Policies and Procedures are important because they assist a school in creating standards for learning and for accountability. Without policies and procedures, our school would lack the structure needed to provide quality education to our students.
Please read the Policies and Procedures of Ruach School of Theology as it is our desire that you get the most out of your theological educational experience.
1. Academic Integrity Policy
Ruach School of Theology requires students to exhibit personal integrity and high ethical standards. Academic honesty is expected of every student involved in each academic program. Therefore, unless other sources are appropriately indicated, all material which a student offers for a course must represent only his or her own work. Claiming the work of others as one’s own or falsifying materials (e.g., term papers, exams, or reports) can result in failure for the specific assignment or the entire course, as well as suspension or expulsion from the degree program.
2. Academic Program Policy
RSOT is designed for Christians who want to learn the Bible and live out the teachings of Jesus Christ and we are committed to providing higher education. Our concern for academic excellence emanates from the belief that Christian higher education should be superior, not inferior, to that provided by other colleges and universities. Therefore, every effort is made to provide the academic excellence worthy of a school dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ and necessary for the education of those preparing for service to Him in the days to come. The academic programs we offer are built on the fundamentals of the Christian faith but recognize the diversity that exists among believers who accept the Bible as the inerrant, infallible, and inspired Word of God, and Christ Jesus as the only Savior.
In cases where students already have bible college credit or Theology degrees, their transcripts will be evaluated to determine what, if any, courses are eligible for substitution under the current degree plan and graduation requirements. To ensure appropriate student placement, after transcript evaluation and transfer of proper credit, a degree plan will be developed for students to ensure they meet all graduation requirements.
The RSOT academic degree programs are set up ideally for a student who enrolls at the Diploma of Biblical Studies level and continues on through completion of the Doctor of Theology Degree program. Cumulatively from start to finish, the student would earn 240 credit hours.
Diploma of Biblical Studies
This is an entry-level diploma program that focuses on Systematic Theology, any study that answers the question, “What does the whole Bible teach us today?” on a given topic. The Diploma of Biblical Studies is a 10-course study of Christian doctrine that lays a solid biblical foundation to help Christians know WHO they believe, WHAT they believe, and WHY they believe it. Upon successful completion, the student will receive a diploma with 30 credit hours that can be used toward an Associate degree in Year 2.
Admission Requirements
Completion of enrollment application.
Course Requirements
The Diploma of Biblical Studies is a 30 credit-hour degree.
Associate of Theology Degree (ATh)
This second-year degree plan builds upon year one, Diploma of Biblical Studies. Courses in the Associate of Theology Degree program will allow the student to gain 1) a deeper understanding of the Word of God; 2) the knowledge and skills to mature in their walk with God while applying sound biblical principles to their daily lives; and 3) increase their knowledge of basic foundational studies of biblical history and theology. This degree plan builds the groundwork for the Bachelor of Theology program.
Admission Requirements
The applicant must present evidence of completion of a high school diploma or GED.
Course Requirements
The Associate of Theology is a 60 credit-hour degree.
Bachelor of Theology (BTh)
A Bachelor of Theology focuses on biblical theology. The student will begin an intense study in the New Testament while at the same time building his/her study library. In addition to standard homework, this is an interactive class where students are given opportunity to share what they learned through writing, exhorting, teaching, etc. enabling them to“Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Tim. 2:15)
Admission Requirements
The applicant must provide evidence of completion of a high school diploma or GED, transcripts, and other approved theological degree or courses.
Course Requirements
The Bachelor of Theology degree requires 120 cumulative credit hours.
Master of Theology (MTh)
A Master of Theology degree focuses on leadership, and historical and biblical theology. The degree program is designed to provide a theological foundation for ministerial service. Such graduate study aims at preparing students for further study at the doctoral level, and other specialized ministries within the Christian community.
Admission Requirements
The applicant must provide evidence of a Bachelor of Theology Degree or other approved theological degree or courses.
Course Requirements
The Master of Theology degree requires 180 cumulative credit hours.
Master of Theology Degree Thesis Requirements
- A 25-page Thesis is required for this degree plan.
- Thesis topics will be given to the students by the Dean in the Spring Semester of their proposed graduation year.
- Presentation and defense of the student’s thesis is not required.
- The thesis submission deadline is May 1st of the student’s proposed graduation year.
- Once submitted, the thesis becomes the property of RSOT.
- The student is encouraged to cite all sources, as plagiarism of any material is not acceptable and may result in a failing grade. A minimum of 5 sources is required.
Doctor of Theology Degree (ThD)
Through cumulative study, the Doctor of Theology degree program focuses on historical, biblical, systematic, Soteriology (the study of Salvation), Ecclesiology (the study of the Church) and Eschatology (the study of last things or end times) theology. This degree plan is designed to provide a sound theological foundation for ministerial service.
Admission Requirements
Master of Theology Degree or other approved theological degrees and courses.
Course Requirements
The Doctor of Theology degree requires 240 cumulative credit hours.
Doctor of Theology Degree Thesis Requirement
- A 75-page Thesis is required for this degree plan.
- Presentation before the RSOT Core Team is required.
- Thesis topics will be given to the students by the Dean in the Spring of their proposed graduation year.
- The completed thesis is due by May 1st of the student’s graduation year.
- Once submitted and approved, the thesis becomes the property of RSOT.
- The student is encouraged to cite all sources, as plagiarism of any material is not acceptable and may result in a failing grade. A minimum of 10 sources is required.
Certified Christian Counselor Program
The RSOT has partnered with the International Institute of Faith-Based Counseling (IIFBC) to offer the Certified Christian Counselor program that takes the student from the foundations in Christian Counseling through Advanced Christian Counseling, equipping him/her to offer formal counseling through their church or to the public as a ministry. The student will learn the different forms of counseling and how to incorporate counseling on a three-fold approach of spirit, soul, and body.
Admission Requirements
Completion of enrollment application and payment of applicable fee.
Course Requirement
A grade of 85% is considered passing for each of the open book exams/assignments.
3. Class Attendance Policy
The Ruach School of Theology believes that regular class attendance and participation is essential for the enrichment of a student’s academic experience. Since excessive absences will hinder learning, the RSOT faculty has established certain guidelines regarding class attendance.
- Regular attendance and participation are required of all students.
- Absences must be cleared with the instructor of that class and must be made up or excused at the discretion of the instructor.
- Unexcused Absences will result in the lowering of the final grade by one letter; e.g., a grade of A will automatically become a B.
Class Days and Time
The school year consists of two semesters: Fall (August to December) and Spring (January to May). Virtual classes are held two nights per month from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. However, Bridge and Dual Degree program classes meet four nights per month. There is also an additional night of class for follow-up; the day/time is determined by the instructor. The class schedule is listed below:
| 1st Monday and Tuesday | Certified Christian Counselor Program |
| 2nd Monday and Tuesday | Diploma in Biblical Studies Associate of Theology Bachelor of Theology Bachelor/Master Bridge and Dual Degree Programs Master/Doctor Bridge Program |
| 3rd Monday and Tuesday | Bachelor of Theology II (Pastors & Ministers) Master of Theology Bachelor/Master Bridge and Dual Degree Programs Master/Doctor Bridge and Dual Degree Programs |
| 4th Monday and Tuesday | Doctor of Theology Master/Doctor Bridge and Dual Degree Programs |
4. Course Structure
Each course structure will consist of a virtual class format by video conferencing, teleconferencing or a combination of the two, group participation, homework, and individual and group assignments, etc. as deemed by the instructor. Students will be sent a zoom link for each class. Onsite, in-person classes are not being held at this time. All examinations and papers must be the student’s own work and will be submitted according to the instructor’s instructions. Plagiarism, the representation of another’s work as one’s own, is not permitted and gives grounds for failing the course. After the completion of each course, the student will receive 3 credit hours.
5. Dismissal Policy
RSOT reserves the right at any time to place on probation, suspend or dismiss a student whose academic standing, financial obligations, payment plans, progress, or conduct is not deemed satisfactory by the board of directors.
The faculty may suspend or dismiss any student for reasons including, but not limited to, unsatisfactory academic performance, academic dishonesty, or conduct unbecoming to the Christian community. All such actions shall be recorded in the faculty minutes with a
statement of the reason(s). A student dismissed prior to the completion of an academic term will receive a grade of “F” in the course(s) in which she or he is enrolled, depending on the circumstances of the dismissal.
Possible grounds for dismissal shall include, but shall NOT be limited to:
- Academic misconduct including, but not limited to, plagiarism or cheating;
- Giving false statements orally or in writing including, but not limited to, one’s application for admission or registration or altering records;
- Fighting; abusive or vulgar language;
- Theft of RSOT property;
- Violation of RSOT academic regulations and policies;
- Disrespect toward another student and/or a RSOT employee;
- Failure to comply to the policies and procedures of RSOT; and
- Non-payment of tuition
6. Fast-Track Bridge Program Policy
For students with secular degrees, RSOT’s Bridge Program (BP) provides an opportunity to transfer college credit equivalents toward the completion of a RSOT degree in Theology. Typically, a potential BP student already holds a college degree in a field of study other than Theology and is seeking advancement in their academic experience by obtaining a degree in Theology. This program allows the student to “fast-track” and earn an additional 30 credit hours in their first year of enrollment. The BP program will help to “bridge” the gap of non-theology degree program students who now choose to pursue an additional life-changing experience through obtaining a Theology degree. An official transcript must be submitted and reviewed for admission into the Bridge Program. This is a 2-year customized degree program.
7. Fast-Track Dual Degree Program Policy
For new and existing students, Ruach School of Theology’s Fast-Track Dual Degree Program provides an opportunity to dually enroll in degree programs. A student with an Associate of Theology or other theological degree can dually enroll to earn both their Bachelor’s and Master’s degree by completing the required courses. Or, a student with their Bachelor of Theology or other theological degree can dually enroll to earn their Master’s and Doctor’s degree by completing the required courses. Students can complete each dual degree program in 2-3 years, respectively. A customized degree plan will be developed for dually enrolled students.
8. Financial Policy
Tuition and Fees
Tuition may be paid in full at the beginning of each school year or each semester. Payments made monthly are due by the 5th day of each month. Books are purchased separately at the beginning of each school year or each semester. Tuition and fees are listed below:
Registration fee of $50.00 due when enrollment application is submitted
| Diploma of Biblical Studies | $1,400 ($140/month) |
| Associate of Theology Degree | $1,500 ($150/month) |
| Bachelor of Theology Degree | $3,200 ($160/month) |
| Master of Theology | $3,400 ($170/month) |
| Doctor of Theology | $3,600 ($180/month) |
| Non-degree classes | $107 per class |
Bridge and Dual Degrees:
| Bachelor/Master | $250 per month (other payment options available) |
| Master/Doctorate | $265 per month (other payment options available) |
Other payment options are available.
| Certificate Program | |
|---|---|
| Certified Christian Counselor | $360.00 |
| Registration Fee | $ 50.00 |
| Annual Certification Fee | $ 50.00 |
| Includes textbooks |
| Diploma of Biblical Studies | $ 175.00 |
| Associate of Theology Degree | $ 175.00 |
| Bachelor of Theology Degree | $ 200.00 |
| Master of Theology Degree | $225.00 |
| Doctor of Theology Degree | $350.00 |
Tuition and fees are subject to change at the discretion of the RSOT.
Monthly Payment Plan
Tuition is due by the 5th of each month and may be paid by credit card, cash, check, cashier’s check, money order, Cash App or PayPal, plus any applicable processing fees. Other payment plans are available for the bridge and dual degree programs. Please contact the registrar for more information.
If a student cannot pay by the 5th OR does not pay by the 5th OR does not notify the registrar BEFORE his/her scheduled class night, the student’s instructor will be notified with a request that the student not receive the zoom or conference call link to participate in class for that month. To avoid this action, simply notify the registrar if you are not able to pay your tuition by the 5th of the month and make other arrangements BEFORE your class night.
Students will not be allowed to participate in the next scheduled class if tuition and books are not paid for the previous month’s class. We will not carry over a balance from month to month without making prior arrangements with the Registrar.
Spousal Discount
A spousal discount is for husbands and wives who wish to attend RSOT during the same time frame. Fees will be charged at the full monthly rate to the spouse that is in the higher-level degree program. The spouse in the lower or same degree program will receive a 50% discount on tuition only. This discount does not apply to fees such as registration, graduation, or books. The following restrictions apply to the spousal discount:
- The spousal discount plan is effective only if the tuition discounted spouse enrolls in the program within 30 days of the enrollment of the paying spouse.
- If a paying spouse withdraws from the school, the tuition discounted spouse must also withdraw or convert to a paid program.
Unpaid/Past Due Accounts
No information will be released for accounts that are in poor standing. To remain in good standing, a student must simply be current on all payments to RSOT. Those not in good standing are not eligible for transcripts, degrees, grade reports, etc. Late fees may be assessed to the student’s account.
Returned Checks
A student will be charged $25.00 for each check returned due to insufficient funds.
Scholarships and Tuition Assistance
We currently do not have funds for scholarships and tuition assistance.
Student Loans or Financial Aid
The RSOT does not participate in Federal or State Student Loan Programs or Financial Aid. Students are responsible for the means to pay their tuition.
9. Grading Policy
| Grade Rank | Percent Range | Grade Points per Semester Hour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Excellent | 90-100 | 4 |
| B | Above average | 80-89 | 3 |
| C | Average | 70-79 | 2 |
| D | Passing | 60-69 | 1 |
| F | Failure Below | 59 | 0 |
| W | Withdrawal | Withdrawal within two weeks of the beginning semester. |
|
Grade Appeal Process
If a student feels that there is an error on his grade report, he/she must begin the appeal process within thirty days of receiving the grade report. After thirty days the grade is considered final and is not subject to appeal by the student or any third party.
RSOT is not responsible for lost tests, projects, etc. Please be sure to make a copy of all material prior to submitting material to RSOT for grading or evaluation.
10. Graduation Policy
Ruach School of Theology reserves the right to alter graduation requirements when it is decided that such changes are necessary. Normally a student is graduated according to the stated requirements at the time of admission unless attendance has not been continuous. In case of readmission, requirements at the time of readmission must be met.
Students who apply for graduation must have also submitted a high school diploma or GED transcript along with college applicable transcripts. Credits at RSOT will not be filed officially until this is done.
Graduation Requirements:
Diploma of Biblical Studies
Before graduating with a Diploma in Biblical Studies, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete at least 30 semester credit hours.
- Complete all required coursework, essays, homework, and exams for the Diploma Program.
- Have at least a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
- Complete the RSOT Graduation Application.
- Pay the required graduation fee of $150.00.
Associate of Theology Degree
Before graduating with an Associate of Theology Degree, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete at least 60 semester credit hours.
- Complete all required coursework, essays, homework, and exams for the Associate of Theology Degree Program.
- Have at least a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
- Complete the RSOT Graduation Application.
- Pay the required graduation fee of $150.00.
Bachelor of Theology Degree
Before graduating with a Bachelor of Theology Degree, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete at least 120 semester credit hours.
- Complete all required coursework, essays, homework, and exams for the Bachelor of Theology Degree Program.
- Have at least a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
- Complete the Ruach School of Theology Graduation Application.
- Pay the required graduation fee of $175.00.
Master of Theology Degree
Before graduating with a Master of Theology Degree, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete at least 180 cumulative semester credit hours.
- Complete all required coursework, essays, thesis, homework, and exams for the Master of Theology Degree Program.
- Have at least a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
- Complete the Ruach School of Theology Graduation Application.
- Pay the required graduation fee of $200.00
Doctor of Theology Degree
Before graduating with a Doctor of Theology Degree, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete at least 240 cumulative semester credit hours.
- Complete all required coursework, essays, thesis, homework, and exams for the Doctor of Theology Degree Program.
- Have at least a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
- Complete the Ruach School of Theology Graduation Application.
- Pay the required graduation fee of $325.00
Graduation Approval
The Office of the Registrar must approve all candidates applying for graduation. Contact the Office of the Registrar to apply for graduation. All academic program requirements and financial obligations must be met before any certificate, diploma, or degree will be awarded.
11. Library Policy
Library
The RSOT Library is on the school campus and may be used by all students, faculty members, staff and alumni.
Library Hours
The library will be open by special arrangement.
Library Circulation
No book, record, tape, video, etc. is to leave the library for any reason without first being checked out. Books may be checked out for two weeks and renewed for two weeks. There will be a charge of $1.00 per day (Monday thru Sunday) for all overdue material. If available, CDs, DVDs and other videos may circulate for two weeks only without benefit of renewal. If library materials are damaged beyond use or are lost, the patron will be charged the amount needed to replace the item. Individuals using copyrighted materials must abide by the copyright laws.
12. Non-Discrimination Policy
Ruach School of Theology does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, disability, age or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and other student-administered programs.
13. Non-Degree Programs Policy
Students may attend RSOT and not receive a degree. These students will be required to complete an application and pay the required registration and tuition fee per class. A certificate of completion will be given at the end of each approved class; however, the student will not be allowed to participate in graduation. Should the student later decide to enroll in a degreed program, approved classes will be credited to their transcript after the difference in tuition fees are paid in full for that degree plan and all testing/homework scores are recorded.
14. Student Rights & Grievances Policy
Scope and Purpose
Introduction
Students have the right to appeal decisions that affect them. Ruach School of Theology seeks to establish policies and implement practices that minimize the need for any person to report any type of grievance. However, recognizing that it is not possible to establish or administrate policies and procedures that serve all students in ways they perceive as equitable, these policies and processes are established.
Objective
- The student shall be treated respectfully throughout all grievance processes.
- The matter shall be resolved as quickly as possible, at the most accessible administrative level, with minimal disruption to educational progress, and without negative consequences for any party.
- The filing of a grievance should not, by itself, delay fulfillment of a RSOT student’s academic goals or bias RSOT against that student.
- The processes shall lead to an outcome that is fair to all parties.
- The outcome shall be within the mission of the Institution and without dilution of its educational standards, and not diminish the student’s educational experience.
Processes for Resolution
General Guidelines
- Recognizing that the root of many grievances is lack of information, upon considering filing a grievance the student is urged to immediately review relevant requirements and expectations by consulting the catalog and the course syllabus.
- When voice communication with a faculty member or RSOT Administration is available, it should be used first. Voice communication may be used within the process of Informal or Formal Resolution, but only written communication shall be considered binding.
- Time is of the essence. All complaints must be filed within 30 calendar days after the incident being grieved occurred. A response to the complaint must be filed within 15 working days. Timelines may be adjusted if there are compelling reasons for delay.
Informal Resolution
- The student initiates written communication with the faculty member of a RSOT staff member. This is to include:
- a. A clear description of the perceived irregularity or injustice.
- b. The basis by which that judgment is made.
- c. A proposed resolution.
- The RSOT party responds.
- If the student is not satisfied with the response, the student may request review of the pertinent communication by the RSOT party’s immediate administrative overseer, with ruling by that person.
- If all avenues of settling any grievances are exhausted, the student must then request a meeting with the president, faculty, and staff.
- a. At this time the President, faculty, and staff will review with the student, the grievance/s along with the policies and procedures given the student upon admission to determine how the grievance/s will be settled with the best interest of the student and the school in mind.
- b. Ruach School of Theology will go above and beyond to settle any grievances.
If students are unable to resolve a complaint through Ruach School of Theology‘s grievance procedures, they may submit the complaint to admin@ruachschooloftheology.com
or
to the following mailing address:
Ruach School of Theology
c/o Student Complaints
1700 Imhoff Avenue
Port Arthur, TX 77642
15. Students With Disabilities Policy
Ruach School of Theology does not discriminate against applicants/students on the basis of an applicant/student’s disability(ies) as set forth in our Guidelines.
16. Transfer of Credits Policy
The Ruach School of Theology will accept transfer credits from accredited institutions and will include those credit hours on the student’s final transcript upon graduation, if requested. Theology and other religious courses from accredited institutions will be transferred at 100% after review of the student’s official transcript. Each student’s transcript will be evaluated to determine if any classes may be substituted for the courses required for graduation. It should be understood that the student’s GPA on any and all transfer credit hours is not calculated into the overall GPA of the RSOT.
17. Withdrawal and Refund Policy
All withdrawal requests must be in writing. The date of withdrawal is the date the letter or email indicating withdrawal is received by the RSOT. All payments are non-refundable upon enrollment in one of our certificate and/or degree programs. Refunds will only be made for classes that have been “paid in full” in advance but not yet attended. There is NO refund when the student pays for each course, one payment at a time. Registration and graduation fees are non-refundable.