.
GE 401.2 - Fundamentals of Homiletics:
An introduction to the preparation and delivery of sermons with emphasis on the
types, content, pulpit etiquette, the delivery of sermons, and sources of
material for sermons. Emphasis is
placed on expository preaching.
GE 402.2- Fundamentals of Homiletics II: A study of the
preparation and delivery of sermons with an emphasis on expository
preaching. While in this class the
student will prepare several sermons and deliver them within a prescribed time
limit.
GE 402.1 - Speech: The basic
principles and techniques of delivery styles, and persuasive communication of
Personal Experience, Scripture Reading, Poetry, Devotionals, Story Telling,
Demonstrations, and Informative Speeches.
GE 403.3 - Curriculum, Tests, and Measurements Development: A
study of the theory and application factors affecting curriculum design, while
tracking development through the use of testing and various informal evaluation
methods as an appraisal of learning. Particular focus is given to the content, age issues and appropriateness
of educational material, while tracking the advantages and disadvantages of
developing an independent curriculum. The student will develop curriculum and
apply educational evaluation, including constructing tests, and using
standardized tests. Samples of various
curriculum, educational and mental tests and methods are examined by the
student.
GE 403.4 - Primer Development and
Literacy Program Design: A study of the various theories of how to teach
people to read, with an emphasis on the design of materials needed to promote
both basic literacy and comprehension.
GE 404.1 - Literacy Internship:
The student will be involved directly with a literacy consultant, and will
assist in the designing of multiple levels of primers, bridge reading
materials, and teacher-training materials. The student will also be directly involved in actual training sessions.
Back to Table of Contents
THEOLOGY (TH)
TH 101.2 - Ecclesiology: A
systematic study of the Biblical doctrine of the church, God's program in this age, from the
dispensational Baptist viewpoint.
Attention is given to the local church, its functions, officers, and
organization, beginnings, continuation, and authority.
TH 103.3 - Bibliology: A study
of the Biblical doctrines of revelation, inspiration, illumination,
canonization, and preservation with special emphasis on why believers should
use the Massoretic Hebrew Text, the Textus Receptus Greek Text, and the King
James Version of the Bible.
TH 201.3 - Soteriology: A systematic study of the Biblical
doctrine of salvation, with special emphasis placed on repentance, election,
faith, adoption, regeneration, sanctification, and justification.
TH 202.2 - Pneumatology: A
systematic study of the Person and work of the Holy Spirit, with emphasis given
to studying spiritual gifts, the gradual annulment of sign gifts, and the work
of the Holy Spirit today.
TH 301.3 - Theology Proper: A detailed study of the basic
doctrines concerning Theology Proper, or the study of God the Father, taken
from the Bible.
TH 302.2 - Anthropology/Hamartiology/Angelolgy: A systematic study of man with emphasis on man prior
to salvation compared to man after salvation; a systematic study of sin: its
cause, source, and results; and a systematic study of angels, with attention
paid to holy angels, fallen angels (demons), and other specific angels.
TH 401.3- Dispensationalism: A study of the dispensational approach to Biblical interpretation, with
a detailed study of the details and distinctions of the various
dispensations. Included are a refutation
of covenant theology and a systematic
study of future events from a dispensational, pre-millennial, pre-tribulational
position.
TH 402.2 - Christology: A systematic study of the Person and work of Jesus
Christ: His deity, death, burial, resurrection, and exaltation.
TH 404.3 - Apologetics: A
defense of Christianity and Christian doctrine as stated in Scripture. This class supports and explains the
Scriptural defense of the Christian faith as opposed by various religions,
cults, and beliefs contrary to Scripture.
TH 102.1, 104.1, 202.1, 204.1 - Practical Theology: These courses encompass a
practical, hands on application of ministry outreach taught in class. The student is expected to be involved in a
ministry of his/her local church, under the direction of that church's pastor, and must submit a weekly report outlining
the ministerial participation.
TH 302.1, 304.1, 403.1, 405.1 - Ministry Internship: These courses encompass a
practical, hands on application of ministry taught in class. The student is
expected to be involved in a ministry of his/her local church, working closely
with his pastor in the aspects of the ministry outlined by the Institute. The student must submit a weekly report
outlining his ministerial participation.
Not all courses will be offered at all times. The
Institute reserves the right to change the subjects offered, semester
hours/course, or scheduling if it becomes necessary
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Transfer Credit Policies
Western Pennsylvania
Theological Institute reserves the right to reject transfer credits from anyacademic institution at the discretion of the administration.
Credits may be transferred
under the following provisions:
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Only credits which carry a grade of A, B, or C will be accepted for transfer credits.
- No
grade lower than an A, B, or C should be expected to transfer from Western
Pennsylvania Theological Institute to any other training institution.
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Only courses comparable to the content and quality of those taught at Western
Pennsylvania Theological Institute will be accepted for transfer credit.
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Each transfer student will be required to complete a minimum of 50 percent of
the classes required for their particular program of study at Western
Pennsylvania Theological Institute.
- Transfer students must still complete the necessary courses required by Western Pennsylvania
Theological Institute in order to
earn a diploma.
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Grading System
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A
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Excellent
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93-100%
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4 grade points
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B
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Above Average
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85-92%
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3 grade points
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C
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Average
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76-84%
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2 grade points
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D
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Below Average
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70-75%
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1 grade points
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F
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Failure
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0-69%
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0 grade points
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I
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Incomplete
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Academic Load
To
be considered a full-time student, one must take at least 12 semester hours per
semester. A student may not take more
than 18 semester hours per semester without approval from the Academic Dean. A load of 16 semester hours per semester is
needed for the student to graduate in four years.
A
Semester Hour consists of one hour of classroom study or lecture for a period
of 16 weeks. The student is expect to
invest approximately two hours of outside classroom study per semester
hour. The student should consider this
factor when scheduling his/her classes so as not to over schedule his/her time.
The calculation of clock
hours is as follows:
Semester
Hours times weeks equals clock hours, e.g. 17 semester hours x 16 weeks = 272
clock hours per semester hour.
- A Major:
- In
order to major in a field of study, the student must complete a minimum of 32
semester hours of classes specifically designated for that major.
- A Minor:
- In
order to major in a field of study, the student must complete a minimum of 24
semester hours of classes specifically designated for that minor.
- A Concentration:
- In
order to have a concentration in a field of study, the student must complete a
minimum of 16 semester hours of classes specifically designated for that
concentration.
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Accreditation
It
is not the intent of Western Pennsylvania Theological Institute to seek secular
accreditation for its programs of study. Our institute is to be submitted to the guidelines found within the
Scriptures and will not be brought into submission to the standards set by men
who are not of like faith and practice.
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General Academic Policies
-
Attendance:
- Regular
attendance at class is required. A
student is responsible for all work assigned, including any assignment missed
because of absence. Excessive
absences (more than 25 percent of the classes) will result in the student
receiving a failing grade for the course. If there are extenuating circumstances involved with the
absenteeism, the circumstances will be
reviewed by the Institute Faculty to determine whether the absences are
acceptable. Each case of excessive
absenteeism will be dealt with on an individual basis.
- Late or Incomplete
Assignments:
- - Any tests missed because of being absent must be made up by the student on the
next day of classes. Failure to do so
will result in a 5% reduction in the grade for each class day the test is not
taken.
- - The grace period for any class will be 10 days after the completion date of the
class. Any test, paper, or assignment
turned in later than this will be an automatic 0% grade.
- Academic Forgiveness Policy:
- Students are permitted to repeat a course where a grade of F was earned. Grades of D may also be raised by
repeating the course. Repeated courses
will be followed by the letter R on the transcript.
A
request to withdrawal from any class requires completion of a withdrawal form
obtained from the Registrar. This form
must be submitted to the Registrar as well as the business office before the
withdrawal becomes official. Failure to
follow the administrative procedures for withdrawal will result in a grade of F
in the course and a forfeiture of any refund the student may receive. Any course from which the student has
withdrawn after the grace period has expired will be followed by the letter W
on the transcript.
- Academic Grace Period:
- The
student is permitted to add or drop classes during the first two weeks of
classes with no penalties. This also
applies to students who wish to make changes in their status between "Credit," "Audit," and "Sit-in". Courses dropped after the second week of the
semester will be treated as a withdrawal from the class unless approved by the
Registrar. Failure to withdrawal
officially will result in the academic and financial penalties associated with
the Institute policies. Courses may not
be added after the third week of the semester.
No
financial refunds will be given for any courses dropped after the seventh week
of classes. All withdrawals before the
seventh week will be subject to the rules established in the Financial Policy.
All fees are non-refundable.<
- Correspondence Courses:
- Some
courses may be available via correspondence.
Please contact the Institute for information concerning costs and
policies for participation in this program.
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Programs of Study
Diplomas and Certificates Offered
The requirements for a One Year
Bible Certificate:
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Theology courses
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4
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credits
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Old Testament courses
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4 |
credits
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New Testament courses
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4 |
credits
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Bible Electives
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8 |
credits
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General Electives
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12 |
credits
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Total
number of semester hours required
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32 |
credits
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The requirements for The
Associate of Bible Degree:
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Theology courses
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8
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credits
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Old Testament courses
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8 |
credits
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New Testament courses
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8 |
credits
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Church History courses
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3 |
credits
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Bible Electives
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16 |
credits
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General Electives
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21 |
credits
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Total
number of semester hours required
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64 |
credits
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The requirements for a Three
Year Bible Diploma
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Theology courses
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12
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credits
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Old Testament courses
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12 |
credits
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New Testament courses
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12 |
credits
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Church History courses
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6 |
credits
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Bible Electives
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24 |
credits
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General Electives
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30 |
credits
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Total
number of semester hours required
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96 |
credits
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The
requirements for a Four Year Bachelor Program:
(For specific requirements see course
scheduling section)
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Bachelor
of Biblical Studies (B.B.S.)
Pastoral Major
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128
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Credits
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Bachelor
of Biblical Studies (B.B.S.)
Interdisciplinary
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128
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Credits
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Schedule
The
Institute operates on a four year rotation of classes. That is, certain classes are offered one
year, others the next, and still others in the third and fourth years. After four years, the cycle repeats
itself. Students enrolling in any year
of the cycle will be able to complete all four years without difficulty.Each semester there will be at least twelve
semester hours of courses offered. Together with one semester hour of Practical
Theology or Internship each semester and one three-hour block class, the
student is able to earn 16 hours of credit each semester. This allows the student to complete the 128
semester hours necessary to finish the Bachelor program in four years.
Semesters operate as follows:
I. Fall Semester and Spring Semester:
* 5-8 courses will be
offered each semester. Each course will
meet one night per week for two or three
hours.
* Make-up classes which were
unable to be taken during a normal rotation will not be offered every semester,
but only as the schedule allows a faculty member to be free to teach them. One should not skip a course with the
expectation of being able to make up for it in this way.
* Each course will meet for 16
weeks unless otherwise announced.
* This
will produce 32 hours of classroom instruction for each two semester hour class
and 48 hours in each 3 semester hour class.
II. Summer Semesters:
Summer
semesters will be offered based the availability of faculty and also based upon
the demand for classes.
III. Minimum Participation:
The
Institute reserves the right to drop any class that has less than five students
participating in it. If a course has
less than five students signed up, it will be left to the discretion of the
professor as to whether or not the class should be dropped.
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Requirements
Bachelor of Biblical Studies
Bible Major/Pastoral Studies
~ Bible - 39 Credits ~
Genesis - 3 credits
Pentateuch - 2 credits
Historical Books - 3 credits
Poetic Books - 2 credits
Major Prophets - 3 credits
Minor Prophets - 2 credits
Life of Christ I - 2 credits
Life of Christ II - 2 credits
Life of Christ III - 2 credits
Acts - 2 credits
Romans - 3 credits
Pauline Epistles I - 3 credits
Pauline Prison Epistles - 2 credits
Pauline Pastoral Epistles - 2 credits
Hebrews & General Epistles -
3 credits
Daniel/Revelation - 3 credits
~ Church Ministries - 20 Credits ~
Christian Home - 2 credits
Personal Evangelism - 2 credits
Youth Ministries - 2 credits
Church Music - 2 credits
Christian Education - 3 credits
Personal/Church Finance - 2 credits
Pedagogy - 2 credits
Church Planting - 2 credits
Pastoral Theology - 3 credits
~ General Education - 11 Credits ~
English Grammar - 3 credits
Composition - 3 credits
Creationism - 2 credits
Counseling - 3 credits
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~ Theology -19 Credits ~
Ecclesiology - 3 credits
Bibliology - 3 credits
Christology - 2 credits
Soteriology - 3 credits
Pneumatology - 2 credits
Theology Proper - 2 credits
Dispensations - 2 credits
Anthropology/Hamartiology/
Angelology - 2 credits
~ Greek - 14 Credits ~
Elementary Greek I - 4 credits
Elementary Greek II - 4 credits
Intermediate Greek I - 3 credits
Intermediate Greek II - 3 credits
~ Biblical Studies - 11 Credits ~
Introduction to Missions - 2
credits
Cults - 3 credits
Homiletics I - 2 credits
Homiletics II - 2 credits
Hermeneutic - 2 credits
~ Church History - 6 Credits ~
Baptist History and Polity -
3 credits
History of Fundamentalism -
3 credits
~ Practical Theology - 8 Credits ~
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Bachelor of Biblical Studies
Bible Major/Interdisciplinary
~ Bible - 39 Credits ~
Genesis - 3 credits
Pentateuch - 2 credits
Historical Books - 3 credits
Poetic Books - 2 credits
Major Prophets - 3 credits
Minor Prophets - 2 credits
Life of Christ I - 2 credits
Life of Christ II - 2 credits
Life of Christ III - 2 credits
Acts - 2 credits
Romans - 3 credits
Pauline Epistles I - 3 credits
Pauline Prison Epistles - 2 credits
Pauline Pastoral Epistles - 2 credits
Hebrews & General Epistles -
3 credits
Daniel/Revelation - 3 credits
~ Church Ministries - 15 Credits ~
Personal Evangelism - 2 credits
Youth Ministries - 2 credits
Church Music - 2 credits
Christian Home - 2 credits
Personal/Church Finance - 2 credits
Pedagogy - 2 credits
Christian Education - 3 credits
~ General Education - 13 Credits ~
English Grammar - 3 credits
Composition - 3 credits
Creationism - 2 credits
Counseling - 3 credits
Speech - 2 hours
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~ Theology -19 Credits ~
Ecclesiology - 3 credits
Bibliology - 3 credits
Christology - 2 credits
Soteriology - 3 credits
Pneumatology - 2 credits
Theology Proper - 2 credits
Dispensations - 2 credits
Anthropology/Hamartiology/
Angelology - 2 credits
~ Biblical Studies - 5 Credits ~
Introduction to Missions - 2
credits
Cults - 3 credits
~ Church History - 6 Credits ~
Baptist History and Polity -
3 credits
History of Fundamentalism -
3 credits
~ Practical Theology - 7 Credits ~
Interdisciplinary Studies - 24
Credits
(Credits from another source towards a minor)
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Admission and Registration Information
Academic Requirements for Admission:
-
Applicants for admission to a degree program at Western Pennsylvania
Theological Institute must have earned a high school diploma, or must present
evidence that they have passed the General Education Development (GED) test.
- High School juniors and seniors that are at least 16 years of age may take
classes with the approval of the Institute administration.
- All qualified applicants will be accepted without regard to race, color,
nationality, or ethnic origin.
Spiritual and Doctrinal Requirements:
Western
Pennsylvania Theological Institute is a Baptist school. All students should
understand that Baptist doctrine, Baptist Distinctives, and Baptist polity will
be taught. In accordance with this, all students are to be members in good
standing of an Independent, Fundamental, Baptist church and must have their
pastor's recommendation in order to attend this Institute. The King James
Version of the Bible will be the basis for all classroom teaching and student
assignments.
It
is expected that all students enrolled in WPTI will exhibit Christian character
and adhere to Biblical standards of conduct whether on or off school property.
Because this Institute is a ministry of, and under the authority of, Harvest
Baptist Church, students will maintain the lifestyle expressed in the Covenant
of Harvest Baptist Church (copies available upon request). It is expected that
students at WPTI will be faithful to all the services of their local church
unless providentially hindered, and be involved in their church's soul-winning
outreach visitation program.
It
is expected that students of WPTI will practice Biblical morality (as spelled
out in the Statement of Faith of Harvest Baptist Church; copies are available
upon request), and will separate themselves from worldliness.
Western Pennsylvania Theological Institute
admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin. However, it is
understood that attendance at WPTI is a privilege and not a right. This
privilege may be forfeited if the student does not conform to the standards and
regulations of WPTI. Student dismissal is a reserved right of WPTI if, in the
opinion of the administration, the student does not adhere to the specific
rules, as well as the spirit, of WPTI.
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General Information
DressCode
Since Western Pennsylvania Theological
Institute is a reflection of Harvest Baptist Church, formal attire is
required. The purpose of the school
dress standard is to maintain modesty, appropriateness, and cleanliness. The way a person dresses strongly influences
his behavior and study habits. The dress
code is intended to produce the atmosphere of order necessary for learning, and to portray a
consistent Christian testimony that is complimentary to God's work. Our goal is a uniform standard that is fair
to all and is able to be enforced easily.
All students are expected to conform
to the school dress code while attending classes and any other school-related
functions, unless otherwise instructed. The administration of WPTI reserves the right to determine the
appropriateness of a student's appearance and to require him/her to change if
necessary.
Men:
A minimum dress standard means men are
to wear dress pants (not denim or jeans), a dress shirt, a tie, and dress shoes.
They are to keep their hair cut in a traditional, Christ honoring style, and
keep any facial hair neat. No "feminine" jewelry should be worn.
Women:
A minimum dress standard means all
clothing must exude modesty and be above question. Ladies are to wear dresses or skirts which
come below the knee. Slits above the knee are not permitted. All blouses and
tops must be modest (not sheer, sleeveless, or low cut). Hairstyles and jewelry should be modest and
proper.
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Housing
Due to the nature of WPTI at this time, there is no housing
offered to the students by the institute. The student must provide their own housing arrangements and
transportation.
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Personnel
Pastor Kurt W. Skelly,
Bible, Biblical Studies, General
Education
B.S., M.P.T., Hyles-Anderson College
MDiv., Emmanuel Baptist Theological Seminary
Dr. Mark Montgomery, President
Theology, Biblical Studies, Church
Ministries
B.A., M.A., Maranatha Baptist Bible College
D.S.M., Northland Baptist Bible College
Dr. James Herb, Registrar
Bible, Languages, Church Ministries
B.S., M.B.S., Ambassador Baptist College
MDiv., Emmanuel Baptist Theological Seminary
Th.D., Andersonville Theological Seminary
Pastor Larry Leonard
Bible, Biblical Studies
B.Th., Appalachian Bible College
MDiv., Grace Theological Seminary
Pastor Bob Ross
Bible, History, Church Ministries
B.A., Pennsylvania State University
M.A., Hyles -Anderson College
Mrs. Kelly Condict
General Education
B.S., Hyles-Anderson College
Mrs. Marguerite Kistler
General Education
B.A., Cedarville College
MEd., University of Pittsburgh
Mr. Dennis Smith
Theology
B.S., University of Pittsburgh
MDiv., Bible Baptist Seminary
Mr. Ross Hodsdon, Visiting Professor
Missions
B.A., Gordon College
M.A., Cal. State Northridge (linguistics)
Dr. Earl Jessup, Visiting Professor
Church Planting
Th.B., Piedmont Bible College
MMin., Northland Baptist Bible College
D.D., Faithway Baptist College
Dr. Thomas Strouse, Visiting Professor
Theology, Bible
B.S., Purdue University
MDiv., Maranatha Baptist Bible College
PhD., Bob Jones University
Dr. Aaron Strouse, Visiting Professor
History
B.S., Pensacola Christian College
M.R.E., D.R.E., Tabernacle Baptist Theological Seminary
Dr. Connie Champeon, Adjunct Professor
General Education
B.A., Grand Rapids Baptist Bible College
Ph.D., University of Texas Arlington
Mrs. Maureen LaQuay, Institute Secretary and Bookkeeper
Secretarial Science
Secretarial Certificate, Bradford School
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Application Information
- 1. An
Application form is provided in the back of this handbook.
- 2. Complete the
Application in full.
- 3. Return the
completed Application with $25.00 application fee (non refundable).
Application will be processed only if the fee
is paid.
- 4. Deliver the
Recommendation forms to the proper individuals, making sure all of your
personal information has already been filled in, [It is customary to provide an
addressed, stamped envelope when delivering the Recommendation forms], then
have the individual mail it directly to the Institute.
- 5. Request all
transcripts from high school, colleges, and other institutions of learning that
you have attended. Official transcripts
should be sent directly to Western Pennsylvania Theological Institute in a
sealed envelope.
- 6. Submit an
autobiographical sketch, including family information; church and home
information; employment information; a testimony of salvation; the time and
place of baptism by immersion; life purposes and goals.
Transfer students should note specific
reasons for transfer.
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7. Upon receipt
of ALL materials requested, WPTI will send a notification of application status
along with further instructions.
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Handbook/Catalog