Blessings! In this post, I want to update you all in my learning adventure at Christian Leaders Institute (https://www.christianleadersinstitute.org). So far, I am doing really well with my studies. To be honest, I was really nervous about taking my first exam. I have not taken a college-level class in over 20 years. And even though, I have worked in higher education before, it is different being on the administrative side rather than the student side. I really want to do well with my coursework. But, returning to school can be a bit intimidating as an older adult. Mainly, due to dormant study skills. However, I have taken a few quizzes so far and finished my introductory course on Christian ministry (one credit) with a solid ‘A’ letter grade. So, I was really happy about that.
I really like how the classes I have taken so far are set-up at Christian Leaders Institute. They are fully online and on-demand, asynchronous learning. This means you can access the classes any time you want and take exams anytime you want. You are not tied down to a particular set time or day. Also, you are given six months to finish each course, although the expectation is that you make regular progress in your course. This means that they would like you to finish a unit of classwork every ten days (although you can finish your classwork faster, if you like). Also, all the classes are free at the Institute and you do not need to worry about paying for books, as all the reading materials are embedded into the online class. It is also nice that once you finish an online class, you will always have (forever) access to the reading assignments and videos. So, if you want to review materials further down you can in the future.
Now, I do want to share, that if you want to earn a college degree you can, through applying for admissions and credit through Christian Leaders College (https://www.christianleaderscollege.org). The online classes are the same as those offered through the Institute. However, there are some administrative costs involved with getting a college degree. They do NOT charge tuition for any classes. However, it costs $1,500 to earn an Associates degree and $1,500 to earn a Bachelors degree. These costs cover administrative costs for the College as they are seeking to become fully accredited by the U.S. government. (Note, they do have scholarships available for those who qualify and need them). However, for myself, because I already have a bachelors degree elsewhere, I have decided – at least for this moment – to just pursue the free online classes at the Institute and not another bachelors degree. So, this means, just studying towards a free Diploma and Certificates. (Note, I can always change my mind and get advanced standing by transferring in college credits from my other degree later).
Finally, I just want to add. For people who follow my prophecy blog, they will likely know that I am Catholic. Well, I want people to know that Christian Leaders Institute/College is both traditional and interdenominational. This means that you can still study at the Institute/College and you do not have to give up your denomination, whether you are Catholic, Baptist, Orthodox, Lutheran, etc. They cater to all Christian denominations while teaching a very traditional, conservative Christian curriculum. In fact, they have several thousands of Catholics studying at the Institute/College and the curriculum does not conflict with anyone’s faith. In fact, so far, it has been interesting finding out about the differences between the denominations through my studies. I am learning many things in a positive way.
Oh, and for those curious, the Institute/College offers over 150 online classes and students from over 190 nations attend classes. Moreover, they have conferred over 63,000 degrees since 2006 (I believe). However, you do not need to get a degree to attend. You can take classes at your leisure for fun and further life-long learning. God bless!
Christian Learner 