New college students feel more comfortable at an institution where they have a sense of comfort and community. The transition from high school to college can be a difficult adjustment for students. It can be a difficult transition for returning adults as well.  Choosing one of the evangelical bible colleges allows students to select a school with a belief system that mirrors their own. Students will have a smoother transition in this environment.

What are Evangelical Bible Colleges?

When researching evangelical bible colleges, it is important to know what characteristics to look for.  Bible colleges are primarily undergraduate institutions that specialize in biblical studies. These institutions typically exclude the study of philosophy in their curriculum. Religious schools are associated primarily with evangelical Protestant denominations.  These colleges offer a value-oriented groundwork for a student, which carries throughout the entire curriculum and overall feel of the college.  Students usually feel more accepted at these schools because they share the same fundamental values with their peers and the professors.

Another benefit of evangelical bible colleges is the aid programs offered by some of the schools. Typically, religiously affiliated schools receive their funding privately.  They have extensive scholarship programs and tuition subsidization through donations.  Thus, tuition is somewhat controlled.

Accreditation

Bible colleges often operate with out traditional accreditation, so it is important to research accreditation prior to enrolling in an institution.  Some accrediting agencies to look for include the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) and Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.

The Association of Independent Christian Colleges & Seminaries (AICCS) is another good place to start when looking at evangelical bible colleges.  AICCS is an independent accrediting agency that evaluates Christian colleges and seminaries.  They also work to develop non-traditional and modular methods of teaching for online and on-campus courses. Degrees issued from schools associated with AICCS are legitimate and often accepted within the Christian community.

Regardless of which institution you choose, religiously affiliated schools emphasize healthy living, morality, and spirituality, which are coupled with the traditional classes. These institutions offer students a learning environment in which they feel a strong connection with their peers due to the sharing of the same beliefs.