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Frequently Asked Questions
So we get some pretty crazy questions sometimes.
Most of the time, they are pretty normal. We have compiled
a list of those questions and answers that we felt were common
and helpful to many situations. If you don't find what you
are looking for here, give us a call and we will be happy to
answer your question in person. If it is something that we think needs
to be added to this list, we will do that, so check back once in a while to
see what's new. You can e-mail Student Services with your
questions.
Is IBOLT Accredited?
When you take an IBOLT course you are a student of
Vanguard College and your credits are issued by Vanguard College. Vanguard
is a fully accredited member of the Association of
Biblical Higher Education. Your credits are fully transferable to over 150
other Christian Colleges and Universities in North America that also hold
accreditation with ABHE. For a complete list of member and candidate schools,
you can go to www.bible-college.org
Are credits transferable to other accredited Bible colleges?
Yes. If you register to take an IBOLT course, you are able to transfer that course
to another Bible college. (Some conditions may apply)
How much are courses?
Tuition and related costs my be seen by searching for a course at he search box on the left
and selecting the 'course details' button. All courses are listed in Canadian dollars,
and students from outside of Canada may wish to use a
Currency Converter
to capture a clear picture of costs.
How difficult is an IBOLT course?
An IBOLT course has a different “feel” than a traditional college course. Many college
courses ask you to read a textbook or two, write some papers and a few examinations and you are done.
At IBOLT, we teach from an experiential learning model. You can expect to connect with content and
then complete a number of smaller tasks and activities with the content throughout the course.
There is no “cramming the night before it’s due” in IBOLT. Learning is progressive and builds
upon previous learning with activities or “experiences.” You will need to do about 70-80 hours
of work to complete a three credit course.
Doesn't that seem like too much work?
Not really. In a traditional College course you will spend 30 hours in class,
and then complete a number of assignments that take between 40-50 hours. It all averages
out to about the same time commitment.
If I purchase a course online, is this a secure transaction?
Yes. At IBOLT we use the latest and most powerful encryption for our secure business
transactions. You can be assured of security when purchasing courses or enrolling in a program
of study.
What are your academic standards?
Our academic standards are in keeping with our partner colleges as members of the
Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). When it comes to writing papers,
here is our Guide to Format and Style.
Can I take an entire Degree program through IBOLT?
Yes. IBOLT is pleased to offer a four-year Bachelor’s degree Pastoral Theology,
Christian Leadership and Youth Ministry. We also offer a one year Certificate in Christian
Leadership, Youth Ministry and Sacred Music.
Can I take just one or two courses?
Of course! You are welcome to take any number of courses you wish. We offer
individual courses as well as certificate and degree programs designed to be “just in time”
learning and ministry skills for people already serving in their
church or community.
What kind of an Internship program do you offer for
students studying towards a Bachelor of Theology degree?
We built our curriculum to include opportunity for practical experience in your
local church or para-church organization every semester. Our practicum courses are the
“classroom” accompaniment to 6 hours a week of volunteer work that each student is required
to perform per semester.
How is IBOLT different than a correspondence school?
All courses have a set start and completion date, just like any traditional classroom.
Our students will engage the material being studied and discuss with the online instructor
and fellow students. You have regular contact (generally 13 times), with your instructor.
Student Services is always available to help you.
Is there special computer software needed to study with IBOLT?
You will need to download a new web browsing software called FireFox in order to log into
our online campus which is completely web-based. That means you can access your studies
from any computer that has an Internet connection. We do recommend that you have Word Processing
software such as Microsoft Office or the free OpenOffice.org suite of office software
and Acrobat Reader. We provide links to all theses sites here.
Do I need high speed Internet access?
No. High speed makes transmission of web pages faster, but even with dial-up you can study with IBOLT.
We design our courses so even if you don't have Internet, you may still study and complete a course.
Can I study WITHOUT a computer?
Absolutely! We are most importantly about education. Not about technology. It will take a little more
time to receive your assignments through the mail or courier, but we are happy to work with people who have
a heart to study, but don't have technology
Is there financial assistance to study with IBOLT?
Students who reside in Canada should contact their local Canada Student Loans office, or review Canada
Student Loans Information Online, and students who live outside Canada, should discuss with their own educational
funding organizations. Check out
www.vanguardcollege.com/prospective/scholarships.php
for more information.
Do International students have to pay more for their courses than students who live in Canada?
No. Current exchange rates make our courses even more attractive!!
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