Christian Distance Learning

The MA/Distance degree is a 60 hour, accredited theological degree available through the Virtual Campus. Through distance education, the MA/Distance provides access to graduate-level seminary education for students unable to attend classes on a residential campus. Virtual Campus courses consist of audio-taped lectures, study helps, and a detailed syllabus specifying reading and written assignments. Students mail assignments to the Virtual Campus office, and exams are administered by a proctor. Students have four months from date of registration to complete each course.  However, all of these materials and services will be digital and online with MP3 audio and new "smart tutorials" for more efficient learning and course completion by Summer, 2006.

The curriculum is based on the Master of Arts in Religion degree and is equivalent to the two-year residential version. The degree equips students with a survey of knowledge from various theological disciplines, and students complete a thesis on an academic topic of personal, professional, and ministerial relevance. Lecture-based writing assignments, personalized grading of papers, and email correspondence give regular feedback to students about academic work.

MA/Distance students are required to complete two on-campus seminars during their degree work, each lasting four days, and worth a total of 6 credit hours. The rest of the degree is completed entirely through the distance education courses of the Virtual Campus.

The mentoring program is also a fundamental and dynamic component of the MA/Distance. Students must choose a mentor to provide accountability and encouragement throughout the course of their degree work. Mentors meet with students regularly, helping them to apply the content of their courses to the context of family and church ministry.