Vision International University
| Institution Seal | |
| Motto | "The Whole Word to the Whole World" |
|---|---|
| Type | Private |
| Established | 1990 |
| President | Stan E. DeKoven |
Academic staff | approx. 30 (full and part time) |
| Location | , , |
| Website | [1] |
Vision International University is an unaccredited institution in Ramona, California offering academic degree programs designed to prepare men and women for professional service in Christian Ministry. The University offers distance education and online learning programs.
The institution traces its roots to Vision International College (alternatively known as "Vision Christian College"), which was founded in 1974 in Launceston, Tasmania by Australian theologian and author Ken Chant.[1] Together with Vision International College, Vision Internet Bible College, and several other Christian educational institutions, Vision International University is a member institution of the Vision International Education Network.[2]
Academics
Vision International University is an inter-denominational, non-sectarian institution which offers ministry training and theological education to students from a wide variety of faith backgrounds. Vision International College began in Australia in 1974 as a Pentecostal-Charismatic institution without specific denominational affiliation. Vision now cooperates with many Christian denominations and ministerial fellowships to provide a "primarily biblical education to both students preparing for vocational ministry and those who seek a stronger theological foundation for the ministerial context in which they find themselves"[3]. Vision welcomes students from any denominational background.
The curriculum of Vision attempts to maintain a non-dogmatic perspective, allowing students to study a wide variety of theological issues to formulate their own beliefs in an academic context. Vision maintains a strong emphasis on church planting, community service, and Christian character development [4].
The University offers a Bachelor's Degree Completion program, a small selection of focused Master's degree programs including a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry program [5].
Accreditation
Since 1990, Vision International University has maintained authorization to grant degrees by religious exemption in the State of California. In 2005, Vision International University submitted its application for State Approval by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE) to be recognized as a degree-granting institution.
In April 2007, Vision International University received approval to operate from the BPPVE[6] through December 31, 2011 as a degree granting institution. However, Vision International University is not accredited by any accreditation body recognized by its country. As such, its degrees and credits might not be acceptable to employers or other institutions, and use of degree titles may be restricted or illegal in some jurisdictions.[7]
Notable alumni
Meadowlark Lemon, former member of the Harlem Globetrotters, holds a Doctor of Divinity degree from Vision International University.
References
- ^ Vision International Education Network - History
- ^ Vision International Education Network - Affiliates
- ^ Basic Beliefs (official site)
- ^ Basic Beliefs (official site)
- ^ VIU Programs (official site)
- ^ BPPVE School Detail - Vision International University
- ^ http://www.ed.gov/students/prep/college/diplomamills/accreditation.html
See also
External links
- Vision International University Official Website
- Vision International University in Guide to California Colleges and Universities, State of California
- The Secretariat of Public Education - SEP - in México denounced this university by academic fraud. (In spanish)