The Biblical Archaeological Institute Wuppertal (BAI) was established in 1999 by the Protestant Church of the Rhineland. It constitutes an institute of the university "Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal" as well as an associated institute of the Bergische Universität Wuppertal and holds the right to award doctorates at both universities. The necessary financial endowment is provided by a Circle Of Friends (e.V.).