When students are looking for a Christian education, they may be unsure as to why there are both Bible colleges and Christian liberal arts universities. There are many similarities and many differences between Bible colleges and Christian universities.
How Bible colleges and Christian universities are similar
The difference between Bible college and Christian university can be viewed as a matter of educational goals. Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees are granted by both Bible colleges and Christian universities. The programs and classes of both are designed to guide s
tudents who are seeking to learn about the Bible, the inspired Word of God, and trying to conform to the image of Jesus Christ, God’s Son. Classes cover Old and New Testament Studies, church administration, ministry, Christian education, counseling, missions, pastoral studies, evangelism, church growth and music ministry, and others. The courses educate and equip in very practical ways, as well as validate the highly personal aspect of pursuing relationship with God. The goals of the programs at both type of school are to equip the learner for ministry, whatever kind of ministry the student is called to.
How Bible colleges and Christian universities are different
The difference between a Bible college and Christian university are subtle, but considerable. The content and purposes of the Bible and ministry emphasis courses at both institutions of higher education are usually quite alike. However, Christian Universities offer arts and science degrees in addition to the religious studies, usually requiring a small core of Bible classes to complete a “secular” degree. The Christian university may require chapel attendance and daily prayer and adherence to a certain standard of moral behavior, but the array of social and service opportunities is not limited to ministry; rather students can be involved in organizations that prepare them for involvement in their more secular pursuit. The worldview in the arts and sciences classes will be that of Christianity, and professors and students will be more likely to take Christian perspectives on the subject of study, but apart from specific ministry degrees, the emphasis is not on developing Christian leadership so much as putting Christians into the world. Please visit www.iccsonlinebiblecollege.com to better understand the value of an education leading to Christian leadership in the world.
Bible colleges, however, are centered on Christian theology and practice, and ultimately, ministry. This emphasis is seen in every aspect of student involvement, including academic programs, volunteer projects, and social clubs and even the worship services. The degrees offerings lead strictly into ministry, and generally take on the theological perspective of the denomination to which the Bible school affiliates. Bible colleges are far more conservative in acceptable conduct, and the students usually must participate in mission trips, service projects, chapel events and praise and worship groups in order to complete their degree credits. Some of the Bible colleges may have dress codes, curfews and restrictions as to interaction between male and female students.
There is value in education at either type of school. It simply depends on an individual’s personal and professional goals. There are many students who desire a solid biblical foundation from which to pursue a career in the secular world. They can finish an Associate’s degree or a number of core classes that can transferred, and then take a Bachelor’s or higher degree at a Christian university.
Now that you understand the difference between Bible college and Christian university, please visit www.iccsonlinebiblecollege.com to investigate the further benefits of an education at International Christian College and Seminary.