Regent University’s School of Divinity Enrollment Reaches 1,000
February 3, 2017, marks the day that Regent University School of Divinity (DIV) enrolled its 1,000th student for the spring academic term. John Scott of Jacksonville, Florida earned the title of the 1,000th enrolled student and received a $1,000 scholarship per term for the distinction.
This is the highest enrollment in the school’s history, coming as the school has experienced 35 percent growth in the past two years.
What’s fueling this growth? The popularity of “cyber-theology” – students seeking their graduate degrees online.
“The Internet is changing our world, but the Church and seminaries have been slow adopters of technology,” said DIV Dean Dr. Corné Bekker. “As a result, they just don’t have the capacity or technology infrastructure and are essentially left 30 years behind.”
And not only does Regent boast its largest enrollment numbers yet, it continues to lead as one of the fastest-growing and one of the 15 largest seminaries in the United States. Bekker said this is due, in part, to the vision of Regent’s Founder, Chancellor and CEO, Dr. M.G. “Pat” Robertson.
“Dr. Robertson has always been a pioneer regarding innovation throughout his ministries,” continued Bekker. “Regent wants to be at the forefront of how technology changes ministry, education and work.”
Enter Regent. Among the first to provide fully online Master of Arts in Practical Theology and Master of Divinity degrees. Both of these programs are accredited by the Association for Theological Schools (ATS), the premiere accreditation group for theological education in North America.
And, in 2016, Regent was granted an experimental exception from ATS to also offer its Doctor of Ministry degree fully online as well – making Regent one of only two accredited seminaries in North America to offer a Doctor of Ministry degree fully online.
“Our faculty is committed to train ministers and laborers for Christ to go forth and change the world,” said Bekker.
Bekker believes the flexibility of online education paired with ministry is what will continue to contribute to the success of the school. Through technology DIV is able to reach students in any part of the world.
“Our world is changing quickly,” said Bekker. “We remind our students that the gospel of Christ has not changed. The power of the Spirit combined with the faithful preaching of the gospel still has the ability to change this world for Christ. We believe we stand at the brink of one of the largest revivals the world has ever seen, and our students will be part of this.”
Learn more about Regent University’s School of Divinity.