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The College was developed to provide college-level training in Bible and theology for those who had little or no opportunity to receive such training by conventional means (resident, full-time). As a commuter college, this training is accomplished uniquely through our key distinctions: The biblical – curriculum is primarily focused on a biblical world view, based on scriptural truth, focusing on ministry preparation and life transformation. Diverse – students study and experience the education process with fellow students from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Accessible – courses are available during the day, evening, and Saturdays, and through alternative schedules to provide the CBS commuter college students an opportunity to "fit" their studies into their life schedules. Affordable – the cost of attendance is intentionally lower than other accredited private institutions, and financial aid is available to assist students in meeting their studies' financial requirements. The College of Biblical Studies-Houston provides biblically based education for the Body of Christ, with a primary focus on African-American and other ethnic minority groups, and equips its students with a biblical worldview for Christian service to the Church and the world. By 2020, the College of Biblical Studies-Houston will become the premier Bible college in Texas focused on transforming a diverse student body to serve Christ and impact families, churches, and communities to God's glory. The purpose of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness is to support the College in accomplishing its mission, goals, and objectives by collecting, analyzing, distributing, and presenting data and information for use in decision-making, policy formulation, budgeting, and planning. The Office is responsible for reporting data to internal and external entities, responding to diverse requests for information within the college community, and encouraging assessment throughout the College for continuous improvement, efficiency, and effectiveness. At CBS, we are committed to running our race with diligence and excellence by providing top-rated biblically-based education that transforms and equips our students for more excellent service to the Houston area, the Church, and the world. The CBS community wants its students to have hearts that are as soft as clay and minds that are as sharp as razors. For the Christian, everything that is done is done for the glory of God. He gives everything, including education, meaning, and purpose. There are more than 42,000 volumes and over 150 hard copy journals, periodicals, and newspapers available for use to support CBS's academic programs, meet its educational objectives, and aid in additional research. Also, CBS has extensive access to many databases with thousands of full-text journals, magazines, and downloadable e-books. The library has a computer lab with over 35 computer terminals outfitted with Microsoft Office, and there are 5 study rooms with A/V equipment in each room (6-10 people capacity). Also, the library and main building have Wi-Fi connectivity available to students. The library is for CBS students, faculty, and staff. Students should follow the instructions of the library staff and posted procedures for usage. Financial aid is any form of assistance that comes from some organized body that assists a student with attending College costs. These forms consist of federal, state, institutional, and private funds used to assist students in funding their education. Scholarships and grants are "free money "that you do not pay back; however, loans are considered self-help and you are required to pay them back when a student becomes enrolled less than half-time or graduates. When you seek aid, we will consider you for all forms of aid available. We are dedicated to our student's success through the services and organizations that are offered. We desire that you find a place of comfort within CBS that will help you to further your relationships with God and one another. The College of Biblical Studies–Houston (CBS), formerly Houston Bible Institute (HBI), began as a burden in the heart of the late Rev. Ernest L. Mays, the founder of HBI. He sensed that large segments of the local Christian community were functioning without trained leaders. This was especially true within the inner-city minority groups. Out of this concern, Houston Bible & Vocational Institute was incorporated in 1976. Mr. William Thomas, Jr. and Rev. Joe Wall assisted in developing a multi-racial, interdenominational board, which began working to make the school a reality. Within a short time, a decision was made to focus on biblical and theological training because they felt that there were already adequate vocational training resources in the area. In the fall of 1979, the first classes of Houston Bible Institute were offered. Rev. Rodney L. Cooper was the school's first Executive Director. From its inception, the school used the facilities of KHCB-FM, a Houston-based Christian radio network, for its classrooms, and leased administrative space nearby. In 1983, Rev. Rod Cooper resigned to pursue a Ph. D. The board promoted Rev. Jack Arrington, then Vice President, to President. President Arrington continued the difficult task of building the foundation and establishing credibility in the minority community. View full university