Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Your site seems to indicate there is a difference between South Florida Bible College and South Florida Theological Seminary. What is the difference?
A. South Florida Bible College is the institution recognized to grant undergraduate degrees, such as associate and baccalaureate degrees. South Florida Theological Seminary is the institution recognized to grant graduate degrees, such as masters and doctoral degrees.

Q: Does SFBC&TS use semesters or trimesters?
A: SFBC&TS is on a trimester schedule (quarters), but with semester credit hours. Because of the length of time the student is in class, it is equivalent to semester credit hours. This helps students to earn degrees a little faster. Most schools are on two sixteen-week semesters, wherein SFBC&TS has three twelve-week trimesters (permitting students to complete more credit hours each year and complete programs faster). SFBC&TS also offers an accelerated Summer session offering the same credit hours. SFBC&TS' trimesters are in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. The Fall term begins at the end of August; the Winter term commences at the beginning of December; and the Spring term starts in March. The Summer term always begins in July but after the July 4 holiday.

Q: Do you offer distance learning or external studies?
A: Yes, all degree programs can be completed through distance learning (external studies). Click on the Distance Learning link for more information.

Q: For distance learners, can you enroll at any time or are you limited to semesters?
A: You are not limited to semesters or trimesters, so you may enroll at any time. You will have three (3) months to complete a course externally, but it can be completed sooner. The Distance Learning program is tailored to your schedule and your own pace.

Q: Are there any on-campus requirements for distance learners?
A: There are no on-campus requirements, but we offer seminars and accelerated programs if you desire to attend a class or two on campus. Our Distance Learning program is very popular, and we have a body of students from around the United States, as well as international students. For these students it is impossible to physically attend on-campus classes; therefore, the Distance Learning program offers these students a wonderful opportunity to pursue dreams involving earning college degrees and performing called service to or for God.

Q: How is the coursework completed externally?
A: You receive the same coursework as our on-campus students, but you will have additional reading and research because you do not have classroom hours. Once you are enrolled, you will be assigned a student advisor that will work with you through your program.

Q: How do I graduate if I am a distance learner?
A: You may participate with the graduating class each June and walk with them. If you choose not to walk with the class (usually due to travel expenses and geographic distances), you will receive your degree through the U.S. Mail.

Q: Your web site indicates your programs are available to international students. Are any countries or students barred from "attending" your college or seminary?
A: Absolutely not. Any international student may inquire of the college or seminary regarding admission and matriculation. All interested individuals, regardless of creed, nationality, or religious affiliation, are welcome to apply and attend, either on-campus or through the Distance Learning (external studies) program.

Q: Do you offer life learning experience for course credit?
A: Yes. One quarter (1/4) of your degree program can be earned through life experience credit. To inquire further on this subject, please email us (at Inquiry).

Q: What is the cost per credit hour?
A: At this time, it is US-$165.00 per credit hour. Fees are subject to change without notice. Click on the Payment link for more information.

Q: How many students do you have?
A: Currently we have approximately 200 students at this time.

Q: Your site states you offer "non-denominational" instruction/curricula. Does this mean your curricula is in any way critical or detrimental to "denominational" churches, religious organizations, or beliefs?
A: Not at all. Our curricula is designed to enhance and augment any Christian denominational faith, irrespective of theological practice, belief, tenets, or secular doctrine.

Q: What does "PDF" mean?
A: "PDF" stands for "Portable Document Format." It was developed by Adobe Systems Incorporated. PDF formatted documents can be translated from documents created in a variety of software programs, e.g., Word, WordPerfect, etc., and then opened on different platforms, such as Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, UNIX, etc. Adobe's free Acrobat® Reader® is required in order to open and view PDF documents. You may download our catalog in PDF format from our Catalog page.

Q: What does "CEU" mean?
A: "CEU" stands for "Continuing Education Unit." CEUs provide professionals and specific skill individuals with formal recognition "credits" for their training efforts to update or broaden their knowledge or skills through participation in programs in their field of study or vocation. For additional information, contact your company's Training Department, or contact SFBC&TS.

Q: My question is not answered on this page. How can I obtain an answer to my inquiry?
A: Please contact us by telephone, email or fax. If your inquiry warrants listing on this FAQs page, we will add it to assist others.