A theological degree is a specialized degree comparable to a pre-med or pre-law degree. An undergraduate degree from a Bible college prepares the student for further seminary education. This can take the form of a Master of Divinity or a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. Many Bible colleges offer courses for those interested in being youth pastors or worship leaders, which often do not require higher degrees. These schools are also helpful for those who want nothing more than to serve their local church more effectively.
Although the school itself is non-denominational, it classifies itself as independent and fundamental, mostly associated with Bible and Baptist churches. The school's doctrinal statement and core values can be accessed through its website.
Appalachian Bible College, which has 250 to 300 students, offers Bible Certificate/Associate of Arts in Bible & Theology, a Bachelor of Arts in Bible & Theology and a Master of Arts in Ministry. The school also offers online learning. For the 2010-2011 academic year, Appalachian Bible College charges $391 per credit hour. Additional costs include matriculation, health care and room and board. Per semester, total costs for an on-campus student is $8,401, off-campus totals at $5,506 and a married student living in student housing calculates to $8,386. Further fees may apply.
The school is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) and The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and School. It's also recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Appalachian Bible College
161 College Dr.
Mount Hope, WV 25880
800-678-9ABC
www.abc.edu
TLBC is a ministry of the Hurricane Bible Church, which describes itself as an independent, Bible-believing, separated, King James Version only church.
The school is accredited by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. They offer an Associates of Arts in Bible, a Bachelor of Arts in Bible, Pastoral Ministry and Christian Elementary Education, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Christian Office Administration.
For more information, including tuition costs and course descriptions, contact the Director of Admissions and include a $10 payment.
Director of Admissions
Truth & Liberty Bible College
P.O. Box 151 Hurricane, WV 25526
304-562-9740
www.tlbcollege.com
Ohio Valley University (OVU) is a liberal arts college with a student population of around 500. It was founded by members of the Churches of Christ, and although the school does not have a "doctrinal" standard, per se, it does seek in incorporate Christian values into its curriculum. Its explanation of faith and learning can be found at the school's website.
OVU offers a large selection of degrees while still making Bible courses part of their core curriculum. The school has programs giving students an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing, and Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degrees in Pre-Professional, Pre-Medical and Pre-Dental.
Baccalaureate degrees are available in Accounting, Bible, Bible & Ministry, Biology, Business Administration, Elementary Education, English, History, Human Resource Management, Information Technology, Interdisciplinary Studies, Management, Marketing, Organizational Management, Psychology, Secondary Education, Sports Management, Vocational Ministry (2nd major only), Vocational Missions (2nd major only) and Wellness.
The 2010-2011 tuition for full-time students taking 12 credit hours was $12,538 per semester. On top of this, there are general fees amounting to $756 per semester.
The school is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Universities and Schools, the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education and the West Virginia State Department of Education.
Ohio Valley University
1 Campus View Dr.
Vienna, WV 26105-8000
877-446-8668
www.ovu.edu/