Because of the nature of biblical studies, accreditation is rarely an issue. No licensing or professional organizations require an accredited degree program in biblical studies. The only time accreditation might come into play is if you wish to teach theology at a university level and even then, it is unlikely. Scholastic research is considered more important than accreditation.
Biblical studies can range from individual courses taken for personal enrichment to certificate and degree programs. Degrees range from a bachelor's degree to the doctoral level.
Certificate programs are available, though these are usually through church schools or other religious organizations.
To earn a degree in biblical studies through distance education, you can expect to spend about three years for a bachelor's degree and one additional year for a master's degree. If you plan to pursue a doctoral degree, the program will specify the length, though most are about three years beyond a master's level.
Because distance education takes life and work experience into account, it is possible to be granted credit based on those factors. The individual program will alert you to those possibilities.
Distance education allows you to work at your own pace so the time frame may be slightly different based on how much time you have available for study.
Distance education in biblical studies allows you to take courses or earn a degree without ever setting foot on a college campus. Not only will this save you money, but it will also allow you to continue working full time.
One additional benefit that is unique to biblical studies is the ability to choose a program from your own denominational viewpoint. This is helpful if your denomination isn't represented at local colleges and universities.
You will also be able to participate in online discussions through your courses with others. This can give a far broader perspective than you might otherwise be given in an on-site classroom.
Distance education, according to the U.S. Department of Education, is slated to grow exponentially over the next decade as more universities take advantage of the Internet to offer classes and reduce costs.
Biblical studies, because they require no laboratory work, are well suited to the distance education methods and modes of learning.