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World Bible Theological Seminary

Catalog

Founded 2010 Over 15 Years of Service
Online Education Accessible Worldwide
Accredited Recognized Programs
Leadership

Message from the President

A word from Dr. Larry Tolbert, Founder and President of WBTS

Dr. Larry Tolbert

Dr. Larry Tolbert

President & CEO, World Bible Theological Seminary

BA Ministry, Oral Roberts University
MA Biblical Studies, Jacksonville Theological Seminary
PhD Biblical Studies, Jacksonville Theological Seminary

Dear Prospective Student,

Welcome to World Bible Theological Seminary (WBTS). We are honored that you have chosen to consider our institution for your theological education and ministry preparation. Since our founding in 2010, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to equipping men and women for effective Christian service through biblically grounded, academically rigorous, and spiritually formative education.

At WBTS, we believe that theological education should be accessible to all who are called to study God's Word, regardless of geographical location or financial circumstance. Our online learning platform enables students from around the world to pursue their calling while remaining active in their local ministries, workplaces, and communities.

Our faculty and staff are dedicated to your success. Each member of our team brings a wealth of academic knowledge and practical ministry experience, ensuring that your education is both intellectually enriching and practically applicable. We are committed to walking alongside you throughout your academic journey.

As you review this catalog, I encourage you to prayerfully consider how WBTS can help you fulfill God's call on your life. Whether you are pursuing a certificate, a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, we are here to support you every step of the way.

May the Lord bless you as you seek to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Dr. Larry Tolbert
President & CEO, World Bible Theological Seminary
Dr. Melvin Cooper

Dr. Melvin Cooper

Vice President / Director of Operations

Founder, World Won for Christ Family Ministries Church
Collaborating partner since January 2016

Our Purpose

Vision & Mission

The guiding principles that shape everything we do at WBTS

Our Vision

To be a leading global institution for theological education, recognized for academic excellence, spiritual formation, and commitment to serving the worldwide Christian community. We envision a world where quality theological education is accessible to all who seek it, regardless of geographical, financial, or cultural barriers.

Our Mission

World Bible Theological Seminary is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality theological education to students worldwide. Our mission is to equip men and women with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation necessary to serve effectively in ministry, education, and leadership roles within the global Christian community.

Core Principles

Values & Motto

The foundational values that guide our institution and our students

  • Discipline

    We maintain disciplined study habits and personal conduct that reflects Christ-like character.

  • Integrity

    We uphold honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all academic and personal matters.

  • Excellence

    We pursue the highest standards of academic and spiritual achievement.

  • Stewardship

    We responsibly manage the resources, gifts, and opportunities God has entrusted to us.

  • Community

    We foster a supportive learning community among students, faculty, and staff.

  • Global Perspective

    We embrace diversity and prepare students for global ministry.

Our Motto
"Educating Christian leaders in a changing global world"
Leadership

Administration

Meet the dedicated team that leads World Bible Theological Seminary

Dr. Larry Tolbert

Dr. Larry Tolbert

President/CEO
Dr. Melvin Cooper

Dr. Melvin Cooper

Vice President/Director of Operations
Dr. Rodney V. Gray

Dr. Rodney V. Gray

Chief Academic Officer/Provost
Charles Harper, BS

Charles Harper, BS

Executive Director of Marketing
Damali Wilson, BS

Damali Wilson, BS

Asst. Director of Marketing
Jennifer Ellis, MSL

Jennifer Ellis, MSL

Dean of Student Affairs

Hilda Sanders

Registrar

Treyce Tolbert

Director of IT
Governance

Board of Trustees

The leadership and advisory boards that guide our institution

Executive Leadership Team

Dr. Larry Tolbert

Dr. Melvin Cooper

Dr. Billon Constable

Dr. Rodney Gray

Advisors Board

Edith Daniels

Ann-Marie Constable

Hilda Sanders

Rev. Ralph Mascoll

Academics

Faculty

Experienced scholars and ministry practitioners dedicated to your education

Dr. Rodney V. Gray

Dr. Billon Constable

Rev. Ralph Mascoll, MSL

Edith Daniels, MDIV

Hilda Sanders, MS

Dr. Ann-Marie Constable

Rev. Kelvin Bonner, MDIV

Credentials

Accreditation

Information about our accreditation status and academic standing

World Bible Theological Seminary is a religious exempt institution operating under the provisions of the Oklahoma Degree Act of 2005. WBTS is authorized to issue degrees in the State of Oklahoma.

WBTS is a member of the Association of Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) and is pursuing candidacy status for accreditation.

As a religious exempt institution, WBTS degrees are recognized for ministry and religious vocations. Students should verify with their state or denomination whether additional licensing or certification is required for their specific career goals.

World Bible Theological Seminary admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the seminary. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs.

Our Story

History

From our founding to the present day

World Bible Theological Seminary was originally founded as Covenant Life Bible College International Institute in 2010 by Dr. Larry Tolbert in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The institution was established with a vision to provide accessible, high-quality theological education to students called to Christian ministry.

In its early years, the seminary operated as a small Bible college serving the local Tulsa community. As demand for online theological education grew, WBTS expanded its reach through distance learning programs, enabling students from across the United States and around the world to pursue biblical and theological studies.

The institution was later renamed World Bible Theological Seminary to reflect its expanded mission and global reach. Today, WBTS continues to serve students through its online platform, offering bachelor's degree programs with master's and doctoral programs under development.

Throughout its history, WBTS has remained committed to its founding principles: biblical fidelity, academic excellence, spiritual formation, and accessibility for all who are called to study God's Word.

About Us

Organization Overview

A snapshot of who we are and whom we serve

Type

Higher Education - Christian Education Institution

Focus

Educating Christian leaders for tomorrow in a global society

Population Served

Christians between the ages 18 to 99

Services

Bachelor's Degree; Master's and Doctoral Degrees are under development

Beliefs

Statement of Faith

The core doctrines that guide our teaching and community

We believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God, written by men under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Bible is our supreme and final authority in all matters of faith and conduct. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 119:105)

We believe in one God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, perfect in holiness, justice, love, and mercy. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Genesis 1:1)

We believe in the deity of Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His vicarious and atoning death on the cross, His bodily resurrection, His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and His personal return in power and glory. (John 1:1,14; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 3:24-25; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Acts 1:9-11)

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. He regenerates, indwells, sanctifies, empowers, and gifts believers for service and witness. (John 14:16-17; John 16:7-11; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 8:9-11)

We believe in the existence of angels as created spiritual beings who serve God and minister to believers. We believe in the existence of demons, fallen angels who serve Satan and oppose the purposes of God. (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:14; 2 Peter 2:4; Ephesians 6:12)

We believe that humanity was created in the image of God, but fell through disobedience, resulting in spiritual and physical death. All human beings are born with a sinful nature and are in need of salvation through Jesus Christ. (Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 3:1-19; Romans 3:23; Romans 5:12-21)

We believe that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, apart from works. Salvation includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification. All who trust in Christ are born again and become children of God. (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 3:3-7; Romans 5:1; Romans 8:29-30; Titus 3:5)

We believe in the universal Church, the body of Christ, composed of all believers in Jesus Christ. We believe in the local church as a community of believers gathered for worship, fellowship, instruction, and evangelism. (1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Ephesians 1:22-23; Acts 2:42-47; Matthew 28:18-20)

We believe in the personal, visible return of Jesus Christ to judge the living and the dead. We believe in the bodily resurrection of all people, the eternal blessedness of the righteous, and the eternal punishment of the wicked. (Acts 1:11; Revelation 20:11-15; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Matthew 25:31-46)

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Important questions about the Christian faith, answered from Scripture

A Christian is a person who has placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. A Christian believes that Jesus is the Son of God, that He died on the cross for our sins, and that He rose again on the third day. A Christian has been born again through the Holy Spirit and seeks to follow Christ in daily life.

You can become a Christian by acknowledging that you are a sinner in need of salvation, believing that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again, and confessing Jesus as your Lord and Savior. This is done through prayer, asking God to forgive you and to come into your life.

Becoming a Christian brings you into a personal relationship with God, grants you forgiveness of sins, gives you eternal life, and provides you with the Holy Spirit who empowers you to live a life pleasing to God. It is the most important decision you can make.

If you recognize your need for God's forgiveness and are willing to turn from your sins and follow Jesus, you are ready. You can pray a simple prayer of faith, asking Jesus to come into your life and be your Lord and Savior.

The prayer of salvation is a simple prayer expressing faith in Jesus Christ. It typically goes: 'Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again on the third day. I repent of my sins and ask You to come into my life as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen.'

Christian leadership is the practice of leading others in a manner that reflects the character and teachings of Jesus Christ. It involves servant leadership, integrity, humility, and a commitment to developing others. Christian leaders seek to glorify God in their leadership and to build up the body of Christ.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline practiced throughout the Bible. Jesus fasted for 40 days before beginning His public ministry. Fasting involves abstaining from food for a period of time to focus on prayer and seeking God's will. It is a personal act of devotion and should be done with the right motives. (Matthew 6:16-18; Matthew 4:2; Acts 13:2-3)

Overcoming sin requires relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, regular study of God's Word, prayer, fellowship with other believers, and accountability. When we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive us. We must also make choices to avoid temptation and pursue righteousness. (1 John 1:9; Romans 8:13; Psalm 119:11)

Temptation can be overcome by recognizing it, relying on God's Word, praying for strength, and fleeing from situations that lead to temptation. Jesus modeled this when He was tempted in the wilderness, responding to each temptation with Scripture. (1 Corinthians 10:13; Matthew 4:1-11; James 4:7)

Paul addressed this question in Romans 6. While our sins are forgiven, continuing in sin is contrary to our new nature in Christ. We have died to sin and been raised to new life. Grace is not a license to sin but empowerment to live holy lives. (Romans 6:1-14; Titus 2:11-12)

Biblical stewardship is the recognition that everything we have belongs to God and we are entrusted with managing His resources. This includes our time, talents, treasure, and the earth itself. Stewards are called to be faithful and generous with what God has entrusted to them. (1 Corinthians 4:1-2; Psalm 24:1; 1 Peter 4:10)

Tithing is the practice of giving 10% of one's income to the Lord's work. It was established in the Old Testament and affirmed in the New Testament through principles of generous giving. Tithing is an act of worship, trust, and obedience to God. (Malachi 3:10; Genesis 14:20; Matthew 23:23; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7)

The Bible teaches us to give our first fruits to God. While the Bible does not specifically address gross versus net income, the principle of first fruits suggests giving off the gross income as an act of trust that God will provide for all our needs. (Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10)

While the primary tithe in the Old Testament was brought to the storehouse (the temple), the New Testament teaches generous giving to support the church, missions, and those in need. Each believer should prayerfully consider how to distribute their giving, with the local church as the primary recipient. (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7; Galatians 6:6)

True worship is giving God the honor, praise, and devotion He deserves, both in spirit and in truth. It is not limited to singing or church services but encompasses all of life. True worship comes from a heart that loves God and seeks to honor Him in everything. (John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1; Psalm 29:2)

'Jesus Christ is spoken here.' This statement reflects our commitment to ensuring that Christ is central in all we do at World Bible Theological Seminary — in our classrooms, our conversations, and our community.

Getting Started

Admission Information

How to begin your journey at World Bible Theological Seminary

Admission to World Bible Theological Seminary is open to all qualified applicants who desire to pursue theological education in a Christ-centered environment. Applicants must:

1. Have a personal faith in Jesus Christ
2. Be a high school graduate or hold a GED equivalent
3. Submit a completed application form
4. Provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
5. Submit a personal testimony of faith (minimum 250 words)
6. Provide one pastoral or academic reference
7. Pay the non-refundable application fee

Transfer students must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Transfer credit will be evaluated on a course-by-course basis.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or equivalent examination.

Policies

Academic Policies

Guidelines that govern academic life at WBTS

A student may be dismissed from WBTS for academic, behavioral, or financial reasons. Academic dismissal occurs when a student's cumulative GPA falls below 2.0 for two consecutive semesters. Behavioral dismissal may result from violations of the student code of conduct. Financial dismissal occurs when a student's account remains unpaid after the payment deadline.

A dismissed student may apply for readmission after one full semester has passed. Readmission requires approval from the Academic Affairs Committee and may include conditions such as academic probation or a modified course load.

A student may repeat a course in which they received a grade of C or below. When a course is repeated, the higher grade is recorded on the transcript, but both grades remain on the academic record. The credit hours are counted only once toward degree requirements. Students must notify the Registrar's Office when registering to repeat a course.

Plagiarism is the presentation of another person's work as one's own, whether intentional or unintentional. This includes copying text, ideas, or data from published or unpublished sources without proper citation.

WBTS takes plagiarism seriously. Consequences include:
- First offense: The student receives a zero for the assignment and a written warning.
- Second offense: The student fails the course.
- Third offense: The student is dismissed from the seminary.

Students are responsible for understanding proper citation methods and are encouraged to use plagiarism detection tools before submitting assignments.

Academics

Grading System

How student performance is evaluated and recorded

Grade Points

Grade Grade Points Meaning
A4Excellent
B3Good
C2Satisfactory
D1Passing
F0Failing

Grading Scale

Percentage Range Letter Grade
90–100%A
80–89%B
70–79%C
60–69%D
0–59%F

Transcript Information

Official transcripts may be requested from the Registrar's Office. The fee for each official transcript is $10.00. Transcripts are typically processed within 5-7 business days. Unofficial transcripts may be accessed through the student portal at no charge.

Transcripts will not be released for students with outstanding financial obligations to the seminary.

Completion

Graduation Information

Requirements and procedures for completing your degree

Students must complete all degree requirements, including required courses, electives, and any thesis or project requirements, to be eligible for graduation. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required for bachelor's degrees.

Graduation requirements include:
1. Completion of all required courses with a passing grade
2. Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
3. Payment of all tuition and fees
4. Submission of graduation application by the published deadline
5. Approval by the Academic Affairs Committee

Graduation ceremonies are held annually. Students who complete requirements but cannot attend the ceremony will receive their diploma by mail.

Finances

Financial Information

Tuition, fees, payment plans, and financial policies

World Bible Theological Seminary is committed to making theological education affordable and accessible. Our tuition and fee structure is designed to provide high-quality education at a reasonable cost. The following information outlines the payment options, fees, and financial policies that apply to all students.

Payment Plans

Choose the payment option that best fits your needs

Plan A

Full payment at registration. No additional fees.

Full Payment

Pay the full course price at registration. This is the simplest option with no ongoing payment obligations.

Plan B

50% at registration, 50% at mid-term. $25 processing fee.

Installment Plan

Pay in installments over time. First payment (typically 50%) is due at registration, with remaining payments spread across the configured interval (weekly, biweekly, monthly, or quarterly). Maximum installments vary by course.

Custom Arrangement

Contact the Finance Office to discuss a custom payment plan tailored to your specific situation. Requires written agreement and approval.

Plan C

Monthly payments over the duration of the semester. $50 processing fee.

Plan D

Custom payment arrangement approved by the Finance Office. Requires written agreement.

Individual Fees

In addition to tuition, students may be responsible for the following fees:

  • Evaluation/Registration Fee: One-time fee per program
  • Tuition per Credit Hour: Standard tuition rate
  • Technology Fee (per semester): Covers online learning platform access
  • Late Registration Fee: For registration after the deadline
  • Transcript Fee: Per official transcript
  • Graduation Application Fee: One-time graduation application

Graduation Fees

Bachelor Degree - Not Attending: $75.00 | Attending: $150.00

Master's Degree - Not Attending: $100.00 | Attending: $200.00

Doctorate Degree - Not Attending: $150.00 | Attending: $300.00

Refund Policy

Refunds are calculated based on the date of official withdrawal as recorded by the Registrar's Office.

- Before the first day of class: 100% refund of tuition (minus registration fee)
- During the first week of class: 90% refund
- During the second week of class: 50% refund
- During the third week of class: 25% refund
- After the third week: No refund

Fees (technology, registration, late registration) are non-refundable. Refunds are processed within 4-6 weeks of the withdrawal date.

Financial Gifts

World Bible Theological Seminary is a faith-based institution that relies on the generous support of donors, churches, and ministry partners. Financial gifts to WBTS are tax-deductible and support:

- Student scholarships and financial aid
- Faculty development and research
- Technology and learning resources
- General operating expenses

To make a gift, please contact the Finance Office or visit our website. Your partnership in theological education makes a lasting impact in the lives of students and the communities they will serve.

Programs

Degrees Offered

A comprehensive listing of our academic programs by level

Bachelor's Degrees

  • Bachelor of Biblical Studies BBS

Master's Degrees

  • Master of Biblical Studies Under Development MBS
  • Master of Christian Business Under Development MCB
  • Master of Christian Counseling Under Development MCC

Doctorate Degrees

  • Doctor of Biblical Studies Under Development DBS
  • Doctor of Christian Business Under Development DCB
  • Doctor of Christian Counseling Under Development DCC
Programs

Degree Descriptions

An overview of each degree type and its purpose

Biblical Studies

The Biblical Studies program provides a comprehensive foundation in biblical interpretation, theology, and ministry. Students develop skills in exegesis, hermeneutics, and biblical languages, preparing them for pastoral ministry, teaching, and advanced theological study.

Christian Business

The Christian Business program integrates biblical principles with business practices, equipping students for leadership in Christian organizations, non-profits, and marketplace ministry. Coursework covers management, finance, ethics, and entrepreneurship from a Christian worldview.

Christian Counseling

The Christian Counseling program prepares students to provide biblically grounded counseling in church, para-church, and private settings. Students study counseling theory, human development, and biblical principles of soul care, integrating psychology and theology.

Academics

Credit Information

Three ways students can earn academic credit at WBTS

Transfer Credit

Credit earned at other accredited institutions may be transferred to WBTS. Official transcripts must be submitted for evaluation. Transfer credit is accepted for courses with a grade of C or above that are equivalent to WBTS course offerings.

Course Completion

Credit is earned by successfully completing WBTS courses. Each course carries a specified number of credit hours based on the academic rigor and time commitment required.

Work/Life Experience

Students may earn credit for documented work and life experience that demonstrates college-level learning. This requires submission of a portfolio documenting the learning, which is evaluated by faculty. A fee is charged for portfolio evaluation.

Sample Plan

Sample Degree Plan

B.A. Biblical Studies — Four-Year Course Sequence

Freshman Year

Total Credit Hours: 30
Freshman Year – Fall Semester (September – December) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-105Old Testament Survey3
ENG-100Freshman English 13
BIB-106The OT Law and the Prophets3
GOV-115God and Government 13
Freshman Year – Spring Semester (January – April) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-110New Testament Survey3
ENG-200Freshman English 23
BIB-240The Book of Acts3
BIB-155OT History (Judges – 2 Chronicles)3
Freshman Year – Summer Semester (May – June) 6 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-150Words and Works of Jesus 13
BIB-165Church History 13

Sophomore Year

Total Credit Hours: 30
Sophomore Year – Fall Semester (September – December) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-250Words and Works of Jesus 23
BIB-220The NT Apostles and Prophets3
BIB-210OT Wisdom Literature and Poetry3
BIB-265Teaching the Bible3
Sophomore Year – Spring Semester (January – April) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-210Christian Ethics3
GOV-215God and Government 23
BIB-265Church History 23
ELE-200Elective – 200/300 Level OT Course3
Sophomore Year – Summer Semester (May – June) 6 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
HUM-245Christian Worldview3
ELE-300Elective – 200/300 NT Level Course3

Junior Year

Total Credit Hours: 30
Junior Year – Fall Semester (September – December) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-300Practical Ministries3
ELE-310Elective – 300 Level OT Course3
ELE-300Elective – 300 Level NT Course3
BIB-315The Effective Pastor3
Junior Year – Spring Semester (January – April) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
GOV-315God and Government 33
BIB-360Introduction to Helping Ministry3
BIB-380Church and Ministry Structure3
THE-395Systematic Theology 13
Junior Year – Summer Semester (May – June) 6 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-335Pastoral Care3
THE-495Systematic Theology 23

Senior Year

Total Credit Hours: 30
Senior Year – Fall Semester (September – December) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
BIB-420Pneumatology3
THE-460Hermeneutics3
ELE-400Elective – 400 Level Course3
THE-448Biblical Exegesis3
Senior Year – Spring Semester (January – April) 12 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
SIR-100Theological Research3
ELE-400Elective – 400 Level Course3
SIS-440Senior Paper3
ELE-400Elective – 400 Level Course3
Senior Year – Summer Semester (May – June) 6 credits
Course Code Course Title Credits
ELE-400Elective – 400 Level Course3
ELE-400Elective – 400 Level Course3
Complete Bachelor of Biblical Studies Degree Program
Total Credit Hours: 120

Note: This is a sample degree plan for illustrative purposes. Actual course offerings, sequences, and credit requirements may vary. Please consult the current academic catalog and your academic advisor for the most up-to-date information.

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