Distance Education Admissions
How Distance Education Works
Southwestern’s School of Distance Education (SDE) program is designed to extend the resources of the University outside of its walls. Located throughout the country are a number of adults who desire to continue their education without relocating to a university campus. Southwestern has developed a program where one may obtain an accredited education without relocating family or career. Through the School of Distance Education, a traditional Bible-based educational experience may be obtained through an innovative, quality academic format.
The School of Distance Education offers most University academic programs leading toward the Master of Arts, Master of Divinity, Master of Science, Master of Education, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Associate of Arts degrees. Click here for a list of available degree programs.
Each degree program is uniquely designed for the adult student to earn a degree without moving to the campus. There is also an opportunity to earn up to 25% of a bachelors degree through our experiential learning credit program. Additionally, students can transfer up to 96 hours of transfer credit. A two-day New Student Orientation is required for all students at the beginning of their first semester.
Who is this Program for?
Each semester, students from around the world who are at least 22 years of age enroll for course work in the School of Distance Education. Because of the flexibility of the program, a diverse group of students utilize the services of the School of Distance Education. Among those who benefit from this program are:
- Individuals who were prohibited from finishing college due to circumstances or finances.
- Individuals who have experienced job loss and need training for a new career.
- Professionals who would like to receive credit for skills and knowledge already received through experience.
- Ministers who desire to earn a degree while maintaining their present ministry.
- Business professionals needing more skills to fulfill their job demands.
- Professionals who need a degree to advance in their present vocation.
- Retirees or Senior Adults who desire preparation for a new career or personal enrichment.
- Teachers who need to complete their college degrees.
- Christian school teachers who desire ACSI certification.
- Graduate students needing Bible or Theology prerequisite courses.