Associate of Religious Arts · A.R.A.

Build a Lasting Biblical Foundation in About One Year.

100% Online · Self-Paced · $2,420 Total Tuition · Open Enrollment

The Associate of Religious Arts at TBCS is built for adults who want serious, Christ-centered study — without putting life on hold. Sixty credit hours grounded in Scripture, biblical doctrine, and church history, taught in a format that fits your schedule.

Questions? Call 813-655-1127 — we're glad to talk through next steps.

40

Years of Teaching

51

countries reached

45

us states

50+

courses available

Prerequisite A Bachelor's Degree in Religious Arts or equivalent is required. Students without a Bachelor's may complete an additional 60 credits.

Designed for you

Who This Program Is For

The Associate of Religious Arts is a strong fit for adults seeking a clear, Christ-centered path forward — whether you're new to formal study or returning after years away.

  • Adults seeking a clear starting point in biblical education

  • Students returning to learning after time away

  • Those who want deeper understanding of Scripture for personal growth

  • Those preparing for greater service, leadership, or future academic progress

real outcomes

What You'll Gain

More than credit hours. The Associate of Religious Arts builds capabilities you'll carry into ministry, leadership, and the rest of your walk.

Biblical Confidence

A framework for understanding Scripture as a whole — not scattered verses, but a coherent message you can teach and defend.

Ministry Readiness

Preparation for teaching, preaching, small-group leadership, and meaningful service in your church and community.

Academic On-Ramp

Preparation for teaching, preaching, small-group leadership, and meaningful service in your church and community.

A Finished Degree

Real, accredited progress you can point to — a milestone that affirms the calling God has placed on your life.

the curriculum

Course Listing

Foundational coursework across biblical studies, New Testament, church history, Christian doctrine, and Christian philosophy — designed to build a broad, lasting biblical foundation.

Biblical Studies

2 Courses · 7 Credits
  • BS 101General Bible Knowledge 4 Credits
  • BS 102Geological Ages 3 Credits

New Testament

4 Courses · 16 Credits
  • NT 101The Epistles 1 4 Credits
  • NT 102The Epistles 2 4 Credits
  • NT 103Harmony of the Gospels 4 Credits
  • NT 104Acts of the Apostles 4 Credits

Church History

1 Course · 5 Credits
  • ACH 101Church History 5 Credits

Christian Doctrine

5 Courses · 23 Credits
  • CD 101Ages / Dispensations 5 Credits
  • CD 102Covenants 5 Credits
  • CD 103Humanism vs. The Godhead 5 Credits
  • CD 104Soteriology 3 Credits
  • CD 105Angelic Beings & the Underworld 5 Credits

Christian Philosophy

2 Courses · 9 Credits
  • CP 101Doctrine & Person of Holy Spirit 4 Credits
  • CP 102Gifts of Holy Spirit 5 Credits

investment

Program Costs

A complete, accredited Associate degree for less than the cost of a single semester at most universities.

Total Program Investment

$2,420

Application Fee (credited to tuition)

$35

Enrollment Fee (credited to tuition)

$250

Tuition (Full Program)

$2420

Total

$2,420

Note: Your application fee and enrollment fee are not additional costs — both are credited toward your total tuition balance once you are accepted and enrolled. All fees are non-refundable. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required to remain in the program. Monthly payment plan available.

Getting started

Fully Online Enrollment in 3 Simple Steps

No campus visits. No standardized test scores. Just a clear path from application to your first lesson.

1. Apply online.

Complete the application and submit your details. Takes about 15 minutes.

2. Submit your application fee

After applying, you’ll be taken to the payment page to complete the next step.

3. Watch for your acceptance email

Admissions decisions take about one week. Once accepted, you'll receive login details and next steps.

Associate Degree FAQ

Who is the Associate Degree designed for?

The Associate Degree is designed for adults who want a strong biblical foundation, deeper understanding of Scripture, and a flexible path for personal growth, educational progress, or preparation for greater service.

Is the Associate Degree fully online?

Yes. The program is offered 100% online in a self-paced format designed for adult learners.

How long does the program take to complete?

The Associate Degree is designed to take approximately one year, though students move through the program at their own pace.

Are the application fee and enrollment fee additional costs?

No. Once you are accepted and enrolled, both fees are credited toward your total tuition balance.

Can I transfer credits?

TBCS accepts transfer credits for courses with a grade of C or better from approved colleges, pending admissions review and receipt of official transcripts.

When can I start?

TBCS offers open enrollment for this online self-paced program, so students can begin when they are ready.

Continue your graduate journey.

Apply today and begin the Master of Religious Arts or Master of Divinity — advanced, Christ-centered study built for adult learners.t

Or call 813-655-1127 to talk with admissions.

FOLLOW US

Mailing Address:
PO Box 89485 | Tampa, FL 33689

813-655-1127

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