Bible Learning Center

Tyndale Theological Seminary & Biblical Institute

“GEDU1301: Reading, Writing & Research” begins August 8th. Enroll today!

“What roots are to a tree, the doctrines are to the Christian. From them we draw our emotional stability, our mental food for growth, as well as our spiritual energy and perspective on life itself. By returning to our roots, we determine precisely where we stand. We equip ourselves for living the life God designed for us to live.”

– Charles Swindoll in his book, Growing Deep in the Christian Life

At Oak Tree Community Church, we agree with Swindoll and many others who believe that every Christian should not only read the Bible, but also be able to study, understand, explain, and live the principles given to us in the Bible.

That’s why we have partnered with Tyndale Theological Seminary to create a Bible Learning Center through our church. Here you will be able to study the Scriptures in a formal, structured way, without having to attend a traditional Bible College or Seminary. You could even earn CEUs or college credit if you want!

Click on the FAQs below to answer most of your basic questions about our classes, pricing, schedule, and credit. When you’re ready, fill out the contact form below, so our Registrar, Angie Sanders, can discuss what is the right option for you.

How are these classes different than a regular Bible study group?

As a “Learning Center” we are a local branch campus of Tyndale. This creates a joint effort wherein they provide the curriculum and administrative services so we can teach people the Scriptures in a structured way.

This is different from a general Bible study group in that these courses are not free when they are taken for credit.

So who can enroll? Is this for members of OTCC only?
Since our mission is to help people grow in Christ, we want to provide these classes to as many people as possible. Therefore, anyone is welcome to study with us, but in order to participate in class discussion, you must enroll as a Tyndale student. Class sizes may be limited based on the course material being covered.
What does it cost to take these courses?
For each course in which you enroll for credit, you will pay tuition, a class enrollment fee, and the cost of the required textbooks. Tuition is based on an individual student’s program (see below). The class enrollment fee is $25 for the first class and $10 for each additional class taken each semester. Textbook prices will vary depending on the class requirements and whether or not you already own the books.
What if I don’t want any credit? Can I just study with the class?

Yes, we have two options:

  1. Audit student – Like on a college campus, an Audit student is someone who chooses to pay discounted tuition in order to participate in class discussion and study. Audit students receive no credit and are not required to purchase textbooks, do homework, or take any exams.
  2. Observing student – For those who just want to learn without any cost or obligation, we are offering an “Observing Student” option. This allows a person to sit in any class at any time and learn in a non-participatory way. In order to maximize the class time for those paying and working for credit, Observing Students may ask questions and discuss class material with the instructor only outside of class.
What kind of credit can I get?

We offer two types of credit: Continuing Education (CE) or Undergraduate Degree. CE students receive one CEU credit for each class. After completing eight classes CE students can receive a Certificate of Biblical Studies (see courses below). This can be accomplished in two school years by taking only one course each semester.

Degree students must select from one of the following Bachelor programs: Biblical Studies (B.B.S.), Theology (Th.B.), Biblical Studies in Missions (B.B.S.Miss.), or Christian Education (B.C.E.). An Associate in Biblical Studies (A.B.S.) is also available.

What types of classes are there? What will the class format be like?

We will offer the following nine courses first since they count for both degree and CE students. (Full course lists for degree students are available.)

  • Reading, Writing, & Research – This course should help students produce competent and timely papers and assignments, and to provide the tools for making the most of their research and reading schedules. (Required for degree students; recommended for CE students)
  • Introduction to Bible Study – This course should familiarize students with our basic approach to Bible study and theology. Many important terms and concepts are introduced here.
  • How to Interpret the Bible – This course will cover the correct method of biblical interpretation and introduce sound and consistent principles of interpretation.
  • Survey of Theology I, II, & III – In these courses we lay out a systematic study of the major doctrines of Scripture.
  • Genesis 1-3 – This is an in-depth study of the foundational first three chapters of Genesis.
  • Book of Romans – This is an in-depth study of the most foundational theological book of the New Testament.
  • Introduction to Biblical Languages – This gives students an introduction to the languages of the Bible and how they work.

Taking one course at a time not only gives you the time to process all of the class discussion, personal study, and homework, but it also spreads out the cost, making it more affordable. However, students may take multiple courses as they are offered each semester.

Each class is held once per week over a 9-week semester and is taught in a lecture-and-discussion format. Individual classes are scheduled for 2 1/2 hours with one break (although any class may be shorter depending upon that day’s subject matter). At the first class of each semester, students will be given a syllabus with the course requirements, homework, etc. for the entire course.

OK, I’m interested. How do I get started?
Great! Your next step is to set up a meeting (phone or in-person) with Angie Sanders, our local Learning Center Registrar. She will help you through the enrollment process and can answer additional questions about your study options or the program you want to complete. You can contact her using the form below or by calling her at 574.232.1618 x114.

Use the contact form below to get started!

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