Off-campus programs require reference letters from applicants. Depending on the individual program, you may need to get references from several faculty members, pastors, student development officers, or some combination of these. Choose letter-writers carefully.
As a general rule, expect at least two weeks to complete a reference request. Many letter-writers, and faculty members in particular, will require more time than that.
Be sure to let the person writing your reference know about the submission deadline.