Stafford beings TBC distance learning program

by Amy Davis

COOKEVILLE—Matthew Stafford of Whitleyville was recently accepted at Tennessee Bible College in Cookeville to begin studies through the distance learning program.

Stafford, a 2002 graduate of Jackson County High School, is the son of Fredia Draper of Whitleyville and Jerry Stafford of Cookeville. He and his wife, Ashley, are expecting their first child in June. He is a member of Haydenburg Church of Christ.

Why did Stafford choose TBC's distance learning program?

"I work full time and farm, plus I preach every Sunday, so I don't have time to attend college full time right now," he said.

Kerry Duke, dean and director of distance learning at TBC, said, "Ideal education involves personal contact between teachers and students, but the ideal is not always possible. Many have a desire for advanced Bible education but are unable to attend classes on campus because of location and obligations to work and family. That's what makes TBC's distance learning a good alternative."

Distance Learning is TBC's fastest-growing program and continues to draw new students seeking to take in-depth Bible courses at home at their own pace. Students from 14 states and 11 countries are enrolled, the first graduate of the program being from Zambia, Africa.

The college offers a bachelor's degree in religious education, master's and doctorate degrees in theology and a two-year preaching diploma. Financial assistance and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Tennessee Bible College, located at 1616 McCulley Road in Cookeville, was established in 1975 and is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. For more information, call (931)526-2616, or visit the web site.