For a directory of Christian distance learning schools, see the following:
http://www.gospelcom.net/bakersguide/
OR
http://www.columbiaseminary.edu/books/walstonsguide.html
Distance education is a legitimate option, but there are a lot of pitfalls. Watch out for degree mills that are a dime a dozen. They claim to be accredited and it's some bogus outfit run by their their brother-in-law. I have followed distance education for over twenty-five years. Sadly enough, some of the biggest degree mills and worst frauds claim to be Christian.
I recommend reading one of John Bear's books. He is one of the best and most balanced writers on the subject. Check out the following:
http://www.degree.net/
John is not a Christian but he is an ethical, honest man with great knowledge of distance education.
I would be skeptical of any distance ed school claiming accreditation by the following:
Accrediting Commission International. President/Director, John Scheel, Ph.D., PO Box 1030, Beebe, Arkansas 72012. Phone (501) 882-3361. E-Mail: scholar@accreditnow.com
This is not the only one but there are many others. If it's too good to be true, it probably isn't. No real doctorate can be earned in six easy lessons or by life experience. If all you want is a fancy form to frame and hang on your wall for impressing your friends, save yourself some money and print it yourself from your computer! ;)
Distance learning Bible colleges
Discussion in 'Baptist Colleges & Seminaries' started by Plain Old Bill, Apr 19, 2004.
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Check the following seminaries or universities:
http://www.sats.edu.za/
http://www.scccs.org/bts/
http://www.whitefield.edu/
http://www.puk.ac.za/indexe.html -
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Andersonville Theological Seminary
Yeah, I know. I'm sure several will jump all over this, but, hey, you get out of it what you put into it. Besides, if you have never taken the courses, how can you judge them?
Andersonville uses lectures on tape and allows you to go at your own pace (not great if you procrastinate). Their cost is very reasonable, and they have a monthly payment option (which worked for me...my degree is paid for, if I ever get around to taking my courses...).
Distance education may not be the best in regards to the educational experience, but it sure beats not having any education.
Self-study will also broaden and deepen a man of God.
Just never stop learning, and strive to give your best for God.
In Christ,
Trotter -
I am using Seminary Extension.
It is good material and the instructors are good. I personally also have made the practice of discussing here and with pastors I know. We need an education and our God has been gracious to give us many means to obtain one.
Education is very important, and you need to strive for the best you can get. -
Because of approximately 50 men almost every one of which had multiple degrees, we have the King James Bible.
HankD -
Run, don't walk, from an "only" school. Sadly, many of the "only" sect wear ANTI-intellectualism as a badge of honor.
Get your seminary training reading Chick Tracts.
Now, seriously, Trinity would be my choice. Baptistic without doubt, reformed and pre-trib. Doesn't get better in distance learning - they were the pioneers. Now candidate for full accreditation!
http://www.trinitysem.edu/
I am a proud alum -
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Yanking chain and poking at the pile, hence I continued with "seriously" to give real response . .
And I have seen more anti-intellectualism among the "onlies" than any other group, save the modern charismania revival. All day yesterday we "fussed" with an "only" who kept using the Chick Tract defense. Read it on the Versions forum; I can't make up foolishness like that.
Do you not see the "weak academic" tendencies of typical "only" schools? Sorry to bring "only" debate to this issue, but it SHOULD have great impact on schools of choice. -
At Liberty you can earn an MDiv or MAR(Master of Arts in Religion) degree via extended education. Reformed Theological Seminary also offers an MA degree in religion that you can earn, for the most part, thru extended studies. At RTS, though, you have to take an introductory course and a capstone course on site in either Jackson, MS, or Charlotte, NC.
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Do you have the scoop on this accreditation business with Trinity? What’s the status of their accreditation British style (i.e. accreditation by a British university)? Also, will accreditation with North Central, the regional accreditor presumably more open to distance ed, change Trinity’s doctorates to include some time spent in residency on campus? At present, no accredited (i.e. accredited by a regional accrediting agency) doctorate can be earned entirely at a distance even though a number of foreign doctorates can. All, including Walden and Union, require on-campus visits and short residencies. This would be a first.
BTW, what do you think about BJU seeking accreditation with TRACS?
Interesting!
Thanks for your time.
paidagogos -
exscentric Well-Known MemberSite Supporter
I didn't notice in my skimming that Moody Bible Institute was mentioned. I don't know if you can do a degree there, but you can do a lot of bible courses that would be accredited and transferrable to a lot of schools later if you wanted to attend.
Many schools have gone to video tape etc. so pick a few and contact them and ask. Some do programs, but just don't advertize it much.
Portland, OR CBA seminary was taping sessions many years ago, assume they still have there program.
Part of extension is the commitment to push yourself to do the work. Also you can do a poor job and slip by, or apply yourself and get a good education - with extension there is nobody watching over your shoulder except somebody upstairs :)
I did some work with trinity years ago when it wasn't yet trendy and accepted, and felt I received a decent learning situation.
I would always suggest on site education, but sometimes it isn't an option.
As to those that are anti education, I have found them to be looking up their noses at those that look down their noses at them :)
May it be that GOD leads different people into different situations and we all ought to respect each other as brothers and sisters that have been guided by the Spirit of God into our particular niche in God's overall plan? -
I think Trinity will change and require some resident time (3 or 4-week summer modules for two summers would be workable). I am not privy but would sure like to be!
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