Orthodoxy in the Third Millennium

Welcome to
Baptism Site International Orthodox University

BIOU is a new Orthodox Christian university located at Al-Maghtas in Jordan, the UNESCO-recognized Baptism Site of Jesus Christ. Affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, BIOU serves students from Jordan, the wider Arab world, and the international community through degree programs in theology, the humanities, and related fields.

Drawing on the Orthodox Christian tradition and open to broad intellectual inquiry, BIOU prepares graduates of moral character, critical insight, and professional excellence for service in the Church, academia, and civil society.

What is Baptism Site International Orthodox University (BIOU)?

BIOU is a non-profit institution of higher education affiliated with the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. It offers degree programs in theology, the humanities, social sciences, and cultural studies, serving Jordanian, regional, and international academic communities.

What makes BIOU distinct?

BIOU is located at Al-Maghtas, the UNESCO-recognized Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, one of the most significant locations in Christian history. Its programs integrate theology, philosophy, law, and languages within a single academic framework, combining academic depth with professional preparation and spiritual formation.

Is BIOU only for theology students?

No. BIOU’s programs are open to students interested in the humanities, philosophy, law, languages, interfaith studies, and related fields. A background in theology is not required for most programs.

Is education at BIOU limited to classroom study?

No. BIOU operates an integrated model that combines academic study, spiritual formation, and communal life. This includes the Great Books Program and an annual Spiritual Retreat at the Baptism Site, which are part of the undergraduate experience.

What career paths are available to BIOU graduates?

Graduates pursue careers in clergy and ordained ministry, religious education, heritage management, interfaith and civil society leadership, ecclesiastical law and administration, academic research, university teaching, diplomacy, international relations, NGO service, and media and communications.

Does BIOU offer international academic opportunities?

Yes. BIOU actively builds partnerships with academic institutions and research centers worldwide and prepares graduates for postgraduate study and international academic collaboration.

Does BIOU accept international students?

Yes. BIOU welcomes students from Jordan, the wider Arab world, the global Orthodox diaspora, and international institutions. English is the language of instruction and all administrative communication.

Take a Tour at BIOU

Academic Programs

M.A. in Orthodox Spirituality

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An in-depth exploration of the mystical and ascetic tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church, drawing on the intellectual heritage of Greek philosophy and the spiritual traditions of the early Church and the Desert Fathers. Students engage with key themes such as hesychia, the Jesus Prayer, and theosis, while developing advanced skills in reading primary spiritual texts. The program also adopts a comparative perspective, placing Orthodox spiritual experience in dialogue with Islamic and Asian traditions.

M.A. in Orthodox Canon Law

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An advanced academic and professional program offering a comprehensive study of the legal and normative tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Drawing on the heritage of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the program connects classical canonical sources with the contemporary legal framework of Jordan. The degree culminates in a research-based master’s thesis. Students who complete coursework without the thesis may be awarded a Higher Diploma in Orthodox Canon Law.

M.A. in Spiritual Exchange and Christian Orthodox - Islamic Dialogue

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Situated in the religious and cultural context of Jordan and the Levant, this program combines close textual study of the Bible and the Qur’an with contemporary socio-political analysis. Students examine the historical development, interpretation, and interaction of Christian and Islamic traditions alongside the legal, cultural, and institutional frameworks that shape coexistence in the Middle East. Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, diplomacy, education, and community leadership.

B.A. in Theology, Philosophy, Law, and Languages (TPLL)

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A pioneering interdisciplinary program that bridges ancient tradition with modern academic and professional practice. Students engage deeply with Eastern Christian theology and philosophy while developing practical competencies in law, languages, and the socio-economic realities of the Middle East. The program is designed in accordance with international academic standards, ensuring both academic excellence and global portability of the degree. Students who complete at least 72 credit hours without finishing the full degree may be awarded an Associate of Arts (A.A.) in TPLL.