If pursuing a degree at a religion-based school is important to you, you’re in luck. Many religious schools are taking advantage of the framework of online learning to reach a larger group of potential students who may not otherwise be able to attend their institution due to distance or finances.
For those of the Christian faith, there is a wide range of highly accredited universities to choose from. Their approach to faith can vary by school however; everything from non-denominational to interdenominational or evangelical disciplines, so, do your research when selecting your school based on your own personal beliefs.
One of the best religious based options include Liberty University, boasting over 160 programs allowing students to earn everything from a high school diploma to a doctorate degree. On the other hand, LeTourneau University may be a better choice for non-traditional students who desire extra flexibility while earning a high school, associate’s, bachelor’s or graduate degree.
If class size matters to you, even in an online learning setting, look at California Baptist University as it caps each class at just 25 students, meaning you’ll be able to get extra direction and attention as you earn credits toward a degree. Is around-the-clock learning more your style? Check out Grand Canyon University, which gives students access to lectures and other educational resources 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are also a variety of Catholic online universities for students to choose from. As the name suggests, Benedictine University Online was originally founded by Benedictine monks in the late 1800s. Today, the school offers a vast array of degree options for both undergraduate and graduate students. If you’re looking for a more hybrid college experience, Assumption College Online offers a mix of online and on-campus learning for their students. Another solid option to consider is the Catholic University of America Online. This school focuses on keeping class sizes small so students have a great overall learning experience, and their retention rates show students appreciate this approach. This is just a small sampling of religious universities in the United States. Other faiths represented at colleges across the country include Jewish, Presbyterian, Methodist, Islamic, and Baptist. Of course, whether these universities offer online courses or not will vary from school to school.
Faith-based online universities offer many benefits. If you enjoy class participation with like-minded people who share your faith and morals, perhaps a religious-based online program is for you. Often, through a secular program, students can feel alone, like they don’t belong. Religious-based institutes, of any denomination, will help you feel a sense of community, therefore, nurturing your educational experience rather than hindering it.
However, there are also cons associated with an online faith-based learning option, such as the extra costs involved, since most Christian programs are provided by private schools. Furthermore, this type of program often lacks diversity. Although you will always stand firm in your personal beliefs, you may miss out on the wide array of viewpoints offered by other students. In addition, if you are searching for an online program in a less popular syllabus, your choice may be hard to locate in a faith-based school. They primarily focus on the more popular career options.
If you are interested in attending an online program with a religious affiliation, you should first do extensive research focusing on rankings of religious colleges, as well as, the school’s accreditation and their religious beliefs to find the right place to get your degree.
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By the way, if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in ministry, check out our Top 19 Bachelor in Religious Studies Degree Programs.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies is well-suited for individuals interested in philosophy, the mores and tenants of humanity and its many belief systems, and/or the Christian Ministry. The myriad benefits of this degree, that can be attained from one of these 20 fine online and on-campus programs, prepares graduates to enter the work-force with an impressive array of skills in, and a solid understanding of, their field. Those who have questions about the existence of humankind, God, and the many similarities and differences between the religions of the world, should seek a Bachelors Degree in Religious Studies.