Universities merge to create liberal arts and seminary program

Universities merge to create liberal arts and seminary program

Christian adults who wish to enroll in a faith-based university, but are inhibited by financial or transpiration challenges, may benefit from enrolling in an online degree program. Many non-secular institutions are increasing their web-based courses in order to access more nontraditional students.

For example, Corban University recently announced that it will merge with North Baptist Seminary to become Corban University School of Ministry, The Statesman Journal reports. The partnership will give Corban students access to graduate-level ministry curriculum and North Baptist students more access to traditional and online degree programs.

Most seminaries only provide a religious curriculum, but the merger will allow these students to enroll in graduate-level liberal arts courses, as well as online MBA degree programs.

"This is a desirable asset for those already in the ministry who want to get an advanced degree," said Steve Hunt, Corban's vice president for marketing. "It gives them the ability to continue in their work and finish their schooling."

Another benefit of the partnership is the school of ministry will be able to address more modern challenges faced by those who run churches. Today's congregations may need access to singles outreach, childcare and primary school, as well as addiction and other counseling programs. Learners could benefit from business education, teaching certificates or other liberal arts studies that may help them work with community issues.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, religious workers earned an average of $30,400 during the 2008 fiscal year.

By Mark Danson