Master's Degree Program (MBS)
Frequently Asked Questions...and answers!
#1 – What courses should I take first?
It is recommended that you take the Introduction to Graduate School (#500) course first. This course has a video that you need to watch and take notes on (you can download the syllabus from our web site). This video will explain a number of important items regarding the entire Master’s program.
After completing this course, it really doesn’t matter what courses you choose next. There are presently 4 courses that are ‘in-ministry’ courses – any of which could be taken in any order:
#502 – Total Communication
#504 – Comprehensive Leadership
#506 – Methods of Teaching/Preaching
#507 – Advanced Apologetics
#2 – How long do I have to complete the courses?
Our program is designed to be completed in 2 years. This would entail two “Blitz Weeks” (one in September and one in March), and the rest of the work completed in your ministry setting. As you complete the assignments for each course, you will mail those assignments in to the Institute in Denver for grading. There are no specific time limits for the in-ministry courses. However, the Blitz Week courses must be completed 3 months after the course meets.
Occasionally one needs longer to complete the assigned in-ministry courses (not the Blitz Week courses). He or she may take up to 7 years to complete the entire program. After this period of time certain courses may need to be repeated. There have been some students who were able to complete the entire program in 12 months. This would be the minimum amount of time on could complete the MBS program.
#3 – Is there housing and transportation provided when I come to Denver?
We will pick you up at the airport if you notify us in advance of your travel schedule. Because of the number of students coming in, it is not always possible to provide housing. A list of available nearby hotels can be obtained by calling the office. However, if the motel costs provide a financial hardship, we will try to find a family that would be willing to house you for the Blitz Weeks.
#4 – Do I have to write a Thesis?
No. You may choose the option of taking two additional 3-hour in-ministry courses. One must earn 32 hours to receive the degree.
#5 – Can I transfer in hours?
If you have accredited Master level hours, submit an approved transcript to the Academic Dean. He will determine what credits will transfer in – up to a maximum of 9 hours.
#6 – What if my Bachelor’s Degree was not in Bible or a ministry field?
Only those with a Bachelor’s Degree in Bible or Bible related fields are eligible to enter our Master’s program. However, a student with a degree in other fields may take 15 leveling hours (designated by the Bible Institute) to qualify.
#7 – What if I am not a member of the church of Christ?
The Bear Valley Bible Institute is a work of the Bear Valley church of Christ, and is intended for faithful members of the churches of Christ.
#8– Is this program accredited?
This Master’s program is not nationally accredited. It is approved, however, by the Colorado Board of Education. This means that the degree received from Bear Valley will not (at the present time) be accepted by colleges and universities. This is a ministry degree that shows the churches of Christ that the student has achieved a high level of academic training.
We are currently working toward regional accreditation.