Southern Baptist Seminary Extension

History

Southern Baptist Seminary Extension was established in 1951 by the Southern Baptist Convention to provide accessible theological education to individuals unable to attend traditional seminary programs. The institution was designed to make Biblical and ministry training available to lay leaders, bi-vocational pastors, and individuals seeking theological education with a flexible schedule. As part of the Southern Baptist Convention’s educational ministry, Seminary Extension maintains a commitment to Biblical authority and Southern Baptist theological distinctives.

Faculty

Southern Baptist Seminary Extension employs experienced instructors with a background in ministry, pastoral care, and Biblical studies, many of whom have worked in Southern Baptist congregations. Faculty are committed to providing students with practical knowledge rooted in a strong Biblical foundation. The institution leverages both seasoned ministers and academic professionals, ensuring that students benefit from a blend of scholarly expertise and real-world ministry experience.

Academic Programs

The Southern Baptist Seminary Extension offers certificate and diploma programs aimed at equipping students for roles in ministry and church leadership. Some of the main programs include:

• Diploma in Biblical Studies – Focuses on foundational Biblical knowledge and interpretation.
• Diploma in Christian Ministry – Prepares students for pastoral and ministry roles with practical and theological training.
• Certificate in Biblical Studies – A shorter program ideal for lay leaders and church members seeking basic Biblical education.

Each program is designed to provide students with essential Biblical and theological understanding for ministry within a Southern Baptist context.

Denomination

The Southern Baptist Seminary Extension is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and upholds its doctrinal beliefs and theological commitments. The curriculum reflects Southern Baptist principles, such as Biblical inerrancy, the importance of evangelism, and the centrality of the local church, making it a strong choice for those within or supportive of the Southern Baptist tradition.

Curriculum & Key Subjects

The curriculum emphasizes Biblical literacy, ministry skills, and theological understanding from a Southern Baptist perspective. Core subjects include:

• Biblical Interpretation and Exegesis
• Old Testament and New Testament Studies
• Systematic Theology
• Church History with a focus on Baptist heritage
• Pastoral Ministry and Leadership
• Evangelism and Discipleship
• Christian Ethics

Courses are designed to be practical and accessible, making it feasible for students to integrate their studies with their existing ministry or work responsibilities.

Tuition & Fees

Southern Baptist Seminary Extension provides affordable tuition rates to make theological education accessible to a broad range of students. Although specific tuition rates may vary, general estimates include:

• Certificate and Diploma Programs: approximately $120 - $150 per course.

Additional fees may apply for textbooks, materials, and administrative costs. Financial assistance is sometimes available through local Southern Baptist churches and associations that support students in these programs.

Location

Southern Baptist Seminary Extension operates through a network of extension centers across the United States, allowing students to complete courses at locations convenient to them. The main administrative offices are located in Nashville, Tennessee. This network approach allows students across the country to access courses and participate in a community of learners without relocating.

Accreditation

Southern Baptist Seminary Extension is not accredited by regional or national accrediting bodies, as it functions as an extension program rather than a traditional degree-granting institution. However, the programs are recognized and supported by the Southern Baptist Convention and provide valuable theological training for ministry within the Southern Baptist community.

Student Life

Given the distributed and flexible nature of Seminary Extension, student life largely depends on local extension centers. Many centers offer opportunities for fellowship, small groups, and collaboration with other students and local ministry leaders. For students who attend in-person classes at local centers, there may also be opportunities for practical ministry involvement within nearby Southern Baptist churches.

Practical Ministry Focus

The Southern Baptist Seminary Extension emphasizes practical ministry preparation, making it ideal for bi-vocational pastors, lay leaders, and others seeking to deepen their Biblical knowledge and ministry skills in a way that fits their schedules. The program’s design allows students to directly apply their studies to their current ministry roles, ensuring that their education is both relevant and actionable.