COMMON QUESTIONS

Why does it cost so little?  Lower cost is one of Windsor College's primary missions.  Generous giving and an online structure allow a lower student cost.  Since Windsor College does not offer liberal arts programs (non-theology programs) like many campus-based Bible colleges, Windsor College has not pursued accreditation through a Department of Education recognized organization. This keeps from penalizing theology students with the accreditation costs required for non-theology liberal arts students.  See the accrediting question on this same page.  Windsor College still has a lower cost for theology training compared to other distance learning colleges that have the same philosophy of accreditation.  Many distance learning Bible colleges charge as much as $85 per credit, which translates to over $10,000 for a bachelor degree.  Full-time students at Windsor College can complete a bachelor degree if they work year round for as little as $2,100 using convenient monthly payments.

How long will it take me?  It depends on how many hours per week you designate for school work, and whether you will work year round. Working year round can make a significant difference. A formula for estimating your unique situation is included in the Free Course (Introduction to College).  The two courses that can be completed during the enrollment process, plus credit for up to four courses for life experience or non-college training can get you off to a fast start. 

Is school work difficult?  Because students can work at their own pace and the curriculum is mastery-based, most can succeed without difficulty.  The student's reading ability can affect speed and difficulty level.  Courses can become difficult if they are spread out over too much time.  It is best to only work on one or two courses at a time until the student gages difficulty.  Students can use spelling and grammar tools, such as Microsoft Word, to refresh or learn skills for occasional writing assignments.  

Can I transfer previous college credit?   Our bachelor of theology program will evaluate all theology-related coursework for consideration.  Up to three credit hours of secular English will also be considered.  We have a special bachelor of ministry program for students that desire to use secular credit for a blended layman's program.  The bachelor of ministry program does not offer majors.    

What is the actual amount of finance I need?   There is an annual $100 registration fee.  Tuition is $50 per month year round, except for the Biblical Counseling major which is $95 per month.  The registration fee is required when applying, plus the first monthly tuition payment.  Book or resource costs vary depending on how fast the student is working and whether using borrowed, rented, or new resources. Annual costs can vary from $100 to $300.  Your first book is free. There is a transfer credit fee (up to $100) if credits are accepted from another school or if granted life experience credits.  A graduation fee of $75 is required for either an associate or bachelor program.  Ink, paper, computer, and internet access are also the responsibility of the student.

What is the Free Course about?   The Introduction to College course is mainly a student orientation to Windsor College.  It helps students understand if Windsor College is for them without any obligation or enrollment. It helps the college know the student has sufficient English and internet skills. It is an example of mastery-based learning where important concepts are repeated in content, drills, and tests.  Students should complete the first two sections of this course before completing an application.  The last section is a fun, revealing set of projects to improve self-awareness and relationships. Students will be given course credit after enrollment and the completion of a pre-test drill and test.

Is Windsor College accredited?   Windsor College believes outside accountability and degree standardization is essential. Windsor College started in 1998 and took five years to develop its bachelor programs. The college requested a full audit of programs, curriculum, and procedures with an on-site visit from an outside theology education organization in 2003.  Windsor College is audited this way every five years. Windsor College also pursues continual peer evaluation from other Bible colleges to improve and share ideas.  We have not pursued a Department of Education recognized accrediting organization because we do not offer liberal arts programs. Windsor College continually looks for partner course or program opportunities that will strengthen ministry training. The Biblical Counseling major gives the opportunity to apply for a Board Certified Biblical Counselor Credential and also includes a Mediator Certification. The Introduction to College (Free Course) offers more details about this area.

What doctrinal beliefs does Windsor College have?  Windsor College has a fundamental foundation which uses a reasonable multi-view of doctrinal perspectives to allow each student to develop personal convictions about specific areas rather than adopting someone else's faith as head knowledge. Windsor College attempts to use curriculum resources that include authors and speakers from different backgrounds, but have some fundamental basics in common. Windsor College believes this is a good method because the student also learns why opposing views were developed, so they are equipped to better teach and defend convictions.  A helpful method to get the answer to this question is to briefly research the authors of resource books used in Windsor College courses, then give the variety of author names to your pastor or other trusted theologian to review. They should be able to quickly tell you the emphasis or spectrum of doctrines presented just by the names of authors.