Choosing A Bible College

Whether desiring to become a minister, missionary or merely learn more about biblical history, choosing a bible college may seem like a daunting task. There are many factors to take into consideration when deciding between campus based or online bible colleges. However, creating a list of the criteria that you deem most important helps narrow the options.

Course or Degree Options

Determine what bible colleges offer the classes or degree oriented programs you need. Conventional and virtual schools present a variety of options and readily accommodate part-time or full-time students. Take a few classes here and there or pursue an undergraduate or a graduate degree. While virtual schools continue expanding their course and degree options, students may find that certain classes are only offered through campus based schools. If hoping to obtain a degree, ensure that whatever school you choose, the institution has accreditation in your field of interest.

Convenience and Flexibility

If hoping to simply broaden basic knowledge at a leisurely pace, find an online college that offers courses in your particular area of interest. An advantage of many online institutions includes the option of completing coursework when convenient for you. The desired curriculum remains available day or night, seven days a week. Students studying online are also not confined to any particular physical location. If preferring to attend a physical campus part-time, students must typically either find classes that suit current lifestyle routines or adjust routines to meet the demands of a school schedule.

Community Requirements

Attending online bible colleges generally involves independent study. Each student must decide if they have the discipline necessary to complete the coursework without being surrounded by a structured environment. Occasionally, facilities provide students with the chance to attend live classes online. However, in the majority of instances, there is no interaction between instructors and other students. In rare instances, students may have the opportunity of meeting and conversing with one another in a chat room or via email. One student may not have a problem with the seclusion of online study. Another student may prefer the camaraderie of other students, the atmosphere of live classes and the chance to enjoy campus based activities.

Instructor Availability

At traditional bible colleges, students not only physically see professors in the classroom, but also have the option of making office appointments or send emails if needed. Online, the avenue of communication remains limited to Internet communication. None the less, students attending online classes have the chance to learn from instructors based anywhere on the planet.

Expense

Some programs offered through online bible colleges may appear expensive compared to a physical campus. Calculate the cost of travel expense, room and board along with other costs of attending a traditional college. However, conventional education options also present the possibility of applying for financial assistance and scholarships. Perform some number crunching and see whether online or on campus is a better financial choice.