Yes and no. Western Seminary and WSCLL do not offer a degree that is completely by distance education. That is both a reality of our membership in the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) which limits the amount of distance ed courses that can be taken as part of a degree program, and a matter of educational philosophy. Western Seminary believes that each degree student should be engrafted into the life, history and traditions of the seminary. Barring exceptional circumstances, it is our hope that all students who graduate from Western will have participated in the life of one of our campuses.
WSCLL does, however, recommend the "In-Ministry" track of the Master of Arts in Specialized Ministry for those who are involved in professional ministry at least half-time. This program allows our students to complete their degree with brief one- or two-week course intensives to fulfill residency requirements. For more information, please visit the Western Seminary website or contact the Enrollment Office of the seminary.
How long do I have to complete a course?
All campus students must complete their coursework within the standard 12 - 15 week semester schedule. Distance education students must complete the coursework within 15 weeks of their start date, with the possibility of one six-week extension. Approval for an extension, however, is not automatic and depends upon the prior submission of coursework and the approval of the Director or Assistant Director of the Center for Lifelong Learning or the Registrar. For complete information, please review our student policies.
Do WSCLL students qualify for V.A. benefits and / or federal financial aid?
In general, because Western Seminary is an accredited institution, distance education courses taken for credit qualify for V.A. benefits and for federal financial aid. Nevertheless, there are conditions. For more information, you should refer to the WSCLL policy manual, and contact the Financial Aid office of the seminary before enrollment.
Do I have to be accepted into a program to take a course?
No. You may take up to 12 credit hours before you need to apply for acceptance. We do recommend, however, that if you have any desire to pursue a certificate, diploma or degree program for credit, you should apply for the appropriate program as early as possible. Admission to a program is not guaranteed even if you have completed the 12 credit hours.
WIll my credits transfer to another institution?
WSCLL is both regionally accredited (NWCCU), and professionally accredited (ATS), meaning that most schools will accept credits from Western Seminary when they apply to the desired program. Transfer of credits in every instance, however, is at the sole discretion of the receiving institution. Before you take a course that you want to transfer, contact the other school and verify that they will accept the course(s) that you would like to take by distance education.
Will I need a computer and access to the Internet?
All courses taken through the Center for Lifelong Learning make extensive use of computer-based Internet tools for student-to-student and student-to-faculty interaction, and many use CD / DVD ROM technology for the delivery of course content. The lack of a computer...or at least consistent access to a computer...would make completion of a course difficult if not impossible. Any student who intends to take a certificate, diploma or degree program would benefit from investing in a new computer. Desktop, and in some instance, notebook computers are now available (possessing all the computing power necessary for WSCLL courses) for several hundred dollars - a one time investment that will pay dividends for years.
Can I get help with my course work?
Absolutely. You may contact your grader/mentor toll-free or by email. In many courses, you also have access to your instructor to answer specific questions about course content. If you have questions concerning student or administrative issues, our WSCLL personnel are ready to help within 1 business day.
Do I need to have a proctor for my courses?
Yes. Exam materials will be sent to your proctor who will then monitor your tests to ensure the integrity of the grading process. Portland campus students may elect to take exams in the Cline-Tunnell Library, and would not then need to name a proctor. If you need a proctor, you may select any responsible adult who is not a member of your immediate family.
Can I take more than one course at a time?
Generally, no, though you can complete a course as quickly as your schedule allows. If you must take more than one course in order to satisfy internal or external graduation requirements, please contact the Registrar's Office to request an exemption.
