Searching for a Bible school in Europe brings up very different things: three-year theology degrees, one-year residential schools, short discipleship courses and online programmes. They suit different people. Before comparing names and prices, it helps to decide which kind of school you are looking for.
The main kinds of Bible schools
A Bible college or seminary usually offers an accredited qualification in theology or ministry over two to four years. It is the right path if you want to teach, lead a church or study the Bible academically, and it often expects strong English or a local language.
A one-year Bible school focuses on studying the Bible book by book while living in community, usually without a degree at the end. Many people do one between school and university.
A discipleship school, such as a YWAM Discipleship Training School, is shorter and more practical. It spends a few months on teaching about God, character and calling, then sends students out to serve. It does not replace a theology degree, and it is designed to change how you live as much as what you know.
What to compare before you apply
- Purpose: what do you want to be able to do, or understand, when you finish?
- Language: can you follow the teaching comfortably, and is there support if you cannot?
- Recognition: does the school give a qualification you will need later, such as for further study or ordination?
- Total cost: fees, housing, food, travel and insurance, plus how long you will be without an income.
- Visas: many nationalities can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180 without a visa. Longer courses usually need a student visa, which can take months, so ask the school early.
- Community and practice: how much of the week is spent with people, in prayer and in real ministry?
Studying in Spain
Spain is a good place for a Bible school if you want a lower cost of living than much of northern Europe, a mild climate and the chance to learn Spanish. It is also a mission field: most Spaniards do not go to church, so faith is lived out where it is not assumed.
Granada adds something more. It sits between Europe and North Africa, was the last Muslim kingdom in Spain, and today has a large university and a visible Muslim community. For students who want to learn cross-cultural ministry, that context does a lot of the teaching.
Where our DTS fits
At YWAM Granada we run a Discipleship Training School, not a Bible college. It lasts about five months: twelve weeks of teaching at our base, taught in English and Spanish, then eight weeks of outreach. It is a course of the University of the Nations. International students come from many countries, and our team helps with practical things such as the letter of invitation for a visa application.
If you are looking for a degree in theology, we will tell you so and point you elsewhere. If you want a few months to know God more deeply, live in community and serve, a DTS may be what you are looking for.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between a Bible college and a DTS?
A Bible college usually gives an accredited theology qualification over several years. A Discipleship Training School lasts about five months, focuses on knowing God and on practical ministry, and includes an outreach phase.
Can international students study at a Bible school in Spain?
Yes. Many schools welcome international students. Check whether the teaching is in a language you speak, and ask early about visas if your course is longer than 90 days.
Is the YWAM Granada DTS taught in English?
Yes. Our DTS is taught in English and Spanish.
Do I need a visa for a DTS in Spain?
It depends on your nationality and the length of your stay. Our team will tell you what applies to you and can provide a letter of invitation.