May 01, 1998 by Ben Sells

Finish a B.A. in Intercultural Ministries from an Accredited School Wherever You Live?

Northwestern College Tells Its Story

“Innovative concept to impressive reality”

Those are the words of Dr. Tim Tomlinson, Director of the Center for Distance Education at Northwestern College in St. Paul, MN.

Northwestern is a non-denominational Christian college, regionally accredited, and a member of the Coalition for Christian Colleges and Universities.

In his own words he describes Northwestern’s journey to offering adult learners the opportunity to complete a B.A. degree in intercultural studies without ever having to come to their St, Paul campus.

That’s right: A degree from Northwestern without the winters! Read on.

Northwestern College: B.A. Degree Completion Program in Intercultural Ministries

In the three years of collaboration between Northwestern College and the U.S. Center for World Mission (USCWM), we’ve seen an innovative concept become an impressive reality.

Our search for high quality educational programs led us to examine the World Christian Foundations curriculum (WCF) developed by the USCWM.

After looking at this program, we were convinced that it would soon become an important way for people preparing for the mission field to be able to complete their education and training in a unique and effective manner.

Because of the quality of the program, we have gladly entered into a partnership with the USCWM to make this curriculum available to missionaries, missionary candidates and Christians all over the world.

Northwestern offers this curriculum as a degree completion program leading to a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Intercultural Ministries.

The program is unique in several ways:

1: Designed so that it can be taken anywhere a student chooses.

There is no need to relocate and there are no requirements for periodic visits to our Minnesota campus. As long as we can reach our students through some form of communication (fax, E-mail, regular mail, etc., this program has no geographical boundaries.

2: Curriculum integrates subjects so that they are studied in their historical context.

Rather than studying anthropology, biblical languages, Bible exposition, and similar subjects in isolation, they are studied within the context and flow of history and how they relate to and influence one another.

3: Incorporates a local mentor.

Each student is assigned a mentor with whom they meet regularly and who provides accountability, encouragement, and insights from his or her own ministry and/or missionary experience.

Is the program working? Do students find it challenging, yet enjoyable? The answer to both questions is “yes.”

We have been very satisfied with the program. Judging by the feedback we’ve received from some of our students, we know that it is accomplishing its purposes—and even more!

One student wrote of his joy in what he is learning and the fulfillment he is experiencing in his relationship with his mentor.

Another student indicated that because of the program, his call to missions has been strengthened and clarified. He can hardly wait to begin full time missions work.

Is the program a quick and easy way to a college degree? The answer is “no.” But then, nothing worthwhile is usually “quick and easy.”

This program requires a serious commitment on the part of our students, but it is well worth it and will provide adult learners with the quality of training and education that will enrich your life, strengthen your faith, and equip you for effective ministry.

If you would like more information about this program, please contact us:

Betty Piper Center for Distance Education Northwestern College 3003 Snelling Avenue North St. Paul, MN 55113 USA Phone: 612-631-5494 or 1-800-308-5495; Fax: 612-631-5133 E-mail: [email protected]

The M.A. Level Using the World Christian Foundations study program, adult learners can also complete an entire M.A. degree from an accredited college.