Contact: Lyn Perez, Reformed Theological Seminary, 407-366-9493

CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 10, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- Until recently, RTS offered one online degree, the Master of Arts (Religion). Now RTS will offer three, fully online-degrees: the Master of Arts (Biblical Studies), the Master of Arts (Theological Studies), and the Master of Arts (Religion). In addition, RTS will now offer a significant percentage of the Master of Divinity degree online. MDiv students can now take up to 67% of their courses via distance education.

RTS is committed to residential theological education. However, as our world continues to grow and change, RTS is also committed to providing alternative educational models. These more flexible options allow students with work and travel restrictions to experience Reformed graduate theological education. These changes will take place on June 1, 2013.

RTS is responding to the needs of non-residential students worldwide by making some significant changes to its Virtual campus and its operations. The Virtual campus will now become two groups -- RTS Global Education (US and International) and RTS Distance Education department. Dr. Andy Peterson, current president of RTS Virtual, will now head up RTS Global which will offer the MABS, MATS, and MAR degree programs to non-residential students. RTS Global President Andy Peterson (pictured above) said, "We pray that these new theological degrees and the increased use of distance learning and local mentoring will be important for the advancement of the global Kingdom. And we are looking for new strategic relationships with churches and Christian schools around the world."

The new RTS Distance Education department, will be headed by Executive Director David John, who has been director of media for RTS Virtual. The Distance Education department will serve both residential and non-residential students taking online courses as part of their degree program.

More information will be forthcoming about these exciting changes.