News – Bible College Online https://biblecollegeonline.com Find Your Perfect Faith-Based Education Mon, 20 May 2024 13:42:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 https://biblecollegeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Logo_Icon.png News – Bible College Online https://biblecollegeonline.com 32 32 Bible College Online Ranks The Top 10 Online Christian Colleges https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/bible-college-online-ranks-the-top-ten-online-christian-colleges/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/bible-college-online-ranks-the-top-ten-online-christian-colleges/#respond Tue, 16 Aug 2022 16:38:23 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2912

Bible College Online is the perfect way to find, and connect with, the perfect Christian University. We are all called to some kind of vocation, and everyone’s discernment process is a little different.

The best place to start? Bible College Online’s 100 Best Christian Colleges: Best Online Colleges In America 2022 list! Read on to get familiar with some of our top-ranked schools and discover who made the top ten from our top 100 list. Plus, after this article, you’ll be well acquainted with our ranking system and ready to explore the rest of the top 100 list on your own. Let’s dive in!

Number One – Regent University

If you’re a Bible College Online regular then you’re likely already familiar with our number one choice — Regent University. Not only was Regent our number one pick last year, they also received the honor of a separate write-up outside of this top ten list. For those unfamiliar with Regent University, or for anyone unfamiliar with how our ranking system works, we encourage you to read the article about this year’s number one online Christian college here.

Number Two – Saint Leo University

Saint Leo may be number two on this list, but they were a close second. We actually have them listed as the #1 option in the state of Florida! Saint Leo is modernizing faith-based education with their dedication to cutting-edge academics all while remaining true to its traditional Christian roots. Established in 1889 by the Order of Saint Benedict of Florida, this university seeks balanced growth in mind, body, and spirit for all members of its community. Bible College Online isn’t the only source that recognizes the academic excellence of Saint Leo; it’s also ranked as one of the best regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.

Number Three – Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University rounds out BCO’s top three schools. Along with being a top-ranked school with BCO, CCU has been ranked as one of the top universities in the U.S. by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni for nearly a decade. The University has recently received accolades from U.S. News & World Report. CCU Online provides a broad range of online programs across 15 subject areas. CCU is first and foremost an academic community of committed Christian believers rooted in a profound respect for higher learning framed within the Christian worldview.

Number Four – Indiana Wesleyan University

This above-average-sized Christian institution is located in Marion Indiana and features renowned undergraduate programs in Business, Nursing, and Liberal Arts. Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global scored particularly well in our ranking system due to their robust selection of 177 online programs. Wesleyan’s ability to retain the core values of a faith-based education throughout an extensive online degree portfolio made them a no-brainer as a top choice for a list of the Best Online Christian Colleges.

Number Five – Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University is a Christian liberal arts university in Dallas, Texas. While Dallas may be a modern north Texas metropolis, Dallas Baptist remains rooted in its traditional Christian values. These values ensure that all students at Dallas Baptist receive a faith-based education which serves as the bedrock for a well-rounded adulthood. In addition to offering religious degrees, Dallas Baptist University also offers online liberal arts degrees. Dallas Baptist offers a mix of online and on-campus programs, but there are 75 total online programs to choose from.

Number Six – Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a private Christian university located in Phoenix, Arizona. They offer a wide range of programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels and degrees range from spiritual to secular in scope. In true Christian fashion, the dedicated faculty and staff of Grand Canyon University are supremely devoted to their vocation of shaping their students through faith-based education. The mission of Grand Canyon University is rooted in service, ensuring that students fulfill their God-given potential by using their individual gifts and talents to earn a degree. 

Number Seven – Columbia College Missouri

In the already large pool of Online Christian Colleges, Columbia College in Missouri is one of the larger online educational service providers. This institution entices teachers with an above-average starting salary to sustain the number of instructors needed to support the more than 3.5k undergraduates. Students at Columbia College Missouri can pursue Liberal Arts, Humanities, Business, and Human Services programs all with specific degree offerings. The outstanding portfolio of Columbia College Missouri features a total of 51 online programs in which students can enroll.

Number Eight – Concordia University – St. Paul

Concordia University, St. Paul is a private university in Saint Paul, Minnesota whose focus is on preparing students for post-graduate success. CSP’s curriculum features a responsive style of teaching wherein students can interact and engage in a way that prepares them for life outside of school. The most popular online majors at CSP include Business, Kinesiology/Exercise Science, and Psychology. Concordia St. Paul offers students the opportunity to attend school online, or in person, with their online programs featuring 56 total offerings.

Number Nine – St. Louis University

Saint Louis University, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU’s career-relevant online degree programs feature multiple start dates, which provides students with personal and academic flexibility. St. Louis University’s dedication to faith-based education is staunchly rooted in a commitment to preparing students for post-graduate life in a secular world.  

Number Ten – Southwest Assemblies Of God University

Exceptional diversity and an exuberant university life await all undergraduates who choose this Waxahachie-based institution. The students who choose to attend this institution in person will find great value in their time spent on campus, while those who choose to attend online reap the reward of personal academic growth. The most popular majors at Southwest Assemblies of God University are Biblical Studies, Pastoral Counseling/Specialized Ministries, and Business. This University’s outstanding online portfolio features 48 different online programs in which students can enroll.

Wrapping Up

There you have it, that’s our top ten list! With any luck, this article has inspired you to do a little more research for yourself. Whether one of the schools listed above speaks to you personally, or whether this brief top ten article has inspired you to check out the other schools in our top 100 list, finding the perfect Online Christian College begins with exploration. 

Not only will our rankings help to narrow down your search, our connection to each of these amazing universities can help you in your pursuit of enrollment. If you are serious about finding the perfect Online Christian College, consider Bible College Online as your ultimate resource. We are here to help.

Need more options? Take a look at Liberty University and Houston University.

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Bible College Online Releases “100 Best Online Christian Colleges” Rankings For 2022 https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/100-best-online-christian-colleges-2022/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/100-best-online-christian-colleges-2022/#respond Sat, 06 Aug 2022 14:22:36 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2910 Regent University claims BCO’s annual title of “Best Christian College” for the second consecutive year due to online degree diversity, historic scholastic excellence, and uncompromising faith-based curriculum.

Who Is Regent University?

Regent University is a fully accredited Christian college with a longstanding reputation for academic excellence. Their history is rich with accolades, and they are devoted to providing their students with a superb faith-based education. Regent University’s commitment to spiritual and academic excellence is perfectly encapsulated in the school’s motto: ” Christian Leadership To Change The World.” 

What Makes Regent University Different?

This year, Regent University was named Best Christian College due to its long-standing reputation for credibility, its unparalleled commitment to degree and program diversity, and the incredible ease of use for users while navigating the Regent website.

Since its inception in 1978, Regent has worked tirelessly to ensure that its students receive a well-rounded education, rooted in biblical principles. Regent is fully accredited and offers a wide variety of programs that foster faith, while also preparing students for life beyond school. The variety of degrees offered by Regent can be pursued in person at the Virginia Beach campus, or online. 

To learn more about Regent University, visit www.regent.edu.

About Bible College Online

Bible College Online is a resource to match prospective students interested in pursuing a faith-based online education with colleges and universities across the United States. Our proven process allows schools and students to build relationships through relevant content giving BCO the information needed to pair each prospective student with their ideal school. BCO is led by a team of digital marketing experts with years of experience navigating the online education space who understands the needs of prospective students and the goals of higher education institutions. For additional information, please visit: www.biblecollegeonline.com.

If you are interested in earning an online Christian degree, we invite you to explore Liberty University, Colorado Christian University, Grand Canyon University, and Houston Christian University. These faith-based institutions provide a wide range of degree options and are strongly committed to Christian values and education. 

 

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Big Universities Are Spending Up On Advertising But There May Be A Better Way https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/big-universities-are-spending-up-on-advertising-but-there-may-be-a-better-way/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/big-universities-are-spending-up-on-advertising-but-there-may-be-a-better-way/#respond Tue, 09 Nov 2021 20:29:02 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2474 Colleges and Universities have always spent money on advertising, but not many people realize exactly how much. It is hard to turn on a televised collegiate sporting event without seeing an ad for one of the schools involved in the contest. Similarly, you would be hard-pressed to google “four-year university” without then seeing ads for local colleges in your area. Advertising is a big deal for Universities, and recently, schools have been spending up. 

According to an article on The Hechinger Report, “colleges and universities spend between $429 and $623 per enrolled student, per year, on marketing.” Depending on the size of your university, the number of new students you are currently courting, and the wide net you are potentially trying to cast in the hopes of attracting new students, these costs can add up quickly.

But how much money does this cost per student really translate to? There are brand consulting companies that closely monitor how much universities are spending on things like advertising. One such company called Kantar estimates that schools spent a collective $2.2 Billion in 2019, a 20% increase from the $2 Billion spent in 2018. 

Why Are Universities Spending So Much On Advertising To Prospective Students

Believe it or not, college enrollment is actually declining, and it’s not just due to the recent Covid-19 pandemic. According to an article produced by the Center For American Progress, “annual undergraduate enrollment across all institutions of higher education fell by 1.25 million students, [between the 2014-15 and the 2018-19 academic year], a decline of 5 percentage points.”

Universities are now facing a catch-22. Do you overspend on advertising in the hopes that it attracts new students? Or, do you scale back and hope that students come to you organically? If neither of those choices seems like a good answer to the problem of how to advertise effectively, there is a third option. 

Will Spending Up On Advertising Really Help My School Target New Students?

Not all advertising is created equal. Especially in the modern age, simply creating and publishing an ad isn’t enough. The efficacy rate for targeted ads vs. non-targeted ads is drastically higher. In fact, a paper produced by the Network Advertising Initiative revealed that “the study found behaviorally-targeted advertising is more than twice as effective at converting users who click on ads into buyers.”

So how does this apply to Universities? It means that you need a team who understands how to achieve maximum yield for your budget spend, a team like the one you’ll find at Bible College Online.

How Will Working With Bible College Online Increase Visibility For My Christian University?

Teaming up with Bible College Online is the premier method for advertising as a Christian University. For one thing, signing up with Bible College Online is completely free, which means you’re already ahead of your budget!

Secondly, our team at Bible College Online generates high intent enrollment leads using organic search content to achieve your goal of exceeding your market spend. We do this by matching students with Universities that are aligned in their faith-based values and academic objectives. 

Very simply, working with Bible College Online is one of the best ways to get prospective students acquainted with your Christian University. Not only does Bible College Online feature schools in our yearly 100 Best Christian Colleges Ranking, but it also works as your partner to target prospective students using organic search leads that result in real connections with high-intent users. 

For more information about Bible College Online and all of the benefits, we can offer your Christian University learn about the unbeatable benefits of joining forces with our team here.

Advertising for your college doesn’t have to be all about the bottom line. Bible College Online allows you to focus on the important parts of your school, like academic advancement, student improvement, and while we handle growing your business. Team up with Bible College Online today and let us find you the best candidates who will bring new vibrance, provocative intelligence, and undeniable excellence in a way that will truly elevate every aspect of your Christian University.

Sources:

https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/education-postsecondary/reports/2020/09/28/490838/time-worry-college-enrollment-declines-among-black-students/
https://hechingerreport.org/with-competition-up-enrollment-down-colleges-are-spending-billions-on-marketing-and-advertising/
https://www.networkadvertising.org/pdfs/NAI_Beales_Release.pdf

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The Number One Online Christian University According To Bible College Online https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/the-number-one-online-christian-university-according-to-bible-college-online/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/the-number-one-online-christian-university-according-to-bible-college-online/#respond Wed, 27 Oct 2021 19:25:09 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2461 Is Regent University the top Christian University in the country? Bible College Online certainly thinks so! Read on to discover who Bible College Online is, what they’re doing to help students and Universities, and why Regent University sits atop their rankings of Christian Colleges in the United States.

Who Is Bible College Online?

At Bible College Online, we work diligently to pair prospective students with their ideal school. Our comprehensive ranking system not only helps us to skillfully match students and schools, it also helps prospective students make better decisions by outlining the major differences between each of our partnered institutions, aligned with their faith.

Why Use Bible College Online To Select A School?

We believe that the more informed you are as a student, the easier your choice will be in choosing the perfect school. While our ranking system is not a pros and cons list, it does allow prospective students to identify certain aspects of schools that they either gravitate toward or shy away from.

A Tool To Choose The Ideal University For You

Think of our rankings list as an opportunity to get to know your potential school, almost like a virtual tour of the school itself. With the help of Bible College online, you can become acquainted with multiple schools you are choosing between and then better assess what you are looking for as a student.

More Than Rankings: Bible College Online Helps You Learn Through Comparison

What you may see as a positive aspect of the learning experience, like a school being completely online, another student may see as a negative or unattractive quality. That’s totally fine! Part of the fun when choosing your ideal Christian University is establishing what you do and don’t like. A comparison tool, like the ranking system you’ll find at Bible College Online, is the perfect way to compare and contrast schools, programs, and even potential career paths.

Is Regent University The Best Christian College In The U.S.?

While it’s true that every student has different expectations of their continuing education, our ranking system does take into account multiple elements of the learning experience and ranks schools accordingly. Our rankings are based on a multitude of requirements, expectations, and criteria that allow us to filter and rank Christian-based colleges throughout the United States.

Bible College Online’s ranking system is intended to sort schools, and while it may not seem fair, someone has to be the best. For us here at Bible College Online, the school that stands above the rest is Regent University. Below you will find just a few reasons why Regent is at the top of our list and why we love this school for prospective students.

Regent University Has What We Look For In A Partner

At Bible College Online, we pride ourselves in finding the perfect Christian University for every student. Even though the individual needs of every student are highly specific, there are some general qualifications that institutions of higher learning should adhere to.

Our comprehensive list of partners is an exemplary selection of Universities that promote the pursuit of a Christian-centric learning experience. Of all the universities on our top 100 Christian Universities list, Regent University stands as the pinnacle choice for a higher education centered around a Christian-based college experience.

Regent’s dedication to Christian education is no more clear as it is in the words they place front and center on the homepage of their website: “The Regent Difference [is] Christian Leadership To Change The World.”

Regent’s dedication to ensuring they provide a well-rounded education that centers around Christian morality is only a small part of what makes them the top choice amongst every other Christian college. Here are three major factors that we take into consideration when looking for a school to partner with. The following criteria are elements that Regent University not only exemplifies but excels at:

A Longstanding Reputation For Credibility: A Must For Any Institution

If you want to be a partner for Bible College Online, your school must be accredited. Regent is a fully accredited school with a rich history of doing things the right way.

History is an important part of any University as it not only tells you where a school has been but where they are going to next. The history of Regent is rich with accolades and rooted in an inspiring dedication to a superb faith-based education.

From its inception in 1978, Regent has worked tirelessly to ensure that their students receive a well-rounded and fully Christian education that gives their students a bedrock on which to plan their adult life. Regent is fully accredited and offers a wide variety of programs, fields of study, and opportunities to grow in education and faith.

Easy Navigation Is Key: Here’s How The Regent University Website Does It Right

Website navigation is an integral part of our ranking system, and just a quick glance along the top of Regent’s web page reveals why they excel in this category. Regent’s website promotes a positive user experience wherein the ability to find what you are looking for is as easy as a quick glance.

Even if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for, or if you are just doing a bit of browsing, Regent’s site has an excellent flow that seamlessly takes the user from one page to the next. Everything from learning about Regent to discovering more about the courses offered, and even into the enrollment process and student support, Regent’s site is geared toward engagement.

The navigation features on the Regent University website are constantly being updated to reflect changes in courses, requirements, campus happenings, etc., and their site is demonstrative of how an easy-to-use layout can generate interest, increase usership, and ultimately help influence a prospective student.

Program Diversity: How The Programs Of Regent Set Students Up For Success

Regent offers a wide variety of studies, programs, and degrees, including bachelor’s degrees in the arts and sciences, master’s degrees in journalism and counseling, and of course, doctorates in legal studies and education.

While the selection of secular degrees offered by Regent is a fine feather in their cap, the real differentiator is their offerings for religious degrees. Here are some of the degrees that Regent offers for those interested in pursuing a career that directly involves their faith:

  • Divinity and Theology
  • Practical Theology
  • Family and Faith Counseling
  • Leadership Studies For Christian Ministry
  • Music For Worship

Regent offers the same type of degrees as a secular institution with the added benefit of faith-based degree options for those interested in merging their career and their love of Christ. While Regent has a campus in beautiful Virginia Beach, ideal for any student who has a strong desire for a more communal collegiate experience, they also offer online degrees as well.

Regent University: An Exemplary Partner Of Bible College Online

While we are certain that Regent would be an excellent selection for you as a student, we encourage you to use Bible College Online to explore your options! If you are a student who’s interested in pursuing a faith-based higher learning experience, let us help you in choosing the perfect university. Likewise, if you are an institution that is interested in partnering with us, we can help you grow by increasing awareness about your school and its offerings.

Bible College Online is the perfect way to connect with those who are connected to the Christian faith through education. We are all called to some kind of vocation, and everyone’s discernment process is a little different. For those in need of assistance and for all who believe in the benefits of a Christian education, Bible College Online is here to help you understand and fulfill God’s plan for you.

Want to explore more online Christian universities? Take a look at  Liberty University, Colorado Christian UniversityGrand Canyon University, and Houston Christian University. These faith-based institutions provide a wide range of degree options and are strongly committed to Christian values and education. 

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The Unbeatable Benefits of Listing Your University with Bible College Online https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/the-unbeatable-benefits-of-listing-your-university-with-bible-college-online/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/the-unbeatable-benefits-of-listing-your-university-with-bible-college-online/#respond Tue, 19 Oct 2021 15:27:56 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2424 The Unbeatable Benefits of Listing Your University with Bible College Online

On behalf of Bible College Online, we would like to welcome you to an exciting part of your exploration process. Whether you are a student in search of the perfect University or whether you’re a school looking to increase your online visibility, Bible College Online is here to support you in your efforts. Let’s take a closer look at who Bible College Online is and what we can do to support your spiritually charged academic journey.

Who Is Bible College Online?

While you may know us from our 100 Best Christian Colleges Of 2021, we assure you we are much more than a ranking site. Very simply, Bible College Online is a resource.

Our site is a place where prospective students who are interested in a higher education rooted in the Christian faith can come to learn about potential schools that fit their criteria. Our site not only connects students with Universities that are a good fit for their needs, it also helps students become personally acquainted with the school. Using Bible College Online is almost like visiting it in person…almost.

What Does Bible College Online Do?

At Bible College Online, we facilitate, form, and foster connections between prospective students and faith-based Universities. Most importantly, Bible College Online offers students a guide to help them navigate a life-changing choice.

We all have a purpose, and the purpose of Bible College Online is to assist students in a difficult discernment process that is especially challenging for young adults. Fully integrating a faith-based education with intentioned education goals is a tough line to walk but the Universities featured on Bible College Online do an excellent job.

Bible College Online works for students and for Universities, serving a two-fold purpose that results in real connections with verified results:

  • Connect students with Christian Universities that perfectly integrate faith-based requirements and education-based goals of that specific student.
  • Cultivate organic search leads for your school that result in real connections with high-intent users.

For students and universities alike, establishing a connection through Bible College Online forges a foundation for every student on which they will pursue an education, build a career, and joyfully lead a faith-filled life of action.

What Does Bible College Online Offer Students?

Bible College Online helps students find schools that best fit their spiritual needs and academic pursuits, setting them up for lifelong success via a career path rooted in Christian values. This does not mean that the Universities featured on Bible College Online don’t offer secular degrees or eschew typical fields of study.

One of the common misconceptions of a faith-based education is that it leaves no room for the secular world, forcing students into degrees that are only applicable in jobs of service within a faith community. This could not be further from the truth!

Regent University is just one example of a Christian University that offers an unbelievable amount of secular degrees that range from film studies to pre-law. While Regent, along with many of its Christian University contemporaries, offers plenty of faith-based degrees, Christian University does not pigeonhole students into a life of faith-based ministry.

One of the best things about Bible College Online is that it reveals to students that they don’t have to choose between compromising their values and pursuing their education and career. With Bible College Online, students can see firsthand that a faith-based education often leads to a fulfilling secular career that is rooted in the values of their Christian education.

What Does Bible College Online Offer Universities?

Exposure for your school is just the beginning of what Bible College Online offers to universities. Yes, exposure is great, but Bible College Online also offers Universities access to a team of veteran digital marketing experts.

Your presence on Bible College Online establishes and provides your University with a real partnership. This partnership features a team of industry-leading marketing experts who employ innovative strategies and modern tools with the goal of taking your school to the next level, whatever that may be!

Our team at Bible College Online generates high intent enrollment leads using organic search content to achieve the unified goal of exceeding your market spend.

These claims about what we can do for your school aren’t just generalities. Here are some of the specific offerings that Bible College Online presents to our University partners:

  • SEO traffic leads with a focus on high-intent leads
  • Geo-tagged leads to promote and foster connections that yield real connections
  • Relevant, current, and niche-specific content curated for a faith-based audience
  • Nationally acquired leads for both on-campus and online
  • Degree and program matching for students on a CPL / CPA basis
  • Sponsorship opportunities – including featured school of the month and sponsored articles
  • Multiple supported ad formats including text, clicks, banners, and interactive offerings that increase visibility and foster organic engagement
  • In-house personalized asset creation based on your brand guidelines.
  • Seamless API integration and testing
  • Long-term results and client retention
  • Free College Listing

All of this ensures that your school optimizes its revenue, exceeds marketing expectations, and achieves its full potential.

Why Partnering With Bible College Online Is The Right Choice For Your Institution?

Aside from the obvious reason of increasing your visibility to prospective students, promoting your school with Bible College online also creates a digital stronghold to help your school maintain, sustain, and grow a vibrant online presence.

Adding your school to Bible College Online is as easy as filling out a free listing with Bible College

Visibility opens many doors, and having your institution featured on Bible College Online could result in opportunities such as companies reaching out to participate in a work/study program, increased scholarships from benefactors, and even national recognition from other scholastic ranking systems. All of these potential benefits would mean more students, more revenue, and most importantly, more students living a faith-based life.

Having your listing on Bible College Online tells potential applicants that you’re serious about being one of the best. Speaking of the best, our annual ranking of Christian Universities throughout the US is a tremendous accolade to add to any University resume. Plus, encouraging future students to look at you in contrast to other schools demonstrates that you are proud of what makes you unique while reaffirming that your school measures up to the competition.

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Are vaccine mandates coming to your school? https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/are-vaccine-mandates-coming-to-your-school/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/are-vaccine-mandates-coming-to-your-school/#respond Mon, 04 Oct 2021 21:28:10 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2396 Currently, the hot topic of mandatory vaccination is an intensely debated concern at institutions of higher learning across the US. While every college and university is making its own decision about how to handle student vaccination rates, there are certain institutions that are mandating that enrolled students get the vaccine. Such mandates are raising legitimate concerns regarding medical privacy, individual student rights, and, most importantly, the opportunity to pursue higher education.

The decision to make the Covid-19 a mandatory requirement for students is occurring at both public and private institutions, which has led to several lawsuits and a rigorous debate on the topic. While there is a general consensus among educators and health professionals that students should get the vaccine, the mindset on whether or not this vaccine should be mandatory is still divided.

Cornell and Duke were among the first to mandate a Covid-19 vaccination for students though as of September 2021, there are over 700 schools countrywide that have invoked some kind of vaccine requirement. With over 700 schools requiring some kind of mandatory vaccination, are more colleges going to follow suit?

This issue has two very distinct answers depending on the type of institution you’re talking about.

Private Universities

For all intents and purposes, private schools are allowed to impose whatever mandates, regulations, and restrictions they see fit for their institution. The caveat to this is that any imposed restrictions and mandates from the school are not allowed to violate any state or federal law, especially in regards to discrimination.

Privately funded universities typically do not take government money and are therefore considered private entities. This means that technically private schools can absolutely mandate vaccinations for their students as if they were a private business. While these mandates would likely only apply to on-campus students, vaccine mandates could also impact faculty and staff as well.

While the legality of mandating vaccinations is going to vary from state to state, typically, private institutions are able to impose their own rules. One of the issues surrounding vaccine mandates, especially in regards to private schools, is that the mandates could potentially be discriminatory to certain religious and ethnic groups and even the physically disabled.

By the time you are reading this article, there could have been legislation passed that supports vaccination mandates or opposes them, as there are multiple lawsuits currently in play that could determine the long-term legality of vaccination mandates. We are in such a strange time in terms of what is allowed and/or accepted, and at the moment, everyone is just sort of along for the ride.

Public Universities

Due to their connection with both state and federal government, state-run universities will have to fall in line with whatever the law dictates as proper action regarding mandatory vaccines. As of right now, it is unlawful to require anyone to get the vaccine, but there are loopholes that would make it very difficult for an unvaccinated person to attend school in person. Even at a public university, certain restrictions, impositions, and “strong recommendations” can set a precedent for who is (or isn’t) allowed.

Let’s quickly look at the difference between a mandate and a requirement, as the difference between the two makes all the difference in understanding why some state-run schools can “require” a vaccine without “mandating” it.

A mandate is an ultimatum. “Get the vaccine, or you can’t attend school here.” There is no messing around, no alternatives like online classes; a mandate is plain and simple with no grey area.

On the other hand, a requirement is still a rule or regulation, but it is one that implies concessions will be made to those who cannot or will not comply. Think of a requirement as more of an “if, then” statement:

“If you get the vaccine, then you can come to class in person.”

“If you choose not to get the vaccine, then you will have to attend classes virtually or wear a mask.”

In matters of public safety, the state and all entities it controls possess the authority to restrict access to particular activities if it poses a public health risk. This is one of the reasons why masks have been required for unvaccinated persons in public spaces.

The idea is that unvaccinated persons pose a direct health risk to all other persons, not just the unvaccinated. So, being that it is widely accepted that being unvaccinated poses a health risk to themselves and others, state schools have been able to set up requirements that would otherwise be borderline unlawful.

While this type of authority has hardly ever been employed in the past, we are reaching a breaking point wherein more, and more schools are beginning to flex this power. There have already been several state schools like the entire California State University system that have vaccination requirements to attend on-campus events like classes, school functions, etc.

The major difference between a public and private university is this: if a public school were to require vaccination and limit in-person activities to unvaccinated persons, they would need to somehow allow those students to still participate in order to avoid subsequent legal response. In other words, unvaccinated persons would be offered alternatives like online classes and interactive digital functions. This way, the school is still within its legal rights by limiting activity without being discriminatory.

So are more colleges going to mandate vaccinations? It’s certainly possible. Private institutions are well within their rights to set forth vaccination mandates, and there are plenty of state-run schools that are doing their best to impose harsh restrictions against those who are unvaccinated.

For now, many schools are just trying to keep their students, faculty, and staff as safe as possible. As vaccine requirements become more common, and as legislation shifts toward being more proactive about vaccination, we may begin to see a more unified approach regarding vaccine mandates at schools across the country. One thing is certain, as long as Covid-19 is still a threat, the topic of vaccines and whether or not students should be required to get them will be an ongoing debate.

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Vaccination Campaigns for Students: A Creative Approach https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/vaccination-campaigns-for-students/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/vaccination-campaigns-for-students/#respond Mon, 27 Sep 2021 17:38:59 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2380 It is no secret that colleges and universities have been Covid hot spots since the beginning of the pandemic. The close quarters of student housing, socializing with new friends, and the desire to fully immerse oneself into the classic college experience all provide opportunities for close contact amongst the collective student body. With the potential for the rapid and rampant spread of the infectious virus Covid-19, especially amongst college students living on campus, Universities across the country are attempting to get creative with how to properly incentivize their students to get the vaccine.

With universities being specifically identified as Covid hotspots, a new “best-practice” has quickly been adapted wherein colleges are offering incentives to those students who are vaccinated or get vaccinated at an on-campus facility. While there is no evidence yet of whether or not offering incentives has helped to keep Covid-19 rates low, there is substantial evidence to support the claim that college students love perks, prizes, and free stuff in all of its forms.

So how exactly are Universities across the country incentivizing students to get the vaccine? Here are just a few of the top creative ways that Universities are getting students hyped on getting their vaccination.

Pizza Parties – It’s a classic for a reason, and amongst college students, offering free pizza might as well be the same as offering free tuition for a year. Free pizza might not exactly be the most creative method of getting students to take the vaccine, but it is certainly a great way to get bodies in the door. A pizza party is a great way to allow students to mingle, meet each other, and most importantly, stay still for long enough to sit down and get a shot. Plus, any excuse not to have the same boring dinners from the commissary is plenty of reward for a quick jab in the arm.

Raffles – Raffles have proven a popular method of enticement as students who filter onto campus can drop off a copy of their vaccination card at a designated office, dormitory, etc., for the chance to win prizes. Some raffles have been small, offering things like portable electronics, gift cards to fast-food restaurants, etc. However, there have been reports of larger raffles taking place that involve large sums of money toward student housing, school supplies, books, and even tuition. Apparently, universities are willing to give away lots of free stuff to ensure their vaccination rates are up to snuff.

Vaccination Clinics – This is a strategy that many universities are employing in an effort to both vaccinate and educate students regarding the risks and benefits of vaccination. It makes perfect sense for an institution of higher learning to offer educational seminars regarding vaccination and how it affects students, faculty, and the university as a whole. Many times these vaccination clinics offer the opportunity to get vaccinated right there on the spot if desired. These clinics and seminars seem to be proving most effective in the effort to get more students vaccinated. College students appreciate the opportunity to be treated with respect and to be given the freedom to make their own choices. Seminars about vaccination tell students that they are appreciated, respected, and valued, and often that goes much further toward garnering desired results than a pizza party or raffle.

Fines – This one isn’t nearly as fun as the previous three, but it is undoubtedly creative. It is also a seemingly effective way to get students to get the vaccine. Apparently, college students are quite protective of their spending money, and the idea of paying an additional fine on top of the already expensive costs that come from attending a University is enough to get the vaccine before arriving on campus. While fines may not be the go-to choice for most major universities, they are certainly an option for any college that wants to make it perfectly clear that there is zero tolerance for being unvaccinated.

Bringing Back Certain Campus Activities – Things like Greek life recruiting, on-campus social events, and even fun pandemic related perks like puppy therapy are just some of the There are those who view the tactics of holding campus events hostage until certain vaccination thresholds are met as a gesture of bad faith between the student body and the university. However, most universities that ban specific social events do have a good reason for doing so based on the evidence that groups of unvaccinated individuals tend to spread the virus in larger numbers.

Getting vaccination numbers up is going to be one of the biggest struggles for universities in 2021 and potentially even into 2022. For as long as Covid-19 is an issue, the struggle to have students participate in vaccination will continue to be an obstacle for institutions like colleges and universities. As much as universities would like their student body population to be completely vaccinated, this goal is not exactly realistic.

The reality is that with a population as large and diverse as that which you’d encounter in a university setting, you’re going to have a large population that is against getting the vaccine. Regardless of the merits of the vaccine itself, or the personal reasons behind abstaining from the vaccine, universities need to work with their students so as not to pick sides.

Things like fining students who aren’t vaccinated or preventing unvaccinated students from coming to campus events are divisive tools that alienate and ostracize rather than unify and educate. And after all, shouldn’t an institution of higher learning be a place of rational thought and discourse about such a serious issue?

Universities should absolutely do their due diligence to spread insightful and helpful information about the positives and negatives of being vaccinated. However, once these insights have been shared, it is up to the students to make their own decision.

The student body of most major campuses across the United States is generally composed of young adults who are ready, eager, and willing to learn as much as they can. For the most part, these same young adults will make good decisions for themselves and for others, but deciding what is or is not a good decision for one individual (especially regarding personal healthcare) is wrong. These students may be young adults, but they are adults nonetheless, and their choices to participate or abstain from the vaccine should be treated with dignity and respect.

 

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Work and study for free benefits – are we creating a new generation? https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/work-and-study-for-free-benefits-are-we-creating-a-new-generation/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/work-and-study-for-free-benefits-are-we-creating-a-new-generation/#respond Mon, 20 Sep 2021 16:21:47 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2373 In recent months, the push for continuing education has become a prominent modern trend for working adults. Employees and employers alike are pushing to be part of, and depend on, a more educated and skilled workforce. Especially within specific fields like medicine, tech, and finance, the need for continuing education has transformed the pursuit of adult education from an outlier phenomenon to the “new normal.”

The modern push for continuing education for adults has led to a multitude of companies offering their employees incredible work-study benefits. And it’s not just large corporations who are offering these types of work-study programs for their employees. Even small companies have begun to add work-study programs into employee benefit packages. Not only do these benefits provide an incentive for employees to become better equipped to handle the rigors of the modern workplace, it also gives employers the opportunity to support those who diligently provide their professional services for the benefit of the company as a whole.

Work-study benefits feature all kinds of continuing education packages for employees wherein employees can pursue a degree part-time and still remain gainfully employed. One company that is leading the way in work-study for employees is the tech giant Amazon.

In a recent USA Today article, it was revealed that Amazon will be expanding its educational benefits to all hourly employees. Previously the benefit of having Amazon cover full tuition (including books and miscellaneous fees) was only offered to salaried employees.

This groundbreaking maneuver not only sets a new standard for other companies in similar positions; it also intensely affirms the groundswell of the last few years that continuing education for adults is the new normal.

If continuing education through work-study employee benefits is the new normal…

What does this mean for workers and students?

For starters, this means that students no longer have to view higher education as the only means of procuring a high-paying job. In fact, this new way of doing things actually proves that getting a job and then pursuing higher education is just as reasonable as pursuing education and then searching for work.

Many times the work-study benefits that are offered by a company come with additional incentives like promotions within the company upon completion of a degree. It is far less labor-intensive for a company to find the perfect candidate with the exact training and education needed than it is to educate a trusted employee, arm them with the necessary skills and then promote from within.

This method of educating employees and offering better position options as a result truly is a win-win.

Secondly, the push for continuing education through work-study benefits means that there are now new alternatives for those who cannot afford a typical four-year university. Instead of footing the bill themselves, workers can now seek employment with a company that offers a competitive work-study benefits package in an effort to finance their educational goals.

Not only are tuition costs dramatically decreased, but you are still working and making money while attending school!

This is not to say that the process of holding a job and going to school will be easy.

Working a full-time job while pursuing a degree is a difficult task; however, the rewards of participating in a work-study program provided by an employer include the education needed for personal growth, a degree needed for rising in your chosen career path, and perhaps most importantly – a way to receive an education without accruing massive amounts of debt.

What does this mean for educators and institutions?

For starters, it means more students. With more companies adding work-study benefits to their employee benefits packages daily, the need for receptive institutions with the means to support an influx of new students will be crucial.

Institutions of higher learning will have to find ways to meet the demand of what is sure to be a rapid influx of new students. It should be noted that this trend for continuing adult education doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. For many institutions, the new influx of students will not be a one-time event but rather an exponential growth over months and years.

We may be looking at a potential higher-learning renaissance wherein institutions have to reassess how courses are offered, the construction of different degree programs, and even the way students interact with faculty, staff, and each other.

Certainly, online courses will be a large part of how institutions deal with demand, but there will likely need to be other shifts in the student experience beyond just being able to digest information online on your own time. What those changes maybe are still to be determined, but those who work in higher education should be working to ready themselves for whatever changes might be coming in the not too distant future.

Finally, institutions should probably look into getting on as one of Amazon’s preferred higher-learning providers. With all this guaranteed tuition money, there’s little sense in sitting on the sidelines while other institutions see an influx of new students whose tuition is fully funded by a third party.

The push for continuing education has never been stronger than it is right now. Whether it’s going back to school for a masters, adding an additional skill set to your repertoire, or even learning a new trade, the push for higher education is being driven by the need for educated, skilled professionals and a global trend toward jobs which require a more diverse employee skillset.

Does Amazon’s announcement mean that all corporations and companies will need to offer some kind of similar work/study program? Of course not! Amazon is worth billions, and their work-study program is specific to their abilities to provide this kind of incentive to their employees. Additionally, Amazon’s connections with a multitude of higher-learning establishments no doubt help in their ability to guarantee admission and secure spaces in industry-related programs.

With all that said, there is no shortage of companies who are following Amazon’s lead and ensuring that they too are able to offer their employees an opportunity for self-improvement, broadened horizons, and a rare opportunity to build a future without sacrificing the present.

 

 

 

 

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Bible College Online Launches a Faith-Based Education Platform https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/bible-college-online-launches-a-faith-based-education-platform/ https://biblecollegeonline.com/resources/bible-college-online-launches-a-faith-based-education-platform/#respond Mon, 13 Sep 2021 20:45:17 +0000 https://biblecollegeonline.com/?p=2343 Bible College Online launches to bring schools and students together through faith and online education.

– New platform connects schools and prospective students through a faith-based online education resource guide.
– Focus is on both spiritual and academic needs, supporting students to find the best online degrees and programs – from certificates to masters, ensuring faith and future are aligned.

LOS ANGELES, September 7, 2021

Bible College Online is a modern resource destination to match those interested in pursuing a faith-based online education with colleges and universities across the United States.

The new platform launches with the intent of filling a gap in a space where so many options are available, but trustworthy resources are limited. Many students want a path that meets both spiritual needs and academic pursuits, but it can be tricky to find this in a crowded environment.

Connecting the dots, Bible College Online (BCO) partners with schools to bring exposure and generate organic leads through relevant targeted content, helping them build relationships with students. The project is led by a team of digital marketing experts with years of experience and understanding of the online education space.

Acting as resource guide for students integrating a faith-based lifestyle aligned with their academic goals, BCO provides current news content in the form of relevant articles, as well as guidance on everything from online versus campus learning, to choosing a school that is a fit for each individual student needs and wants.

Bible College Online is currently accepting submissions for a free listing from national higher education institutions: https://biblecollegeonline.com/college-listing/

About Bible College Online

Bible College Online is a resource destination to match those interested in a faith-based education with the right schools for them. The new platform connects prospective students with the colleges and universities that will enable them to reach academic and career goals at the same time as supporting their faith. Students have access to information to make choices based on spiritual needs and educational pursuits while schools benefit from connecting with highly engaged students. Brought to you by Beyond13, an education focused full-service digital marketing agency dedicated to building strategic campaigns to acquire high-intent prospects.

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