Starting June 15, a 13-week online course entitled "The Baha'i Faith: A Comprehensive Introduction" will be offered by the Wilmette Institute, an educational agency of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States.

The course covers the Faith's Islamic origin; the lives of the faith's central figures: the Bab, Baha'u'llah, Abdu'l-Baha and Shoghi Effendi; Baha'i teachings, administration and community; and the Baha'i Faith today.

Participants should expect to devote about five hours a week to the course. "If they don't have the time, they can do three hours a week for five months," says Robert Stockman, director of the Wilmette Institute.

The course, which won't be offered again until June 2009, uses an online discussion-board format, on which participants post answers and comments. After completing coursework and a learning self-assessment form, participants receive a certificate of completion.

Registration fee is $50; $40 for seniors and students. Financial aid is available.

The Wilmette Institute was established in 1995 to provide high-quality courses on the Baha'i Faith. The institute offers 15-20 courses each year to approximately 400 participants from the United States, Canada and 28 other countries.

Upcoming courses include those on the history and writings of the Baha'i Faith, and on world religions.

To register for the June 15 introductory course, or for more information, visit the Wilmette Institute or call 877-945-6388.