Programs
Catalyst Bible College is powered by Nelson University.
Visalia First offers Catalyst Bible College as a Partner Site in partnership with Nelson University.
All graduating students will receive a diploma from Nelson University. Students will learn from instructors from both Nelson University and Catalyst Bible College faculty.
History of Nelson Universtity
Nelson University (formerly Southwestern Assemblies of God University) is named in honor of founder PC Nelson. The University’s vision of being a distinguished Christian university that equips Spirit-empowered leaders with career and ministry skills by providing affordable education, hands-on training opportunities, and innovative academic programs remains unchanged. Nelson is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Questions about accreditation 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 SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Lifestyle of Learning
Catalyst Bible College offers five different degree programs. Regardless of the degree a student chooses to pursue, every student will have the opportunity to take part in our “Lifestyle of Learning” initiative. Students will be invited to conferences and special lectures that create an atmosphere for them to collaborate, grow, and develop in their callings.
Undergraduate Degree Programs
Church Leadership
B.A.
The B.A. in Church Leadership will equip students for modern partical ministry. Students will choose 24 hours of specialization in their degree.
General Education Units: 57
Major Units: 45
Elective Units: 18
Total Program Units: 120
Business
B.A.
The B.A. program provides students with a solid business foundation. Students can choose to minor in accounting, business administration, or marketing.
General Education Units: 51
Major Units: 39
Elective Units: 30
Total Program Units: 120
Human Services
B.A.
The B.A. program provides students with the opportunity to pursue a career in criminal justice, social work, counseling, or psychology.
General Education Units: 51
Major Units: 39
Elective Units: 30
Total Program Units: 120
Education
B.A.
The B.A. in Education (Pre-Professional track) equips students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences to pursue professional careers or advanced study in the field of education.
General Education Units: 50
Major Units: 61
Elective Units: 9
Total Program Units: 120
Bible and Theology
B.A.
The B.A. in Bible and Theology degree equips students with a deep understanding of scripture and theological principles, preparing them for impactful ministries and careers.
General Education Units: 57
Major Units: 48
Elective Units: 15
Total Program Units: 120
Interdisciplinary Studies
B.A.
The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies program prepares you to think critically and solve problems by drawing from various fields, making you a more versatile professional.
General Education Units: 51
Elective Units: 69
Total Program Units: 120
Graduate Degree Programs
Business Administration
M.A.
The MBA program provides rigorous courses that develop your leadership skills and sharpen your business acumen.
Total Program Units: 36
Organizational Leadership
M.A.
This degree will prepare you with advanced leadership skills for ministry and traditional workplace environments.
Total Program Units: 36
Master of Divinity
M.Div.
The Master of Divinity offers a thesis and non-thesis option as well as specializations in Biblical Languages, Biblical Studies, Chaplaincy, Counseling, Family Ministries, Intercultural Studies, Global Compassion Ministries, Islamic Studies, Practical Theology, and Theological Studies
Total Program Units: 72
Intercultural Studies
M.A.
The Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies degree program integrates theological, missiological, and practical training to equip graduates with skills and tools to impact diverse groups of people, especially in cross-cultural ministries.
Total Program Units: 36
Practical Theology
M.A.
The Master’s degree in Practical Theology prepares you in the areas of biblical studies, theological understanding, and practical ministry.
Total Program Units: 36
Bible and Theology
M.A.
The Master of Arts in Bible and Theology provides advanced knowledge in the study, interpretation, and application of the Word of God.
Total Program Units: 36
Education
M.A.
The Master of Arts degree in English provides graduate students with advanced training in English and its specialized disciplines.
Total Program Units: 30
Children and Family
M.A.
The Master of Arts in Children & Family focuses on improving the lives of children, families, and communities, and is an excellent way for students to prepare for doctoral studies in Children and Family Studies.
Total Program Units: 36
History
M.A.
The Master of Arts in History is designed to deepen students’ understanding of historical events, themes, and methodologies, providing a strong foundation for pursuing a Ph.D. and a variety of career paths.
Total Program Units: 30
Post Graduate Degree Program
Leadership
D.Min.
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) is a 30-hour degree that requires completion of only one course per semester. The DMin program is offered in a cohort model in which students move through the prescriptive program with their cohort. New students are admitted into the program each fall.
