BYU Ought to Develop DL M.A. programs

I once e-mailed BYU about them developing graduate programs (do not remember hearing anything back).

As someone who enjoys studying theology, I would enjoy doing a DL Masters in Mormon Theology & Archeology. The Mormon faith has a rather fascinating history, including the attempt to develop its own language. BYU has a lot of credibility and yet they have not ventured into the DL graduate arena. As I understand it, even their Bachelors program requires some coursework already.

Maybe Anthony could convince them.

North

 

North:

I couldn't agree more! As a genealogist I would love to see them start up an M.A. in Family History-Genealogy!

The have some undergrad offerings... but already having a graduate degree I'm not too interested in pursuing another UG degree...

BruceP

 

BYU offers an MA in anthropology with an emphasis in southwestern or mesoamerican archaeology, but only a couple of undergraduate courses via DL.

In religion, BYU offers about 20 courses via DL, though almost all are at the undergraduate level. Since the Church of Jesus Chrsit of Latter-day Saints does not have a paid clergy, there is a very small market for degrees in religion. A masters in religious education is available for those who teach at institutes of religion adjacent to universities, but it enrolls onlyabout 15 students biannually.

BYU's Bachelor of General Studies degree was designed primarily as a degree completion program for former BYU students who did not finish; however, enrollment of new students has exceeded original expectations. Currently 3/4 of the program can be completed via DL (inlcuding a major in family history/genealogy--sorry, only undergrad).

A few graduate courses are available via DL. It seems likely that DL degree from BYU may be in the not-too-distance future; however, I think it unlikely that it would be in archaelogy and/or religion.

Tony Piña
B.A., M.Ed. BYU
Ed.D. Candidate La Sierra University