Contact: Steve Hunt, Vice President for Marketing, 503-375-7591, shunt@corban.edu; Matt Lucas, Provost/Executive Vice President, 503-589-8166, mlucas@corban.edu; both with Corban University

SALEM, Ore., Dec. 3, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- Starting in the fall of 2014, Corban University of Salem, Ore. and Mars Hill Church will offer a 24-credit Bible certificate at the Mars Hill Bellevue, Wash. location. Classes are slated to begin in the fall of 2014.

The curriculum will include Bible and Theology Foundation, Ministry Skills Foundation, Introduction to Bible, Introduction to Theology, Christian Worldview and Apologetics, Biblical Spiritual Formation, Gospels, Bible Study Methods.

"We are anticipating a great, ongoing relationship with Mars Hill Church, pending approval of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities," said Corban Provost Matt Lucas. "This certificate is not included under Corban University's accreditation until NWCCU approves the program."

Mars Hill Church began in 1996 as a Bible study in the Wallingford, Wash. home of Mark and Grace Driscoll just north of Seattle. Today, the congregation is distributed across 15 locations in five different states, reaching millions around the world through a robust outward-facing ministry that includes podcasts, music, events, and websites like theResurgence.com. Mars Hill has been named one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in America, as well as one of the most innovative. Driscoll's sermons are viewed millions of times per year online and regularly rank number 1 on iTunes podcast charts.

"I am enthusiastic and optimistic about Corban University's partnership with Mars Hill Church," said Sheldon C. Nord, president of Corban University. "It is consistent with our strong desire to be 'Christian thought leaders' -- a leading voice on cultural, philosophical and academic issues, with a commitment to raise up future leaders who will champion the cause of Christ in their respective disciplines."

Corban University is an independent Christian university with two campuses and international partnerships in Indonesia, Australia, Germany and Cameroon. It offers more than 50 majors and programs of study including professional, liberal arts, and ministries. Along with traditional and adult degree completion programs at the undergraduate level, Corban offers graduate teacher licensure programs and graduate degrees in education, business, ministry and counseling.