This division meets several needs.  First of all, the general studies courses provide a support system for other degree programs.  The general studies courses included in each degree program have been selected for the purpose of giving those in Christian ministry a well-rounded education.  Students in all majors need to obtain or further develop basic writing and speaking skills; to grow in their understanding of people; and to broaden their historical perspective in order to more effectively present God’s Word and to minister to people.  The courses provided in this division should adequately prepare such Christian ministers.

The division of general studies also includes a degree program entitled General Studies.  Students who are undecided about a career in vocational Christian ministries or who do not choose to pursue any of the ministerial majors, but who desire some training in Bible and related courses for church work and/or personal spiritual edification will be interested in this degree program.  The program exposes the student to the area of biblical studies while introducing a number of basic collegiate areas of study.  Sunday school teachers, Sunday school superintendents, and other support staff personnel will find this program useful to their preparation.  The program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree.

In order to reach out to more non-traditional students, this division includes a program which involves our Distance Education program, entitled General Studies by Extension.  Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree in a secular field before surrendering to God’s call into the ministry, or who have a degree and yet desire training in Bible and related courses for church work will be interested in this program.  This program allows the student who has a degree to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Bible by Extension without having to relocate to the Dallas-Fort Worth area.  Sunday school teachers, superintendents, and other church support staff will also find the Bible, Theology, and Christian ministry courses useful with regard to their Christian growth and service.

Similar to the General Studies by Extension is another program referred to as the General Studies Online Degree Completion Program.  This program is 100% online and allows non-traditional students who have at least 50 transferable hours to complete a Bachelor of Science degree while continuing to fulfill work and family responsibilities.  All courses are offered in accelerated 8 week semesters, or “learning blocks”.

GOALS

1.    To equip future Christian leaders, whether vocational or non-vocational, to be able to respond to the 21st century lost world with the eternal and timeless truth of Jesus Christ.

2.    To familiarize students with a variety of ministry opportunities available through the local church and to provide instruction in how to present God’s Word and minister to people associated with these ministries.

3.    To recognize the value and purpose of lay people in the local church and its ministries.