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EMT Student Book

6. SECTION 6 – ACADEMIC POLICIES & PROCEDURES

6.1 Purpose of Academic Policy

Academic policy at Everlight Ministry of Theology (EMT) ensures that all learning and assessment are conducted with excellence, fairness, and integrity consistent with biblical principles.

These policies guide the student’s academic journey from enrollment to graduation, providing clear expectations for conduct, coursework, evaluation, and communication.
Every EMT student is expected to uphold both the academic standards of scholarship and the spiritual standards of Christian discipleship.

6.2 Academic Integrity

6.2.1 Commitment to Honesty

Academic integrity is the foundation of theological education.
Students are expected to demonstrate truthfulness and originality in all academic work. Any act of dishonesty, plagiarism, or falsification undermines both personal character and the credibility of the Institute.

6.2.2 Definition of Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the presentation of another person’s words, ideas, or data as one’s own without proper citation. This includes:

  • Copying text or paraphrasing without acknowledgment
  • Submitting work produced by another student or AI system as original
  • Using materials (books, websites, sermons, or papers) without source credit

6.2.3 Plagiarism Detection

All essays, projects, and theses are subject to plagiarism verification using Scribbr, PaperOwl, or equivalent similarity tools.
A similarity index above 15% will require faculty review and possible resubmission.

6.2.4 Consequences of Academic Misconduct

Violations of academic integrity will result in:

  1. First Offense: Written warning and required resubmission.
  2. Second Offense: Zero credit for the assignment and probation.
  3. Third Offense: Administrative withdrawal or dismissal.

Serious or intentional plagiarism may result in immediate dismissal from the Institute.

6.3 Academic Evaluation and Grading System

Though EMT operates a tuition-free model, it maintains high academic rigor equivalent to accredited graduate institutions.
Student work is evaluated holistically, emphasizing comprehension, critical thinking, theological accuracy, and clarity of writing.

Grade Equivalent

Performance Level

Description

A (Excellent)

90–100%

Outstanding theological understanding, critical insight, and originality.

B (Good)

80–89%

Solid comprehension and clear articulation of biblical and theological themes.

C (Satisfactory)

70–79%

Adequate understanding; minor analytical or writing weaknesses.

D (Marginal)

60–69%

Insufficient depth or clarity; needs major improvement.

F (Failing)

Below 60%

Incomplete, plagiarized, or inadequate work.

In Moodle, these may be simplified as “Pass,” “Resubmit,” or “Fail” to emphasize formative feedback and mastery learning.

6.4 Academic Progress

6.4.1 Course Completion

Each course must be completed within its assigned term. Students unable to finish on time should request an extension (see 5.5).

6.4.2 Satisfactory Progress

Students are expected to complete at least one module every six months. Failure to demonstrate progress for one year may result in inactive status.

6.4.3 Academic Probation

Students who fail to maintain satisfactory performance will be placed on probation for one term, during which improvement must be demonstrated. Continued deficiency may result in dismissal.

6.5 Extensions and Incomplete Work

Students experiencing illness, family crisis, or ministry hardship may request an extension from the course instructor or Academic Dean.

  • Requests must be submitted in writing before the due date.
  • Approved extensions typically grant up to 30 additional days.
  • Work not submitted after the extension expires may receive a failing grade or course reset.

Incomplete grades are granted only under exceptional circumstances and must be resolved within the following term.

6.6 Attendance and Participation

Because EMT operates primarily online, attendance is measured by engagement, not physical presence.
Students demonstrate attendance by:

  • Submitting assignments and essays on time
  • Participating in discussion forums or reflections
  • Logging into Moodle regularly

Inactive students (no activity for 60 days) will receive a warning; those inactive for 120 days may be administratively withdrawn.

6.7 Academic Communication and Feedback

Students are encouraged to maintain open, respectful communication with instructors and administrators.
Faculty will provide written feedback on essays and research assignments within 10–14 days of submission.

Communication standards:

  • Professional tone in all Moodle messages and emails
  • No use of offensive or divisive language
  • Respect for differing theological views expressed in love (Ephesians 4:15)

6.8 Appeals and Grievances

6.8.1 Grade Appeals

A student who believes a grade was unfair may submit a written appeal to the Academic Dean within 14 days of grade posting.
The appeal must include:

  • The specific assignment and grade in question
  • A written rationale explaining the concern
  • Any supporting documentation

The Dean will review the appeal, consult the instructor, and issue a decision within 14 days.
All decisions are final.

6.8.2 Academic or Conduct Grievances

For issues related to faculty conduct, discrimination, or procedural fairness, students may file a Formal Grievance Form.
The complaint will be reviewed confidentially by the Dean or President within 30 days.
EMT seeks reconciliation and resolution in accordance with Matthew 18:15–17 and professional ethical standards.

6.9 Academic Records and Transcripts

  • All grades and student records are stored securely in EMT’s administrative database.
  • Students may request an official digital transcript via the Registrar after completing coursework.
  • Transcripts are provided free of charge to active students; alumni may request additional copies for a small administrative fee.
  • EMT maintains permanent digital archives of student records in compliance with FERPA-equivalent confidentiality standards.

6.10 Academic Advising and Mentoring

Each student is assigned an Academic Advisor or Faculty Mentor to guide their spiritual and academic journey.
Advisors assist with:

  • Course sequencing and time management
  • Research and writing guidance
  • Ministry application of learning outcomes
  • Prayer and spiritual encouragement

Students are encouraged to communicate regularly with their advisor through Moodle or email.

6.11 Research and Writing Standards

All academic writing at EMT must follow professional citation guidelines, either APA (7th Edition) or Turabian/Chicago format.
Students are expected to:

  • Cite Scripture consistently (e.g., John 3:16, NIV).
  • Include full bibliographies for all academic sources.
  • Use inclusive and respectful language in theological discussion.
  • Submit polished work demonstrating care and excellence as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23).

6.12 Intellectual Property and Academic Use

All materials produced for EMT courses—including essays, reflections, and projects—remain the intellectual property of the student but may be archived for academic review or institutional quality assessment.
Course materials, lectures, and digital content remain the property of EMT and may not be reproduced without permission.

6.13 Academic Recognition and Honors

To acknowledge outstanding achievement, EMT may confer distinctions such as:

  • Honors Graduate (Cum Laude) – Consistent excellence in all modules
  • Excellence in Research Award – Superior capstone thesis or project
  • Servant Leader Award – Demonstrated Christian character and ministry service

Awards are listed on final transcripts and certificates.

6.14 Dismissal and Withdrawal

Students may be dismissed for:

  • Persistent academic failure
  • Violation of the Code of Conduct
  • Academic dishonesty or plagiarism
  • Extended inactivity

Voluntary withdrawal must be requested in writing and confirmed by the Registrar.
Students withdrawing in good standing may reapply for readmission (see §3.9).

6.15 Summary Statement

Academic excellence at EMT is not merely about grades — it is about integrity, discipline, and faithfulness to one’s calling.
Every essay, reflection, and thesis is an act of worship when done in truth and diligence.
“Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed” (2 Timothy 2:15).