FAQ for New & Current Students

1. Is New England Bible College & Seminary closing? No. While NEBCS is transitioning away from its traditional degree programs, its mission of equipping believers to know God's Word, grow in their faith, and serve Christ and His Church continues through a new initiative called Equip New England. After 67 years of providing biblical education and ministry training, we are entering a new chapter that allows us to focus on equipping more people for meaningful ministry in their local churches and communities.

2. Why is NEBCS making this transition? We believe there is a growing need for accessible, practical ministry training throughout New England. Many Christians desire deeper biblical understanding and better preparation for ministry but may not be pursuing a traditional college or seminary degree. Equip New England allows us to build on our 67-year legacy of biblical education while expanding our reach through partnerships with local churches, regional training opportunities, and online learning.

3. What happens to my degree program? NEBCS will continue offering college-credit courses through the Spring 2028 semester. Traditional degree programs will conclude at that time. We are committed to supporting currently enrolled students as they work toward completing their educational goals during this transition.

4. Can I still take college-credit courses? Yes. College-credit courses will continue to be offered through Spring 2028. Students should consult the academic schedule and Registrar's Office regarding available courses and degree requirements.

5. Will I be able to finish my degree? Our priority is to support currently enrolled students as they complete their degree programs. We encourage you to communicate with the Registrar's Office or academic leadership to review your remaining requirements and develop a plan for completion.

6. What happens to the credits I have already earned? Credits you have already earned remain part of your academic record. If you are considering transferring to another institution, we encourage you to contact that institution directly to determine how your NEBCS credits may apply toward its programs.

7. Will I still have access to my student records and transcripts? Your academic records remain important, and arrangements will be made for students and alumni to request transcripts and other academic documentation.

8. What happens if I am unable to finish my degree by Spring 2028? We understand that students may have different circumstances and timelines. Please contact the Registrar's Office as soon as possible so that your individual situation and available options can be discussed. We can help connect you with other outstanding degree-granting institutions.

9. Will Equip New England courses count toward my NEBCS degree? During the transition period through Spring 2028, some Equip New England courses and modules may also be offered for NEBCS academic credit. When a course is available for academic credit, it may count toward an NEBCS degree completed within the transition period. Students should confirm course availability and degree applicability with the Academic Team before enrolling.

For New Students

1. Can I still enroll at NEBCS? NEBCS will continue offering college-credit courses through Spring 2028. Students interested in pursuing a certificate or degree should contact Admissions to discuss available courses, and enrollment eligibility before applying.

2. Can I still take classes if I am not interested in earning a degree? Absolutely! We will continue to offer our for-credit courses until 2028.

About Equip New England Programs

1. Who will benefit from Equip New England's trainings? ENE is designed for everyday believers as well as those serving in formal ministry positions. Whether you are a church member who wants to understand Scripture more deeply, a volunteer who desires to serve more effectively, a lay leader preparing for greater responsibility, or a pastor seeking additional training, there will be opportunities to grow and be equipped.

2. What is the difference between a workshop, module, and cohort? ENE will offer several formats to accommodate different learning needs and ministry goals. Workshops: Focused day training opportunities addressing a particular topic or ministry skill. Modules: Six-week learning experiences that allow participants to develop knowledge and skills in specific areas. Cohorts: More sustained learning experiences in which participants study and grow together over an extended period of time (1-2 yrs.)

3. Will Equip New England offer online classes? Yes! Online learning will remain a part of our approach. Depending on the program, training may be offered through live Zoom instruction, regional church-based settings, or other collaborative environments.

4. Will training be available through my local church? That is an important part of the ENE vision! We want to come alongside pastors and local churches to help equip their congregations for the work of ministry. This may include providing training within individual churches, partnering with regional churches to host training opportunities, and developing programs that address the specific needs of a congregation.

Staying Connected

1. How can I learn about upcoming Equip New England programs? Information about upcoming courses, workshops, cohorts, and other training opportunities will be shared through the ENE webpage, email communications, and social media. Sign up at the bottom of the page to stay in touch!

2. Will NEBCS stay in touch with its alumni? Yes! Our desire is to continue relationships with the men and women who have been part of the NEBCS community over the years. We hope alumni will remain connected and consider how Equip New England might provide opportunities for continued growth and ministry involvement.

3. How can I support the Equip New England Initiative? We would love for you to pray for this new chapter and help us share the vision with pastors, churches, and believers throughout New England. As we develop new partnerships and training opportunities, we welcome the involvement of those who share our desire to see more believers equipped for faithful and effective ministry.

Still Have Questions?

We recognize that this is a significant transition, and you may have questions that are not addressed here. We want to hear from you! We are committed to communicating openly and helping each student navigate this season of change.

The way we equip people is changing, but our commitment to equipping believers for the work of ministry remains.

Contact Registrar

Contact Admissions

Equip New England

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