Christian university launched online degree program

Christian university launched online degree program

Many Americans may be unaware of the online higher education opportunities that are available for Christians. Non-secular universities are increasing their online degree programs to meet the needs of adult learners who seek a Christian education. Nontraditional students - who often have day jobs, children and church duties - can benefit from the flexibility of a web-based degree program.

For example, Nazarene Bible College (NBC) recently partnered with StraighterLine to create a Christian virtual campus. NBC's mission is to prepare men and women for ministry in an affordable and accessible way. The school offers a bachelors in ministry and an associates in lay ministries. Coursework will focus on the Bible and theology, Christian counseling, Christian educational ministries, counseling for Christian ministries, music ministries and pastoral ministries.

Students who complete freshman and introductory courses through StraighterLine now have the option of transferring to Nazarene Bible College to finish their post-secondary degrees.

"With StraighterLine, students seeking a degree in ministry or in other subjects from Nazarene Bible College now have an affordable option" said Burck Smith, StraighterLine's CEO and Founder.

This and similar nonsecular degree programs aim to support student development and emphasize biblical doctrine.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that clergy members, who provide spiritual and moral guidance, can earn between $30,970 and $56,990 per year.

By Mark Danson