What are the application requirements?
To apply for admission to LCU, applicants will need to turn in:
- Application
- Written essay, which is submitted as part of the application
- Two Christian character references, which can be requested from the application
- Final Official Undergraduate Transcripts as well as any Graduate Transcripts
- Interview (This step is only applicable to certain academic programs.)
*Please email or call us at 888-522-5228 if you need a paper form to fill out and we would be happy to provide one.
Do I ever have to come to campus for this online program?
Nope! Of course, we love to have students return to campus for graduation, but this is not a requirement. If you enroll in one of our online programs, you won’t ever have to come to campus. You would, however, have access to any of our on campus resources if you are in the area.
What does a normal week look like for an online program?
Our online programs are completed by taking just one course at a time. Each course is seven or eight weeks in length. We tell our students to anticipate between 15 and 18 hours of work each week—including reading, writing, listening to podcasts, etc. The work is asynchronous, so you never have to be online at a certain time. Finding a routine that works best for you will be the key to your success! Most of our programs have assignment deadlines on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at midnight.
I have a full time job and a family, can I still do this program?
Absolutely! Most all of our students are employed full-time and have family commitments as well as church or ministry responsibilities. This program will require some sacrifices, but it can be done alongside the life you are currently living.
I don’t have an undergraduate degree in Bible or Theology. Can I still begin one of your online graduate programs?
Yes! Your undergraduate degree does not have to be in the same area of study. We have students from a variety of backgrounds. It makes the classroom experience much richer that way.
I haven’t done any online coursework before. Are you sure this is something I can do?
You don’t need any previous experience with online education. Your very first course, Introduction to University Studies, is required for all new students. It introduces you to our online platform and will help prepare you for online education. Don’t let the online format scare you away! We have students ranging in age from 22 to over 70.
I love being in the classroom and having community with other students. How will I get that with an online program?
You would be amazed at what our graduates say about the sense of community they find in our online graduate programs. Because you are spending two years or so with these people, you will build some lasting relationships with them. Many of our students can’t wait to meet face to face at graduation. We have even seen a cohort help pay another classmate’s tuition because she lost her job. Community is alive and well in our online programs.
How long will it take me to complete an online master’s degree?
All of our online programs are completed in two years or less. You will take just one course at a time. You will take courses throughout the summer months as well. Typically, you will get a week break between courses and a long break at Christmas time.
What are the admission requirements for the online master’s degrees?
Each of our online graduate programs have the same admission requirements. You must fill out the online application, submit a brief essay as outlined in the application, provide us three references to contact on your behalf, submit final official copies of your undergraduate transcripts and any graduate level work you might have completed, and have an interview with the program director by phone, Skype, Google Hangout, or in person.
Seminary:
Do I have to relocate to Lincoln to complete my degree?
No, you don’t have to relocate. Many students do move to Lincoln to complete their degree. Other students continue their ministry responsibilities and attend seminary at the same time. With most of our programs, you have the freedom to select a combination of online, intensive week, or residential courses.
Do I have to have an undergraduate degree from a Bible college to begin seminary?
No, you don’t have to have an undergraduate degree from a Bible college. We are looking to see that you have earned your bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
What accreditation does Lincoln Christian Seminary hold?
Lincoln Christian Seminary is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. Also, The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), has granted accreditation to the Seminary’s MA in Counseling program.
Does Lincoln Christian Seminary accept international students?
Yes, international students are welcome to apply to Lincoln Christian Seminary. They must move to Lincoln, Illinois, in order to complete their degree with the seminary. There are additional enrollment requirements for international students, and those can be found in the Graduate and Seminary Catalog.
How do classes work?
For a complete overview of how classes work at LCU, click here.
What kind of financial assistance is available?
We offer scholarship opportunities, loans, and payment plans. You can read more about financial aid by clicking here.