Criswell College to offer college credit for SWU

The SBTC’s Summer Worship University and The Criswell College have agreed to offer three credit hours for participation in SWU, the SBTC announced March 25.

“Students attending this year’s Summer Worship University now have an unbelievable opportunity,” said Ken Lasater, SBTC church ministry support associate. “To be able to gain three hours of college credit during an already wonderful week of summer camp is a tremendous perk. For the administration of The Criswell College to make the credit available for only $100 in addition to the regular SWU camp cost is completely unheard of. It is our hope and expectation that this partnership will continue in the future; but I would also expect this year’s rate of only $100 to be a one-time offer from Criswell.”

“The three-hour credit will be fully transferable to any accredited college or university in the nation”, said Doug Wood, associate professor of Christian education and worship leadership at The Criswell College. Wood will be involved during the week of camp, coordinating all aspects relating to the academic process. His efforts made the arrangement possible. The course title is “Applied Studies in Music and Drama Leadership.”

Summer Worship University 2004 will be held on the campus of the University of North Texas in Denton, July 12-18. Camp cost is $220. The total will only be $320 for the entire camp and college tuition for those electing to participate in Criswell’s offer.

Most comparable private colleges are charging $900 – $2400 for a three-hour class credit, Lasater noted. Criswell’s tuition is higher than what they are charging through the SWU, he said.

Unlike other student music camps, SWU seeks to train, equip, encourage and involve students in all aspects related to leading a church in worship. Emphases includes musical studies like choir, orchestra, praise bands and worship teams; dramatic studies like skits, pageants and street ministry; and technical media training in sound, lighting, recording and projection ministries.

In addition, students will be placed to lead worship services in local churches across the state at the conclusion of the camp. Students will also write original songs and skits during the week, and will participate in the SBTC’s annual Youth Evangelism Conference, July 16-17. The students will be trained and equipped with skills and tools to be put to use in their church, at the conclusion of camp, Lasater said.

Enrollment is open for students ninth grade through age 20. For more information, contact Lasater at kenl@sbtexas.com or call 972-953-0878.