Extension Division
Non-degree Programs offered by Beeson Divinity School
The Extension Division of Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School is a non-degree certificate program* of quality biblical, theological, and practical ministry courses that prepares and equips ministers and lay leaders for service in God's Kingdom. The courses are held in a variety of locations all over the state of Alabama. The instruction is led by qualified and experienced instructors and is biblically based, ecumenical, and administered with the highest integrity. The desired outcome of this program is transformed people who serve God in his kingdom with excellence, confidence, and kindness. Students can earn certificate credit based on the number of course hours that the individual has completed. Continuing education units (CEUs) are available upon request. Units of credit do not apply to a college degree, however there may be some schools who will award a small amount of college credit for these courses. For example, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, will award one hour of undergraduate college credit for each class taken in the Extension Division, up to 16 hours. However, each college will have to be contacted for its decision on whether to award any credit for these courses. Click here for current courses or center locations.
Interested in starting an Extension Institute in your area? Contact
Jim Pounds at 800.888.8266 or 205.726.2338.
The Lay Academy of Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School is a non-degree program that was planned specifically for Christians seeking a deeper understanding of God's Word, using the staff and facilities of Beeson Divinity School. A Lay Academy student can expect a class experience that is academically sound and challenging, yet shorter and less demanding. There will most likely be selected assigned readings to enhance the lectures, but no rigorous assignments or exams. No certificate is available, and all of the courses are non-college credit courses. CEUs are available upon request. Click here for more information.
Other Continuing Education Opportunities
Beeson Divinity School offers three annual lectureships:
- William E. Conger, Jr. Lectures on Biblical Preaching
- Biblical Studies Lectures
- Reformation Heritage Lectures
*Please Note:
Beeson Divinity School does not offer distance learning (classes on video, tapes, CDs, or online). We do have videos, CDs, and cassette tapes of some courses taught here at Beeson which are available and can be purchased by contacting our bookstore at 205.726.2286 or bsonbook@samford.edu. However, there is no college or non-college credit given for those courses. There is a History of Christianity video series also available for purchase, and Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are awarded for that series upon request.
About the Director:
James C. Pounds
Director of the Extension Division
B.S., Auburn University
M.Div., Beeson Divinity School, Samford University
Jim Pounds has been director of the Extension Division since 2000. He oversees adult Christian education at more than 30 sites throughout Alabama. Pounds coordinates Beeson Divinity School’s conferences and lecture series, as well as the Lay Academy of Theology, a continuing education program on the school’s campus for nondegree-seeking students. He maintains an active preaching and teaching ministry. Before joining the staff, he worked in the insurance industry for 14 years. He and his wife, Debra, have two children.
