Think Institute

Think Institute operates through a self-paced online learning model rather than a traditional semester-based academic calendar. Academic credit is expressed in semester credit hours (SCH) as a standardized measurement of the academic learning represented by a course. The use of semester credit hours does not mean students attend traditional fall, spring, or summer semesters. Students progress at their own pace through the established course sequence and required assessments. Credit is based on established learning outcomes, academic engagement, successful completion of assessments, and demonstrated mastery.

Prior Learning Assessment allows eligible students to submit previous college-level learning for academic evaluation. Qualifying learning may include previous college coursework, theological or ministry education, professional training, certifications, structured continuing education, and other documented learning relevant to the student's degree program. Credit is awarded for demonstrated learning and competency, not simply for participation, employment, or life experience.

Yes. Students with substantial, verifiable ministry experience may request an evaluation through Think Institute's Prior Learning Assessment process. Qualifying experience may include pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, Christian education, ministry leadership and administration, missions, evangelism, pastoral care, nonprofit ministry leadership, worship or creative ministry leadership, and other substantive Christian ministry service relevant to the student's program. Ministry experience must be documented and evaluated for college-level learning and competency. Years of ministry service alone do not automatically result in academic credit.

Approved prior learning may be applied toward applicable undergraduate degree requirements when the demonstrated learning is determined to be college-level, appropriately documented, and relevant to the student's program of study. Each student's prior learning is evaluated individually. Students remain responsible for completing all Think Institute coursework and assessments required for their individual academic pathway.

Graduate-level prior learning is evaluated under more restrictive standards. Ministry experience alone does not automatically constitute graduate-level academic credit. Any prior learning considered for a master's degree must demonstrate appropriate graduate-level depth, rigor, relevance, and alignment with the selected program. Think Institute may require students to complete designated graduate coursework and comprehensive assessments regardless of previous ministry experience.

Think Institute may evaluate qualifying coursework previously completed at other institutions. Transfer credit is considered individually based on academic level, relevance, documentation, and comparability to the student's selected program. Submission of a transcript or other academic record does not guarantee acceptance or application of credit toward a Think Institute degree.

Each Think Institute degree program includes a comprehensive academic assessment designed to demonstrate the student's ability to integrate and apply learning across the program. Bachelor's-level assessments evaluate appropriate understanding, application, integration, and discipline-specific competency. Master's-level assessments require advanced analysis, synthesis, evaluation, evidence-based reasoning, professional judgment, cross-curricular integration, and substantive biblical and theological engagement appropriate to the discipline.

No. The acceptance of credits, certificates, or degrees earned through Think Institute is determined solely by the receiving college, university, employer, licensing agency, credentialing organization, or other third party. Think Institute cannot guarantee that another institution or organization will accept its coursework, credits, certificates, or degrees. Prospective students seeking a credential for transfer, employment, professional licensure, certification, or admission to another institution should verify the applicable requirements with that organization before enrollment.