The Mansfield Bible Church Institute (MBCI) is a place where people from all walks of life can gather to explore and deepen their understanding of biblical teachings and Christian principles. It offers a variety of engaging courses, discussions, and resources aimed at nurturing spiritual growth and fostering a sense of community. Whether you're a newcomer seeking to learn more about the Bible or a seasoned believer looking to enhance your faith, the institute provides an accessible and welcoming environment to enrich your knowledge and connection with Christian values.

There will be two options for taking classes. There is a Non-Certification/Audit track and a Certification track. Auditing a course does not pertain to a financial audit, but rather to the practice of sitting in on the course without pursuing formal credit or a grade.

• Non-Certification Track:
• Just sign-up and show up.
• Come to whatever classes in which you are interested.
• Open for enrollment without any prerequisites.

• Certification Track:
• Sign-up and begin work on the course syllabus.
• Cost: $20 per person per semester. 
• Receive a certificate upon successful completion of each semester.
• Accumulate 6 certificates to receive the 3-year certificate.

Certification Track Requirements:

• Attend the semester with no more than 4 absences out of 16 weeks.
• Read about 30 pages per week.
• Allocate one hour for weekly homework.
• May include periodic tests for assessment.

Each student will be encouraged to download the Church Center App in order to receive additional resources and to keep up with class announcements. 

Do the courses on Sunday differ from those on Wednesday?

Yes, there is a distinction. In the upcoming Fall semester, the course offered on Sundays is "Bible Study Methods." Meanwhile, the courses available on Wednesdays encompass "Old Testament and New Testament Introduction" as well as "Church History."

What is the difference between the certification track and Non-Certification/Audit track?

Auditing or "sitting in" on a course typically involves attending classes, accessing course materials, and participating in discussions without the intention of obtaining an official certification. It allows individuals to learn and engage with the content without the pressure of assignments or exams. On the other hand, the certification track involves enrolling in a course with the aim of being more motivated to actively engage with course content. The certification track incentivizes learners to invest time and effort in their education, fostering a sense of achievement and recognition that ultimately encourages deeper learning and skill development.

What is the purpose of the $20 certification fee?

The $20 certification fee serves a dual purpose: This financial investment, as having "skin in the game" fosters a deeper engagement with the course materials, discussions, and assignments. The fee also directly contributes to the quality of the program, covering materials, resources, administrative support, and potential assessments, ensuring participants receive a valuable educational journey that aligns with their personal growth goals.

Is there an attendance policy, and what are the consequences of missing a week?

Attendance will be recorded every week. If you're auditing or sitting in on a course, your attendance is primarily to stay connected. However, if you're on the certification track, attendance plays a role in both accountability and fulfilling the minimum attendance requirement. Consistent attendance is encouraged as it helps you stay engaged and on track with the course material.

Are there printed materials or are they exclusively available digitally?

Course materials will be accessible through the Church Center App. This platform enables instructors to share links to resources, videos, and podcasts, extending the learning experience beyond class sessions.

How much homework should I anticipate in the certification track?

For the certification track, the expectations involve reading approximately 30 pages per week and dedicating one hour to weekly homework. Additionally, there might be occasional tests as part of the assessment process. This is all that is required. Yet, while these requirements form the core of the track, there are those who are driven to take it to the next level – the kind of learners who seek to extract even more from the experience and want to take their learning experience to the next level. These individuals, often referred to as "next-level learners," are not content with meeting the baseline criteria; they're driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire for mastery. They're the ones who seek out additional resources, engage in deeper discussions, and consistently strive for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Are tests and quizzes included in the course, and will I receive a grade for them?

The tests and quizzes within the course serve as tools for self-assessment, allowing you to gauge your understanding of the material. However, it's important to note that no grades will be assigned for these assessments. They are designed to help you track your progress and identify areas for further exploration and improvement, rather than for formal evaluation purposes.

Who maintains records of the tracks I've successfully completed?

It is the responsibility of the student to retain records of completed courses by keeping the certificates received at the end of each class. At the conclusion of the three-year period, students will apply for the 3-year certificate. It's important to note that the Mansfield Bible Church Institute (MBCI) will not retain records of these achievements.

Is MBCI accredited?

The certification process offered by MBCI does not carry any external accreditation. The certification is solely issued by Mansfield Bible Church (MBC) without accreditation from external accrediting bodies.

Are the courses accessible online in case of a missed week?

Currently, the courses are not provided online. This approach is intentional to ensure that attendance is encouraged, fostering an engaged learning environment. Additionally, online courses would necessitate substantial editing efforts. While it's a possibility for the future, as of now, the courses remain in-person to maintain a conducive learning experience.

When multiple subject matters are presented in a single semester, is it counted as one course/certification or two?

Irrespective of the range of topics covered, each semester is regarded as a single course. For instance, both Sunday morning and Wednesday classes within a semester are considered a singular course. As a result, only one certification is attainable per semester, encompassing the entirety of the subjects taught during that period.