Thread: Guidance for Seminary

Hello all, I have been going rounds looking at seminaries and christian institutions trying to find the "right" one. However it is a mess out there in the christian education website world so I figured I'd ask all of you to see what you think.

I am seeking an MA program with an emphasis on equipping for ministry, I feel like I am to serve in the church ministry so I really wanted to find an MA degree that would best suit this. I had thought I had found the right school and program however the distance program and the intensive schedule just seems to raise alot of conflict with full-time work, family, etc...The institution is an ATS/RA accreditted seminary and the inflexability of the DL program just seems inpractical compared to its TRACS counterparts.

Anyhow I am trying to possibly find an alternative school that is ATS/RA or even TRACS if that would work "well enough" for what I am trying to do. I cant really do week long, two week long intensives twice a year, so I dont know if there are other schools with shorter or no intensives.

Another thought, does it matter if the M.A. Degree is specialized? Meaning could I take an MAR and get out of it what I am looking for? It seems that there are different degrees for different tracks people are pursuing MAR transition to MDIV for educators, MA to MDIV with ministry emphasis for pastor preaching, is that the right assumption? Anyway any advice would be great! Thanks in advance!

	George Washington University George Washington University GWU offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Police Science; and Master’s Degrees in Education and Human Development, Paralegal Studies, Public Relations, Educational Technology Lead, MBA – Healthcare, and MPS in Security and Safety Leadership. GW University is a prestigious and well regarded school. Established in the heart of the nation's capital in 1821, GW provides innovative programs in more than 200 fields of study, including graduate certificate, master's and doctoral programs. Under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty, you will explore both theory and practice in courses that prepare you to meet the needs of an increasingly complex society. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

I have 2 possible suggestions for you which I am considering once I finish my MBA .

The first is Liberty ... www.liberty.edu - they have many options and they seem to fit your requirements as far as flexibility

The second is Southern Evangelical Seminary in Charlotte, NC. They do not list themselves as totally DL, but I am pretty sure that their MAR can be done totally through DL... their website is http://www.ses.edu/

Liberty is RA but SES is not - they are TRACS... it depends on how important that is to you...

Let me know what you decide...

	American InterContinental University Online American InterContinental University AIU offers Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's degrees in all the following programs: business administration (MBA, marketing, finance, accounting, human resources, etc), criminal justice, computer science, information technology, healthcare administration, medical billing and coding, fine arts, and education. Special learning facilities include a learning resource center, art gallery, and computer labs. The school is regionally accredited, the most widely recognized accreditation. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	Liberty University Liberty University Liberty offers online degrees in the following subject areas: a huge selection of programs in Religious Studies (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), a Master's Degree in Human Services, Master of Science in Nursing, Business (Associate's, Bachelor's, and MBA), Education and Teaching (Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate), Liberal Arts (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), and Counseling (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's). Liberty has an outstanding reputation for the quality of its education and scholarship, though the strong Christian affiliation may be objectionable to some. The school is regionally accredited, the most widely recognized accreditation. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

The "right" seminary or "right" degree will depend on what your goals are for the degree. If you want to teach in a college or seminary, most likely you will want an ATS accredited degree. If you simply wish to be in church ministry, you may not need an MA at all. If you want to pursue doctoral studies, then you most likely will need an MDIV.

I would second the vote for Liberty . Their MAR is very flexible and can be completed through distance learning, without intensives I believe. And they have many concentrations. My former pastor completed his MAR through them and was very happy with them.

If you haven't already found the site, I would recommend Baker's Guide as a good place for information about many different programs.

Another thing: If you are licensed or ordained, or you wish to pursue one of those, check with your church or affiliation. Different groups will have different requirements for education . Some may desire an MDIV, some may not.

	George Washington University George Washington University GWU offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Police Science; and Master’s Degrees in Education and Human Development, Paralegal Studies, Public Relations, Educational Technology Lead, MBA – Healthcare, and MPS in Security and Safety Leadership. GW University is a prestigious and well regarded school. Established in the heart of the nation's capital in 1821, GW provides innovative programs in more than 200 fields of study, including graduate certificate, master's and doctoral programs. Under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty, you will explore both theory and practice in courses that prepare you to meet the needs of an increasingly complex society. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	Liberty University Liberty University Liberty offers online degrees in the following subject areas: a huge selection of programs in Religious Studies (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), a Master's Degree in Human Services, Master of Science in Nursing, Business (Associate's, Bachelor's, and MBA), Education and Teaching (Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate), Liberal Arts (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), and Counseling (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's). Liberty has an outstanding reputation for the quality of its education and scholarship, though the strong Christian affiliation may be objectionable to some. The school is regionally accredited, the most widely recognized accreditation. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

Not to confuse things too much, but don't assume your MAR degree will transition directly into an MDIV unless the school specifically says it will. Ex, my MTS degree (same as or very similar to a 2-year Master of Arts in Religious Studies) does not transition directly into a MDIV at my school (ATS-accredited). According to them, ATS accreditation rules are that even tho a MDIV is a 3-year degree, and MTS is 2 years, I'd need to do another 2 years to earn my MDIV now. :(

Anywho. I agree with the above posters ... if all you want to do is serve in church ministry, you don't need a masters. If you want to be a pastor (or youth pastor, etc) most churches who require a master's degree want you to have an MDIV. You'd have to ask your denomination what they'd consider to be acceptable.

If a TRACS degree is considered acceptable, Luther Rice University offers some inexpensive degrees including an MDIV:
http://www.lru.edu/Content.aspx?page=graduate
However they lack RA/ATS accreditation ... and their MDIV requires no languages, which most MDIV degrees do (certainly ATS ones do).

The best question to ask is ... exactly what do you want to do with it? :D

Okay so here is my reason for seminary and what I plan on doing with it.

Three years ago by the grace of God I was saved in prison when I was doing a boot camp style rehab program for four DUI's I had been convicted of in a ten year span. After being released from prison and rejoicing in the new life I had been given by Christ I continued my work in electrical design (my B.A. is in Electronics Engineering ). About six months later I felt it in my heart to pursue a deeper knowledge and understanding of the word through seminary. I met with my pastors and they too confirmed my feelings and pointed me in the right direction. However I got discouraged after looking at the millions of options and decided to let it just sit and see what happened. About four months later I was approached by a local Pastor who told me he was starting small seminary classes at his church. So I attended and I loved it, however there always seemed to be a tension because of me not attending the seminary's church I felt it was time to leave. So here I am, I have a deep passion for the word and preaching and teaching the gospel...it sets me on fire.

So not only do I want to further equip myself to preach and teach, I would also like to serve as a Pastor or lay pastor and work with the people. Since my degree is completely secular and this is kind of a life change I felt seminary would be the right direction. So that is me in a nut shell lol!

	Grantham University Grantham University Grantham is a well established distance learning school with a good reputation. The school offers the following online degrees: Certificate in Learning Criminal Justice; Associate’s Degrees in Business Mgmt, Criminal Justice, Engineering Mgmt Technology, General Studies, Multidisciplinary Studies, Medical Coding and Billing, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology; Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice, General Studies, Accounting, Business Administration, Business Mgmt, Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Electronics Engineering Technology, Engineering Mgmt Technology, Health Systems Mgmt, Multidisciplinary Studies, and Nursing (RN-BSN Degree Completion Program); MBA in General Business, Information Mgmt, and Project Mgmt; and Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, Health Systems Mgmt, Information Mgmt (Project Mgmt and Technology), and Information Technology. The school is accredited by DETC, a reputable, recognized accreditor. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	AIU Online Aiken Technical College Online degree programs from AIU help you acquire industry-current credentials in your field of interest. Many of our online degree programs offer concentrations in some of today's most in-demand professional fields, empowering you to tailor your education to address your specific career goals. AIU offers degree programs in Business Administration, Education, Information Technology, Design, and Criminal Justice. AIU is regionally accredidated, the most widely accepted form of accredidation. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	Education Degrees Education Degrees Teachers play an important role in fostering the intellectual and social development of children during their formative years. The education that students acquire is key to determining the future of those students. Whether in elementary or high schools or in private or public schools, teachers provide the tools and the environment for their students to develop into responsible adults. Teachers act as facilitators or coaches, using classroom presentations or individual instruction to help students learn and apply concepts in subjects such as science, mathematics, and English. They plan, evaluate, and assign lessons; prepare, administer, and grade tests; listen to oral presentations; and maintain classroom discipline. Teachers observe and evaluate a student's performance and potential. They are increasingly asked to use new assessment methods •Public school teachers must be licensed, which typically requires a bachelor's degree and the completion of an approved teacher education program; private school teachers do not have to be licensed but may still need a bachelor's degree. •Job prospects are best for teachers in high-demand fields, such as mathematics, science, and bilingual education, and in less desirable urban or rural school districts. •Teachers must have the ability to communicate, inspire trust and confidence, and motivate students, as well as understand students' educational and emotional needs. Click Here to find FREE information on schools offering this course of study.

	Engineering Degrees Engineering Degrees Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applications that meet societal and consumer needs. Many engineers develop new products. During the process, they consider several factors. For example, in developing an industrial robot, engineers specify the functional requirements precisely; design and test the robot's components; integrate the components to produce the final design; and evaluate the design's overall effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. In addition to their involvement in design and development, many engineers work in testing, production, or maintenance. These engineers supervise production in factories, determine the causes of a component’s failure, and test manufactured products to maintain quality. They also estimate the time and cost required to complete projects. •Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. •Employment is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, although growth will vary by specialty; overall job opportunities for engineers are expected to be good. •A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some positions may require a graduate degree. Click To Find Engineering Schools

You might want to see if you can get your hands on a copy of Walston's Guide to Christian Distance Learning.

Four additional:

Virginia University of Lynchburg (Distance /Online option) TRACS accredited http://www.vul.edu/

Fuller Theological Seminary (Online option) Master of Global Leadership (ATS /WASC accreditation) http://www.fuller.edu/campuses-onlin...line/magl.aspx

Ambridge University – Turner School of Theology (ATS / SACS accreditation) http://www.southernchristian.edu/DP_...0Theology.html

Not fully online – Southwestern Christian University (HLC-NCA accreditation). All courses are offered on a modular basis. A module consists of three parts:
1) Pre-class Assignments
Readings and other assignments are fulfilled before the classroom lectures begin.
2) Classroom Lectures
A week of classroom lectures is held on the campus of Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, Oklahoma; Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia and at Beulah Heights Bible College in Atlanta, Georgia.
3) Post-class Assignments
Final reports, papers and projects are completed after the week of classroom lectures.
http://www.swcu.edu/graduateschool/

This is great, I really appreciate the comments and advice. I have been seeking very rigourously and have a list of schools that I believe are great prospects but it seems there are pros and cons to each. A couple of which have already been suggested, here is the schools:

Western Seminary: Already Accepted, Good school with good ministry program, ATS/RA, Tuition = low-average, con - Because of the ATS accred distance learning consists of weekly intensives

Southern Evangelical Seminary - Good School, fully DL, Tuition = low, TRACS Accred/seeking RA?, Evangelical non denom, con - Apologist based programs

Hope International University - DL Ministry program, RA/ABHE, tuition = low-average, non-denom, con - no in house MDIV if I decided to go that option, Not sure how credits will transfer, Rigourous?not rigourous?, Too liberal?

Liberty University - Good DL program w/ many ministry degrees, fully DL, MDIV options, tuition = lowish, RA, con - Baptist roots, Not sure how well they are viewed.

Reformed Theological Seminary - Good School, MAR fully on-line besides 6 in seat hours, tuition = low-average, ATS/RA, con - reformed theology - Not sure where I stand and dont want to be forced,

Faith Evangelical Seminary, Tacoma, WA - Full DL except languages, many degree options including ministry and counseling , TRACS, tuition = low, cons - Dont really no much about the program, rigorous?not rigorous?, Lutheran roots

I wish that I could say that accreditation isnt an issue but in my eyes it seems impractical to work for a degree that has less upside. That being said I serve in a non-denom church and really love the non-denom style, I imagine that is where I would feel most comfortable. Hence the listing of denom in the pros/cons of schools, I have nothing against any of the denoms and believe we are all part of the same church working together and from what I can tell it seems that "most" seminaries take this approach also.

So that is what I am looking at, I appreciate any input and advice from the board on the schools on the list or maybe to add to the list.

For a background note: I was saved three years ago, my current BA is in Electronics Engineering , I am seeking seminary to because I love learning and studying the word and feel the desire to be equipped to serve and work in the church teaching and preaching. I am currently leading the college age group at the church and I find it the most fulfilling joy bringing experience I have ever been a part of. It is a blessing to see the transformation in ones life by faith in Christ.

	Liberty University Liberty University Liberty offers online degrees in the following subject areas: a huge selection of programs in Religious Studies (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), a Master's Degree in Human Services, Master of Science in Nursing, Business (Associate's, Bachelor's, and MBA), Education and Teaching (Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate), Liberal Arts (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's), and Counseling (Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's). Liberty has an outstanding reputation for the quality of its education and scholarship, though the strong Christian affiliation may be objectionable to some. The school is regionally accredited, the most widely recognized accreditation. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	Grantham University Grantham University Grantham is a well established distance learning school with a good reputation. The school offers the following online degrees: Certificate in Learning Criminal Justice; Associate’s Degrees in Business Mgmt, Criminal Justice, Engineering Mgmt Technology, General Studies, Multidisciplinary Studies, Medical Coding and Billing, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology; Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminal Justice, General Studies, Accounting, Business Administration, Business Mgmt, Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Electronics Engineering Technology, Engineering Mgmt Technology, Health Systems Mgmt, Multidisciplinary Studies, and Nursing (RN-BSN Degree Completion Program); MBA in General Business, Information Mgmt, and Project Mgmt; and Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, Health Systems Mgmt, Information Mgmt (Project Mgmt and Technology), and Information Technology. The school is accredited by DETC, a reputable, recognized accreditor. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

	Education Degrees Education Degrees Teachers play an important role in fostering the intellectual and social development of children during their formative years. The education that students acquire is key to determining the future of those students. Whether in elementary or high schools or in private or public schools, teachers provide the tools and the environment for their students to develop into responsible adults. Teachers act as facilitators or coaches, using classroom presentations or individual instruction to help students learn and apply concepts in subjects such as science, mathematics, and English. They plan, evaluate, and assign lessons; prepare, administer, and grade tests; listen to oral presentations; and maintain classroom discipline. Teachers observe and evaluate a student's performance and potential. They are increasingly asked to use new assessment methods •Public school teachers must be licensed, which typically requires a bachelor's degree and the completion of an approved teacher education program; private school teachers do not have to be licensed but may still need a bachelor's degree. •Job prospects are best for teachers in high-demand fields, such as mathematics, science, and bilingual education, and in less desirable urban or rural school districts. •Teachers must have the ability to communicate, inspire trust and confidence, and motivate students, as well as understand students' educational and emotional needs. Click Here to find FREE information on schools offering this course of study.

	Counseling Degrees Counseling Degrees Counselors work in diverse community settings designed to provide a variety of counseling, rehabilitation, and support services. Their duties vary greatly, depending on their specialty, which is determined by the setting in which they work and the population they serve. Although the specific setting may have an implied scope of practice, counselors frequently are challenged with children, adolescents, adults, or families that have multiple issues, such as mental health disorders and addiction, disability and employment needs, school problems or career counseling needs, and trauma. Counselors must recognize these issues in order to provide their clients with appropriate counseling and support. •People interested in counseling should have a strong desire to help others and should be able to inspire respect, trust, and confidence. •Education and training requirements vary by State and specialty, but a master’s degree is required to become a licensed counselor. •Projected job growth varies by specialty, but job opportunities should be favorable as job openings are expected to exceed the number of graduates from counseling programs. Click Here to find FREE information on schools offering this course of study.

	Engineering Degrees Engineering Degrees Engineers apply the principles of science and mathematics to develop economical solutions to technical problems. Their work is the link between scientific discoveries and the commercial applications that meet societal and consumer needs. Many engineers develop new products. During the process, they consider several factors. For example, in developing an industrial robot, engineers specify the functional requirements precisely; design and test the robot's components; integrate the components to produce the final design; and evaluate the design's overall effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. In addition to their involvement in design and development, many engineers work in testing, production, or maintenance. These engineers supervise production in factories, determine the causes of a component’s failure, and test manufactured products to maintain quality. They also estimate the time and cost required to complete projects. •Starting salaries are among the highest of all college graduates. •Employment is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, although growth will vary by specialty; overall job opportunities for engineers are expected to be good. •A bachelor's degree in engineering is required for most entry-level jobs, but some positions may require a graduate degree. Click To Find Engineering Schools

Reformed Theological Seminary - Good School, MAR fully on-line besides 6 in seat hours, tuition = low-average, ATS/RA, con - reformed

I have been looking at this school as well as it fits well into my schedule. What are you concerns with the fundamental teachings?

Originally Posted by Chasen_forever

Hello all, I have been going rounds looking at seminaries and christian institutions trying to find the "right" one. However it is a mess out there in the christian education website world so I figured I'd ask all of you to see what you think.

I am seeking an MA program with an emphasis on equipping for ministry, I feel like I am to serve in the church ministry so I really wanted to find an MA degree that would best suit this. I had thought I had found the right school and program however the distance program and the intensive schedule just seems to raise alot of conflict with full-time work, family, etc...The institution is an ATS/RA accreditted seminary and the inflexability of the DL program just seems inpractical compared to its TRACS counterparts.

Anyhow I am trying to possibly find an alternative school that is ATS/RA or even TRACS if that would work "well enough" for what I am trying to do. I cant really do week long, two week long intensives twice a year, so I dont know if there are other schools with shorter or no intensives.

Another thought, does it matter if the M.A. Degree is specialized? Meaning could I take an MAR and get out of it what I am looking for? It seems that there are different degrees for different tracks people are pursuing MAR transition to MDIV for educators, MA to MDIV with ministry emphasis for pastor preaching, is that the right assumption? Anyway any advice would be great! Thanks in advance!

Veritas Seminary is a great new school that is associated with Calvary Chapel and Calvary Bible College. It was recently started by a friend of mine, Brian Broderson and by Dr. Norman Geisler, a very gifted Christian mind. Brian said they will be offering a DL master's in bible soon. Because I know these guys are tops in the field and awesome brothers, I know this would be a great place to go.

VERITAS EVANGELICAL SEMINARY.COM - HOME

	George Washington University George Washington University GWU offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Police Science; and Master’s Degrees in Education and Human Development, Paralegal Studies, Public Relations, Educational Technology Lead, MBA – Healthcare, and MPS in Security and Safety Leadership. GW University is a prestigious and well regarded school. Established in the heart of the nation's capital in 1821, GW provides innovative programs in more than 200 fields of study, including graduate certificate, master's and doctoral programs. Under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty, you will explore both theory and practice in courses that prepare you to meet the needs of an increasingly complex society. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

Just a note re Veritas, it seems like you'd receive a decent education there, they have some great faculty on staff (although most are part-time) ... however it is not yet accredited:
VERITAS EVANGELICAL SEMINARY.COM - ACCREDITATION
It seems they have (or will soon) apply for accreditation through TRACS. Nothing wrong with that, but if you can go to a RA and/or ATS accredited institution, that would be best to keep your options open for the future (ie, it would have the most practical utility).

	George Washington University George Washington University GWU offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Police Science; and Master’s Degrees in Education and Human Development, Paralegal Studies, Public Relations, Educational Technology Lead, MBA – Healthcare, and MPS in Security and Safety Leadership. GW University is a prestigious and well regarded school. Established in the heart of the nation's capital in 1821, GW provides innovative programs in more than 200 fields of study, including graduate certificate, master's and doctoral programs. Under the guidance of a world-renowned faculty, you will explore both theory and practice in courses that prepare you to meet the needs of an increasingly complex society. Click Here to receive FREE information on this school.

For the price ($600 per course), there are many other accredited options available. Too many to really consider this school, no offense intended.