Our
goal at Sunset External Studies is to offer quality in-depth Bible
materials using audio, video and print. The classes of Sunset
International Bible
Institute (formerly Sunset School of Preaching) have been recorded on
audio and video arranged for study at home. About 40 our our
video studies are in the form of COURSES whcih can be taken for credit
at Sunset International Bible Institute. They
consist of studio produced videos, a Study Guide book, textbooks and
exams.
There are assignments involving reading, memory work, research and
evaluation papers and exams.
Courses can be taken by individuals or in a class setting. A Certificate of Bible and Ministry can be earned by taking a 40 course curriculum. An Advanced Bible and Ministry Certificate can be earned by completing 32 courses. A Basic Bible and Ministry Certificate can be earned by completing 20 courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the External Studies Department? (Formerly known as Sunset Extension School)
Answer: This is the department of the Sunset International Bible Institute that provides courses of study by which people can take the in-depth preacher training courses taught in the resident school by mail (correspondence study).
What kind of studies are available through the External Studies Department?
Answer: The original courses were audio recorded in the classroom and programmed for individual study at home. These are available on both audio cassette and CD. We also have studies on studio produced DVD. In addition we have many short miscellaneous studies on audio tapes, CD, and DVD. See our catalog for a listing of these studies.
What kind of certificates are available with these studies?
Answer: There are three levels of study: Audit, Certificate, or for Credit at Sunset International Bible Institute. Since requirements vary based on which study series is used, please contact us for complete details, or request a printed copy of our catalog.
How long will it take me to complete a course?
Answer: Video courses are of two lengths: Some consist of twelve 27-minute lessons and some consist of twenty-four 27-minute lessons. We recommend that only one lesson be done each week in each course, and no more than two courses be taken at a time. However, each student or Satellite school moves along at their own pace.
The audio courses are somewhat longer and require a little more time.
Are these courses transferable to a Christian College or University?
Answer:
Because Sunset International Bible Institute is a specialized training
institute and not a traditional degree granting university, we are not
accredited by the same organizations that grant accreditation to
regular universities and colleges. However, a student taking Sunset
courses may submit his/her transcript to any university or college.
That institution will decide which courses taken at Sunset will be
accepted for credit.
Do churches of Christ accept these certificates?
Answer: Yes. Most churches of Christ recognize the value of Sunset's Certificate. However, some may also insist on a degree from a college or university. It is estimated that about 45% of churches of Christ are being served by graduates of schools of preaching such as Sunset.
How difficult are these courses?
Answer: These are in-depth Bible courses taught at a similar level to that of any school of higher learning. However, anyone who is willing to discipline him/herself to a regimen of study can complete these courses.
What is the difference between a resident certificate and an external studies certificate?
Answer: The Level III certificate is very comparable to the resident certificate. When an external student completes the 40 course curriculum he/she is invited to come to Lubbock, Texas and participate in the graduation exercises with the then graduating class.
Can I just take the courses for my own edification and Bible knowledge?
Answer: Yes, in which case you just purchase the materials and use them as you wish.
How do I purchase the courses?
Answer: You may purchase all the video or audio courses at one time and receive a substantial discount or you may buy them one course at a time.
What is the cost of tuition if I take the courses for credit toward a certificate?Answer: The only cost is an enrollment fee of $30.00 per course for records and transcripts. There will be some added books to purchase. Of course an audit student pays no enrollment fee, but a small fee is charged if a Certificate of Audit is requested.
