1. Online
  2. Frequently Asked Questions

Online Program Frequently Asked Questions


What does it mean for a college to be accredited?

Belhaven University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Questions about the accreditation of Belhaven University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on the SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).


Why is accreditation important?

As stated on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation web site, accreditation is important because:
Students who want federal (and sometimes state) grants and loans need to attend a college, university, or program that is accredited.

  • Employers ask if a college, university, or program is accredited before deciding to provide tuition assistance to current employees, evaluating the credentials of new employees, or making a charitable contribution.
  • The federal government requires that a college, university, or program be accredited in order to be eligible for federal grants and loans or other federal funds.
  • State governments require that a college, university, or program be accredited when they make state funds available to students or institutions and when they allow students to sit for state licensure examinations in some professional fields.

What is the format of the online class?

We understand the challenge of balancing school with your personal schedule; therefore, we've developed our online degree programs with you mind. You will have assignments due each week, but it's up to you to decide when and where you complete those.  Your assignment deadlines will be clearly communicated by your professor at the beginning of each semester. You will be required to post a 250 word text to a discussion board by Wednesday of each week and two subsequent texts of 125 words each. You will also watch video lectures and read required assignments made by the professor. Assignments are due each week on Saturday. Our courses work well for students who have unpredictable schedules, are active military, frequently travel, live internationally or would find weekly on campus class meetings difficult to attend.


What makes Belhaven's Online program different from other Christian online programs?

Belhaven Online provides a unique blend of personal, professional attention with a flexible, on-the-go classroom. Our online program allows you to pursue a college degree that fits around your home and work demands, plus you'll have constant personal support from Belhaven Online staff and frequent interaction with your professors. One of our greatest differences is our attitude towards you...we go out of our way to help you achieve your academic and professional goals. Even when you are unsure if you can make it, our team will help you to persist until you graduate. We genuinely care about you from a Christ-like perspective.


Is Belhaven University Online accredited?

Yes. Belhaven University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees. Also, the School of Business Administration has the following adult degree programs accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education: Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Leadership, Bachelor of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Management. In addition, the School of Nursing Nursing’s baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN) is accredited by the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). 


Is financial aid available?

Yes, financial aid is available to those who qualify. You may contact the Office of Student Financial Aid at 601-968-5933 or access the financial aid web site. When filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid be sure to include Belhaven as an institution to receive your results. Our Federal Code Number is 002397.


What is the cost?

Your costs for the online program are tuition, a resource fee, and a graduation audit fee which are combined in one cost with no hidden fees. Please see the Tuition web page for a complete listing of costs. We will do all we can to help you find a way to complete your degree.


How long will it take me to complete my online degree with Belhaven?

Our graduate programs are 36 hours which allow you to finish your degree within 2 years. Online undergraduate degree programs are designed to be completed in less than four years. However, depending on the number of credits a student transfers to Belhaven from other accredited colleges, one could complete their desired degree program in much less time. Once you’ve submitted all transcripts, our professional staff will be happy to review your individual situation. You may even receive credit for prior work experience!

Are transfer credits accepted?

Transfer credits are accepted at the undergraduate and graduate level. Please contact an admission counselor with program specific transfer credit questions by calling 800-960-5940 or e-mail onlineadmission@belhaven.edu.


Can the degree be completed entirely online?

Yes, your degree can be completed entirely online. There is no requirement to come to campus for testing or textbook purchases but you are welcome to visit our campus at any time!

 

How do I know what textbooks I need to purchase for each class?

Online students are required to purchase their books for each class. The Belhaven bookstore offers competitive pricing and even offers rental options for some textbooks.  You may also choose to purchase your books each term from your provider of choice. This will allow you to shop for the best price and best delivery method. Each term you'll need to know which class you are registered for and then a few weeks before class begins order your books to ensure timely delivery. You can find a listing of required books for each course on the Belhaven Barnes and Noble website.