FOCUS on Education
N 2006, Patten University and the
I
Church of God Division of Educa-
tion collaborated to create an inno-
vative program of online study. The
The Internet Degree Program (IDP)
was launched in recognition of the
Exciting
increasing number of students desiring
to enroll in college but who were unable
to engage in a traditional on-campus
World of
learning environment. This new approach
allows the student to complete the
Internet
degree online without any residence
requirements.
In the 2006 fall semester, 18 students
Learning
entered the program. Today, some 250
by DELTON
students have enrolled from the United
L. ALFORD
States and 26 countries. The current fac-
ulty is comprised of 37 members from
nine states, with 35 percent holding
earned doctorates.
The IDP provides an affordable, acces-
sible, focused educational experience that
enables students from anywhere in the
world to obtain a bachelor of arts degree
in Christian leadership. There are two
concentrations available: (1) church
administration, and (2) music and wor-
ship leadership—the first of its kind. Online learning offers a place and prepared to impact their world. Com-
Highly trained and experienced faculty pace where educational dreams and call- ments from some of them follow:
teaches all courses in both concentrations ing can become reality fulfilled. Whether • “The IDP has given me the opportu-
utilizing an up-close and personal online ministering or working full-time or part- nity to receive an education I always felt I
approach. time, a student can succeed in complet- needed to improve my skills. Since start-
Students have the possibility of devel- ing an accredited degree. Consider these ing the program, the church I pastor has
oping their music knowledge and skills in advantages: (1) Work from anywhere the increased in attendance by nearly 40 per-
order to become effective worship leaders, Internet is available, utilizing a personal- cent.” —Trent Belford, Pastor
or they may concentrate their studies ized schedule anytime during the day or • “I have not had to wait until gradu-
toward becoming church leaders and night. (2) Work without the limitations ation to begin ministry, because the IDP
administrators. Online learning is good of age, ethnicity, or health. (3) Complete has allowed me to gain valuable ministry
news for serious students who are limited a college degree where tuition rates are experience as part of my ongoing educa-
in their education studies either by geog- affordable, payment plans are conve- tion. I have been able to disciple other
raphy or financial resources. It is now nient, and financial aid is available, with college students, serve on my church’s
possible to obtain a first-class, relevant additional scholarship aid for creden- praise team, and even work with re-
education in preparation for contempo- tialed ministers. fugees.” —Anneke Woods, Worship Leader
rary church ministry while studying from Since its inception, a diverse and tal- • “As a husband, father, and minister,
home. The degree is fully accredited by ented group of students has comprised I needed an educational program that
the Western Association of Schools and the IDP student body, and now, the first would allow me to manage my studies
Colleges, with academic functions super- class of seniors is scheduled to graduate with the demands of my personal life.
vised and controlled by Patten University in May 2009. These seniors are represen- The IDP allowed me to fulfill the dream
and operational functions jointly shared tative of various ages, life experiences, of obtaining my degree. Patten’s courses
with the Division of Education. and ministry dreams, and they are now provided a foundation of knowledge
26 EVANGEL • MAY 2009
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