Student Handbook
Preparing Tomorrow’s Christian Leaders
Set your sights on a deeper relationship with christ.
Thomas offers programs that go from a Diploma thru a Doctor of Ministry. No matter what God has put before you and your Christian education Thomas can help you fulfill it.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate, students must:
• Complete required credits
• Maintain GPA requirements
• Complete ministry formation components
• Satisfy all financial obligations
Grading Scale
A = Excellent
B = Good
C = Satisfactory
D = Marginal
F = Failing
Professors may define assignment-specific rubrics.
A 100 – 94%
A- 93 – 90%
B+ 89 – 87%
B 86 – 84%
B- 83 – 80%
C+ 79 – 77%
C 76 – 74%
C- 73 – 70%
F 60% under
Academic Integrity
Academic dishonesty violates Christian character and seminary standards. Violations include:
• Plagiarism (copying text from books or websites without citation)
• Unauthorized collaboration
• Submitting another person’s work
• Fabricating data or sources
Consequences:
1st Offense: Failing grade on assignment
2nd Offense: Course failure
3rd Offense: Academic suspension or dismissal
Attendance Policy
Students must attend at least 75% of all scheduled class sessions. Excessive absences may result in failure of the course unless extraordinary circumstances are documented and approved. For online classes (Zoom) students are expected to show themselves during class. Failure to do so without prior consent of the instructor will result in a diminished grade as set forth in the instructor's syllabus.
Counseling & Pastoral Care
Students may request pastoral counseling for spiritual, academic, or personal concerns. The confidentiality of all counseling sessions is maintained except in matters involving safety or legal obligations.
Distance Learning Policy
Online students must participate actively in synchronous and asynchronous components. Student identity is verified through login credentials and assignment authentication procedures. Also refer to the Attendance Policy above.
Harassment & Non-Discrimination Policy
Thomas prohibits harassment or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, disability, or age. Biblical ethics define our policies regarding gender, sexuality, and conduct.
Spiritual Life Expectations
Thomas emphasizes spiritual formation alongside academics. Students are expected to:
• Maintain personal devotional habits
• Participate in weekly worship
• Engage in discipleship relationships
• Attend chapel (if on campus)
Student Conduct & Discipline
Discipline aims at restoration. The process includes:
1. Informal resolution
2. Written warning
3. Hearing with the Academic Dean
4. Disciplinary action, suspension, or dismissal
Serious misconduct may bypass earlier steps.
Technology Use Policy
Technology is to be used responsibly and ethically. Prohibited actions include:
• Illegal downloading
• Sharing copyrighted materials
• Misuse of the seminary School Management System (SMS) or portals
• Participation on social media that is not in keeping with the school’s foundational theological mission and adherence to scripture.
Writing Standards
All written assignments must follow one of the approved formats:
• Turabian
• SBL Handbook
• Chicago Manual of Style
• APA Style
Assignments must include accurate citations and a bibliography. Instructors expect assignments and exams to reflect the student’s understanding and personal reflections in addition to direct answers.