Amridge University Academic Catalog

Amridge University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; Telephone number 404.679.4501) to award Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

Amridge University is authorized by the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education to operate as an exempt private school pursuant to the Alabama Private School License Law.

Amridge University is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. This authorization must be renewed each year and is based on an evaluation by minimum standards concerning quality of education, ethical business practices, health and safety, and fiscal responsibility.

Amridge University is a 501(c) (3), non-profit corporation as determined by the United States Department of Treasury and incorporated in the State of Alabama.

Amridge University is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

Amridge University is a private Christian university open to any qualified student. In a manner consistent with all applicable laws and regulations including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) or other federal, state or local laws or executive orders, Amridge University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration of its programs on the basis of race, color, gender, age, creed, national origin, ancestry, disability, religion, belief or veteran status. Amridge University does follow specific religious tenets and maintains its religious freedom and rights. Inquiries concerning application of these statements should be directed to: Dr. Michael C. Turner, President, Amridge University, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117-3520.

PAPER AND ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS CATALOG PUBLISHED BY:

Amridge University

1200 Taylor Road

Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

Telephone Number: 800.351.4040

http://www.AmridgeUniversity.edu

The programs, policies, regulations, curricula, fees, and other information as set forth in this catalog are subject to change at any time at the discretion of Amridge University. Because of the possibility of change or undetected error, important points of fact and interpretation should be confirmed by the appropriate University official.

Message from the President

Message From the president

Welcome to Amridge University, an independent, coeducational institution dedicated to providing quality education in a Christian environment. The University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, which prepare individuals to grow professionally, socially and spiritually. Our students become more responsible and effective citizens, family members and Christians. Many of our graduates are leaders in their fields as Christian ministers, church leaders, teachers, counselors, scholars and business professionals. Students are prepared for careers and professions that provide services for the well-being of individuals, families, and society. Admission is open to all persons of good character whose educational backgrounds and abilities qualify them for the degree program to which they wish to apply. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, or disability in the administration of its educational policies, programs and activities. Courses are provided through on-site instruction, live-streaming Internet instruction and web-based instruction. Our dedicated faculty members have solid academic credentials and extensive experience in their areas of instruction. Amridge University is committed to meeting the educational needs of the student regardless of time or location constraints of the student. We look forward to serving you.

Sincerely,
Michael C. Turner, DO
President

Message from the Vice President of Academic Affairs

Message From the VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

Congratulations on your interest in an accredited university with over forty years experience in delivering quality instructional programs that are easily accessible to the student. The student at Amridge University can be confident of having access to a quality educational experience because of the qualifications and experience of the faculty; a staff committed to providing efficient and effective advice, assistance and technological support; and, a university with extensive distance education experience.

Amridge University is not geographically restricted in recruiting and utilizing faculty. The University utilizes outstanding faculty members from more than twenty states and from various countries. Our excellent faculty members have extensive scholarly and professional employment experience in the subject areas in which they teach. The faculty includes scholars prepared from a variety of outstanding institutions, practitioners with years of successful professional experience and active leaders of their professions. A majority of our faculty members are currently engaged in their profession, thus maintaining currency with technological and scholarly advancements in their respective fields. Amridge University’s regional accreditation assures highly qualified faculty and instructional programs of high academic standards. Please see page 2 of this catalog for accreditation information.

Amridge University has been committed to distance education for over forty years and has been a leader in using technology in distance education for over twenty-five. The University incorporates both high tech and high touch in delivering distance education. Utilization of advanced technology facilitates optional methods of class participation, ready access to current materials as well as recorded class presentations, and access to current assignment status and grades. Faculty members engage in personal communication with students to guide and support the student’s success.

Students appreciate the quality of the learning experiences they have with Amridge University. Students rate instructors high on regular evaluations of courses and faculty. A very high percentage of our students stated that they would recommend Amridge University to their friends. Many of our graduates return to the University for advanced degrees.

Amridge University is interested in meeting your academic needs. Please let us know how we may serve you.

Sincerely,

S. Douglas Patterson, EdD

Vice President of Academic Affairs

Section 1: Student Services and Other Important Information for All Students

This section includes important student services and other general information about University policies and procedures affecting all students at Amridge University. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for a specific school within Amridge University, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based) [Version 2.2012-2013, Effective 2.24.2013].

HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY

Amridge University is one of three educational institutions that have their roots in Montgomery Bible School, which was founded just over a half century ago. In 1942 Rex A. Turner, Sr., Leonard Johnson, and Joe Greer became co-founders of Montgomery Bible School in Montgomery, Alabama. This institution, which originally offered both high school and first year college courses, was quickly developed into a junior college with an elementary and secondary department. In 1949 the curricula were expanded to include a third year of Bible and related courses, and in 1953 the first bachelor’s degrees were granted. In 1954 the name of the school was changed to Alabama Christian College.

In 1966 the governing board of Alabama Christian College voted to discontinue the upper‑level program in religious studies in order that the college might seek accreditation as a junior college. At the same time, it recommended that a separate corporation be formed to assume the upper‑level program. In 1967 the new corporation was formed under the name Alabama Christian School of Religion, and classes were offered in the new facilities of the College Church of Christ.

As a result of growth and years of expansion of the old Montgomery Bible School, the original high school department is now Alabama Christian Academy, a regionally accredited elementary and secondary school. The original college department, Alabama Christian College, has become Faulkner University. Although the pioneering effort in Christian education has become three separate corporations, each owning its own property and operating under its own board of directors, these three complement one another in their respective areas of service and cooperate together in various ways for the common good.

Dr. Turner, Sr., who had served as co-president and then president of Alabama Christian College from its beginning, continued to serve both institutions, Alabama Christian College and Alabama Christian School of Religion, as president until 1973—a total of thirty-one years. At that time, Dr. Turner, Sr. began to devote his full energies to administration and teaching in the Alabama Christian School of Religion—now Amridge University.

Alabama Christian School of Religion originated in an upper‑division undergraduate program training people for ministerial causes. The Churches of Christ had a strong need for people to know the Bible, but it was also established that to just know the Bible was not sufficient for these times. There was a need to have trained workers who are strong in English, Science, History, Christian counseling, human development skills, communication skills, leadership skills, and competency in community public/safety services, such as prison ministry and victims of crime. This was reflected in the words of Christ when He encouraged all Christians to visit the fatherless, widows, and those in prison.

The institution’s founder, who had a law degree and erudite biblical knowledge, emphasized the basic inherent moral principle of God’s justice and that for God to be a true just God all sin demands penalty, and that there was one single way that God’s justice could be requited. Justice could be requited only through the blood bought grace of Christ. The need for man to obey Christ is the mission of this institution, to train followers of Christ to go and share this important gospel message of redemption to the entire world.

As a result of these needs, the rationale of this institution was liberal in scope, not just a pastor system approach, but a method that is established through well-prepared people who are well trained to serve in dissimilar community settings in today’s world. The Christian ministerial cause must be adapted for a changing world community. This Christian cause, especially in the United States, must address a well-educated society, and for this reason the church needs well trained articulate Christian men and women who can serve in several communities. Individuals are needed who are well trained to address the intellectual apprehension and unbelief of a prosperous society, but also to lift up a hurting humanity. Thus, Amridge University students need various options of training in one or more academic areas such as: the basic arts, communication skills, family counseling, community public/safety services, human behavioral leadership, and, of course, biblical knowledge. In 1972 the institution extended the academic areas beyond the undergraduate program to include graduate degree programs.

This was followed by a move in 1974 to new facilities jointly purchased by Alabama Christian School of Religion and the Landmark Church of Christ at 6020 Atlanta Highway in Montgomery. In 1977 Alabama Christian School of Religion expanded its curricula to include a three-year graduate program terminating in the Master of Theology degree. To conform to standard nomenclature and practice, in 1988 the school replaced the MTh degree with the Master of Divinity degree, which is generally recognized as the first professional degree in ministry.

Over several years of development, Alabama Christian School of Religion outgrew its facilities. The school sold its interest in the jointly owned property to the Landmark Church of Christ and built its own new facilities on nine acres of land well situated on Interstate 85 contiguous with the campus of Auburn University at Montgomery. The School of Religion moved to this new campus in the summer of 1987.

In 1985 the Board of Regents made a commitment to seek accredited membership in the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. In 1989 the institution received accreditation by the Commission on Colleges (COC) of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) to grant degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s levels.

On October 25, 1991, the Board of Regents officially approved the change of the name of the institution to Southern Christian University. The new name reflected the widened geographical area served by the institution and emphasized the academic level and the emerging direction of the institution.

In its meeting on May 25, 1992, the Board of Regents approved an expansion in the curricula of the University, and in 1994 the University was reaffirmed by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools with two substantive changes: (1) the Doctor of Ministry Degree; and (2) the distance learning program.

The period of the nineties served as an era of tremendous change for the University. The fall of communism opened the way for the bible faculty to go teach the Bible in the former communist Russia. The impact of this spiritual contact had enormous effect on the institution: (1) many friends of the University used the institution’s educational contacts to go throughout Russia; and (2) the University gained many new friends and new donors as a result.

The close of the nineties ushered in two important events: (1) The State of Alabama enacted for the first time a new family therapy counseling licensure law; and (2) The United States Department of Education chose several institutions of higher education to be pilot Distance Education Demonstration Program Participants to assess distance education and its effect on financial aid.

Since the University had received a substantive change in distance education with the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1994, the University had fine-tuned its distance education program and as a result was one of fifteen institutions originally chosen in 1999 to serve in a groundbreaking pilot Distance Education Demonstration Program. This recognition, which had no financial grant considerations, had a major impact on the growth of the University. It forced the institution in the context of distance learning to review, reconfigure, and fine-tune its academic programs. Distance education was beginning to be an accepted academic practice and the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools asked all of its member schools to report if they were teaching by distance education and if so what degree programs they were teaching.

The rapid student growth of the University can be traced to three important events: (1) substantive change in distance education in 1994 with SACS; (2) being chosen by the United States Department of Education for the Distance Education Demonstration Program; and (3) the new State of Alabama licensure law in Family Therapy.

The new State of Alabama licensure law in Family Therapy grand-fathered the institution into a new opportunity, which caused a review and a reconfiguring of the University’s counseling program. Counseling is such an important part of ministry and of the University’s mission, and the new requirements for licensure had a compelling impact on the institution both in increased student enrollment and in expanding its courses. The influence of the new licensure law on the institution’s academic program ultimately caused the University to reflect on the need for a PhD degree program in Family Therapy, and caused the University to make a formal request to the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for a substantive change for this new degree program. This request was approved and the University began its PhD degree program in Family Therapy fall semester 2003.

In the fall semester 2005, the University was authorized by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offer Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – General Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Communication, and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Systems Management degrees.

In 2005, the University was authorized by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offer the Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies degree. The following year, 2006, the University was authorized to offer the Associate of Arts degree.

Also, in December 2005, the University’s accreditation was reaffirmed by the Commission on Colleges (COC) of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) for another 10-year period.

On January 31, 2008, the Board of Regents of Southern Christian University changed the institution’s name to Amridge University.

Finally, in August 2008, Dr. Rex A. Turner, Jr., the President of Amridge University, died unexpectedly. The passing of Dr. Turner was a tremendous loss to the Amridge University community. During his tenure, Dr. Turner led the University through tough times, good times, and was responsible for many positive changes that have helped the University to be the University it is today. A small sampling of these changes or improvements include (1) Successfully led the University through two accreditation reviews with the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, (2) Led the development and implementation of numerous academic degrees including the Doctor of Philosophy in Family Therapy, the Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies, three Bachelor of Science Degrees in Business, and an Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies, (3) Responsible for the University being selected as a one of 15 Demonstration Distance Learning institutions of higher education by the U.S. Department of Education, (4) Hiring of faculty who are acknowledged leaders and scholars in their respective fields, (5) Initiation of the Amridge University Press, (6) Initiation of student recruitment efforts helping to more than double the University’s enrollment, (7) Reorganization of the University’s academic divisions into four schools that include the Turner School of Theology named after the University’s founders Rex A. and Opal Turner, Sr., (8) Oversaw the research and acquisition of leading-edge distance learning and support technologies that helped make Amridge University one of the nation’s leaders in higher education distance learning course offerings, (9) Led the University in becoming an Associate Member of The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS), and (10) Expanded the University’s operations to include licenses to operate and offer courses in several states including Tennessee, Arizona, Idaho, and Utah.

Immediately following Dr. Turner’s passing, the Amridge University Board of Regents appointed Dr. Stanley Douglas Patterson as the Interim President of the University. Dr. Patterson held this position until February 2009, when the Board of Regents appointed Dr. Michael C. Turner as President of the University, a distinguished Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine in the Montgomery, Alabama area who taught for the Amridge University School of Human Services for over five years.

With respect to the preceding and the requirements of the Commission on Colleges, the Institutional Mission Statement, Purpose, and Goals have been developed and are reviewed annually and updated as needed. The current Institutional Mission Statement, Purpose, and Goals are as follows:

INSTITUTIONAL MISSION STATEMENT

Amridge University is an independent, coeducational institution dedicated to the spirit of its Christian ideals and heritage. Amridge University’s mission is to prepare men and women, through a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual vitality at the undergraduate and graduate levels, for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service to the professions, society, church, and family.

INSTITUTIONAL PURPOSE

In keeping with its Christian heritage, Amridge University provides educational opportunities through five schools: (1) College of Business and Leadership, (2) College of General Studies, (3) School of Human Services, (4) Turner School of Theology, and (5) School of Continuing Education. Each of these schools has its own special purpose within the overall purpose and institutional goals of the University.

Purpose of the College of Business and Leadership

The purpose of the College of Business and Leadership is to provide instruction and training on the undergraduate and graduate levels as well as prepare students for careers and professions that provide support and services for the well-being of individuals, family, or society. Within this purpose, the College of Business and Leadership provides bachelor-level degree programs that include the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – General Business, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Communication, and the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Systems Management as well as graduate-level degree programs that include the Master of Science in Leadership and Management and the Master of Arts in Behavioral Leadership and Management. All of these programs are designed within the mission of the University for preparing men and women, through a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual vitality, so that they can serve in their chosen vocations in the church, community, or society. Also, the programs in the College of Business and Leadership provide a foundation that prepares undergraduate students for graduate study and graduate students for advanced study.

Additionally, the University provides a program of continuing education, through the Amridge University School of Continuing Education, for those who are not pursuing degrees.

Purpose of the College of General Studies

The purpose of the College of General Studies is to provide instruction and training on the undergraduate level for Christian ministers and religious workers as well as prepare students for careers and professions that provide support and services for the well-being of individuals, family, and society. Within this purpose, the College of General Studies provides bachelor-level degree programs in a variety of areas including Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Bachelor of Science in Management Communication, Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Homeland Security, Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Business/Organization Security, Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Human Development, and the Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Leadership. All of these programs are designed within the mission of the University for preparing men and women, through a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual vitality at the undergraduate level, so that they can serve in their chosen vocations in the church, community, or society. Also, the programs in the College of General Studies provide a foundation that prepares students for graduate or advanced study. Many of the Amridge University graduates of the College of General Studies choose to continue their studies at the Amridge University School of Human Services or the Amridge University Turner School of Theology.

Additionally, the University provides a program of continuing education, through the Amridge University School of Continuing Education, for those who are not pursuing degrees.

Purpose of the School of Human Services

The purpose of the School of Human Services is to prepare students for careers and professions that are dedicated to providing support and services for the well-being of individuals, family, church, and society in the spirit of Christian services. This purpose will be accomplished by providing students with an interdisciplinary learning and serving experience with core courses and focused knowledge and skills in several disciplines that include, but will not be limited to, family therapy, business, and human communications. Degrees offered include the Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling, Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy, Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling, Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling, Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership, Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I, Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II, Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy, and Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling.

Additionally, the University provides a program of continuing education, through the Amridge University School of Continuing Education, for those who are not pursuing degrees.

Purpose of the Turner School of Theology

The Amridge University Board of Regents chartered the Turner School of Theology in 1999 in profound appreciation of Rex and Opal Turner, founders of the University. The Board deemed it appropriate to establish a School of Theology in their name to honor and recognize the personal labors and sacrifices made by Rex and Opal Turner for the cause of Christ. Dr. Rex Turner, Sr. was an avid student of the word of God and well known for his biblical scholarship, administrative acumen, tireless efforts, and commitment to training church leaders, ministers, and Bible teachers for a world that needs Christ.

The purpose of the Turner School of Theology is to provide for the educational development of qualified persons to be effective Christian ministers, church leaders, teachers, and scholars who will use their gifts and knowledge in proclaiming the gospel, strengthening the church, and serving humanity. To accomplish this purpose, the School seeks to prepare students for the ministerial and teaching professions and for effective voluntary Christian service through both academic and practical studies on the graduate level. The programs of instruction are biblical in orientation, scholarly in intellectual preparation, and relevant to contemporary life in application. These programs include a strong emphasis in biblical studies, supported by studies in such fields as biblical languages, church history, systematic theology, homiletics and communication, religious education, professional ministerial studies, and missiology.

Degrees offered include the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Practical Theology, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, and the Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies.

Additionally, the University provides a program of continuing education, through the Amridge University School of Continuing Education, for those who are not pursuing degrees.

Purpose of the School of Continuing Education

The purpose of the School of Continuing Education is to provide participating students with quality and timely continuing education experiences for professional development and life enrichment purposes.

These programs will be developed and presented by faculty and specialists related to programs and offerings provided by Amridge University as well as for professionals and other individuals in areas of interest to the Amridge University community and communities served.

INSTITUTIONAL GOALS

Amridge University has a history of providing its students with quality education and teaching excellence. By virtue of this history and its focused mission, Amridge University strives to continue this tradition through the adoption and implementation of holistic educational and institutional goals. The institutional goals are student-centered and are directly related to the University’s mission to prepare men and women, through a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual vitality at the undergraduate and graduate levels, for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service to the professions, society, and family. Also, these goals are designed to help ensure the provision of quality programs and services which will help lead to the stability and continued growth of the University so that it can continue to meet its educational goals.

· Amridge University will attract, retain, and contribute to the continued professional development of faculty dedicated to providing quality teaching and active scholarship and committed to the mission and purposes of the University.

· Amridge University will maintain and develop facilities and learning environments, which are conducive to the learning process.

· Amridge University will develop and implement careful planning and continuous study of the University’s mission, purpose, goals, procedures, and programs as well as an analysis of the evaluation process in the interest of continuous quality improvement of its programs and services.

A POSITIVE BIBLICAL FAITH

In accordance with its stated purpose and its concern for truth, Amridge University is firmly committed to furthering the teaching and practice of Christianity. The University presents fairly all significant viewpoints on major issues and promotes freedom of inquiry. However, certain key positions are firmly established by Biblical evidence, and we believe should be upheld. Amridge University’s student body are from various religious faiths. Students are free to formulate individual positions. No one is required to sign a creedal statement of belief. Amridge University is happy to have students from various religious backgrounds enrolled in its courses.

The University's understanding of the Christian religion includes the following tenets about its source of authority, central doctrines, polity and worship of the church, and the conduct of the Christian life.

Both the Old and New Testaments have been given by divine revelation and are the standard of authority in religious matters.

The Old Testament prepared the way for Christ, and the New Testament fulfills and supersedes it, making the New Testament the final authority for those who have lived since Christ's death on the cross.

There is one God, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe and who takes a direct interest in every human being. The Godhead consists of God the Father; Christ the Son; and the Holy Spirit, the Comforter. Christ was born of a virgin, died on the cross to make atonement for man's sins, arose bodily from the tomb, and ascended into heaven, where he presently reigns. There is a heaven to be enjoyed by the faithful and a hell to be endured by the disobedient.

God created all people with a need for fellowship with him and the ability to choose to obey his commands. Man cannot earn salvation from sin but can qualify to receive it as a gift of grace through submission to the will of God. The scripturally appointed means for receiving this gift is faith in Christ, repentance, confession of faith, and baptism (immersion). The transformation in character, conduct, and relationship with God that man experiences in this process is the new birth (regeneration). Christians are expected to live in accordance with the teachings of the New Testament.

Christ established the church for the mutual encouragement, instruction, and assistance of Christians and for the evangelization of the world through the proclamation of His gospel. Jesus prayed for unity among his disciples and commanded love for one another as the means to maintain it. The church was originally organized so that, once the apostles passed away, individual congregations would be independent of any central human authority and would be guided solely by the unchanging standard of Scripture. Congregations are to be bound together by common purpose and cooperative effort.

Each congregation is to assemble for worship on every first day of the week according to the teachings of the New Testament. In contrast to the elaborate temple ritual of the Old Testament, worship in the Christian age is to be in spirit and truth. Accordingly, the worship of the New Testament church consists of teaching God's word, offering prayers and thanksgiving from the heart, singing praise to God and encouragement to one another with the human voice, voluntary giving as a means of expressing appreciation to God for his blessings and sharing them with others, and partaking of the Lord's Supper in commemoration of Christ's death. Genuine charismatic gifts, such as prophecy, speaking in foreign languages, and miraculous healing, were exercised in the first century but not perpetuated afterward.

On the basis of principles established at creation, the New Testament assigns roles of leadership in public worship and supervision of the local congregation to male Christians. The scriptural organization of the local congregation consists of a plurality of elders (also called bishops or shepherds), who have oversight of the church; deacons, who assist the elders in ministering to the needs of members; and evangelists, who proclaim the gospel and teach under the authority of the elders. The offices of apostle and prophet ended with the passing of the miraculous age of charismatic gifts. Women are a powerful force in the church through the influence of their character and spiritual insights and through their efforts in teaching other women and children, helping the needy, and engaging in personal evangelism.

Christianity as taught by Christ and the apostles provides for the needs of the individual, the family, and society. An understanding of God's sacrificial love enables each person to recognize his worth and potential in the sight of God, relieves his guilt and anxiety, and motivates him to conduct his life according to the highest standards. The example of Christ fosters humility, submission to authority, and service to others. Through its teaching, its communal worship, its fellowship, and its mission of evangelism and benevolence, the church strengthens both individuals and families and has a strong impact for good wherever its efforts and influence reach. [Written by Lawrence E. Barclay, Faculty Member, Amridge University Turner School of Theology]

Note: Amridge University is an academic institution, not a church. Bible courses at Amridge University are not worship or devotional services, but an educational environment for interaction between student and teacher.

ACCREDITATION AND AUTHORIZATIONS

Amridge University is authorized by the Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education to operate a private school pursuant to the Alabama Private School License Law.

Amridge University is a 501(c) (3), non-profit corporation as determined by the United States Department of Treasury and incorporated in the State of Alabama.

Amridge University is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant students.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Amridge University offers undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, and certificates in several areas of study. The degrees and certificates offered are as follows:

§ College of Business and Leadership

· Bachelor of Science Degrees

o Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – General Business

o Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Communication

o Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Information Systems Management

o Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Leadership

o Bachelor of Science in Management Communication

· Master of Science Degrees

o Master of Science in Leadership and Management

o Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership

· Master of Arts Degree

o Master of Arts in Behavioral Leadership and Management

§ College of General Studies

· Associate of Arts Degree

o Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies

· Bachelor of Science Degrees

o Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible

o Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Criminal Justice

o Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Homeland Security

o Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Business/Organization Security

o Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies

o Bachelor of Science in Human Development

· Bachelor of Arts Degrees

o Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies

§ School of Human Services

· Master of Science Degrees

o Master of Science in Pastoral Counseling

· Master of Arts Degrees

o Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

o Master of Arts in Professional Counseling

· Master of Divinity Degrees

o Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership

o Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy

o Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling

o Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling

· Doctor of Ministry Degrees

o Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I

o Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II

· Doctor of Philosophy Degrees

o Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy

o Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling

§ Turner School of Theology

· Master of Arts Degrees

o Master of Arts in Biblical Exposition

o Master of Arts in Biblical Studies

o Master of Arts in Practical Ministry

o Master of Arts in Theological and Historical Studies

· Master of Divinity Degree

o Master of Divinity

· Doctor of Ministry Degree

o Doctor of Ministry

· Doctor of Philosophy Degrees

o Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies with a Concentration in the Old Testament

o Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies with a Concentration in the New Testament

§ School of Continuing Education

· Continuing education courses are offered on a variety of topics and subjects. Check the Amridge University web site for the latest offerings of continuing education courses.

SMOKE FREE CAMPUS

The Amridge University facilities are all smoke free. Smoking is permitted only outside the buildings.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

Amridge University reaffirms the principle that its students, faculty, staff, or campus visitors have a right to be free from sex discrimination in the form of sexual harassment by any member of the academic community in person or through electronic means such as email and the University’s distance learning systems.

Sexual harassment is defined as an attempt to coerce an unwilling person into a sexual relationship or to subject a person to unwanted sexual attention or to punish a refusal to comply or to create a sexually intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment. This definition will be interpreted and applied consistent with accepted standards of mature behavior, academic freedom, and the mission of the University.

Sexual harassment in any situation is reprehensible; it is particularly damaging when it exploits the educational dependence and trust between students and the faculty. When the authority and power inherent in faculty relationships with students, whether overtly, implicitly, or through misinterpretation, are abused in this way, there is potentially great damage to individual students, to the persons complained of, and to the educational climate of the University. Faculty members and other individuals in positions of authority should be sensitive to these issues and the conflicts of’ interest that are inherent where personal, professional, and educational relationships are involved.

Individuals who believe they have been sexually harassed may obtain redress through the established informal and formal procedures of the University. Complaints about sexual harassment will be responded to promptly. The right to confidentiality of all members of the academic community will be respected in both informal and formal procedures, insofar as possible. This policy explicitly prohibits retaliation against individuals for bringing complaints of sexual harassment. Formal procedures will not be initiated without a written signed complaint. An individual found to be guilty of sexual harassment is subject to disciplinary action for violations of this policy, consistent with existing procedures.

The Amridge University institutional contact for additional information on sexual harassment policy, including filing a sexual harassment complaint, is Ms. Barbara Turner. Ms. Turner may be contacted by telephone at 800.351.4040, extension 7550.

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Amridge University affords students with disabilities equal opportunity to attend its educational programs. Students with disabilities should register with the Amridge University ADACOORDINATOR@AMRIDGEUNIVERSITY.EDU in order to receive academic accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). Reasonable accommodations are provided to students who furnish the University with appropriate documentation showing evidence of limitation arising from or related to one or more disabilities as defined by the federal legislation noted above.

Physical and Learning Disabilities

Documentation showing evidence of a limitation or limitations arising from a disability must be provided by qualified practitioners. In order to ensure that Amridge is receiving accurate information that will best assist it in providing the accommodations necessary for its students to succeed, a certification from a licensed physician will generally be required to support the necessity of an accommodation although certifications from other health care providers (mental and physical) may be accepted at Amridge’s discretion where appropriate for the particular limitation. The professional may not be related to the student. The student must use the “AUTHORIZATION FOR DISCLOSURE AND RELEASE OF MEDICAL INFORMATION FORM” available on the University’s web site:

1. The initial submitted documentation must have been issued within the preceding twelve months. An updated accommodation request must be submitted annually and the supporting documentation must be resubmitted at least as often as the duration of the impairment listed on the initial submission and/or every two years, whichever period is shorter. Amridge reserves the right to request additional certifications based on the student’s specific request for accommodation, a lapse in the student’s studies or other change in condition.

2. Documentation should include a clear statement of the present limitations arising from or directly related to one or more physical or mental impairments;

3. Documentation should include clear and specific evidence provided by the examiner, based on testing data, that a limitation affecting learning does or does not exist. The assessment battery should be comprehensive and any diagnosis that is based on testing should not normally rely on any one test or subtest;

4. Documentation should include information relevant to assessing the limitation affecting learning and other information relating to the student’s needs; and

5. Documentation may include suggestions of reasonable accommodations which might be appropriate at the post-secondary level.

Accommodations for Students with Physical or Learning Disabilities

The academic accommodations students receive vary according to individual need and course content. Accommodations may not be necessary in all courses. Services are provided in order that barriers to learning are minimized and that students may demonstrate their full ability to both understand and apply the material presented in class.

Procedure for Students to Obtain Needed Accommodations

1. The student will provide appropriate documentation to the ADA Coordinator before the semester begins or as soon as possible thereafter. If the limiting condition is ongoing, the documentation must be updated at least every two years or more frequently if a shorter duration is indicated on the initial submission and/or other factors warrant a shorter period.

2. Except for the unusual circumstance in which the student does not until later in the semester discover that an accommodation is needed, the student will advise the professor before the 4^th class day that he or she is in the process of requesting accommodations through the ADA Coordinator.

3. The ADA Coordinator will review submitted documentation and refer to the ADA Accommodations Review Committee as necessary. The Committee is composed of the ADA Coordinator, faculty, and staff as appropriate to the specific request.

4. The ADA Coordinator will contact faculty and staff members who will be involved in providing approved accommodations.

5. The student will be advised, in writing, of the accommodations to be provided.

6. The student will update the ADA Coordinator if schedule changes occur after accommodations have been approved for specific courses, semesters, or activities. The Amridge University ADA Coordinator is:

The ADA Coordinator

Amridge University

1200 Taylor Road

Montgomery, AL 36117

Telephone: 800.351.4040 extension 7510

Email: ADACoordinator@amridgeuniversity.edu

7. The student will update the ADA Coordinator if his or her condition improves or worsens such that reduced or additional accommodations should be considered.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

The following is the University’s policy regarding intellectual property.

Employees. University employees shall be entitled to all profits earned from copyrighted or trademarked materials or patented inventions developed exclusively on the employee’s time and without the use of any University funds, materials, facilities, property, time, or resources.

Absent the University’s written agreement to the contrary, an employee does not have the right to trademark or copyright any literary material and to patent any inventions where his or her duties or responsibilities of the employment with the University charges the employee with, or includes, the duty of producing material for the University to copyright or trademark, or to develop an invention for the University to patent.

Copyrighted or trademarked material or patented inventions developed totally or partially on University time with the use of University materials or facilities or with University funding shall be owned by the University.

The development by an Amridge University faculty member or other University employee of an instructional text, other instructional resources, technology, or other item subject to copyright, patent, or trademark either (1) entirely on the University’s time and expense or (2) partially on his or her own time and expense and partially on University time using college resources (materials, supplies, facilities, workplace, or other resources) results in the complete and exclusive ownership by the University of all resulting copyrights and/or patents (or trademarks) pertaining to the instructional text, resource, or technology developed.

Under certain circumstances, however, the University may, in the President’s discretion, by written contract distribute a portion of the royalties received from the publication and/or sale and/or use of the instructional text or other instructional resources or technology in a manner that is reasonable and that will not conflict with applicable state or federal laws, other University policies, or pre-existing contractual obligation. The following conditions must be met:

1. Absent approval of the Board of Regents, any such distribution of royalties received made to the employee must be made solely from the proceeds derived from the publication, sale, or distribution of the instructional text or other instructional resources or technology, and not from any other funds.

2. In determining the portion of any royalties to be received by an employee, the President shall take into account, among other factors he or she deems relevant, the verifiable amount of an employee’s personal time, resources, and funds which will be reasonably and necessarily used in the development of the instructional text or other instructional resources or technology, as compared to the verifiable total amount of all (personal and on-the-job) time, resources, and funds to be devoted to the development of the instructional text or other instructional resources or technology.

3. Any agreement between the University and the employee for any such distribution of royalties must be prospective, occurring prior to the development of the instructional text or other instructional resources or technology, and must be approved and mutually agreed to in writing by the President and employee. No royalties shall be distributed to the employee absent a written agreement between the President and the employee. No oral statement of any nature or content whatsoever, shall obligate the University to distribute a portion of royalties to the employee.

The President may, when he or she deems advisable for the welfare of the institution, establish an agreement regarding intellectual property rights with an employee having terms at variance with the above-stated general policy, and do so by means of a section within an employee’s written contract of employment. In such instances any terms of the written employment contract that conflict with the above-stated general policy shall prevail over the general policy.

Contractors. The President may, on behalf of the University, enter into agreements regarding intellectual property rights and/or the distribution of royalties with governmental authorities, donors, potential grantors, contractors, subcontractors, grantees, sub grantees, and/or grant applicants as he or she deems necessary or appropriate.

Students. Students participating in a work-study program, internship, part-time employment, stipend (financial benefit) program, AmeriCorp program, or who are otherwise employed by, working for, or financially compensated by the University or governmental entity because of or in connection with their relationship to the University shall be subject to the same policy as is set forth above for regular University employees.

By applying for admission to Amridge University each student consents and agrees to be bound by the University’s rules and policies, including this paragraph, regarding intellectual property rights and academic integrity, University efforts to prevent academic plagiarism and other acts of academic dishonesty. By applying for admission and enrolling in one or more University courses, each student agrees that: (1) Amridge University, and each of its instructors, may utilize electronic means to help prevent plagiarism; (2) such means may include subjecting student papers and/or other assignments to textual similarity review processes (comparing Amridge University papers to pre-existing works); and adding Amridge University student papers to external databases used by companies and cooperative ventures designed to assist educational institutions in identifying plagiarism. Furthermore, in return for the privilege of being admitted to enrollment at Amridge University, student consents to the release of his or her student papers and grants to Amridge University all non-exclusive intellectual property rights to all his or her assignment-related works sufficient for Amridge University to fully participate in and utilize textual similarity review function processes and products as to student’s works and for the student’s works to be added to the utilized textual similarity review database and/or be disclosed to representatives of other participating educational institutions.

Besides the limited, non-exclusive grant of intellectual property rights described above (or as may otherwise be individually agreed to in writing by individual students and Amridge University’s President) students shall retain all other intellectual property rights they may have in their own individually authored assignment-related works.

ACADEMIC ADVISEMENT

Academic advisement begins when students are sent a Student Academic Evaluation (SAE) plan by the Admissions Office. The SAE report is sent to the students and advisor regularly and include several key elements. These elements include: (1) Specification of all academic work that has been accepted toward a degree at Amridge University; (2) Specification of the required and elective courses that the respective student must take in order to fulfill his or her academic requirements at Amridge University; and (3) Specification on a semester-by-semester basis the progress the respective student is making toward the completion of his or her degree.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

CODE OF CONDUCT

Amridge University is committed to fostering an environment true to its Christian heritage and conducive to learning. In so doing, the University expects all students to exhibit the values and behaviors that evidence civility and respect toward faculty, staff, and fellow students. As we encourage the development of a community of scholars, we must discourage any misbehavior that is disruptive to the educational process.

Authority for Student Discipline: Ultimate authority for student discipline is vested in the President. The primary appellate organization for the University is the Appeals Committee. Disciplinary or appellate authority may be delegated to University administrators or committees at the discretion of the President of Amridge University.

Misconduct Defined: A student is subject to disciplinary action by the University for misconduct (a) occurring on any property owned or controlled by the University, or off campus at any function which is authorized, sponsored, or conducted by the University; (b) in parking lots adjacent to areas or buildings where University functions are being conducted; (c) during class sessions; (d) as part of, or related to, any course/class assignment, teacher, or University decision; or (e) as part of any communication to, or including, any faculty member or other University employee, representative, or student regardless of the means or mode of communication (in person, via Internet, telephone, facsimile, video and/or audio conference, by other electronic means, in writing, or otherwise.)

NON-ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT

Behavior that is subject to disciplinary action under this Code includes violations of Federal, State, and local Law, conduct that threatens the safety or well-being of the campus community, and any other behavior that adversely affects the University or its educational mission. Misconduct shall include the commission of, or the attempt to commit, any of the following offenses:

§ Unauthorized Access – Unauthorized entry to University facilities or events, or the unauthorized possession of a key to University facilities.

· No animals, except for those required to aid persons with vision disabilities and trained in such capacity, are allowed on campus or at university-sponsored events. Exceptions for the purpose of class-related demonstrations must be approved in advance by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

· Children age 15 or under must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other authorized adult while on the campus of Amridge University. Children are not permitted to attend classes on campus. No children may be left unattended in any commons area of the campus including, but not limited to: the library, the hallways, the break room, the parking lots, or outside seating areas.

§ Access interference – Unauthorized interference with the use of or access to a University facility. This also includes the intentional misuse of any University fire alarm or fire-fighting equipment, as well as any actual or threatened physical abuse of any person assisting with University safety or security procedures, or any other act which endangers the health or safety of any such person.

§ Fire alarms – If a fire alarm is heard, all people must vacate the building until the cause for the alarm is determined. The fire exit doors are located in both corners of the Learning Resource Center and at the bottom of the stairwells leading away from the interior of the building for use in emergency. Exiting through these doors at any time will activate the alarm. Sirens are also located nearby which sound in the event of a tornado warning. If these are heard, all people in the building are expected to go immediately to a safe area until the warning is lifted.

§ Theft – Unlawful taking or use of University or personal property and of services to include, but not limited to telephones, unauthorized use of computers, illegal copying of software, acts in violation of copyright laws.

§ Controlled Substance Abuse – Intoxication from, or the use, display, or possession of alcoholic beverages or any controlled substance (drug), unless the student has a valid prescription for the use of the controlled substance, while on University property, during class, at University functions, or otherwise in connection with University academics or activities. Aiding or abetting the possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages by a person who is under the age of 21.

§ Weapons or Explosives Possession and Abuse – Use, possession, or distribution of firearms, other weapons, ammunition, fireworks, or any type of explosive or incendiary device or material, or threatened possession or use of such items on University property or against University students, employees, or representatives.

§ Gambling – Participation in any form of gambling on University property or through the use of University equipment or University supplied or sponsored online access.

§ Indecent Behavior – Lewd, indecent, obscene, vulgar, or unduly offensive behavior or expression. This offense includes, but is not limited to, the transmission of pornographic materials.

§ Sexual Harassment – Violation of the University’s policies against sexual harassment specified within this publication.

§ Harassment – Behavior that is (a) directed toward a particular person or persons; (b) is unwelcome and/or severe or pervasive; and (c) violates criminal law or civil rights laws or that unreasonably interferes with the target person’s employment, academic pursuits, or participation in University-sponsored activities. This also includes the use of verbal or symbolic expressions that would tend to be reasonably interpreted as insulting to one’s race, gender, age, national origin, or disability.

§ Defamation – Engaging in the libel, slander, or defamation of the University or University employees or representatives. For this purpose the terms libel, slander, or defamation have the same meaning as are ascribed to them under the laws of the State of Alabama.

§ Providing False Information – Intentionally furnishing oral or written false information to the University; forgery, or deliberate misrepresentation or unauthorized alteration, or unauthorized use of a University document or instrument of identification.

§ Disruptive Conduct – Acting in a manner that unreasonably disturbs the peace and tranquility of the University; intentionally and substantially interfering with the freedom of expression of others; intentionally or recklessly interfering with normal University or University-sponsored activities including but not limited to studying, teaching, research, administration, and fire, police, or emergency services. This also includes rioting, inciting to riot, assembling to riot, raiding, inciting to raid and assembling to raid University properties, damaging, inciting to damage, or assembling to damage University equipment or electronic access systems.

§ Disruptive Instructional Conduct – In-class behavior and other student-to-student and student-to-teacher communications that unduly disrupt or tends to disrupt the order of a class, class discussions, lectures, or otherwise disrupt or tend to disrupt the learning process. This includes, but is not limited to, a student making a personal attack upon or statement reasonably interpreted as being a personal attack upon a student or student's character, that limits or tends to limit another student's class or course participation or that otherwise disrupts or tends to disrupt the learning process.

§ Contempt – Failure to comply with a written directive or order issued by a University authority, or knowingly violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed in accordance with this Code.

§ Non-compliance with Directions – Failure to promptly comply with directions of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties as such officials and officers in University-related matters.

§ Acceptable Use Policy Violation – Use of University electronic access systems and services must be in compliance with Amridge University’s policy, “Acceptable Use of University Related Network, Internet, Online Course System, and Email.” The policy identifies acceptable use, privileges, netiquette, reliability, security, and vandalism, and it is included as Appendix to this Code of Conduct. In summary, the use of any/all University electronic access must be in support of educational and academic research and consistent with the educational objectives of Amridge University. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or other pertinent regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, threatening or obscene material or material protected by trade secret. Illegal activities are strictly prohibited. Using Intranet accounts to play games is not acceptable use. The use of the University’s Intranet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use can result in a cancellation of those privileges. Based upon the acceptable use guidelines included in the Amridge University policy, the system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use of the network and take appropriate action. The system administrators or system administrator may suspend or close a student account at any time as required. They must immediately (concurrent with the action taken) notify the Vice President of Academic Affairs, who will then notify the user in writing within two days of the reason for suspension or termination of an account. Also, users must remain in good standing with Amridge University (e.g., currently enrolled students, currently enrolled students in good academic standing, current employees, etc.). Users whose accounts are denied, suspended or revoked do have the following rights:

· To request (in writing) from the system administrator a written statement justifying the actions.

· To request a hearing through the appropriate University due process procedures

Similarly, Amridge University faculty have the authority to ban (temporarily, pending due process) a student from an Amridge University Discussion Board or other interactive student activity (whether on campus or electronically delivered) for one session for apparent disruptive behavior in violation of the Code of Conduct. The faculty member must notify the Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Chairperson of the Appeals Committee of any such action taken. Dismissals for longer than one session will follow the procedures for Standards of Classroom Behavior, listed below.

§ Policy Violation—Violation of any published University policy or regulation.

§ Other Misconduct—All other actions or conduct that disrupts or tends to disrupt the learning process.

In addition, students who attend classes or participate in activities held on an Amridge University campus are strongly encouraged to advise the (Interim) Director of Student Services of any restraining orders in place for their protection. The University may, upon learning of such restraining order(s), in its discretion choose to act or not act as it deems appropriate and practicable. By this Code of Conduct the University does not undertake to provide (and by enrollment with the University having this Code of Conduct the student understands and agrees that the University is under no obligation or expectation to provide) personal security or special protection services for students. Instead, the University respectfully reminds its students that they should, when threatened or believe themselves to be in danger, individually, on their own, contact law enforcement authorities or otherwise lawfully act to protect personal safety.

With respect to this 'Non-academic Misconduct' section, those above examples of misconduct provided in bulleted items which refer to criminal acts, including but not necessarily limited to the 1st through 10th, 12th through 14th, and 16th bullets, the University may discipline a student for such misconduct if, in the University's own opinion or determination, the misconduct constitutes or equates to conduct of the nature described, and may do so regardless of whether or not the student has been convicted by a state or federal court of law of having committed a criminal offense, and may also proceed to consider and implement disciplinary action without having to await the conclusion of any criminal or civil court proceedings that may be pending or the verdict entered by such court. The University may implement disciplinary action based upon misconduct, and it is unnecessary for a court of law to conclude that the relevant behavior was criminal for a student's behavior to be determined by the University as constituting misconduct for which discipline may be imposed.

A violation of the Code for non-academic misconduct can be reported by any employee (faculty or staff), contract employee, student, or guest with direct knowledge of the alleged misconduct. The report should be made as soon as the misconduct is known to the Director of Student Services.

The Director will investigate the report and is authorized by the President to take immediate action to secure the health, safety, welfare, security, or reputation of the University. Any such action will be communicated to the student and reconfirmed by registered mail, within 7 calendar days of the action taken, to the address on file for that student with Amridge University. This correspondence also will summarize the due process available to the student to appeal the disciplinary decision. Copies of letters will be sent to the Vice President of Academic Affairs and to the Registrar’s Office for placement in the student’s permanent file. Should a subsequent appeal reverse or mitigate the original disciplinary action, the letter in the student’s file may be amended or removed through University directive.

Standards of Classroom Behavior: The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with the faculty. Students who engage in any prohibited or unlawful acts which result in disruption of a class may be directed by the faculty member to leave the class for the remainder of the session and up to one additional class session. Longer suspensions or separations from class or disenrollment on disciplinary grounds require formal referral to the Vice President of Academic Affairs who will notify the student in writing within two business days of the reason for the action taken, intended duration of the disenrollment, and behavioral changes that must occur (if this option is being considered) to facilitate re-entry to the activity. The student will have the right to appeal the action through the appropriate University due process procedures. The term “prohibited…acts” would include behavior prohibited by the instructor (e.g. persistently speaking out in a disruptive manner.) It must be emphasized that this provision is not designed to be used as a means to punish different academic interpretations of course content when presented in an acceptable and civil manner.

Sanctions: Disciplinary actions listed below are not all-inclusive and are not intended to be progressive. Sanctions for any offense may include, but are not limited to, any appropriate behavioral consequence. All sanctions in this section include documentation in the student’s permanent file:

§ Written warning

§ Restitution or service hours

§ Restriction of privileges

§ Temporary or permanent removal from a course or program

§ Discontinuance of Blackboard or other electronic access privileges

§ Limitations (including exclusion) from class discussions

§ Limitations or preconditions on communications with faculty or staff

§ Probation

§ Suspension

§ Expulsion

ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT

Academic misconduct includes any form of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, or furnishing false or misleading information to the University (or persons acting in concert with the University academic program such as practicum or clinical experience supervisors, or other persons involved in the educational process) as well as assigning or colluding with another person in committing such dishonesty, suppressing such dishonesty, or failing to report known dishonesty of another person.

Academic integrity is the cornerstone of character and is essential to Christian living. Accordingly, it is expected of all students at Amridge University. Academic integrity means being fully honest in all academic work. This means using only instructor-authorized sources of information when taking tests, identifying and documenting sources quoted or paraphrased in written assignments and accurately reporting the completion of reading assignments and other work done. Cases of plagiarism (represent another’s work as one’s own), cheating or other instances of dishonesty shall be handled according to the following procedure:

When a student is discovered to have been dishonest in any course work, the instructor shall:

§ Confront the student about the dishonesty;

§ Counsel him or her, either orally or in writing, about the need to be honest;

§ Penalize his or her grade according to the schedule given below;

§ File a report, including documentation, with the dean of the respective Amridge University school and the Vice President of Academic Affairs; and

§ Give the student a copy of the report. The instructor keeps a copy and the respective dean shall keep the original report in a confidential disciplinary file.

For the first offense, the student shall receive an “F” for the assignment or test on which dishonesty is discovered. For the second offense, the student shall receive an “F” for the course. If there is a third offense, the student shall be given an “F” in the course and be expelled, by due process, from Amridge University. The second or third offense may or may not be in the same course in which a previous offense was recorded. For all offenses, the student shall be informed in writing by the instructor of the action taken, with copies forwarded to the Dean of the College, the Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the Registrar’s Office for placement in the student’s permanent file. However, the respective dean shall inform the instructor when an “F” is to be assigned for a course. For any offense, a student may request that his or her case be reviewed by the Appeals Committee, which shall act in accordance with stated provisions. The administration and the faculty reserve the right to review and act on individual cases of dishonesty.

CODE OF CONDUCT APPENDIX – ACCEPTABLE USE OF THE UNIVERSITY NETWORK, INTERNET, ONLINE COURSE SYSTEM, AND EMAIL

As a leader in distance learning initiatives, Amridge University has established a comprehensive, state-of-the-art network and distance learning portal linked to the World-Wide Web (Internet). Through these systems (hereafter referred to as the Intranet), University faculty and personnel are able to conduct education and business services directly linked to the purposes and mission of the University.

The Internet is an electronic highway connecting millions of computers all over the world with millions of individual subscribers. This access can also include the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of an institution of higher education, and more especially in connection with an institution such as the University which has been built upon Christian values and beliefs. As a result, Intranet users at the University are required and permitted to use this system solely for University business purposes in a manner that supports the efficient, ethical and legal utilization of the system resources. Any University employee or student who violates any of the provisions of this policy may be subject to loss of Intranet and computer privileges and may, at the University’s sole discretion, be subject to other disciplinary actions that may include either termination of employment or expulsion.

1. Acceptable Use—The use of the Intranet must be in furtherance of educational and academic activities or research and must be consistent with the educational objectives of the University. The use of the Intranet to play games or to transmit any material in violation of any federal or state statute, rule or regulation is strictly prohibited and includes, but is not limited to, threatening or obscene material, material protected by trade secret and the unauthorized use of the materials of other persons.

2. Privileges—The use of the University’s Intranet, email systems, and network is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate or unauthorized use can result in a termination of those privileges. All employees and students should be aware that the use of University computers, computers connected to the Intranet, email systems and network are constantly monitored by University system administrators. Use of University computers and computers connected to the Intranet, email systems and network by employees or students for personal reasons during work hours is strictly forbidden. If an employee wishes to use University computers or computers connected to the Intranet, email systems, and network for personal reasons after working hours, the employee shall obtain written permission from the system operator and the Business Office. Based upon the acceptable use guidelines outlined within these provisions, the system administrators, in coordination with the administration of the University, will review and decide, in their absolute discretion, what constitutes an inappropriate use of the network and the administration shall take such action as it deems appropriate and necessary. The system administrators or University administration may suspend or close a student’s or employee’s account at any time. Such user shall be notified in writing within two (2) days of such closure setting forth the reason(s) for such suspension or closure of his/her account. All users must remain in good standing with the University (e.g., currently enrolled students in good academic standing, current employees, etc.). Any user whose accounts are suspended or closed may:

a. Request (in writing) a written statement justifying such actions from the system administrator(s).

b. Request a hearing through appropriate University due process procedures.

In accordance with the provisions of this policy, employees and students shall not maintain personal data, information, or files on University computers or access such information through University computers or computers connected to the Intranet, email systems, or network. Furthermore, the University is not responsible for the loss of any such personal data, information, or files nor for the confidentiality or integrity of such personal data, information, or files.

Violation of this policy may result in immediate disciplinary actions including, but not limited to, immediate termination of employment at the sole discretion of the University.

3. Netiquette—Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of Intranet etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

a. Be polite; do not write or send abusive messages to others.

b. Use appropriate language; do not swear or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate or offensive language.

c. Do not reveal your account name and password to others.

Note that electronic mail (email) is not guaranteed to be private. Users are specifically advised that system administrators and staff who operate the system have unrestricted access to all employees’ and students’ email at all times. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. Users may not use the Intranet in a manner that disrupts the use of the Intranet by other users (e.g. downloading large files during prime time; sending mass email messages; annoying other users using the talk or write functions).

4. Reliability—The University makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing or for any related services provided by contract service providers. The University will not be responsible for any damages employees or students incur from use of the Intranet, including, but not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, misdeliveries, or service interruptions caused by negligence or other errors or omissions of either University employees, its independent contractors or third parties.

5. Security—Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If an employee or student believes he or she has identified a security problem on the Intranet, he or she should notify a system administrator to help identify and resolve any associated problems. Students and employees should not give their passwords to any other individual. Attempts to log on to the system as another user may result in termination of user privileges. Attempts by non-systems administrators to log into the system as a system administrator or other system staff will result in termination of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or who has a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the system and may be subject to other disciplinary actions that could include termination of employment or expulsion, at the sole discretion of the University.

6. Vandalism—Vandalism may result in termination of privileges and other disciplinary actions that could include termination of employment or expulsion. Vandalism is defined as any attempt to damage or destroy data of another user, the Intranet, or other networks that are connected to the system or the Internet including, but not limited to, knowingly uploading or creating computer viruses or changing the settings or operating environment of the system’s servers used to access the Intranet. The unauthorized copying or downloading of University purchased or developed software, videos, or audio and other proprietary computer data and files are strictly prohibited..

POLICY ON THE USE OF A PLAGIARISM DETECTION SYSTEM

Effective beginning the spring semester 2011, Amridge University will be using a capability to enhance the integrity of its online classes. Specifically, the University will use a plagiarism detection system named SafeAssign which is one of two such systems used by numerous colleges and universities in the Blackboard courseware system.

The SafeAssign system matches the text in publically available databases on the Internet, databases of journals and periodicals, the SafeAssign database, and a database of other University student work previously submitted through the SafeAssign system. Once submitted, the SafeAssign system will identify segments of text in student papers matching sequences of words in the database and provide a specialized report to the respective course instructor. In turn, the instructor will determine if the student’s paper followed all of the proper source citation procedures as specified in the respective course syllabus and in accordance with both the Code of Conduct – Academic Integrity delineated in the Amridge University Academic Catalog and the Academic Integrity provision specified in Section II of each Amridge University syllabus.

As a teaching tool, the SafeAssign system will be used by faculty to help students understand that plagiarism will not be tolerated at the University and that all students should properly give credit to sources and text not originated by the student in accordance with practices and standards in the academic community.

Finally, as a result of the University’s decision to implement the SafeAssign system, there are several requirements that must be followed by all students submitting academic papers for University courses. These requirements include:

· Follow the course document title page requirements specified in the respective course syllabus;

· Use only the initials of your first name and last name and the last four digits of your student number on the title page as your identification;

· Do not incorporate any personal information in your course paper;

· Do not use the name of individuals who are not public figures or other individuals not normally named in academic and public works; and

· Students enrolled in counseling, therapy, pastoral counseling, or ministerial courses are specifically prohibited from using the names, or any other types of personal identification information, of individuals counseled, clients, patients, or individuals otherwise being served by the student.

Prior to submitting your paper to your instructor you have one or more opportunities to submit your paper through SafeAssign for a self-check. Submitting a paper for a self-check does not submit your paper to a database. Your instructor will arrange for these self-check opportunities when setting up the assignments. The self-check through SafeAssign will highlight statements and paragraphs in your paper that are duplicated in previous materials and will provide you a report. You can then check to assure that you have provided the appropriate source citations. Afterwords, you can submit the final draft of your paper to your instructor.

When you submit your assignment to your instructor your paper will be added to the Amridge University‘s database. You will have the option of submitting or not submitting your paper to SafeAssign’s global database mentioned above. Neither your self-check through SafeAssign nor your submission of papers to the global database are part of Amridge University’s program. They are not part of the grading process nor are they recorded by the university.

Participating in the SafeAssign system is not a voluntary option – all students applying for admission and registering for courses at Amridge University will be required to submit all course papers, reports, and similar academic work through the SafeAssign portal. Requirements related to the submission of course documents through the SafeAssign will be outlined in the syllabus for each student’s course.

POLICY OF STUDENT VERIFICATION DURING TESTS AND EXAMINATIONS

Effective beginning the spring semester 2011, Amridge University will be using a capability to enhance the integrity of our online classes. Periodically, in our online test and examination system, you may be posed personal challenge questions to verify your identity. Amridge University is using this new step in the learning process to ensure that each student passes independent identity verification, as the University’s accreditation agency requires this type of program to maintain the University’s continued participation in the U.S. Department of Education’s student financial aid programs.

This process will be conducted by Acxiom Corporation and not by the University. If you are selected for identity verification, you will enter your name and address and Acxiom will access a database of consumer information (addresses, phone numbers, property information, etc.) and present unique personalized challenge questions only you can answer. When you receive these questions, you must answer them prior to re-entering the system. Do not enter your name and address more than once and do not close the browser or shut down the computer.

Your ability to correctly answer these random questions within a short time indicates that you are performing your own work online. The University monitors each identity transaction and will contact you if you do not pass or do not complete the identity questions. There is no penalty for not answering the questions, but you are expected to answer to the best of your ability. There is no impact to your grade, exam or assignments unless there is evidence of violations of academic integrity policies, which are available in the Amridge University Academic Catalog on the University’s web site.

The questions are based on data about you, such as where you have lived, your telephone number, and other available data. This data is also compiled about every consumer in the United States. As with all databases, there may be typographical errors or other obvious anomalies in the data. Select the best answers to your questions.

To maintain the integrity of online courses, in addition to personal challenge questions, the University often reviews logs in its systems, such as IP addresses, login and logoff times, exam start and completion times and other logs. The University also uses plagiarism detection tools, special browsers and other techniques to help ensure the integrity of its courses, programs, and degrees.

In summary:

· The University is improving the quality and integrity of its online courses with identity verification

· DO:

§ Pay close attention during this identity verification process.

§ Answer the questions to the best of your ability.

§ Enter your street address properly without abbreviations.

§ Answer the questions immediately.

§ Pick the best answer.

· DO NOT:

§ Share your user id with anyone, ever.

§ Enter Jr., Sr., or apartment numbers. These are not needed.

§ Skip or try to avoid the questions.

§ Worry about slight errors, typos or truncated names or addresses.

§ Intentionally answer the questions incorrectly.

Finally, the system used will randomly select students for verification – this random selection will be based on only a small percentage of students taking University-based tests and examinations for all courses. This is not a voluntary option – all students applying for admission and registering for courses at Amridge University will be required to respond to the random challenge questions.

POLICY ON THE USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING AND RELATED SYSTEMS TO PROTECT EMPLOYEE AND STUDENT PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

Although Amridge University acknowledges the contributions that social networking (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.) and related systems have made to enhancing electronic communications, it is the position of the University that the use of such systems poses a significant potential for violation of employee and student privacy and confidentiality requirements. As such, the use of the trademark name of the University and any of the University’s electronic systems to access these social networking systems is strictly prohibited by all University employees and students. This prohibition includes use of the University name, email addresses, email systems, Internet systems, computers, and networks to access and use these systems. Violation of this policy could initiate immediate disciplinary actions that may include immediate termination of employment or expulsion, at the University’s sole discretion.

STANDARD APPEALS/GRIEVANCE PROCESS

Appeals associated with unofficial withdrawals shall be made in accordance with the timelines and procedures specified under the subsection Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid in Section 3 – Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid of this edition of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

It is the policy of this University that all student complaints and complaints from members of the public which can be resolved informally, be done so. Therefore, a student or member of the public who has a complaint (not involving sexual harassment) should first attempt to resolve the complaint with the student’s instructor. Complaints involving perceived sexual harassment may be submitted to any of the persons specified in the University’s sexual harassment policy specified in this section. If the complaint is not resolved informally, then the student having the complaint may submit to the Amridge University Appeals Committee a formal, written appeal or grievance (hereafter referred to as Appeal) within thirty (30) calendar days of the occurrence which the appeal is about, or of the date on which the Appellant first knew or reasonably should have known of the occurrence or act complained of. Appeals are to be submitted using the official University Electronic Appeal Form accessible via the Amridge University web site. Appeals sent in any other format will not be considered. Also, after submitting this Appeal/Grievance electronically via the Amridge University web site, supporting documentation must be sent on the same date to the Appeals Committee Chairperson via a separate email addressed to appealscommittee@amridgeuniversity.edu or through the United States Postal Service, to Amridge University, ATTN: Appeals Committee, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36117. Ensure you include your name, student ID number and the date of your appeal in any supporting documentation correspondence.

Untimely and incomplete appeals need not be considered. Appeals may concern any form of illegal discrimination (based upon race, color, gender, national origin, disability, or perceived disability in accordance with the University’s non-discrimination policy), violation of University rules or regulations, matters interfering with a professional environment conducive to learning, student suspension or expulsion, and denials of student admission to the University, the University schools, or the University degree programs. Students who wish to appeal Financial Aid Suspension must document the following information on the online appeals form: 1) Reason for failure to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards, 2) Reason events have changed that will allow the achievement of the standards next semester. If this information is not filled out on the online appeals form, the appeal cannot be considered. Additionally, appeals associated with unofficial withdrawals shall be made in accordance with the timelines and procedures specified under the subsection Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid in Section 3 – Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid of this edition of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

Upon receipt of an Appeal, the Appeals Committee Chairperson shall promptly review the Appeal to determine disposition of the Appeal. If the Appeals Committee Chairperson determines that the Appeal is of a nature that there should be imposed an interim resolution pending the outcome of the appeals procedure, then he or she may impose an interim resolution of the matter. The interim resolution may include temporary admission or suspension of a student, temporarily barring a student from using University property or participating in University programs or activities, or other temporary action designed to ensure a safe and non-disruptive environment. Any such temporary resolution shall not be construed as punitive, disciplinary, conclusive, or indicative of guilt or other wrongdoing unless the Appeals Committee Chairperson explicitly states to the contrary.

The Appeal will be investigated by the Appeals Committee Chairperson according to standardized investigation procedure(s), or alternative procedure(s), issued and from time to time amended by the Appeals Committee or the President. The investigation procedure(s) shall include: (1) a factual investigation, by the Appeals Committee Chairperson or his designee, of the Appeal allegations in light of the applicable statute, rule, regulation, or policy, with the investigation including, but not necessarily being limited to, interviews of the Appellant and any designated respondent to the Appeal; (2) a preliminary report by the investigator(s) as to whether or not there is substantial evidence to support the Appeal; (3) if deemed appropriate, a written recommendation as to how the Appeal should be ultimately resolved; and (4) a recommendation as to how the Appeal should be further processed according to applicable procedures, including whether or not a hearing should be conducted. The non-binding recommendation and pertinent information shall then be presented to the Appeals Committee for action within fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt by the Appeals Committee Chairperson. A hearing shall be conducted if: (a) the investigator so recommends and the Appellant so requests; (b) the Appeals Committee Chairperson so directs; or (c) the Appellant requests a hearing and the Appeal concerns a denial of admission, student expulsion, or suspension of more than ten (10) calendar days. The hearing shall be conducted, according to hearing procedures issued, and from time to time amended by, the President, before the Appeals Committee. The Appeals Committee shall review the investigation report and recommendation put forth by the Appeals Committee Chairperson and either concur with the recommendation of the Appeals Committee Chairperson or make an alternate decision. Once approved by the Appeals Committee, the Appeals Committee Chairperson shall notify the Appellant in writing of the Appeals Committee decision within fifteen (15) calendar days of said decision.

If the Appellant disagrees with the decision of the Appeals Committee, then he or she may appeal the decision to the Amridge University Executive Leadership Team. The Appeal shall be submitted in writing, within fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt of the Appeals Committee decision, indicating why the Appellant disagrees with the decision. The written Appeal shall be sent to the Executive Leadership Team in one of the following manners:

§ By email (preferred) to: ELTAppeals@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ By fax: 334.387.3878 – to the attention of Dr. John H. White

§ By U.S. Postal Service or hand delivery:

Dr. John H. White
Amridge University
1200 Taylor Road
Montgomery, AL 36117-3520

The Executive Leadership Team will meet and make a decision on the Appeal within fifteen (15) calendar days of receipt. The Executive Leadership Committee chairperson will designate a member of the Committee to notify the Appellant in writing of the Executive Leadership Committee decision within fifteen (15) calendar days of said decision. The decision of the Executive Leadership Committee is final.

If the Appellant complains of, asserts the existence of, or indicates the possibility of sexual harassment violative of law or University policy or standards of conduct, then the Appeals Committee Chairperson may, in his or her discretion, determine that the matter will not be resolved through the above-stated appeal procedures, but will instead be reasonably, appropriately, and promptly investigated and resolved by the University pursuant to such process as the Appeals Committee Chairperson determines in accordance with the University’s objective of maintaining a work and educational environment free from sexual harassment.

Special Note for students living in the State of Tennessee: If a complaint is not settled at the institutional level, the student may contact the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, Nashville, TN 37243-0830. Telephone: 615.741.5293. This includes Standard Appeals/ Grievance and Fast Track Appeals.

AFFILIATION

Amridge University is a private, church-related institution affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Since there is no hierarchical organization over individual congregations or church-related institutions, the relationship of the University with the Churches of Christ is solely on the basis of fellowship.

Those of various religious backgrounds are welcome to take advantage of Amridge University’s curricular offerings. In fact, of those students who responded to the optional religious affiliation question on the Amridge University Application for Admission (close to 82% of Amridge University students chose to answer this question), only 41% of Amridge University students indicated that they are affiliated with the Churches of Christ, while 59% indicated that they are affiliated with another church.

MEMBERSHIPS

Amridge University maintains institutional memberships in several professional and academic organizations. As of the date of the release of this publication, these organizations include:

§ Alabama Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (ALACRAO)

§ Alabama Association of Independent Colleges & Universities (AAICU)

§ Alabama Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (AASFAA)

§ Alabama Association of Veterans Affairs (AAVA)

§ Alabama Planned Giving Council (APGC)

§ American Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities (AAPICU)

§ American Council on Education (ACE)

§ American Theological Users Group (ATUG)

§ College & University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR)

§ Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL)

§ Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES)

§ National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)

§ National Association of Independent College and Universities (NAICU)

§ National Association of State Administrators and Supervisors of Private Schools (NASASPS) (Associate Member)

§ National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

§ National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)

§ National Committee on Planned Giving

§ National Society of Fund Raising Executives (NSFRE)

§ Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC)

§ Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)

§ Southern Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (SASFAA)

STUDENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Amridge University recognizes the importance of student input in the university’s decision-making process; therefore, the administration requests student volunteers for membership in the Student Advisory Committee. This committee meets on a regular term basis and is reorganized on a yearly basis. A student does not have to be on campus to be a member of the committee nor to participate in the meetings.

Concerns, recommendations, and requests are presented directly from the committee to the appropriate university area, i.e., deans, problem committee, etc. Feedback will be provided on each item submitted by the committee. The Chairman of the Student Services Team serves as advisor to this committee. Students who are willing to serve as volunteers should send an email to studentadvisorycommittee@amridgeuniversity.edu early in the semester. Members of the committee will be appointed by the Student Services Team with recommendations from the deans of the four academic schools. The Chairperson of the Student Advisory Committee will serve as a member of the Student Services Team.

STUDENT PROBLEMS COMMITTEE

The mission of the Student Problems Committee (SPC) is to address and quickly resolve any issue, concern, or problem identified by an Amridge University student. The committee will not only resolve the easy and difficult issues as they occur on a day-to-day basis, but will also assist the university in setting up guidelines that will hopefully remedy the major course issues, faculty issues, etc. that may not be resolved in one day. Through the SPC, the Amridge University student has an avenue to express concerns, submit problems, and provide suggestions regarding any aspect of the university. The student initiates the process by emailing the problem or concern to problems@amridgeuniversity.edu or, through Blackboard to onlinecourses@amridgeuniversity.edu. The point person for the committee checks for incoming emails throughout the day and has the responsibility of informing the student, faculty member, etc. through separate emails of a course of action that will be followed; and when a resolution is confirmed, he or she notifies all parties involved.

BOOKSTORE

Unlike many colleges and universities, Amridge University does not have a bookstore where college textbooks are sold at significant prices above cost. Instead, the University has partnered with MBS Direct, the nation’s leading college and university virtual bookstore. MBS Direct is a comprehensive virtual bookstore where Amridge University students can buy textbooks, track orders, sell their used textbooks, and even purchase computer software at discounted prices. Students can access the Amridge University textbook list by going to the MBS Direct web site at:

http://www.mbsdirect.net/index.htm

or by telephone in the United States at 800.325.3252 or internationally at 573.447.9179.

Students with specific questions about Amridge University course textbooks that cannot be answered by visiting the MBS Direct web site may contacting Mr. Terence Sheridan at Amridge University by telephone at: 800.351.4040, extension 7541; or by email:

textbooks@amridgeuniversity.edu.

LOCATION

The main campus of Amridge University is located in Montgomery, Alabama, the capital city of the state. Strategically located in the central part of the state between Huntsville, Mobile, and Atlanta, Georgia, Montgomery is one of the fastest growing cities in the state and region.

The city is clean and modern and is a pleasant place in which to live. With its beautiful residential areas, parks and playgrounds, fine schools and universities, students and families can enjoy its museums, zoo, and capitol facilities.

Located approximately ninety miles from Birmingham, Alabama; one hundred seventy miles from Atlanta, Georgia; two hundred fifty miles from Jackson, Mississippi; and two hundred miles from Huntsville, Alabama, Montgomery can be reached easily by automobile, bus, and airplane.

Montgomery has two major U.S. Air Force installations: Maxwell Air Force Base and Gunter Annex. Maxwell is where the Air War College is located and is a strategic center for education. The city has a population of over 210,000. There are many churches and educational institutions. Historical sites include the first capitol of the Confederacy and the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, which was the first pulpit of Martin Luther King, Jr. and played a vital role in the civil rights movement.

The city has an abundance of good housing in addition to its other advantages. Employment can be easily found in Montgomery.

Amridge University has purchased approximately 700 acres of land on Interstate 85, located 15 miles from the main Campus to accommodate our growth and space needs in several ways which may include a new home for the Amridge University Turner School of Theology of Amridge University and a home for the expanding theological library. The Turner School of Theology is named for Rex and Opal Turner, Sr. who founded Amridge University.

CAMPUS FACILITIES

Amridge University has the main campus in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Amridge University Montgomery Campus is located at 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, Alabama. The Montgomery Campus stately sits on a nine-acre campus adjoining Auburn University at Montgomery and Interstate 85. A beautiful building houses the administration offices, classrooms, and resource center.

The policy of Amridge University is to provide reasonable accommodation for persons who are handicapped and/or disabled as designated in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Although the Morgan W. Brown building is not equipped with an elevator, all physically challenged needs can be met from the first floor. These include registration, counseling, library facilities, classroom facilities, restrooms, break room facilities, and others. Ample parking is provided.

HOW TO CONTACT Amridge University

Below is a listing of key University offices most commonly requested by students and prospective students:

· UNIVERSITY SWITCHBOARD

§ switchboard@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ 334.387.3877 or 1.800.351.4040

· NEW STUDENT PROCEDURES

· admissions@amridgeuniversity.edu

· New Student Advising: 334.387.7000 or 888.790.8080

· Admissions Enrollment/Collection of Records: 334.387.7402 or
800.351.4040, extension 7402

· STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

§ financialaid@amridgeuniversity.edu

· Financial Aid: 334.387.7458 or
800.351.4040 extension 7458

· Current Students: 334.387.7459 or
800.351.4040, extension 7459

· Prospective Students: 334.387.7460 or
800.351.4040, extension 7460

· Military Tuition Assistance: 334.387.7461 or
800.351.4040, extension 7461

· STUDENT REGISTRY

· registrar@amridgeuniversity.edu

· Registrar/Transcripts/Grades: 334.387.7528 or
800.351.4040, extension 7528

§ STUDENT SERVICES

· studentservices@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ Student Services & Resources: 334.387.7476 or
800.351.4040, extension 7476

§ CAREER SERVICES CENTER

· careerservices@amridgeuniversity.edu

·         334.387.7512 or 800.351.4040, extension 7512
    (Note: The University provides career serves but does not
     provide job placement services.)

§ ALUMNI RELATIONS & NEWS

· curtissampley@amridgeuniversity.edu

· 334.387.7912 or 800.351.4040, extension 7912

· STUDENT BUSINESS OFFICE

· businessoffice@amridgeuniversity.edu

· Student Billing/Accounts Receivable: 334.387.7449 or
800.351.4040, extension 7449

· STUDENT COMPUTER AND TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

· NOC@AMRIDGEUNIVERSITY.EDU

· Extended Learning Program (Streaming & Elluminate
Online): 334.387.7454 or 800.351.4040, extension 7454

· Instructional Online Support [Blackboard]: 334.387.7455 or
800.351.4040 extension 7455

· LIBRARY

· library@amridgeuniversity.edu

· Book Check Out [Students and Faculty Only]: 334.387.7463 or
800.685.1302

· Montgomery -- Main Campus [Students, Faculty, and Visitors]
334.387.7464 or 800.351.4040, extension 7464

· AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY COLLEGES & SCHOOLS—

· academics@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ Vice President of Academics for all Colleges & Schools

o Dr. S. Douglas Patterson, Vice President of Academic Affairs

o 334.387.7920 or 800.351.4040, extension 7920

o stanleypatterson@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ College of General Studies

o Dr. Roger Shepherd

o Dean: 334.387.7814 or 800.351.4040, extension 7814

o rogershepherd@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ College of Business & Leadership

o Dr. Kenyetta McCurty, Dean

o Dean: 334.387.7828 or
800.351.4040, extension 7828

o KENYETTAMCCURTY@AMRIDGEUNIVERSITY.EDU

§ School of Human Services

o Dr. Jerry L. Martin Dean

o Dean: 334.387.7828 or
800.351.4040, extension 7815

o jerrymartin@amridgeuniversity.edu

§ Turner School of Theology

o Dr. Rodney Cloud, Dean

o 334.387.7486 or 800.351.4040 extension 7486

o Dean & Chair of the Ph.D. Degree Program in Biblical Studies: 334.387.7487 or 800.351.4040, extension 7487

o rodneycloud@amridgeuniversity.edu

AGREEMENT OF BINDING ARBITRATION AND WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL, CERTAIN DAMAGES AND CLASS ACTIONS

The following agreement will be included in all Amridge University enrollment agreements:

The purpose of these provisions is to require that any dispute related to the student’s enrollment, education or training will be submitted to binding arbitration, that damages are limited and that the student has no right to a trial by jury or to file a class action related to any dispute.

If any time during the term of this Agreement and/or the enrollment of the student any dispute, claim, controversy, protest or disagreement shall arise upon or in respect of this Agreement or the enrollment, education or training of the student, no matter how described, pleaded or styled, including, but not limited to, any claim of fraud, any dispute, claim, controversy, protest or disagreement regarding the meaning and construction of this Agreement, the execution hereof, or any breach or alleged breach by either party hereto or any claim for damages, stay of action or otherwise, shall arise in respect hereof or in the relationship of the parties hereto, every such dispute, claim, controversy, protest and disagreement shall, upon request by either party hereto, be referred to a single arbiter agreed upon by the parties, or if no single arbiter can be agreed upon, an arbiter or arbiters shall be selected in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) and all such disputes, differences or disagreements shall be settled by arbitration under the Federal Arbitration Act conducted under the then prevailing Commercial Rules of the AAA in Montgomery County, Alabama in the parties’ individual capacity and not as a plaintiff or class member in any purported class or representative proceeding or as a class claim, consolidation or claim joinder. Judgment upon the award rendered by the arbiter shall be final and binding upon the parties hereto and may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. In the event there is any dispute, difference or disagreement regarding whether any matter arising out of this Agreement or the enrollment, education or training of the student should be submitted to arbitration, such dispute, difference or disagreement shall, upon request by either party hereto, be submitted to arbitration as provided herein. The parties hereto shall be equally responsible for the expenses associated with such arbitration and shall each be responsible for their separate attorney’s fees. This Agreement shall be valid and binding for a term of ten (10) years after its execution by the student.

THE STUDENT HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVES THE RIGHT HE OR SHE MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY OR TO RECOVER EXEMPLARY DAMAGES IN RESPECT TO ANY LITIGATION BASED ON THIS AGREEMENT, THE ENROLLMENT, EDUCATION OR TRAINING OF THE STUDENT, OR ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER VERBAL OR WRITTEN) OR ACTIONS OF ANY REPRESENTATIVE OF AMRIDGE OR THE STUDENT. THIS WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY PROVISION IS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT FOR AMRIDGE TO PERMIT THE ENROLLMENT OF THE STUDENT.

CAREER SERVICES CENTER

Amridge University does not discriminate in admitting students, providing student services or the administration of its degree programs on the basis of religion, creed, ancestry, belief, age, or veteran status except where necessitated by specific religious tenets held by the institution. Amridge University’s Career Services division will post positions on the Amridge University Career Services website to assist students and alumni in their efforts to seek employment.

Amridge University does not endorse or recommend jobs or employers on the Career Services job posting web pages. Jobs postings are provided for students and alumni as a service. Students and Alumni should take responsibility for all necessary precautions when interviewing for a position, or accepting any position.

Amridge University Career Services Center website contains links to other websites as a convenience for its users and does not endorse or take responsibility for the contents of linked sites.

Section 2: Admissions

This section includes important information on the admissions policies and procedures of Amridge University. This includes admissions to the College of Business and Leadership, College of General Studies, the Turner School of Theology, the School of Human Services, and the School of Continuing Education. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for a specific school within Amridge University, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based) [Version 2.2012-2013, Effective 2.24.2013].

ADMISSIONS POLICY

The following subsections incorporate the Amridge University Admission Policy.

General Admission Guidelines and Policies

Amridge University is open to all academically qualified persons. The University has developed a streamlined admissions process to help prospective students complete the process expeditiously so they can begin their studies.

As new technologies and processes become available, Amridge University will make every effort possible to adopt and use these technologies to help the admissions process. Keeping this in mind, students and potential students are encouraged to visit the Amridge University web site under the Admissions option to review the latest admissions requirements and new tools provided to help with the admissions process. Students are strongly encouraged to utilize the tools available and to work closely with their Advisors and with University staff to complete all steps to attain official (non-provisional) admission status. These steps are specified in this policy for the respective degree-level. There will be instances, however, when a student is unable to have submitted all official documentation to complete the admissions process before the start of the semester. In such instances, the student intending to enroll at the bachelor’s or master’s level may take advantage of the University’s provisional admission alternative which expedites a student’s enrollment. Provisional admission is intended by the University as a temporary (one semester) admission status granted to students seeking associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degrees while they are in the process of submitting to the Admissions Office all official and required items for unconditional admission to Amridge University. First-time freshmen are not eligible for provisional admission unless they are military students. A student must make formal online application, pay the application fee, and provide unofficial documentation to his or her academic advisor. Unofficial documentation will consist of student copies or other unofficial copies of transcripts from previously attended colleges and universities, copies of test scores, and/or personal copies of military education records. Unofficial documentation may be provided to advisors by mail, fax, or email. After review, approval may be given which would permit the student to register for courses while the official application process is being completed. When a student makes a formal online application with unofficial documentation, a Preliminary Unofficial Student Evaluation Summary will be prepared to inform the student as to his or her requirements to complete a specific degree at Amridge University. The student is on notice that the Preliminary Unofficial Student Evaluation Summary and related email notices are unofficial statements. Amridge University cannot give official notice until it has sufficient official academic documentation and information on a student. Amridge University reserves and retains the right, per its stated academic catalog policies, to amend a student’s Preliminary Unofficial Student Evaluation Summary or any email notices as to what may be accepted or not accepted. Official documentation may reflect deficiencies that were not available or apparent to the advisor and the institution at the time of issuing unofficial email notices or a Preliminary Unofficial Student Evaluation Summary. An official Student Academic Evaluation of courses accepted and courses required to complete a degree will be prepared and sent electronically to the student upon receipt, review, and authentication of all credentials. This Student Academic Evaluation will be based on all admission requirements as per the respective degree program admission requirements.

Programs of study, transfer policies, and course equivalencies are continually reviewed by the University to insure that degree programs are current and professionally relevant. For students who stop-out of the University, the official Student Academic Evaluation will be in force as presented to the student for up to one year (three consecutive semesters) from the point of entry. Students seeking re-entry after this time period will have their transfer credit re-evaluated based on the institutional parameters in place at the point of re-entry. (Note: the University reserves the right to reconsider evaluations at any time if changes are required by federal, state, licensure, and/or accrediting bodies to which Amridge University is subject.) Preliminary evaluations for provisionally enrolled students are valid only for the first semester of provisional admission. The Preliminary evaluations for students who do not immediately enroll are subject to reconsideration.

While Amridge University will work closely with helping potential students with the admissions process, it is ultimately the applicant who determines the speed of the admissions process. The applicant must ensure that the admissions application is properly completed with the correct information and that all supporting documents, such as: official transcripts from each academic institution attended, letters of recommendations, etc., are submitted as required. In order for a transcript to be official, the transcript must be sent directly from the institution to Amridge University. No student will be permitted to enroll a second term if there are any outstanding admission records. Except for military students, the provisional admissioin option is not available to first-time freshmen. First-time freshmen must provide official high school transcripts or GED transcripts and complete the admissions process (including any placement test that may be required) before they can enroll in classes at Amridge University. This requirement allows university advisors to provide the best possible information and guidance to new college students.

Students entering Amridge University are required in the admission process to submit test scores or to take assessment tests as a part of the admission process. These tests include the following:

· All graduate and doctoral students are required to submit their Miller Analogies Test (MAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score. Some of the degree programs may accept other standardized tests and this is acknowledged in the respective graduate degree admission requirements.

· All first time, entry-level undergraduate students are required to provide official SAT or ACT scores, official AFQT scores, or to take the ACCUPLACER assessment test (which is a proctored test provided by the University at no cost to the student.) Based on the test scores, the student may be required to take developmental courses. Admission status for first-time-in-college students may also be impacted by test scores.

All students admitted to Amridge University must possess sufficient computer skills to use the basic typing, editing, and printing functions of a word-processing package. Amridge University students are required to use Microsoft Word. Students must:

1. Possess the skills necessary to download and install software;

2. Have access to a computer with Internet link and browser;

3. Possess the ability to access Internet online materials and information; and

4. Have the ability to engage in email correspondence.

Amridge University applicants are encouraged to contact the Admissions Office if they have any questions or problems associated with the admissions process.

Amridge University reserves the right to deny admission to any student who applies and fails to fully register three or more times.

Additionally, the University reserves the right to deny provisional admission to any undergraduate or graduate (other than doctoral) applicant who has either the same physical or mailing address, telephone number or email address as another student currently enrolled or currently in the admission process at the University. In addition, the University reserves the right to deny provisional admission to any applicant whose application fee is paid by a person other than the respective applicant. The University further reserves the right to deny such enrollment upon any other basis at the University’s sole discretion. This policy is instituted to prevent fraud against the University. Potential violations may be referred to the University’s Institutional Integrity Committee.

All first-time freshman (those students coming to Amridge University without having attended another post-secondary institution) will be required to provide an official copy of their high school transcript and/or their GED transcript record to the institution to be considered for admission to Amridge University. Military service members will be exempt from this requirement and may be granted provisional admission and a preliminary evaluation based upon unofficial documentation for a period not to exceed one semester.

Students denied admission to Amridge University based upon reading deficiencies documented by an ACCUPLACER score are welcome to reapply to the University once reading proficiency has improved. Students must present proof of participation in a reading improvement program and may retake the ACCUPLACER reading module. ACCUPLACER may be taken no more than once every three months.

For associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, the University will not consider accepting transfer credit of any form after the last day of the student’s first semester at the University. For students enrolling under the “readmissions” option, the first semester will be the first semester the students originally enrolled at the University for the respective degree level. It is the student’s responsibility to identify all transfer credit requests and provide the required official documentation prior to this deadline. The only exceptions for this provision of this policy will be for students transferring credit from, and enrolled through, an articulation agreement with the Community College of the Air Force or by prior written approval by the Amridge University Vice President of Academic Affairs granted only in extenuating circumstances. In addition, students receiving Veteran’s educational assistance may have a maximum of two semesters (starting with their first semester of enrollment) to provide official transcripts for consideration of transfer credit. However, students receiving Veteran’s educational assistance are reminded that they are granted only one semester of provisional admission. All official transcripts must be provided, and an admission decision made, prior to enrollment for a second term. Students are therefore strongly encouraged to provide all official transcripts to the University expeditiously.

For students working on their doctorate, said transfer credit must be considered by the University and reflected on the respective student’s evaluation by the University prior to the student’s acceptance into the specified degree program.

Finally, the University staff will interact only with the specific student regarding his or her admissions, enrollment, grades, financial aid, or any other action related to the respective student’s status or business at the University. The University will not entertain such discussions or contacts with any third party regardless if the respective student makes such a request. Exceptions to this policy may only be considered by the University’s appeals process and filed by the respective student. The only exception to this provision of this policy will be with prior written approval by the Amridge University Vice President of Academic Affairs granted only in extenuating circumstances.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATE AND

DOCTORAL STUDIES

As there are slight variations for admission to each of the degree programs provided through the Amridge University College of Business and Leadership, School of Human Services and the Turner School of Theology, the admission requirements are provided under the heading Admission and Degree Requirements of each of the academic programs of study specified within the Amridge University Catalog.

UNDERGRADUATE ENTRY-LEVEL

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate Entry-Level College Admission (First-time Freshmen) —Unconditional:

1. Admission to Amridge University’s baccalaureate programs (four-year) will be granted to high school diploma graduates who score 17 or above on the American College Test (ACT) or 700 or above on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) of the College Entrance Examination Board, or the 50^th percentile or higher on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT.). Applicants must present an official high school transcript or official proof of a GED and provide ACT or SAT scores to the Admissions Office at Amridge University. An occupational high school diploma, or a lesser diploma, will not be accepted as a valid high school diploma as documented by the respective official high school transcript.

2. Applicants who are 20 years of age or older and whose high school or GED transcript reflects at least an overall “B” (3.000 on 4.0 scale) average for all courses or a grade of “B” (or 80% passing score for GED) for 12^th grade English and basic algebra may be accepted without taking an aptitude test.

3. Applicants who have not completed high school may be admitted on the basis of a GED.

4. Home-schooled applicants who have a composite ACT test score of 17, or an SAT score of 700 or the 50% percentile or higher on the AFQT may be admitted as unconditional students. Additionally, in accordance with Section 668.32 of Title 34 of the code of Federal Regulations, home-schooled students must obtain a secondary school completion credential for home school provided for under their respective State law. If the State law does not require a home-schooled student to obtain such credential, the student must submit documentation of a completed secondary school education in a home school setting that qualifies as an exemption from compulsory attendance requirements under State law. In addition, an interview with the student will be conducted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his or her designee.

5. Applicants from non-accredited high schools who have a composite ACT test score of 17 or an SAT score of 700 may be admitted as unconditional students. Graduates of non-accredited high schools must provide an official high school transcript and have completed a minimum of fifteen Carnegie Units. An occupational high school diploma, or a lesser diploma, will not be accepted as a valid high school diploma as documented by the respective official high school transcript.

In accordance with Section 668.32 of Title 34 of the code of Federal Regulations, home-schooled students must obtain a secondary school completion credential for home school provided for under their respective State law. If the State law does not require a home-schooled student to obtain such credential, the student must submit documentation of a completed secondary school education in a home school setting that qualifies as an exemption from compulsory attendance requirements under State law. Also, an interview with the student will be conducted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his or her designee.

6. Students admitted unconditionally based on composite ACT/SAT scores but whose sub-report in English or math indicate a deficiency may be required to take developmental courses.

Undergraduate Entry-Level College Admission—Conditional:

Applicants who fail to meet unconditional admission requirements may be approved for admission by special permission. The Admissions Office will consider students who show potential for college work in accordance with the following provisions:

1. Applicants whose composite ACT score equals 14 - 16 or an SAT score of 650 or the 31^st- 49^th percentile on the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) may be admitted to attend Amridge University as conditional students and may be required to take developmental courses.

2. Applicants from non-accredited high schools and/or home schooling who have a composite ACT test score of 14 - 16 or an SAT score of 650 or the 31^st - 49^th percentile on the AFQT may be admitted as conditional students and may be required to take developmental courses. An occupational high school diploma, or a lesser diploma, will not be accepted as a valid high school diploma as documented by the respective official high school transcript.

In accordance with Section 668.32 of Title 34 of the code of Federal Regulations, home-schooled students must obtain a secondary school completion credential for home school provided for under their respective State law. If the State law does not require a home-schooled student to obtain such credential, the student must submit documentation of a completed secondary school education in a home school setting that qualifies as an exemption from compulsory attendance requirements under State law. In addition, an interview with the student will be conducted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his or her designee.

3. Entry-Level students without ACT or SAT scores will be required to take a proctored ACCUPLACER assessment and, based on the results, may be required to take developmental courses.

4. The applicant must complete all of the admission process. This includes providing all supporting documents, such as: an official high school transcript or GED, application, application fee, and ACCUPLACER assessment scores, ACCUPLACER assessment fee, etc., as required.

5. Students whose ACT, SAT or ACCUPLACER scores indicate a need for developmental reading courses will not be admitted to Amridge University because the University does not teach remedial reading. Students will be given guidance regarding remedial reading opportunities in their geographic location, and will be welcome to reapply to Amridge once reading issues have been addressed.

UNDERGRADUATE TRANSFER STUDENT ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate Transfer Students Admission—Unconditional:

A transfer student will be eligible for unconditional admission with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale on all previously completed undergraduate coursework. Nontraditional credit will not be factored into the CGPA, such as: CLEP, DANTES, etc.

Undergraduate Transfer Students Admission—Conditional:

1. Transfer students who do not meet the above conditions may be eligible for conditional admission. Criteria for conditional admission may include one of the following:

2. When the student’s record indicates a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) between 1.5 and 1.9 on a 4.0 scale on all previously completed coursework the newly enrolled student must earn a 2.0 grade point average on 24 semester hours attempted at Amridge University.

3. Students with a cumulative transfer grade point average below the 1.5 average (CGPA) must obtain approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs for consideration for admission. Special consideration may be given to students who are over the age of 24.

4. A conditionally admitted transfer student will be permitted to take a maximum of 12 semester hours per semester until he or she has cleared the conditional status.

5. Those students transferring less than 64 semester hours may be required to take specified courses to enhance basic skills.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMPLETED APPLICATION AND RELEASE OF OFFICIAL Amridge University TRANSCRIPTS

An application is not considered complete until all items noted in the sections, below, have been properly submitted to the Amridge University Admissions Office. Until all items are received by the Admissions Office, the student is considered to be provisionally admitted. He or she may not register for subsequent Amridge University semesters, and no official transcripts will be released by the University. The required admissions items are as follows:

Undergraduate

First-Time Freshmen

1. Application with fee.

2. Official high school transcript or GED. An occupational high school diploma, or a lesser diploma, will not be accepted as a valid high school diploma as documented by the respective official high school transcript.

Additionally, in accordance with Section 668.32 of Title 34 of the code of Federal Regulations, home-schooled students must obtain a secondary school completion credential for home school provided for under their respective State law. If the State law does not require a home-schooled student to obtain such credential, the student must submit documentation of a completed secondary school education in a home school setting that qualifies as an exemption from compulsory attendance requirements under State law.

3. Required applicable test scores.

Transfer

1. Application with fee.

3. Official transcripts from every college previously attended.

Graduate

Programs under the School of Human Services and the College of Business and Leadership

1. Application with fee.

2. Proof of standardized test scores per the respective degree
requirement.

3. Official transcripts from every college previously attended.

Programs under the Turner School of Theology

See the admissions requirements for each degree in Section 9 – Turner School of Theology.

Doctoral (Provisional admission not permitted for doctoral students)

1. Application with fee.

2. Three letters of recommendation.

3. Proof of standardized test scores per the respective degree requirement.

4. Official transcripts from every college previously attended.

5. Monograph on career goals.

6. Term paper from master’s degree or doctoral dissertation.

7. Interview of the applicant.

8. Committee approval.

9. Response form.

Amridge University reserves the right to deny admission to any student who applies and fails to finalize registration three or more times.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Amridge University is a private, Christian university open to any qualified student. In a manner consistent with all applicable laws and regulations including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) or other federal, state or local laws or executive orders, Amridge University does not discriminate in admission, employment or administration of its programs on the basis of race, color, gender, age, creed, national origin, ancestry, disability, religion, belief or veteran status. Amridge University does follow specific religious tenets and maintains its religious freedom and rights. Inquiries concerning application of these statements should be directed to: Dr. Michael C. Turner, President, Amridge University, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117-3520.

REGIONAL ACCREDITING ORGANIZATIONS

The University recognizes the six regional accrediting organizations. These accrediting organizations are as follows:

§ Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools – Commission on Higher Education

§ New England Association of Schools and Colleges – Commission on Institutions of Higher Education

§ North Central Association of Colleges and Schools – The Higher Learning Commission

§ Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

§ Southern Association of Colleges and Schools – Commission on Colleges

§ Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and the Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities

APPLICATION PROCESS

Upon receiving a prospective student application, the Admissions Office will formally acknowledge, by mail, the applicant’s academic status with Amridge University. This letter will include a list of all outstanding documents or other requirements necessary to complete the admissions process. The Admissions Office will inform the student periodically as to the receipt of necessary transcripts and documents. However, it is the responsibility of the student to complete all admissions requirements in a timely manner.

After the applicant completes the requirements for admission, he or she will be notified of his or her status.

When the applicant has been accepted for admission to the University, the University will prepare an evaluation of all official transcripts. This evaluation will give the student direction as to what course requirements must be completed.

Specific admission requirements for a specific degree are delineated in the respective Amridge University school section in this catalog.

UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

A. Applicants to be Residing, Planning on Residing, within the United States of America

Amridge University does not participate in federal programs requiring the issuance of an I-20 form for international students planning/residing in the United States. As such, Amridge University will not process admissions applications and will not admit International applicants requiring I-20 forms.

B. Applicants to be Residing outside the United States of America

International applicants residing outside the United States of America while attending Amridge University and who will not be enrolling in programs requiring on-campus attendance must follow the following steps in addition to all other admission requirements:

(1) An official copy of all academic transcripts, to include transcripts of secondary schools attended, in the original language must be accompanied by an official English version.

(2) Where English is not the native language, applicants are required to demonstrate spoken and written English language proficiency. This is done by submitting qualifying scores on either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved equivalent per the scores for undergraduate (i.e., associate and bachelor degrees) and graduate (i.e., master and doctorate degrees).

Undergraduate—minimum total score of 65, with minimum scores in each section at the first step of the intermediate or fair levels, as follows:

Reading (intermediate).......... 15

Listening (intermediate)......... 15

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)... ....................... 17

Graduate—minimum total score of 79, with minimum scores for reading and listening increased to “high” levels.

Reading (high)....................... 22

Listening (high)....................... 22

Speaking (fair)....................... 18

Writing (fair)........................... 17

Also, an official copy of all academic transcripts in the original language must be accompanied by an official English evaluation by one of the agencies in Section C. below.

C. Amridge University requires that international transcripts be evaluated by
one of the following agencies:

World Education Services, Inc.
http://www.wes.org
Email: dc@wes.org
Bowling Green Station
P.O. Box 5087
New York, NY 10274-5087
Telephone: 212.966.6311

Global Credential Evaluators
http://www.gcevaluators.com
GCE, Inc.

PO Box 9203

College Station TX 77842

Telephone: 800-707-0979

Credentials Evaluation Service
http://www.ierf.org
Email: information@ierf.org
P.O. Box 3665
Culver City, CA 90231-3665
Telephone: 310.258.9451

Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
http://www.ece.org
P.O. Box 51470
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
Telephone: 414.289.3400

In cases where high school or equivalency achievement is documented with examination results rather than course-by-course transcripts a document for document report from one of these agencies may be accepted. Costs associated with these evaluations are the responsibility of the student. Students are advised to allow sufficient time for their original transcripts to be provided to the reviewing agency and for the evaluation to be received by Amridge University.

AUDIT STUDENTS

An audit course yields no academic credit. Enrollment as an audit student is encouraged for those who wish to learn more about a subject but do not wish to earn a degree.

Application for admission and application fee are required for students who take audit courses. A fee is assessed for each audit course. The comprehensive fee is waived for students who are taking only audit courses. Students over the age of 65 are not required to pay an audit fee.

CONCURRENTLY ENROLLED STUDENTS

Students enrolled at other regionally accredited colleges or universities may be permitted to enroll at Amridge University upon written approval of the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The written approval will also include a specification of courses and/or programs that may be considered for transfer approval from the concurrently enrolled institution after the student has completed his or her program of study at the concurrently enrolled program. Additionally, the student must complete and submit an Amridge University Application for Admission available on the Amridge University web site before concurrent enrollment is considered. All credit courses from all institutions in which the student is currently enrolled shall be included in calculating the course load for a concurrently enrolled student. All requirements must be satisfied for a student to earn a degree from this institution. For specific information, consult with the Registrar’s Office. A personal interview with the Vice President of Academic Affairs may be necessary before a student is authorized for concurrent enrollment.

Additionally, in recognition of the University’s articulation agreement with the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF), some dual enrollment opportunities exist for students completing their associate’s degrees at CCAF. Students may be allowed to enroll in bachelor’s degree courses at Amridge while completing associate’s degree courses offered by CCAF. Air Force students interested in this option should speak with their Amridge Advisor.

NOTE: Federal financial aid may be awarded by only one institution at a time.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

The following subsections incorporate the Amridge University transfer policy:

Policy on Graduate Transfer and Awarding of Credit

See the appropriate degree requirements in the Amridge University Academic Catalog for acceptance of transfer credit for the graduate and doctoral degree programs.

Policy on Undergraduate Transfer and Awarding of Credit

In keeping with the mission, purpose and goals of Amridge University, the following guidelines have been established to evaluate for transfer, prior college level work successfully completed at other institutions, credit by examination, and life learning credit.

Amridge University may allow students to transfer credit from other accredited colleges and universities. Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended must be received by Amridge University directly from these institutions. Documentation of high school graduation or accepted equivalent must also be on file.

Transfer of credit for work earned at other regionally accredited institutions of higher learning is not automatic, but an applicant may, when making application, request the acceptance of previously earned college credit. Additionally, Amridge University reserves the right to reject transfer credit from any institution including a regionally accredited institution. A decision by Amridge University not to accept transfer work under this provision could include, but not limited to, the respective institution’s accreditation is suspended, or put on probation; the institution has experienced severe financial distress and could affect the quality of courses and program offered; the institution has lost its license to operate in any state, or legal action is initiated against the institution by the U.S. Department of Education or other federal agency. Additionally, the University may decide not to accept credit from any institution of higher education if it believes that course work and learning outcomes are not comparable to Amridge University’s own degree programs.

Amridge University accepts credit for previous education and academic training done at regionally accredited institutions based on the individual’s transcript and the compatibility of courses offered at Amridge University. Course comparability decisions rest with the Vice President of Academic Affairs who may choose to review a course description/syllabus prior to determining acceptance of credit. Transfer credit may be accepted by examination and from credit earned through life experience (i.e., American Council on Education (ACE) recommended military credit, College Level Education Program (CLEP), Department of Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), Excelsior tests, and selected Bible colleges), upon review. Students must submit official copies of test score reports, Sailor/Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript (SMART), Army/ACE Registry Transcript System (AARTS), and transcripts from all institutions previously attended before any credit is applied. No institutional academic credit transfer will be accepted after the first semester.

Transfer credit may also be accepted from specialized/nationally accredited institutions recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This requires the same institutional and programmatic review process detailed in the section title Prior Credit for Academic Work Completed at Schools of Preaching, Bible Colleges, Theology Schools and other unaccredited institutions at the end of this policy. This is a comprehensive review process conducted by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and requiring the full cooperation of the institution from which students wish to request credit transfer.

The amount of credit to be accepted will initially be determined using an unofficial preliminary evaluation. The amount may vary depending on the courses submitted for transfer and the level of the program the applicant is entering at Amridge University. For applicants transferring from other regionally accredited institutions, the amount of transfer credit and advanced standing allowed will be determined by officials in the Registrar’s Office. Courses with grades of “D” are only acceptable for transfer in those degree programs in which grades of “D” are acceptable for courses taken at Amridge University. All credits transferred in and posted on an academic record will be applied before a student finishes his first semester of work. Students are responsible for requesting consideration of transfer credit at the point of initial application.

Policy on Accepting CLEP Credits

The Amridge University Policy on Accepting CLEP Credits is as follows:

· CLEP credit may be accepted for undergraduate (associate and bachelor) degrees.

· Only the CLEP subject area tests will be considered for credit.

· Credit may be applied to general education core or general education electives, only.

· The University will follow the recommended test scores and number of credits recommended by ACE (American Council on Education) through the College Board.

· All requested CLEP credit must be documented, reviewed, and applied by the last day of the student’s first semester of enrollment at the University. Scheduling a test by the end of the semester will not suffice to fulfill this requirement. Official documentation must be received by the University by the deadline each term. The “last day of the student’s first semester” is the last day of the term posted on the institutional academic calendar (the timeline does not extend into the interim between 1^st and 2^nd terms.).

· Students will have to provide the official documentation by the last day of their first term for their first degree.

· Students who stop-out and later re-enter will not be allowed to request consideration of additional CLEP credit or of any tests taken during their period away from the institution.

· Students may request exceptions to take and receive consideration for CLEP tests after their first term for extenuating circumstances as determined by the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). Prior approval (before the test is taken) must be received from the VPAA.

· CLEP credit will only be accepted by the University through an official transcript sent directly to Amridge University by the College Board (the CLEP parent organization). Students should be aware that the College Board determines its own policies regarding the maintenance of official records.

Admission of Students on Suspension or Probationary Status From Other Institutions

Amridge University honors academic and disciplinary sanctions as determined by other institutions of higher education. Students will not be admitted to the University until such time as they have completed the term of probation or suspension set by another institution. A student who has completed a probationary term or a suspension from another institution and who wishes to attend Amridge University must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended. Provisional admission will not be granted to students in this situation. A student who has completed an academic probationary period and provides all necessary documentation will be granted conditional admission to Amridge University. He or she will need to earn a least a 2.0 on the first 24 semester hours attempted at Amridge University to achieve unconditional admission. A student who has completed a term of academic suspension, or who has been suspended indefinitely from another institution and has remained out of school (here or elsewhere) for a minimum of a full academic year (two semesters and one summer semester), may submit all required admissions documentation to the Admissions Office and submit an appeal for admission to the Appeals Committee. (The form for appeals is available on the Amridge University website.)

Any student who has been placed on probation or suspension by another institution for reasons other than grades/grade point average or financial aid difficulties (i.e., discipline, plagiarism, etc.) must provide official admission documentation and submit an appeal to the Appeals Committee.

No guarantees are made regarding the decisions of the Appeals Committee in these matters. Also, entering the University from a suspension may affect financial aid opportunities. In all such instances, the student or prospective student should consult with the Financial Aid Office regarding eligibility.

Failure to disclose a probation or suspension that could have altered the admission status of a student will result in withdrawal from classes, effective the date the omission is discovered, with grades of “WF” and forfeiture of all tuition and fees.

Military and Non-Traditional Credit

Several methods are used by Amridge University and other universities/colleges to translate learning from life experience into college credits. A sampling of these methods includes the following:

§ Credit by Examination:

· Advanced Placement Program (APP) Tests: 30 subject areas for advanced placement in college testing. Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS)

· College Level Examination Program (CLEP): Over 30 subject exams in undergraduate courses in history, political science, psychology, economics, sociology, foreign language, composition and literature, science, mathematics and business. Administered by the College Level Examination Program.

· DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSSTs): credit-by examination tests similar to CLEP.

· Excelsior College Examination: 42 tests covering the areas of nursing, business, arts and sciences, and education. Administered by American College Testing Programs.

§ Credits for Completion of Evaluated Programs by the American Council on Education (ACE): The ACE evaluates both military schools and a multitude of civilian training programs for college credit. Amridge University fully supports the ACE program and will consider the respective ACE recommendations for college credit where learning is applicable to the student’s degree program.

§ Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC): Amridge University is a member of the Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC) that was established in 1972 to provide educational opportunities to service members who have found it challenging to complete their higher education goals due to job demands and frequent relocation. SOC is in a consortium of over 1,200 colleges and universities, providing educational opportunities for service members and their families. The SOC provides a system whereby credit is easily transferred between institutions. A minimum of 25% of coursework is required at any institution. Credit is awarded for military experience. Credit is awarded for national testing programs such as College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Subject Standardized Testing Program (DSST), and Excelsior (formerly Regents College Examination).

§ Collegiate-level credit is accepted in transfer from the Community College of the Air Force where learning is applicable to the student’s degree program.

§ Sailor/Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript (SMART): a computerized transcript system that produces official transcripts for eligible sailors/marines upon request by combining his or her military education and job experience with descriptions and college credit recommendations developed by the American Council on Education (ACE).

§ Army/ACE Registry Transcript System (AARTS): a computerized transcript system that produces official transcripts for eligible soldiers upon request by combining a soldier's military education and job experience with descriptions and college credit recommendations developed by the American Council on Education (ACE).

Potential students and current students should consult with the Admissions Office to obtain the procedures on how to have an evaluation for nontraditional credit.

Credit for Academic Work Completed at Schools of Preaching, Bible Colleges, Theology Schools and other unaccredited institutions:

Students transferring from unaccredited institutions will enter Amridge University conditionally and must achieve a 2.0 CGPA on the first 24 semester hours of work attempted at Amridge University.

For work earned from schools of preaching, Bible colleges, or theology schools, Amridge University has adopted the following policies for transfer of credit:

§ Amridge University reserves the right to review the curriculum, faculty credentials, library services and other academic practices of the school from which transfer work is being submitted. A copy of the school’s catalog must be provided if requested.

§ The applicant must have made formal application for admission to Amridge University and must have presented an official transcript from all schools previously attended, as well as evidence of a high school diploma or its equivalent.

§ It is within the authority of Amridge University to accept or not to accept transfer credit from any institution of higher education including regionally accredited institutions, schools of preaching, theology schools, and other institutions not accredited by a regionally accrediting agency.

Students who have attended or graduated from an unaccredited school of preaching, Bible college, or other unaccredited institution of higher education may be permitted to transfer credit from said institution(s) only if Amridge University has conducted a comprehensive review of said institution(s) and said review was approved by the Amridge University Policy Review Team. As a minimum, the comprehensive review will include the following:

1. Full cooperation of the respective institution.

2. A review of the respective institution’s degree programs, syllabi, faculty credentials, academic catalog, library services and other academic practices of the school to help show that the institution’s course work and learning outcomes are at the collegiate level and comparable to the institution’s own degree programs.

3. The comprehensive review will be conducted under the supervision of the Amridge University Academic Division with input from the University’s Center for Institutional Research.

4. Based on a recommendation of the University’s Academic Division, the Amridge University Policy Review Team must specifically pass the recommendation of transfer credit work acceptance recommended by the Academic Division. This approval must be in place prior to the semester a student begins his or her program of study at Amridge University being readmitted to Amridge University. Under no circumstances will a student be permitted to transfer work in from an institution of higher education after he or she has been matriculated.

Additionally, Amridge University reserves the right to withdraw a decision to accept course transfer work from any institution of higher education including regionally accredited institutions, schools of preaching, theology schools, and other institutions not accredited by a regionally accrediting agency. Such decisions may be made if Amridge University believes that the continued quality of the programs at the respective institution is not at the collegiate level and comparable to Amridge University’s own degree programs. A decision by Amridge University to withdraw a decision to accept transfer work under this provision could include, but not limited to, the respective institution’s accreditation to be revoked, suspended, or put on probation; the institution has experienced severe financial distress that could affect the quality of courses and program offered; the institution has lost its license to operate in any state; or legal action is initiated against the institution by the U.S. Department of Education or other federal agency.

In instances where Amridge University revokes a decision to accept course transfer work from an institution, students who were admitted and are matriculated, will maintain their respective transfer credit awarded by Amridge University.

Additionally, because a comprehensive review outlined in this provision can take six months or longer to complete, the University will not entertain individual requests from students, potential students, colleges, or universities to have a comprehensive review of an institution of higher education. Rather, said review will only be initiated if approved by the Amridge University Policy Review Team.

TRANSIENT STUDENTS

A transient student is one who is enrolled at another institution (home institution) and is taking courses at Amridge University to be transferred back to the home institution. The student must submit a completed Amridge University Application for Admission and pay the respective application fee. Additionally, the student must provide a Letter of Transiency signed by the Academic Dean or Registrar at the home institution and submitted to the Registrar’s Office of Amridge University at the time of registration. The Letter of Transiency must state that the student is in good academic and financial standing with his or her institution and a specification of approved courses the student may take at Amridge University.

ENROLLMENT STATUS CLASSIFICATION

Applicants who have properly completed the Amridge University Application for Admission, have provided the required transcripts and letters of recommendation, are not under suspension from another college or university, and have met all of the respective admissions requirements will be admitted as a regular degree-seeking student. Students admitted as regular degree-seeking students may take normal course loads and, provided all other financial-aid requirements are met, may be eligible to receive financial aid.

Applicants who have properly completed the Amridge University Application for Admission, and who appear to have met all of the respective admissions requirements for the respective program, but have not submitted all of the transcripts, letters of recommendation, or other required documents may be admitted on a provisional admission status. Students admitted under the provisional admission status will have one semester to submit all of the required admissions documents and will not be permitted to enroll for a second semester until said documents are submitted to the Admissions Office.

WITHDRAWAL AND REFUND POLICY FOR RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE

An Amridge University student who is a resident of the State of Tennessee and withdraws from the University prior to the first day of the semester will receive 100% of all student fees and tuition paid for the student.

The University utilizes the federal statutory pro-rata refund method for students whose last date of attendance occurs prior to sixty percent (60%) of the period of enrollment.

Students who are not subject to the federal pro-rata refund calculation will have refunds calculated based upon the refund schedule below.

From	Through	Refund Percentage	Administrative Fee
Prior to the first day of the semester	Before the first day of the semester	100%	-0-

From	Through		Refund Percentage	Administrative Fee
1st day of the semester	1st day of the semester	100% (less the $100 administrative fee)		$100 fee
2nd day of the semester	10% of the semester	75% of all amounts paid by or on behalf of the student		$100 fee
>10% of the semester	25% of the semester	25% of all amounts paid by or on behalf of the student		$100 fee
>25% of the semester	100% of the semester		No refund	$100 fee

Students with federal loans and grants who excessively withdraw from or drop course(s) jeopardize their satisfactory progress toward graduation and may be subject to loss of eligibility for federal financial aid.

WITHDRAWAL DEFINITION

A withdrawal occurs when a student totally withdraws from all registered courses at the University during a semester.

PROCEDURES FOR WITHDRAWAL

A student who wishes to withdraw must officially complete the online withdrawal eform on the Amridge University website no later than Friday of the 14th week of the semester. The withdrawal is considered accepted once the student completes and submits the Course Drop/Withdrawal eform, located in the eforms portal. The date the eform is submitted is your official withdrawal date.

eforms website link: https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Amridge/Instructions.aspx

There are academic and financial responsibilities associated with withdrawal. The University recommends that students discuss their options with their advisor.

WITHDRAWAL FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL STUDENTS (EXCEPT RESIDENTS OF TENNESSEE)

Withdrawal beginning on the first day of the semester will result in the charge of a $75 per course Drop Fee and a percentage of the tuition calculated at 10% of the total tuition cost per working day of the semester, regardless of either the date the student registers or the first day the course meets. Fees are not refundable

PROCEDURES FOR AND RAMIFICATIONS OF DROPPING A COURSE

A student dropping a course (not all courses) must officially complete the online withdrawal eform on the Amridge University website no later than Friday of the 14th week of the semester. The drop is considered accepted once the student completes and submits the Course Drop/Withdrawal eform, located in the eforms portal. This date the eform is submitted is the official drop date.

eforms website link: https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Amridge/Instructions.aspx

A student who drops a course prior to the first day of the semester will not incur tuition or fee charges for the course. A student who drops a course on or after the first day of the semester will be financially responsible for the entire tuition and fees of the course in addition to a per course Drop Fee.

ACADEMIC RULES REGARDING WITHDRAWAL/DROP

1. If a student withdraws or drops a course(s) prior to the first day of the semester, no grade will be reflected for the course(s). The course will not be reflected on the transcript.

2. If a student withdraws or drops a course(s) on or after the first day of the semester but before the end of the eighth week (as defined in the school calendar), the grade(s) will appear on the student's record with a mark of "W" (Withdrew).

3. If a student withdraws or drops a course(s) after the eighth week (as defined in the school calendar), the grade(s) will appear on the student's record with a mark of "WF" (Withdrew Failing).

WITHDRAWAL FOR STUDENTS WITH A FEDERAL LOAN OR GRANT

Amridge University abides by federal regulations regarding the return of federal financial aid (Title IV funds). Title IV aid is earned in direct proportion to the length of time the student is enrolled. A student who remains enrolled beyond the 60% timeframe of the semester earns all the aid for that semester. The Financial Aid Office will determine the percentage of aid earned by a Title IV recipient by calculating the percentage of the enrollment period that the student completed. The university will return any federal Title IV funds received for a registered student, who withdraws prior to the first day of the semester. Students withdrawing on or after the first day of the semester but prior to completing 60% of the semester will be required to repay a prorated portion of aid funds. If funds must be returned per federal regulations, that amount will be charged to the student's account and must be repaid by the student.

Section 3: Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid

This section includes important information on tuition and fees associated with University programs and services. Also, this Section includes information on student financial aid programs, requirements, and student responsibilities. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for a specific school within Amridge University, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based) [Version 2.2012-2013, Effective 2.24.2013].

DEFINITION OF FINANCIAL AID

Financial aid is money supplied by a source other than the family to assist with the costs of a student’s education.

CATEGORIES OF AID

§ Need-Based Aid

· Student must demonstrate financial need

· Financial need determined by analyzing student/family data

§ Non-Need-Based Aid

· Financial need not considered

TYPES OF AID

§ Grants

· Free money or gift aid

· Do not have to be repaid or earned

§ Loans

· Must be repaid, unless it carries a provision that allows all or part to be cancelled if the student fulfills certain requirements

§ Employment

· Provides compensation for work performed

· Must be earned

Course Load Requirements

§ Undergraduate Student

· Full-Time: 12 semester hours

· Half-Time: 6 or more semester hours

· Less than half-time: 4 or less semester hours

§ Graduate Student

· Full-Time: 9 or more semester hours

· Half-Time: 5 or more semester hours

· Less than half-time: 3 or less semester hours

§ Doctoral Student

· Full-Time: 6 semester hours

· Half-Time: 3 semester hours

TUITION AND FEES

The current Tuition and Fees Schedule is available at the end of this subsection. Amridge University makes every effort to provide students a quality education at a moderate cost. Under the present payment schedule students pay only a portion of the entire cost of their education.

The University offers every possible assistance to its students to help them afford their education. It relies on four major sources of income: endowments, gifts from churches, gifts from individuals, and tuition paid by students. An academic institution is a business, yet its product—educating the human mind—is not a commodity like gold or silver which, when sold, will offset the total operating expenses. The influence of an academic institution, if proper and good, can have a tremendous impact upon the minds of men and women.

Unlike private institutions such as Amridge University, state institutions of higher education are supported by tax dollars. When one compares the financial circumstances of private higher education with those of tax supported institutions, prayerful consideration should be given to the financial needs of the private church-related school. The fruitful service of this church-related institution must be monetarily supported in order to continue its useful service.

In addition to tuition and fees, students are responsible for purchasing books, instructional materials, and supplies. The University does not operate a bookstore. Instead, the University has partnered with MBS Direct, the nation’s leading college and university virtual bookstore. MBS Direct is a comprehensive virtual bookstore where Amridge University students can buy textbooks, track orders, sell their used textbooks, and even purchase computer software at discounted prices. Students can access the Amridge University textbook list by going to the MBS Direct web site at:

http://www.mbsdirect.net/index.htm

or by telephone in the United States at 800.325.3252 or internationally at 573.447.9179.

textbooks@amridgeuniversity.edu .

Course lab fee and mini-counseling exam fee: Some of Amridge University’s courses may have a lab fee or exam fee charge. These fees are a result of special materials, tests, special conferencing, equipment, outside readers, etc. that must be provided for a course and should be paid by the student.

Degree Completion Fee: A degree completion fee is charged to all students who petition the University for graduation. This fee is charged to all students even if they choose not to attend the graduation ceremony.

The current tuition and fees are provided on the following page.

PAYMENT OF TUITION AND FEES

Tuition, course materials, and fees are to be paid in full on the day of registration. Tuition and fees may be paid by cash, cashier's checks, certified checks, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or Bank Debit Card. Students needing financial advising should contact the Financial Aid Office in advance to make appropriate arrangements. The University will charge interest at an annual rate of 18% (compounded monthly) for any unpaid balances. A student who wishes to receive any federal grants, loans, etc., should have all completed forms and documentation in the Financial Aid Office prior to his or her registration. If documentation is not submitted by registration time, the student’s financial aid will be delayed.

Any loan money in excess of tuition and fees will automatically be mailed directly to the student. Refunds are not mailed earlier than ten (10) working days after the first day of the semester. The student’s refund is the difference between the Loan Amount minus the Lender’s origination fee and the Outstanding Balance due Amridge University.

CHECKS

Checks given for payment of fees and charges are accepted subject to final payment. If the student’s bank returns the check unpaid, a returned check fee plus the amount of the returned check will be assessed. Additionally, the University reserves the right to withdraw a student’s enrollment if a check is returned unpaid to the University by the respect bank or financial institution. Counter checks will not be accepted for payment of University fees and charges.

Any student who has an outstanding returned item cannot enroll for a new semester, receive a transcript, or receive a diploma until the outstanding debt and fees are paid.

APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID

§ Free Application for Federal Student Aid – FAFSA

Any student who plans to apply for a Pell Grant, Federal Direct Student Loans (Title IV), Federal Work-Study, or an Amridge University Need-Based Scholarship will need to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the appropriate academic year with the Department of Education at http://www.fafsa.gov. Amridge University should be listed as a school to receive an Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) from the information supplied on the FAFSA. Amridge University’s School Code is 016885. The Financial Aid Office must have received a current year eligible ISIR.

It will be necessary to have a PIN (Personal Identification Number) from the Department of Education to e-sign the FAFSA. The student who does not have a PIN or has forgotten their PIN should submit a request for PIN to the Department of Education before completing the FAFSA.

Once the Amridge University Financial Aid Office receives the report from the Department of Education regarding the information the student submitted on the FAFSA, an Amridge University Initial Financial Aid Award Letter will be emailed to the student. The Financial Aid Award will include Pell Grant and/or Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (if eligible) and the maximum amount of Federal Direct Student Loan monies for which the student qualifies based on the information provided on the FAFSA. Request for award changes should be made by email to financialaid@amridgeuniversity.edu. Any additional documentation required will be noted on the Initial Financial Aid Award Letter.

§ Loan Entrance Counseling (for federal student loans only)

Any student who plans to use Federal Direct Student Loans and who does not have a Master Promissory Note on file with the U. S. Department of Education for Amridge University must complete Loan Entrance Counseling. Loan Entrance Counseling may be completed online at HTTP://WWW.STUDENTLOANS.GOV. The Financial Aid Office will receive confirmation when this has been completed.

§ Master Promissory Note (for federal student loans only).

Students who plan to use Federal Direct Student Loans during the academic year are required to have a current MPN on file. A Master Promissory Note (MPN) is a required legal agreement between a student and the U. S. Department of Education whereby the student agrees to repay any amount borrowed. Since a MPN is good for a period of ten years, it is not necessary to complete a new form if a student has one on file with the U. S. Department of Education for Amridge University. The Financial Aid Office will contact the student by email with instructions for meeting this requirement. The student has the option to complete this online at HTTP://WWW.STUDENTLOANS.GOV.

Any additional student loans require a separate Master Promissory Note.

§ (Optional) Institutional Scholarship Application (graduate students only)

This application can be printed from our website. Mail or fax the completed form to the Financial Aid Office.

§ (Optional) Federal Work Study Application (Montgomery area students only)

This application can be printed from our website. Mail or fax the completed form to the Financial Aid Office.

FEDERAL AND STATE PROGRAMS

Amridge University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students are eligible for participation in the federally funded grants and loans programs of Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 as amended. This means that each student can be considered for grants (which do not have to be repaid) and loans (which must be repaid), and for federal work-study, whereby a student earns a part of his or her school expenses.

The basic programs administered by the Financial Aid Office of the University are:

§ Pell Grant Program. The Federal Pell Grant Program provides grants (which do not have to be repaid) to undergraduate students who have financial need. Award levels are determined by the U.S. Department of Education. To apply, the student must complete a form called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate award year indicating that he or she wants Amridge University to receive a copy of the Student Aid Report. After submitting the FAFSA, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR). Amridge University will automatically receive the SAR in an electronic format, called an “Institutional Student Information Record” (ISIR). The ISIR must be on file in the Financial Aid Office of Amridge University before any financial aid can be awarded. Student eligibility is determined by the U.S. Department of Education, according to a formula prescribed by statute. The University is the disbursing agent for the U.S. Department of Education.

§ Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). These grants are for undergraduates with financial need (with priority given to Pell Grant recipients), and they do not have to be paid back.

There are no guarantees that a student will receive an FSEOG grant. Unlike the Pell Grant Program, which provides funds to every eligible student, each institution participating in the campus-based programs receives a certain amount of funds for each program. When that money is committed, there are no more awards from that program for that year.

§ Federal Work Study Program (FWS). This provides for students who must earn a part of their educational expenses. A student located in the Montgomery area may apply if he or she is enrolled at least half-time as an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral student.

In arranging a job and determining how many hours a week the student may work under this program, the financial aid officer takes into account: (1) Need for financial assistance; (2) Class schedule; (3) Health; and (4) Academic progress. In general, the wages received are equal to or exceed the current legal minimum wage. Students must apply through the Financial Aid Office at Amridge University. This office is responsible for determining eligibility and for arranging the jobs. FWS is a campus-based program, and the University receives a limited amount of funds, making FWS jobs limited.

Each student who has been awarded federal work study must accurately complete time cards. The supervisor must sign the federal work study form showing he or she has checked the time cards for accuracy, both in form and in number of hours worked. Time cards must be turned in to the Business Office each month along with a summary sheet signed by the student and supervisor. If time cards are not filled out properly and turned in on time, the Business Office will not issue a check.

Each federal work-study student is responsible for keeping up with hours worked. The supervisor, as well as the Business Office, should also know how many hours have been worked for the semester.

Each federal work-study student must keep regular hours, which must be posted in advance.

§ Federal Direct Education Loan Programs (Title IV). The Federal Direct Loan Programs are available for our students as Direct Subsidized or Direct Unsubsidized loans. To apply, a student must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate award year. The student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Department of Education and the school will receive an Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR). A student must also have a Master Promissory Note (MPN) on file with the U. S. Department of Education for Amridge University and have completed Loan Entrance Counseling.

§ Federal Direct Subsidized Loan Program This is a need-based federal student loan, available to undergraduates only, in which the government pays the interest while the student is enrolled at least half-time. Loan eligibility is based upon cost of attendance and the Estimated Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is the amount the government estimates that the student can contribute to his or her education. This amount may reduce the student’s subsidized loan eligibility. Other factors involved are: scholarships, grants, loans, or other assistance known at the time the school determines the student’s need.

§ Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan Program. This loan is not based on financial need; and the student must pay the interest while he or she is in school or the interest is added to the total loan principal.

§ Federal Direct PLUS Loan. Federal Direct PLUS loan (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) is a low cost federally insured loan to parents of dependent undergraduate students. A parent may borrow through a Direct PLUS loan to meet their student’s educational costs, less any other financial aid that the student may have been awarded. Eligibility is not based on need or income, but parents must not have adverse credit history. Repayment begins within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed (See the Federal Direct Plus and Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan Chart on next page).

§ Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan. Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan allows the graduate/professional student to borrow up to the cost of graduate education, less other financial aid received. Eligibility is not based on need or income, but the student must not have adverse credit history. Repayment begins within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed (See the Federal Direct Plus and Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan Chart on the next page).

Federal Direct Plus and Federal Direct GradPLUS Loan Chart

The federal government sets limits on the amount of money a student can borrow. Amridge University will award a student who has submitted a FAFSA the maximum amount eligible under such limits. The annual limit applies to the most a student can borrow in one academic year, while the aggregate limit applies to the maximum a student can borrow in a lifetime. An annual subsidized loan amount cannot exceed the base amount. Beginning July 1, 2012, graduate students will no longer be eligible for subsidized loans. The only loan type available will be unsubsidized. The maximum annual amount will remain $20,500.

Grade in School	Annual Loan Limits		Aggregate Loan Limits
	Base Amount	Additional Unsubsidized	Subsidized Limit	Overall Limit
Undergraduate Dependent*			$ 23,000	$ 31,000
First Year	$ 3,500	$ 2,000
Second Year	$ 4,500	$ 2,000
Third Year and beyond	$ 5,500	$ 2,000
Undergraduate Independent			$ 23,000	$ 57,500
First Year	$ 3,500	$ 6,000
Second Year	$ 4,500	$ 6,000
Third Year and beyond	$ 5,500	$ 7,000
Graduate	$ 0,000	$ 20,500	$ 65,500	$ 138,500

*Undergraduate Dependent students whose parents are unable to borrow a PLUS loan will be eligible for the Undergraduate Independent loan limits.

§ Veterans Benefits. Students who are U.S. Veterans and have completed all of the required VA documents for educational benefits may check the status of their VA benefits by contacting their local VA representative or by calling: 888.GIBILL1 (888.442.4551). In most instances, VA benefits are paid directly to the veteran. Check the information provided under the title Educational Benefits for Veterans provided at the end of this section for additional information on VA benefits.

§ Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program (ANGEAP). This program offers up to $1,000 per year to some members of the Alabama National Guard as long as funds are available. Students must provide an Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program Student Application to the Amridge University Financial Aid Office.

§ Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP). This is a state program offering grants to undergraduate students enrolled in non-Biblical programs of study at Amridge University. Recipients must not have already received a bachelor’s degree and must be legal residents of the state of Alabama for the past twelve months. The Alabama Student Grants are not made on the basis of need but rather on residency. Alabama residents carrying a minimum of eight semester hours are eligible for this grant. Students preparing for church-related vocations are not eligible to receive the Alabama Student Grant. To qualify for the grant only one course in religion, Christian Education, or church music per term is allowed.

Applications for the Alabama Student Grant Program may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office and must be filed by the appropriate deadlines as specified on the application. Applications are not considered complete until the Financial Aid Office receives all the necessary supporting documentation.

Per state regulations, each grant shall be renewable annually for the number of hours normally required by the institution for the course of study in which the student is enrolled. Eligibility for the grant is lost once total hours earned and attempted exceeds more than 25% the number of hours required for the individual’s course of study. The Financial Aid Office monitors satisfactory academic progress.

INSTITUTIONAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS

To ensure that the Amridge University scholarship funds are distributed to the most deserving students, the University has established certain guidelines. The guidelines are:

1. No student may receive more than one scholarship (institutionally controlled funds) at a time.

2. No student will be awarded a scholarship unless his or her account from previous terms is paid in full.

3. Full-time equivalency enrollment is required for most scholarships.

4. Note that a combination of financial aid awarded that includes scholarships (institutionally-controlled funds) may result in a cash overpayment to the student. If such a situation should occur, the scholarship (institutionally-controlled funds) portion of the award will be reduced. Military Tuition Assistance and Veteran Benefits are the exceptions.

5. Performance Requirements -- Amridge University provides educational incentives through a variety of educational scholarships. These scholarships are institutionally funded and require that recipients uphold a high standard for qualification. Therefore, scholarship recipients must adhere to the following scholarship requirements regulations:

a. This scholarship is conditioned upon the student’s maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher, unless a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is required for a specific scholarship or degree program

b. This scholarship is conditioned upon the student’s not making the grade of “F” in any course taken and funded by the scholarship.

c. This scholarship is conditioned upon the student’s not dropping a course within the semester.

d. This scholarship is conditioned upon the student’s not withdrawing from the university within the semester.

Any scholarship recipient that does not meet the scholarship regulations will lose the scholarship for the following semesters and the scholarship will be terminated. Amridge University scholarships will not be reinstated once terminated.

The following scholarship programs are currently available to eligible students:

§ Graduate Programs

Amridge University offers both need-based and academic scholarships for qualified graduate students. Most recipients of scholarships must be enrolled full-time, maintain the required grade point average for their degree program, and complete the scholarship application for the appropriate academic year.

Before any need-based scholarship will be awarded, a graduate student must have an Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) in the Financial Aid Office. This is the electronic version of the Student Aid Report. Amridge University receives the ISIR electronically from the government after the student has filed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Before an academic achievement scholarship will be considered, students must properly complete the Institutional Scholarship Application for the appropriate academic year along with all required supporting documents in accordance with the respective timeline. The Institutional Scholarship Application is available on the Amridge University web-site: HTTP://WWW.AMRIDGEUNIVERSITY.EDU.

A committee reviews applications for need-based and academic merit-based scholarships and the applicant is notified of the committee’s decision within thirty days following the application deadline. The committee authorizes all awards and mails out letters of acceptance for each scholarship approved. Students may receive only one scholarship per semester.

The specific scholarships available at the graduate-level are as follows:

§ Academic Merit-based Scholarship Programs. A limited number of Academic Merit-based scholarships are available; therefore students who meet eligibility requirements will be awarded scholarships on a priority basis.

· MAT/GRE Scholarships. The amount of an MAT/GRE scholarship depends on the graduate applicant's standardized test scores. This scholarship is reviewed annually pending a Cumulative GPA of 3.0.

· Special Honors Scholarships. A student who has excelled in an area such as Greek, Hebrew, research, or leadership may receive one of these awards of $100 per semester. A maximum of four students per semester may receive these awards.

§ Institutionally Funded Need-Based Scholarship Programs Policy for Awarding Aid. Only those students with a demonstrated financial need are considered for need-based scholarships. Federal and state-funded awards are governed by applicable government regulations. Financial need is determined by the government and is calculated based on the information submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. No federal aid will be awarded unless an ISIR is on file in the Financial Aid Office.

· Christian Action for Religious Endowment (CARE) Scholarships. Scholarships from this endowment fund are distributed to students demonstrating financial need. The amount varies depending on the applicant's financial situation and number of applicants.

§ DMin. or PhD Programs. The specific scholarships available at the graduate, DMin or Ph. level are as follows:

· Academic Merit-based Scholarship Programs.

· Institutionally Funded Need-Based Scholarship Programs.

§ Other Scholarships (Graduate and Undergraduate) Recipients must have submitted a completed Admission Application and Institutional Scholarship Application, along with all required supporting documentation and an application fee, to be considered for any of the following scholarships. These applications are available on the Amridge University web-site:

http://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/au_financialaid.html.

§ Board of Regents Scholarships

The Board of Regents has established these scholarships to honor certain families who have made significant contributions to the success of Amridge University and/or other Christian education colleges and universities. Only direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of these families may receive the award.

· Rex and Opal Turner Scholarship. Relatives of Rex and Opal Turner may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship that honors the founders of this institution. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 1987 to honor the work, personal sacrifices, and generosity of Rex and Opal Turner. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Rex and Opal Turner. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· James and Gwynn Turner Scholarship. Relatives of James and Gwynn Turner may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 1987 to honor the personal sacrifices and generosity of James and Gwynn Turner. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of James and Gwynn Turner. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· Joe and Winnie Belle Greer Scholarship. Relatives of Joe and Winnie Bell Greer may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 1987 to honor the personal sacrifices and generosity of Joe and Winnie Belle Greer in support of the Montgomery Bible College and Alabama Christian College. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Joe and Winnie Belle Greer. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· Rufus and Dollie Baker Scholarship. Relatives of Rufus and Dollie Baker may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 1987 to honor the work and personal sacrifices of Rufus and Dollie Baker. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Rufus and Dollie Baker. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· Hugh and Jean Wyatt Scholarship. Relatives of Hugh and Jean Wyatt may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 2002 to honor the generosity and personal sacrifices of Hugh and Jean Wyatt. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Hugh and Jean Wyatt. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· Joe and Pattie Johnson Scholarship. Relatives of Joe and Pattie Johnson may apply for this full-tuition and fees scholarship. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 1995 to honor the generosity of Joe and Pattie Johnson and to remember their daughter, Pamela Jane Johnson. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Joe and Pattie Johnson. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients.

· Herbert H. and Verla Maye Dickey Scholarship. Relatives of Herbert H. and Verla Maye Dickey may apply for this full-tuition scholarship. The scholarship is multigenerational and may be accepted by direct descendants and spouses of direct descendants of Herbert and Verla Maye Dickey. No limitation is placed on the number of recipients. The scholarship was approved by the Board of Regents in 2002 to honor the personal sacrifices and generosity of the Dickey family in support of the Montgomery Bible College, Alabama Christian College, and Amridge University.

· Memorial Scholarships (Graduate and Undergraduate)

These scholarships have been established as memorials to assist students who are preparing for the ministry:

· Ray and Evie Dudek Scholarship. This scholarship was established in memory of Ray Dudek, who served as a faithful Bible teacher, both publicly and privately, and song leader until his death in April 2001 at the age of 72. This scholarship is awarded to students in need of tuition assistance who demonstrate character, scholarship, and promise of success. The amount varies depending on need, time of application, and number of applicants.

· Tom Estes, Jr., Scholarship. The late Tom Estes and his wife Pat have set up a scholarship in memory of their son, Dr. Tommy Estes, Jr., a medical doctor who died at age 43. Students demonstrating character, scholarship, and promise of success may receive assistance from this scholarship. The amount varies depending on need, time of application, and number of applicants.

· Thomas Franklin Joyce, Jr., Scholarship. Anna Louise Joyce has set up a scholarship in memory of her husband, Thomas Franklin Joyce, Jr. Students interested in missions studies may receive assistance from this scholarship. The amount varies depending on need, time of application, and number of applicants.

· Jacqueline Turner Long Scholarship. This scholarship was set up by Rex and Opal Turner, Sr., in memory of their daughter Jacqueline Turner Long, who died at age 41. This scholarship is awarded to students in need of tuition assistance. This scholarship provides assistance to the undergraduate student who is less than 24 years of age and who has less than 32 semester hours college credit. The applicant must have an eligible ISIR on file in the Financial Aid Office at the date of application. The amount varies depending on need, time of application, and number of applicants.

· Floyd Lee "Sonny" Moore, Jr., Scholarship. Floyd and Allene Moore have set up a scholarship in memory of their son, Floyd Lee "Sonny" Moore, Jr., who died in a farming accident. Students demonstrating character, scholarship, and promise of success may receive assistance from this scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students in need of tuition assistance. Assistance may be provided to one or more recipients up to the equivalent of one full-time scholarship.

· Philip Strattis Scholarship. Dorothy Strattis has set up a scholarship in memory of her husband, Philip Strattis, who died in 1993 after a lifetime of teaching and preaching the gospel. Students demonstrating character, scholarship, and promise of success may receive assistance from this scholarship. Assistance may be provided to one or more recipients up to the equivalent of one full-time scholarship.

§ Church Scholarships (Limited to Ministry and Bible Programs)

These scholarships have been established by churches that have made special large gifts to Amridge University.

Through the generosity of these churches the following scholarships are available to students in the bachelor’s and graduate degree programs. Students in the doctoral degree programs are not eligible for these scholarships.

Church scholarships are limited to students who are members in good standing of that congregation. A letter so stating from the elders of the congregation must be on file in the Financial Aid Office before a scholarship will be awarded:

· Austinville Church of Christ Scholarship. This scholarship was established by the Austinville Church of Christ in Decatur, Alabama. This is a half-tuition scholarship.

· Green Briar Central Church of Christ Scholarship. This scholarship was established by the Central Church of Christ in Anniston, Alabama. This is a full-tuition scholarship.

· Hunter Hills Church of Christ Scholarship Fund. This scholarship was established by the Hunter Hills Church of Christ in Montgomery, Alabama. This is a full-tuition scholarship.

· Walnut Street Church of Christ Scholarship Fund. This scholarship was established by the Walnut Street Church of Christ in Greenville, Alabama. This is a full-tuition scholarship.

ACADEMIC PROGRESS STANDARDS FOR FINANCIAL AID

A student must make satisfactory academic progress in order to qualify for federal (Title IV) financial aid. Amridge University complies with the satisfactory academic progress requirements established by the federal government for students who receive federal financial aid.

Satisfactory academic progress standards at the University include:

· a qualitative measure (cumulative grade point average)

· a quantitative measure/pace of progression (maintaining measurable progress toward the completion of the degree program)

· a reasonable time-frame for degree completion

For financial aid purposes, satisfactory progress is determined by the following guidelines:

· In order to satisfy the qualitative measure, students receiving federal financial aid must maintain the required cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of their degree program as listed in this policy. Financial Aid’s required CGPA is the same as the institution’s academic CGPA. Neither transferred course credit hours, withdrawn course credit hours, nor repeated course credit hours are used in the calculation. The only courses considered in the CGPA calculation are the courses which are non-transferred and taken while enrolled in the current degree program. Transferred courses include all courses taken externally to the current degree program, whether taken at Amridge University or at other institutions.

· In order to satisfy the quantitative measure/pace of progression, students must successfully complete over 66 percent of all credit hours attempted. Repeated courses, transferred courses which are applied to the current degree program and courses from which the student withdrew on or after the first day of the semester (cumulative attempted hours) are included in the hours attempted calculation. This measure becomes effective when a student has attempted one-third of the credit hours required for his or her degree program. Students who repeat courses, withdraw from courses to an excessive degree or take courses which are not related to their degree requirements jeopardize their satisfactory progress and may be subject to loss of eligibility for financial aid.

Academic progress is reviewed by the University’s Financial Aid Office at the end of each semester. The measurement is cumulative, not just over the preceding semester. Failure to meet the qualitative or quantitative measure of satisfactory academic progress requirements will result in the student being placed on financial aid warning for a period of one academic semester. A student’s financial aid eligibility continues during the time of financial aid warning. Failure to reach both the qualitative and quantitative standards of satisfactory academic progress during the period of warning will place the student on financial aid suspension. The student will remain on financial aid suspension until such time as the student’s CGPA and course completion measurements both meet the stated requirements. The Financial Aid Office will notify all students who are failing to meet satisfactory academic progress.

Students who again don’t meet the qualitative and quantitative measures of satisfactory academic progress requirements beginning in the semester after receiving a financial aid warning will be placed on financial aid suspension. A student placed on such suspension will not be eligible to receive federal or state financial aid. A student placed on suspension may appeal the suspension in accordance with the University’s Standard Appeals/Grievance Process specified in Section 1 of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

Financial Aid Probation

Students who are able to demonstrate through their written appeal that they will be able to make satisfactory academic progress by the end of the next payment period or who have an approved financial aid academic plan will be placed on financial aid probation. Students who are making satisfactory academic progress during the probationary period and/or who are complying with the conditions of their approved financial aid academic plan will retain federal fund eligibility. A financial aid academic plan cannot continue for more than three semesters.

Failure to meet both the qualitative and quantitative standards of satisfactory academic progress during the probationary period will place the student on financial aid suspension and the student will be ineligible for federal aid. The student will remain on financial aid suspension and will be ineligible for federal aid until such time as the student’s CGPA and course completion measurements both meet the stated requirements. The Financial Aid Office will notify all students who are failing to meet satisfactory academic progress.

The maximum time-frame for a student to complete a degree program must not be longer than 150 percent of the published length of the program in credit hours as listed in the Amridge University Academic Catalog. Cumulative attempted semester hours are included in this calculation. Any student who exceeds this limit will no longer be eligible for state or federal financial aid. The Financial Aid Office will notify the student who exceeds the 150 percent requirement. Students who repeat or withdraw from courses to an excessive degree or who take courses not related to their degree requirements jeopardize their satisfactory academic progress and may be subject to loss of eligibility for financial aid.

Note on repeated courses: Students who repeat courses may lose federal financial aid eligibility for the repeated courses. Students should make every effort to avoid a situation which would result in needing to repeat a course. Please refer to the policy on repeating of courses or consult with your financial aid advisor.

Required CGPA’s by Degree

Associate Degree.................................... 2.0

Bachelor Degrees................................... 2.0

Master of Arts Degrees........................... 3.0*

Master of Science Degrees.................... 2.0

Master of Divinity Degrees

Ministerial Leadership....................... 2.0

Marriage and Family Therapy.......... 3.0

Professional Counseling................... 3.0

Pastoral Counseling.......................... 2.0

Master of Divinity.............................. 2.0

Doctoral Degrees.................................... 3.0

* A grade of 3.0 is required for each course taken in specified MA degree programs.

WITHDRAWAL AND REFUND POLICY FOR RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE

The University utilizes the federal statutory pro-rata refund method for students whose last date of attendance occurs prior to sixty percent (60%) of the period of enrollment.

Students who are not subject to the federal pro-rata refund calculation will have refunds calculated based upon the refund schedule below.

From	Through	Refund Percentage	Administrative Fee
Prior to the first day of the semester	Before the first day of the semester	100%	-0-

From	Through		Refund Percentage	Administrative Fee
1st day of the semester	1st day of the semester	100% (less the $100 administrative fee)		$100 fee
2nd day of the semester	10% of the semester	75% of all amounts paid by or on behalf of the student		$100 fee
>10% of the semester	25% of the semester	25% of all amounts paid by or on behalf of the student		$100 fee
>25% of the semester	100% of the semester		No refund	$100 fee

WITHDRAWAL DEFINITION

A withdrawal occurs when a student totally withdraws from all registered courses at the University during a semester.

PROCEDURES FOR WITHDRAWAL

eforms website link: https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Amridge/Instructions.aspx

There are academic and financial responsibilities associated with withdrawal. The University recommends that students discuss their options with their advisor.

WITHDRAWAL FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ALL STUDENTS (EXCEPT RESIDENTS OF TENNESSEE)

PROCEDURES FOR AND RAMIFICATIONS OF DROPPING A COURSE

eforms website link: https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Amridge/Instructions.aspx

ACADEMIC RULES REGARDING WITHDRAWAL/DROP

1. If a student withdraws or drops a course(s) prior to the first day of the semester, no grade will be reflected for the course(s). The course will not be reflected on the transcript.

3. If a student withdraws or drops a course(s) after the eighth week (as defined in the school calendar), the grade(s) will appear on the student's record with a mark of "WF" (Withdrew Failing).

WITHDRAWAL FOR STUDENTS WITH A FEDERAL LOAN OR GRANT

UNOFFICIAL WITHDRAWAL FOR STUDENTS WITH A FEDERAL LOAN OR GRANT

No Passing Grades

Title IV funding regulations require that any student who begins attendance but fails to earn a passing grade in at least one course in any semester and who does not officially withdraw shall be considered as having unofficially withdrawn from the University unless the University can document that the student completed the period of enrollment and earned the grade of “F”. A student must be engaged in academically-related activities in order to retain eligibility for federal financial aid. Academically-related activities include, but are not limited to, interaction between the instructor and the student, submitting an academic assignment, taking an exam, attending a study group assigned by the university, participating in an online discussion and initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a question about the academic subject in the course, and other academically-related activities.

A student who does not earn at least one passing grade during a semester for which Title IV funds were disbursed will have a Return of Title IV Funds calculation performed to determine how much of the Title IV funds were earned. Unearned Title IV funds must be returned to the source, in most cases with a charge to the student's University account. A student who does not begin attendance during a semester for which Title IV funds were disbursed will have any and all disbursed Title IV funds returned and will be responsible for all charges for the semester.

Within 30 days of the end of the payment period or period of enrollment (official end of each semester), the University will, after review of academic grade reports or academic transcripts, identify Title IV recipients who have no passing grades, and will determine the students who have unofficially withdrawn (ceased attendance without providing official notification or expressed intent to withdraw) during the payment period or period of enrollment, with a withdrawal date at the midpoint (50% of the semester indicated on the academic calendar) or the latter date of the semester. Students are identified based on having received all grades of “F” for the semester. Based on those grades, the semester's Title IV funds will be recalculated to determine what portion of the Title IV funds were "earned" by the student.

Adjustment of Title IV Funds Due to Discontinuance of Study

Federal regulations require that schools use a Return of Title IV Funds calculation for cases in which a student receiving Title IV funds discontinues study during a given semester. When a student discontinues study (withdraws or has unofficially withdrawn due to failure to engage in academically-related activities) and has previously been awarded these funds, the University must determine if these funds are required to be returned to the appropriate Title IV programs.

The University is required to perform the calculation within thirty (30) days of determination of the discontinuance of study.

The "withdrawal date" is the date the student withdraws, as determined by the school. "Return of Title IV Funds" is the federally mandated process by which a school calculates the amount of Title IV funds to be returned for a Title IV recipient who begins attendance and subsequently withdraws or who ceases attendance during a semester. The calculations may result in a reduction of the student's Title IV funds to reflect the percentage of the semester that the student attended, if he or she attended less than 60 percent of the semester. Based on these calculations, the school, and the student, may be required to return any "unearned" Title IV funds.

The Return of Title IV Funds calculation will be performed for students determined to have unofficially withdrawn, using the midpoint (50% of the semester indicated on the academic calendar) or later date of the semester as the withdrawal date. Based on these calculations, the school will be required to return any "unearned" Title IV funds within 30 days after determining the student earned no passing grades resulting in a charge to the student’s account. Students will receive notification of this action via an updated billing statement. All accounts must be paid in full before a student can register for another semester or receive a transcript. In addition, transcripts will not be released to other schools, employers, licensing agencies and other entities on the student’s behalf until said account is paid in full. In addition, this action may affect a student’s ability to attend other institutions of higher education, employment, licensure, etc.

Accounts that are not paid in full within fifteen (15) days of notification from the University are subject to collection procedures, and the student will be responsible for all costs and expenses of collection including, if applicable, a reasonable attorney’s fee. The University reserves the right to turn all unpaid student accounts over to a collection agency for action.

In the event the student believes he or she has been erroneously unofficially withdrawn, the student may submit a written appeal in accordance with the provisions specified in the subsection labeled Student Appeals Associated with Unofficial Withdrawals – Fast Track Appeals within this policy.

Effect of Failing Courses on Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards

Students who have not passed any courses and have been deemed to have unofficially withdrawn from the University due to lack of participation in academically-related activities may jeopardize their satisfactory academic progress standards as outlined at the beginning of this section.

Any courses with earned Fs, unearned Fs, or courses in which a student has withdrawn may result in a student failing to meet satisfactory academic progress and being placed on academic warning or suspension. If a student fails to meet satisfactory academic standards, he or she will receive written notice of such failure.

NOTE: IF ANY STUDENT IS ENROLLED AT THE UNIVERSITY AT THE TIME THE UNIVERSITY DETERMINES THE STUDENT IS NO LONGER ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE TITLE IV FUNDS, THE UNIVERSITY SHALL RETURN ALL SUCH FUNDS, THE STUDENT SHALL PAY TO THE UNIVERSITY ALL SUCH FUNDS IN FULL WITHIN FIFTEEN (15) DAYS OF NOTIFICATION BY THE UNIVERSITY AND THE STUDENT SHALL IMMEDIATELY BE WITHDRAWN FROM ENROLLMENT.

Student Appeals Associated with Unofficial Withdrawals – Fast Track Appeals

Due to the federal requirements specified in the Program Integrity Regulations taking effect July 1, 2011, Amridge University has implemented a fast track appeals process for individuals who have been subject to unofficial withdrawals per this policy. The provisions of the fast track appeals process are as follows:

· Students who have been unofficially withdrawn by the University will be sent a notification email message and a letter sent via U. S. Postal Service Express Mail specifying that the student has been put on unofficial withdrawal within five (5) days of the University’s action;

· The notified student will have 10 days to submit an appeal of the unofficial withdrawal action per this policy. The student’s appeal must be completed online through the Amridge University’s appeal portal at https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Secure%20SSL/appeals_grievance.htm;

· The University will have five (5) calendar days to hold an Appeals Committee meeting from submission of the student’s appeal. The student will be notified via email the date and time of the Appeals Committee meeting;

· Along with the appeal, the student must submit appropriate documentation showing that the student was actively engaged in his or her courses per the guidelines specified in this policy;

· The student may, upon request, attend the meeting of the Appeals Committee in person or attend via telephone conference call at his or her own expense;

· The student will be notified via email and U. S. Postal Service first class mail with return receipt, within three (3) calendar days of the respective Appeals Committee meeting, the decision of the Appeals Committee;

· The student may appeal the decision of the Appeals Committee decision to the University’s Executive Leadership Team (ELT) within seven (7) calendar days of the date of the email and U. S. Postal Service first class mail notifications. The student’s appeal must be sent to the ELT via email to elt@amridgeuniversity.edu;

· The University will have five (5) calendar days from the appeal submission date to hold an ELT meeting to discuss the student appeal. The student will be notified via email and U. S. Postal Service first class mail with return receipt, within three (3) calendar days of the respective Executive Leadership Team Committee meeting, the decision of the Executive Leadership Team Committee. All decisions of the ELT on the respective appeal are final; and

· It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that he or she monitors their email during this process and that their email system is working properly.

The provisions of the Fast Track Appeals apply only to University actions associated with unofficial withdrawals. All other student appeals must be in accordance with the University’s Standard Appeals/Grievance Process specified in Section 1 of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

HOW FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID AWARDS ARE DETERMINED

To receive an Initial Financial Aid Award Letter, a student must have a valid, eligible ISIR on file in the Financial Aid Office. The ISIR contains a federally determined Expected Family Contribution (EFC) figure, which is the amount the federal government determines the student and his family should be able to afford to contribute to education expenses. The University has established cost of attendance estimates for various categories of students. A Financial Aid Officer will compare the student's EFC to Amridge University’s cost of attendance to assist in determining the student's eligibility for federal financial aid.

POLICY FOR DISBURSING PELL GRANTS (FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID) TO STUDENTS

The full amount of Federal Pell Grant award will be disbursed between the number of semesters that a student indicates they will be in attendance. (Example: If a student qualifies for $3,000 and enrolls for three semesters, the Pell disbursement amount will be calculated at $1,000 per semester for fall, spring and summer.)

If a student declares they will attend for only two semesters, the full amount of the Pell Grant will be disbursed for the two semesters. (Example: If a student qualifies for $3,000 in Pell and enrolls for two semesters, the Pell disbusement amount will be calculated at $1,500 per semester.)

A student enrolled less than full time may be eligible for a pro-rated Pell Grant Award.

FEDERAL PELL GRANT DURATION OF ELIGIBILITY

Effective with the 2012–2013 award year the duration of a student’s eligibility to receive a Federal Pell Grant is twelve (12) semesters (or the equivalent). The calculation of the duration of a students eligibility will include all years of the student’s receipt of Federal Pell Grant funding.

STUDENT FINANCIAL AID DISBURSEMENT

Student aid for all programs, Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study, Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, Federal PLUS Loans, Federal GradPLUS Loans and Signature Student Loans for students are credited to the student’s account.

Returning students not on financial aid warning or probation

There will be one (1) financial aid disbursement per semester for students that are in this category. Disbursement will be made following the receipt of all required financial aid documents and verification of participation in all classes, once the semester has begun.

If there are remaining funds after tuition and fees have been covered, the student will be mailed a refund check within ten (10) business days of the disbursements being received and participation verified.

First time students and students on financial aid warning or probation

There will be two (2) financial aid disbursements per semester for students that are in this category. The first disbursement will be made following the receipt of all required financial aid documents and verification of participation in all classes, once the semester has begun. A second disbursement will be made in week seven (7) of the semester, after class participation again has been verified. Upon verification, if there are remaining funds after tuition and fees have been paid, the student will be mailed a refund check within ten (10) business days of the disbursement being received. Students in good financial aid standing with the University at the completion of three (3) semesters may receive their financial aid funds in one disbursement per semester. This will be at the discretion of the Financial Aid Office.

§ Disbursements of Federal Direct Loan, Federal PLUS Loan, Federal GradPLUS Loan, and Signature Student Loan Funds

§ A late disbursement occurs only if Amridge University has an eligible ISIR prior to the end of the semester and the delay was no fault of the student. If the disbursement date for a Federal Direct loan is within 120 days after the end of the loan period, or within 120 days after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time, then the financial aid officer will retain documentation in the student file stating the reason(s) for late disbursement.

§ Students are notified of the number of disbursements and the method of disbursement.

§ A student may request the institution to hold excess subsidized or unsubsidized loan proceeds on account to help the student manage those funds. The request must be in writing.

§ Subsidized and unsubsidized loan monies are returned to the lender within 30 days of a determination that the borrower has not registered. A copy of the completed Return to Lender form is placed in the student’s folder.

§ Disbursement of FSEOG or Pell Grant Funds

The institution will not disburse FSEOG or Pell Grant funds for a payment period or release loan proceeds to any student who has not yet registered for classes for that payment period or loan period.

§ Disbursement of Federal Work-Study Funds

Federal Work-Study students receive a check monthly.

All first-time in college students (those students coming to Amridge University without having attended another post-secondary institution) will be required to provide an official copy of their high school transcript and/or their GED transcript record to the institution to be considered for admission to Amridge University. (Military service members will be exempt from this requirement and may be granted provisional admission and a preliminary evaluation based upon unofficial documentation for a period not to exceed one semester.)

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID OVER-AWARDS

Definition – When students receive federal funds, their financial need is established according to federal guidelines. Students may not receive more financial assistance than the cost of attendance. This occasionally occurs when students receive funds from other sources after the Financial Aid Office issues a financial aid award. This situation is called an over-award.

Solution – When over-awards occur, the Financial Aid Office is required to adjust the financial aid the student has been awarded. Students may be required to repay some of the funds they have already received.

Prevention – To prevent over-awards, students should take the following steps:

§ Notify the Financial Aid Office of any assistance from outside sources such as scholarships, ROTC, Veterans benefits, etc., not listed on the award letter.

§ List all sources of financial assistance on Financial Aid Application.

§ Check with the Financial Aid Office before applying for financial assistance from other sources.

THE VERIFICATION PROCESS

Verification is defined as the process of proving the accuracy of information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education begins the verification process by either selecting applications at random or by choosing those applications that do not meet a series of federal edits. (These edits are not published and are not provided by the Department of Education.)

Amridge University follows procedures established by federal regulation to collect from the student documentation necessary to verify required FAFSA items. The following items are required by the Department of Education for verification: household size, number enrolled in college, adjusted gross income, U.S. income tax paid and certain untaxed income and benefits. Amridge University requires an independent student who has been selected for verification to complete a Verification Worksheet for the Independent Student. Likewise a dependent student must complete a Verification Worksheet for a Dependent Student. The parent(s) of a dependent student must also complete the Verification Worksheet for a Dependent Student. An IRS tax transcript for the appropriate year is required if the IRS retrieval tool is not used when completing the FAFSA. A Tax-Non-Filers form is required for the student who does not file a tax return. If conflicting information is found or the financial aid officer has any reason to believe application information is incorrect, documentation needed to resolve the discrepancy will be required.

A student who has been selected by the Department of Education for verification is notified on the Student Aid Report (SAR) which the student receives directly from the Department of Education. The Amridge University Financial Aid Office will inform the student by email that verification is required. The Verification Worksheets and the appropriate IRS transcript must be received in the Financial Aid Office by the end of the semester for which the student is requesting federal student aid. Failure to provide the requested verification documentation in a timely manner will result in loss of Title IV loan monies for the semester. A new Award Letter will be sent to the student if there has been a change in any of the student’s federal funds.

Amridge University will make every effort to resolve conflicting information before any federal aid funds are disbursed. If the University discovers discrepancies after disbursing funds, it must reconcile the conflicting information and return any federal funds for which the student was not eligible. The student will be responsible to repay the University any funds returned.

DEPENDENCY OVERRIDE POLICY

The Financial Aid staff will perform a dependency override only when the Financial Aid Administrator has made a documented determination of independence by reason of unusual circumstances such as (1) when a student’s parent cannot be located, (2) where an otherwise dependent student has been a victim of domestic violence and is no longer residing with the parents, (3) an abusive family environment, or (4) the student has been abandoned by their parents or (5) the student is a ward of the court.

The dependency override determination of unusual circumstance(s) will be made each award year and sufficient documentation to support the determination will be required each academic year. Third-party written documentation supporting the student’s unusual circumstance is also required. Determination of independent status by another institution is not binding on Amridge University.

Upon making a determination that a dependency override is warranted, the Financial Aid officer will prepare a written statement of that unusual circumstance upon which the determination was made. Amridge University will place all documentation regarding this determination in the student’s financial aid folder.

ENROLLMENT CERTIFICATION

Student enrollment status is reported four times during each semester to the National Clearinghouse. read Reports are transmitted electronically at the beginning of the semester, two times during the mid-term and at the end of each semester.

This is done to verify the enrollment dates and withdrawal dates of students who have received Federal Direct Loans. A student can verify their reported enrollment status at http://www.NSLDS.ed.gov

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ASSOCIATED WITH FINANCIAL AID

§ As consumers, students have the right to:

· Be informed of correct procedures for applying for aid, cost of attendance, aid available, how financial need is determined, criteria for awarding aid, how academic progress is determined, and what he or she must do to continue receiving aid.

· Be informed of the type/amount of their assistance, how much of their need has been met, and how/when he or she will be paid.

· Appeal financial aid office decisions about their application.

· View the contents of their financial aid file, in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

· Know the job description and pay rate for any work-study job he or she accepts.

§ A student’s responsibilities are to:

· Complete applications correctly and submit them on time.

· Read all materials sent to them by the Financial Aid Office.

· Read, understand, and keep copies of all forms he or she signs.

· Know and comply with the rules governing aid he or she receives.

· Provide additional documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information requested by the Financial Aid Office.

· Register for the required number of hours by the time of the aid disbursement.

· Notify the Financial Aid Office before he or she drops a course or withdraws from the University.

· Maintain satisfactory academic progress defined within the latest edition of the Academic Catalog.

· Notify the Financial Aid Office of all resources received from outside the Amridge University Financial Aid Office and any aid not listed in their award letter. Outside funds may require a reduction or repayment of aid equaling the amount that exceeds their financial aid eligibility.

· Keep their local and permanent addresses current in the Registrar’s Office.

· Notify Amridge University when his or her email address changes, within two (2) days of said change. The notification may be sent via email to: emailaddresschange@amridgeuniversity.edu.

Please include your full name, student identification number, old email address, and new email address in the message.

EDUCATIONAL TAX CREDIT – TAX FORMS 1098-T

The University will mail the Tax Forms 1098-T by the due date as required by the Internal Revenue Service.

STUDENT APPEALS PROCESS RELATED TO FINANCIAL AID

Students may appeal financial aid suspension in writing in accordance with the provisions of the Standard Appeals/Grievance Process specified in Section 1: Student Services and Other Important Information for all Students of this publication. Students who wish to appeal Financial Aid Suspension must document the following information on the online appeals form: 1) Reason for failure to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards, 2) Reason events have changed that will allow the achievement of the standards next semester. If this information is not filled out on the online appeals form, the appeal cannot be considered. Additionally, appeals associated with unofficial withdrawals shall be made in accordance with the timelines and procedures specified under the subsection Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid in Section 3 – Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid of this edition of the Amridge University Academic Catalog.

EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS FOR VETERANS

Amridge University is certified by the State Approving Agency for VA Benefits. It is the student’s responsibility to inform the Financial Aid Office of intent to use VA educational benefits and provide the necessary documentation as required by the Veterans’ Administration. Most VA benefits are paid directly to the eligible veteran. All admission requirements must be completed and the VA recipient must be fully admitted and enrolled at Amridge University before he or she will be certified for VA benefits. Any questions regarding the VA benefits and regulations specified in the following subsections should be submitted to the Amridge University VA official. The Amridge University VA official may be contacted by telephone at: 800.351.4040, extension 7527; or by email at: financialaid@amridgeuniversity.edu.

§ Tuition and Fees

Payment of tuition and fees is due at the time of registration. Amridge University does not participate in the advanced payment program; therefore, the student is responsible for paying all tuition and fees involved in attending Amridge University.

§ Curriculum/Degree

All VA recipients are required to declare a particular program of study or degree. If the student registers for a course not required in the program of study, Amridge University’s VA Official will automatically delete the hours for that course from the semester’s certification.

VA recipients must not register for any course(s) in which credit may be awarded from another college, a military evaluation, technical school or any other source where credit may be received. If transfer credit is awarded for an acceptable course(s) from any other source, the VA will not pay for that course to be repeated.

Course Load Requirements

§ Undergraduate Student

· Full-Time: 12 semester hours

· Half-Time: 6 or more semester hours

· Less than half-time: 4 or less semester hours

§ Graduate Student

· Full-Time: 9 or more semester hours

· Half-Time: 5 or more semester hours

· Less than half-time: 3 or less semester hours

§ Doctoral Student

· Full-Time: 6 semester hours

· Half-Time: 3 semester hours

Eligible veterans who are presently on active duty may also qualify for Tuition Assistance (TA) which is an additional educational benefit. The amount varies depending on the branch of service and the amount of funds available through the student’s Education Service Office, but can be up $1000 per course (4 semester hours) with a fiscal year maximum of $4500. Since tuition and fees at Amridge University exceed the amount covered by TA, a service member eligible for MGIB-Active Duty, CH30, can elect to receive MGIB benefits for all the remaining expenses listed on the TA authorization. This add-on payment is called “TOP-UP”.

TOP-UP claims are handled differently from claims for MGIB without TA. The service member should see the Education Service Officer, ESO, not the school certifying official. TOP-UP is payable for any course for which TA is payable under Department of Defense criteria, therefore, a certification from the school is not needed.

A National Guardsman or Reservist eligible for MGIB, CH1606, may receive both MGIB benefits and TA.

More information on VA-related programs is available at http://www.gibill.va.gov/ .

The Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program at Amridge University is based on the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of the Veterans’ Administration and as such is subject to change without notice.

More information on VA-related programs is available on the World Wide Web at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/.

Veterans Educational Assistance Programs

§ Montgomery G.I. Bill – Active Duty Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 30 of Title 38, U.S. Code). Prior Active Duty or Current Active Duty - Must have an honorable discharge or have already served at least two continuous years of honorable active duty service and contributed $100 per month for 12 months (total of $1200) into the MGIB program.

§ Vietnam Era Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 34 of Title 38, U.S. Code).

§ Montgomery G.I. Bill – Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP Chapter 1607).

Reserve component members who serve on active duty on or after September 11, 2001 under Title 10 U.S. Code for a contingency operation and who serve at least 90 consecutive days or more are eligible. National Guard members also are eligible if their active duty is under Section 502(f), Title 32 U.S.C. and they serve for 90 consecutive days when authorized by the President or Secretary of Defense for a national emergency which is supported by federal funds.

§ Vocational Rehabilitation – Chapter 31 This program provides educational assistance to disabled veterans who are in need of vocational rehabilitation. To be eligible, he or she must have a service-connected disability entitling him or her to these benefits. An award authorization must be received by the Amridge University VA Official before benefits can be used.

§ Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program (Chapter 35 of Title 38, U.S. Code). Dependents' Educational Assistance provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of certain veterans. The program offers up to 45 months of education benefits. These benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training. If you are a spouse, you may take a correspondence course. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances.

§ Montgomery GI Bill – Post 9/11 (Chapter 33).

A service member or veteran who has served at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after September 10, 2001, or individuals honourably discharged for a service-connected disability who served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001, may be eligible for Chapter 33 benefits. A service member who is currently in one of the other VA Chapters may elect to transfer the remaining months to Chapter 33. Chapter 33 benefits will be paid directly to the university. In all instances, veterans are urged to discuss their respective benefits options with an Amridge University Financial Aid Office staff member.

Selection of a Program

In consultation with an admissions counselor or an academic advisor, each veteran student must select and plan a program in accordance with the Amridge University catalog. Assistance in determining a course of study or a change of program will be furnished by the Amridge University VA Official with concurrence of an academic advisor.

Repeated Courses for Veterans Receiving Educational Benefits

If a veteran fails a required course, he or she may repeat that course with pay. However, he or she cannot repeat a course just to improve a grade and receive payment through the Veterans Administration.

Standards of Progress

The following standards must be met in order for veterans or other eligible persons to receive VA benefits:

§ Grading system as required by the academic standards of the University;

§ Satisfactory grade level as required by the academic standards of the University;

§ Probation and probationary periods as required by the academic standards of the University;

§ Conditions for dismissal, suspension, and re-admission as required by the academic standards of the University; and,

§ Satisfactory student conduct as required by the rules and regulations of Amridge University.

Withdrawal Policy

Students who receive veterans’ benefits must notify the Amridge University VA Official when dropping or adding a course or when withdrawing. Each withdrawal or drop resulting in a reduction in the course load must show the effective date of the change and the reason for the change. The withdrawal policies of the University will apply.

Veteran Payments and Responsibilities

§ Receipt of Checks -- A student who completes an application or Change of Place of Training Form at the beginning of the semester should expect a VA processing period of about six weeks. If the estimated time has elapsed and a check has not arrived, the student should contact the Amridge University VA Official immediately and, if the case warrants, an inquiry will be made to the VA Regional Office.

§ Payment -- Since Amridge University does not participate in the advance payment plan for veterans, tuition and fees must be paid in full by the published payment date (except for those veterans receiving Vocational Rehabilitation). Veterans receiving Vocational Rehabilitation are eligible to register without payment of tuition and fees providing that an award authorization letter has been received prior to the registration period.

§ Overpayments -- Each veteran drawing benefit should be aware that it is his or her responsibility to strictly comply with the policies and procedures which govern the receipt of educational benefits. Any overpayment created through non-compliance with veterans’ policies is subject to repayment, and such overpayment can cause a delay in the payment of further benefits.

§ Responsibilities -- It is the responsibility of the veteran and dependents receiving VA benefits to notify the Amridge University VA Official of the following:

1. Change of degree or major

2. Changes (Drop and/or adds, credit level, or dependency status)

OTHER TYPES OF ASSISTANCE THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED VETERANS

§ VA Work-Study Program -- To be eligible for work-study, a veteran must be enrolled at least 3/4 time and must be receiving VA educational benefits.

Preference is given to disabled veterans. Payment for the work performed is at the prevailing minimum hourly wage rate in addition to the usual subsistence allotment. There are a limited number of positions for VA work-study at Amridge University.

§ Tutorial Assistance Program -- Veterans enrolled on a half-time or greater basis may receive a special allowance for individual tutoring. To qualify, the veteran must demonstrate deficiency in a subject making tutoring necessary. Each tutor’s qualifications must be reviewed and approved by the Amridge University VA Official. It is the student’s responsibility to secure a tutor. The tutor may be anyone except a family member.

Dropped Courses or Withdrawal

If at any time during the semester a veteran drops a course used in computing his or her course load requirements, he or she may be required by the VA to repay any benefits received for that course or courses. Possible exceptions concerning the repayment of benefits may be made where there are extenuating circumstances.

Amridge University’s policy for dropping a class or withdrawal from all courses applies.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students receiving VA educational benefits are expected to make satisfactory progress toward a degree. Normal standards of progress as stated in the Amridge University catalog are in effect for all students.

Amridge University Financial Aid Code of Conduct

Amridge University’s Financial Aid Code of Conduct in accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) (H.R. 4137) signed in to law on August 14, 2008, prohibits conflicts of interest with the responsibilities of officers, employees, and agents of the University in association with a Federal Student Aid loan program. The University will publish, with respect to the FSA loan program, the Financial Aid Code of Conduct annually on its website, will inform all officers, employees, and agents and will enforce its policy.

Ban on Revenue-Sharing Arrangements

The University bans revenue-sharing arrangements with any lender. The University defines “revenue-sharing arrangement” per the HEOA: any arrangement between an institution and a lender under which the lender makes Title IV loans to students attending the institution (or to the families of those students), the institution recommends the lender or the loan products of the lender and, in exchange, the lender pays a fee or provides other material benefits, including revenue or profit-sharing, to the institution or to its officers, employees, or agents.

Ban on Employees Receiving Gifts from a Lender, Guaranty Agency or Loan Servicer

The University bans employees from receiving gifts from a lender, guaranty agency or loan servicer. No officer or employee of the University may solicit or accept any gift from a lender, guarantor, or servicer of education loans. A “gift” is defined as any gratuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospitality, loan, or other item having monetary value of more than a de minimus amount.

Ban on Contracting Arrangements

The University bans contracting arrangements. No officer or employee of the University may accept from a lender, or an affiliate of any lender, any fee, payment, or other financial benefit as compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or contract to provide services to or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans.

Prohibition against Steering Borrowers to Particular Lenders or Delaying Loan Certifications

The University has a prohibition against steering borrowers to particular lenders or delaying loan certifications. For any first-time borrower, the University may not assign, through the award packaging or through other methods, the borrower’s loan to a particular lender. In addition, the University may not refuse to certify, or delay the certification of, any loan based on the borrower’s selection of a particular lender or guaranty agency.

Section 4: Amridge University Distance Learning Program

This section includes important information on the approach and configuration of distance learning programs and services offered by Amridge University. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for a specific school within Amridge University, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based) [Version 2.2012-2013, Effective 2.24.2013].

STATE-OF-THE-ART DISTANCE LEARNING SYSTEM AND THE RELATIONSHIP TO QUALITY PROGRAMMING

Amridge University takes every reasonable effort to ensure that the distance learning system, programs, and components are of high quality. As a pioneer in distance learning, Amridge University understands that its students have busy lives and must balance multiple priorities that may include work, family obligations, and trying to complete their educational goals that may include completion of a college degree. Distance learning is Amridge University’s main mode of delivery of instructional programs. Amridge University has been in the distance learning arena since 1993. Equally important is the fact that Amridge University has been providing online, or web-enabled, distance learning since 1999. As the Internet is still a fairly new technology, Amridge University has been providing online education for more years than have most other colleges and universities in the United States. As a result, Amridge University has been through and worked out problems and issues that a majority of the colleges and universities just entering the market have yet to encounter.

The quality of the distance learning education programs and services provided by Amridge University are best exemplified by several points. These points include:

§ Amridge University is one of the original 15 institutions selected by the U.S. Department of Education to participate as a Distance Education Demonstration Institution. Mandated by Congress, this program is designed to assist the U.S. Department of Education to develop and test programs offering distance learning students traditional financial aid programs and services which had previously been prohibited. It is important to note that with the honor of being selected as a Distance Education Demonstration Institution comes a great deal of additional work and reporting by staff. This is a voluntary program and the University does not receive any special federal funding as a result of participation in the important program that will eventually benefit all institutions of higher education in terms of helping to identify quality distance education indicators, practices, and procedures.

§ Amridge University’s default rate on the federal student loan program is significantly lower than both the state and national averages.

We believe this low loan default rate of Amridge University students is attributed, in part, to the University’s commitment to providing students with a strong financial aid counseling program.

§ Through the information technology system that was developed by Amridge University staff, a special student progress report has been developed to inform Amridge University students of their progress through their respective program of study. Specifically, the Amridge University Registrar is required to send a copy of the respective student’s computer-generated Student Evaluation Report, which serves as an advisory document that provides a specification of several critical elements, including: (1) To identify all academic work the student may have taken at other institutions and military experience that will be accepted toward a degree at Amridge University, (2) To identify the required and elective courses that the respective student must take in order to fulfill academic requirements for the respective Amridge University degree, and (3) To identify on a semester by semester basis the progress of the respective student toward completing his or her degree.

Providing these reports has proven an extremely helpful resource in advising students and provides a significant tool for those students who require additional structure. These reports are provided to Amridge University students working on all degrees.

§ A recent Amridge University distance education survey completed online helps document what our students think of the University. A sampling of the survey findings is as follows:

· 95.4% of the respondents rated their overall educational experience at Amridge University as either “Excellent” or “Good.” [i]

· 96.9% of the respondents indicated that they would “recommend Amridge University to others.” [ii]

· A few of the open-ended questions provided some insight on what Amridge University students think of the distance learning program and how they have benefited:

o “I love Amridge University. I am a mother of three special needs children, work 4-days a week, keep house and help my husband with his business. If it wasn’t for Amridge University, I would never be able to attend college. With the Internet courses, assistance with my college expenses, this is the way to go.”

o “Thank you, thank you, and thank you for making my education possible.”

o “Taking classes via the Internet made me nervous at first. But ‘hats-off’ to the Amridge University professors, staff, and administration because they have made my college experience and Internet experience positive, convenient, and actually exciting! I have enjoyed my classes and dealing with the folks at Amridge University.”

§ Also, a comment on the survey regarding Amridge University’s flexibility for soldier-students stated that, “The school and all of the staff have been very understanding about the September 11 incident and how much it will affect the soldiers attending courses at Amridge University. Thanks from all of us.”

Amridge University is committed to continue its efforts in providing students with quality distance learning programs and services that will include ensuring that the latest available distance learning technologies are used and maintained and that the University will continue to monitor the quality of the related programs, course offerings, and services.

A DISTANCE LEARNING DELIVERY SYSTEM

Amridge University is one of the nation's leading universities offering distance learning programs and services to adults. The designation as a Distance Education Demonstration Program Institution by the U.S. Department of Education adds to its prestige. Being one of fifteen initial participants in the nation, Amridge University, along with the U.S. Department of Education, serves as a national model that will chart the future of distance learning.

The Distance Learning Program is a delivery system which brings the classroom to the student. Traditional instruction is combined with modern day technology to extend educational opportunity beyond the walls of Amridge University. This delivery system offers students who live outside commuting distance or who have inflexible work schedules the opportunity to take courses at their convenience.

Utilizing state of the art technologies, Amridge University's distance learning programs are delivered to students over the Internet. Students participate via online discussion groups, testing, email, and toll-free telephone. Some courses are streamed live and are viewed over the Internet as the class is being taught, or at the student's convenience. The flexibility of the programs allows the class to follow students in transit (e.g., military, clergy, salesmen, and others who must move while still in school).

Distance Learning students must demonstrate that they have attended class. This is normally done via a weekly quiz that is administered online. Through the weekly quizzes, instructors are able to ascertain whether or not the student participated in the class as the student is required to answer questions based upon the content of the class.

Distance Learning students must maintain the same pace as on-campus students. Homework assignments and research papers must be submitted to the professor as scheduled, and exams must be taken at the designated time.

Distance Learning students also have access to Amridge University's library/research support based upon some 15 to 20 million monographs and some 150,000 journals in several of the nation's richest research library collections. These institutions offer bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in compatible/similar disciplines that Amridge University is offering or seeking to offer degrees. Amridge University has contractual arrangements for its students and faculty to the following collections:

§ University of Alabama at Huntsville: approx. 325,000 hard copy books, 600,000 microforms, 500,000 gov docs, 250 premium databases, 25,000 online full-text journals, including all Elsevier online journals. Strengths: Engineering, Sciences, Liberal Arts, Business, Nursing.

§ The University of Illinois: approx. 10,000,000 books, and approx. 100,000 active serials/periodicals titles. Strengths: across most disciplines, in the Liberal Arts/Sciences/Engineering/Professional Schools, including Medical; one of the two or three largest academic research libraries in the world.

§ Vanderbilt University: 2,882,057 volumes (2002/2003) 29,173 (2002/2003) serials/periodicals titles approx. 24,000 per subject area Strengths: business/management; education; divinity; law; science & engineering; medicine.

§ Brigham Young University: 2,500,849 volumes (2001/2002) 25,634 serials/periodicals titles (current SIRSI search) approx. 16,029 per subject area strengths: history; education; law; and liberal arts.

§ RSIC: 240,000 volumes (2001/2002) 1212 serials/periodicals titles(current SIRSI subject search) Approximately 2000 per subject area strengths: aeronautics; aviation; chemistry; computer science; electrical engineering; electronics; mechanical engineering; nuclear science; physics.

Some classroom instruction is professionally videotaped by state-of-the-art production technology. Each classroom is equipped with one or more cameras, which are operated from a central control room. The cameras pan and zoom to capture classroom activity. Stationary ceiling microphones provide quality sound reproduction for both students and instructors. Document cameras are used when an instructor has visual objects to present in class. Students in the classroom can view what is being recorded through a large monitor.

The Distance Learning Program was reviewed by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and was fully approved as an integral part of the University's regular undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Distance learning students have all of the same rights and privileges as on-campus students, receive the same quality of instruction, and are awarded the same diplomas. The academic transcripts give no indication of whether classes were taken on-campus or by distance learning.

THE DISTANCE LEARNING PROGRAM IS NOT A CORRESPONDENCE COURSE PROGRAM

The Distance Learning Program is an innovative instructional delivery system which is very different from correspondence courses and has many advantages over them. In general, correspondence courses are designed for self-instruction by the student and are typically set up to be administered by the clerical staff of the institution without significant interaction between the instructor who designed the course and the student. By contrast, the Distance Learning Program has all the characteristics of live classroom instruction except that the distance learning student participates in class sessions from a distance and participates in discussions from a distance. The student is still an integral part of the class.

CHARACTERISTICS OF AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES

§ Academic standards are identical to on-campus standards;

§ Applicants must meet all the same qualifications and requirements as on-campus students;

§ Students may register only for the courses which are being taught in the current semester;

§ Distance learning students must follow the same registration and academic procedures as on-campus students;

§ Objectives and assignments for each class session are listed in the syllabus, including dates for exams and deadlines for papers and other projects, and are enforced just as for on-campus students;

§ All courses are set up on a fifteen-week semester;

§ Classroom instruction is not edited and is not "canned." Distance learning students are called by name in the classroom, and instruction is adjusted to respond to their questions and to meet their needs and special interests. In some cases students submit video presentations to be dubbed into the class tapes;

§ Students are informed of the instructor's office hours and encouraged to call him or her by toll-free telephone to ask questions, discuss assignments, or make comments. Students may also write questions or send emails to the instructor or other classmates;

§ Distance learning students have the same schedule, same assignments, and take the same exams at the time as on-campus students;

§ Distance learning students are graded on the same assignments and on the same scale as on-campus students; and

§ Distance learning students are provided the same access to Amridge University Library resources as are those who come to campus.

STATEMENT ON COPYING AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY CLASS SESSIONS

Copying or other use of Amridge University Distance Learning courses or course materials is strictly prohibited. Federal law provides severe civil and criminal penalty for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or exhibition of copyrighted motion pictures, video tapes, or laser video discs. All rights are reserved by Amridge University. Copyright pending.

STREAMING AND INTERACTIVE TECHNOLOGIES USED

Amridge University uses the latest streaming and interactive technologies for the Internet-based courses with desktop applications integrated with a student/faculty web camera, headphone, and microphone coupled with real broadband Internet connectivity. With this configuration the student may be seen and heard by the course instructor and other students in the class with similar technologies. The specific elements of this system include:

§ Real-time video and audio communications

§ Fully interactive classroom

§ View Application from the Professors Perspective

§ Simultaneous sharing of desktop applications (e.g., PowerPoint, Word, Excel, etc.) with the instructor and entire class

§ Robust chat

The University recommends the Logitech 350 Headset & Microphone as well as the Logitech QuickCam Express for the Elluminate system. Other headsets, microphones, and web cameras may work that equal or exceed the respective specifications of the Logitech systems. Students are responsible for the purchase of the headset and cameras.

Students may not have adequate use and interactivity of the Elluminate system accessed via dial-up or any other system not using cable modem or DSL – for this reason, the University strongly encourages all students to use either a cable modem or DSL for Internet access of the Amridge University online course systems.

COMPUTER LITERACY FOR DISTANCE LEARNING STUDENTS

In order to be admitted to Amridge University distance learning programs, students are expected to possess sufficient computer skills to use the basic typing, editing, and printing functions of a word-processing package such as Word. Also, students are expected to possess the necessary skills to connect to the Internet using a web browser such as Internet Explorer, maneuver between web pages, know how to search for and upload and download computer files and send and receive email via the Internet.

Individuals not sure if they have these skills or want additional-related information should contact the Amridge University Admission Office.

STUDENT DEGREE REQUIREMENTS COMPLETION OPTIONS COURSE DELIVERY METHODS COURSE DELIVERY FORMATS

Amridge University has several course formats of instruction. These formats are: (1) text only courses; (2) resident face-to-face teacher and students on campus courses; (3) live web interaction between students and a teacher from various locations throughout the world courses; (4) text with taped video archive courses; and (5) text with interactive business applications and research programs courses.

Regardless of the course format, all courses taught at the University are made available through Amridge University’s web site and its online Blackboard web course delivery program. Students are required to use the online Blackboard course program, and every course is delivered over the internet. All courses will not be the same, but they all will contain a variety of the listed items: (1) a syllabus with course policies, grading, assignments, etc.; (2) class text lectures; (3) course textual materials; (4) archived class videos; (5) interactive business applications and research applications, etc.; (6) course tests; (7) course discussion board; (8) course online library (8 million books) with student Research Log requirements; and (9) student and teacher course text communication by email or through the Blackboard digital drop box.

COURSE DELIVERY FORMATS

§ IO — Internet Only

Courses are taught over the internet using a detailed syllabus with course policies, assignments, grading guidelines, written lectures, interactive business and research applications, online library search (15 to 20 million books and some 150,000 journals) and research log, course materials, tests, etc. This class is taught by the internet only.

VIDEO ARCHIVES: a majority of the graduate courses contain video archived class sessions, while ninety-five percent of the undergraduate courses do not contain video archived class sessions.

§ RF & LW — Resident On Campus and continued in Resident Live Web Courses

REQUIREMENT 1: The University requires all students to attend this class on the Montgomery and/or Approved Campus at the scheduled times. This course is a Resident Face-to-Face instructor and student participation. A student may be exempt from this requirement by meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 disability qualifying requirements.

REQUIREMENT 2: The University requires the student to attend not only on campus, but to continue class participation in Resident Live Web class sessions on a one-time, two-time, three-time, bi-weekly, tri-weekly, or weekly basis as defined in the semester schedule.

§ RF — Resident Face-to-Face course only

The University requires the students to attend this class on the Montgomery and/or Approved Campus at the scheduled times. This course is a face-to-face instructor and student communication and participation only. This class will be recorded and posted immediately in the online course. A student may be exempt from this requirement by meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 disability qualifying requirements.

§ LW — Live Web Residency – or Concomitant Residency

The University requires the student to attend this class in Resident Live Web class sessions on a one-time, two-time, three-time, bi-weekly, tri-weekly, or weekly basis. All course work including the Live Web recordings of the class sessions are made available in the online course. The Live Web classes are identified in the semester schedule.

COURSE DELIVERY OPTIONS

All students are responsible for completing all degree delivery requirements to graduate. Students, especially on the graduate level, may be required to complete on campus Resident Face-to-Face or Resident Live Web degree delivery completion requirements. The University provides several convenient options to assist students on a semester by semester basis in the completion of their degree. As a result, these course options will assist a student in satisfying all degree graduation delivery requirements. These course delivery choices are:

§ CHOICE 1 — has three options: Internet Only or Resident Live Web or Resident Face-to-Face

· IO — OPTION 1: Internet only — student intends to take this class only by the internet.

· LW — OPTION 2: Resident Live Web – or Concomitant Residency—this live web class facilitates live web collaboration between the teacher and students. These students may be at home, in the work place, or on campus.

· RF — OPTION 3: Resident face-to-face — this is a live resident face-to-face instructor and student class participation on the Montgomery or Approved campus. This requirement applies to certain graduate degrees. A student may be exempt from this requirement by meeting Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 disability qualifying requirements.

§ CHOICE 2 — has two options: Internet Only or Live Web

§ IO — OPTION 1 — Internet only—student intends to take this class only by the internet.

§ LW — OPTION 2 — Live Web—these live web collaboration class sessions may occur on a one-time, two-time, three-time, bi-weekly, tri-weekly, or weekly basis with students at home, in the work place, or on campus.

INTERNET ACCESS AND CONNECTIVITY

All Amridge University students are required to have regular access to the Internet via a dial-up connection or broadband connection. As a minimum, the Amridge University distance learning portal may be accessed through a dial-up connection of at least 56Kv90. Although a dial-up connection will work, Amridge University strongly recommends that a broader-band connection be used such as DSL or cable modem to take full advantage of the Amridge University streamed audio and video used in some of the courses. Generally, DSL, cable modem, or other broadband services will cost more than dial-up but the quality of the audio and video signals are superior when used with the proper computer system and can significantly enhance the student’s learning experience.

A student’s internet service provider (ISP) plays a key role in a student’s ability to view archived streaming video successfully. A student with a clean, sustained connection of (DSL), cable access or satellite of 120kbps (kilobits per second) or higher, should view streaming video at 80kbps Stream. A student with a clean, sustained connection of 40kbps or higher should view streaming video at 34kbps Stream.

INTERNET SPEED TESTS

With the advent of new technology it is of ever-increasing importance to make sure you have a broadband connection. Amridge University is enabling the “Real Time Classroom” of tomorrow today; you will be able to collaborate with your professor as well as your fellow classmates around the world. Depending on your degree track you may have access to the “Virtual Desktop” which you could connect to from any other computer that has a broadband connection. All these technologies will require a broadband internet connection or “high speed”. If you are not sure of your connection speed you can check your speed at the following address: http://performance.toast.net/

You may also test your “Upload Speed” at the same site. True high-speed internet access will have download speeds in excess of 384 kbps (this being the minimum) and upload-speeds of 128k (this also being the minimum). One speed test will generally give you an idea of the bandwidth. For a more accurate reading run the test through the week and at different times of the day for an overall average. If after you have checked your speed and have discovered you do not have adequate bandwidth in order to take advantage of the features that will be available, please look into ordering high-speed internet access today. If you have any questions about testing your speed feel free to call the Extended Learning Program at 800.351.4040, extension 7551 or 7545.

EMAIL ACCOUNTS

All Amridge University students are required to have a valid and working email address. It is the student’s responsibility to notify Amridge University when his or her email address changes, within two days of said change. The notification may be sent via email to: emailaddresschange@amridgeuniversity.edu.

Please include your full name, student identification number, old email address, and new email address in the message.

CHECKING EMAIL DAILY

Students must check their email account daily for messages from their instructors or other University personnel and make certain that their mail boxes are not full and rejecting incoming messages.

CAUTIONS FOR STUDENTS USING SPAM FILTERS AND SYSTEMS

Please note that as a student you will be receiving emails from the Amridge University Center for Institutional Research (CIR). Messages that will be sent to you by the CIR include account and password information for your Research Log. If you have any form of spam filter on your email client (e.g., Outlook, Eudora, etc.), if you have any form of spam protection software on your computer (e.g. Norton, McAfee, etc.), or if your Internet service provider provides special spam protection (e.g., AOL, EarthLink, Comcast, etc.) then you must take special action(s). If you do not take these special actions you may not receive emails from the CIR and other Amridge University employees who send you email messages related to your courses and your education at Amridge University. The actions that you should take are as follows:

§ Set your spam filters to allow all email for the domain “amridgeuniversity.edu.”

§ Set your spam filters to allow all email from the domain “cirservices.com.”

§ Set all automated privacy and email gateways to automatically accept email from the two Amridge University domains – Amridge University faculty and staff will not manually complete approved sender lists. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that emails from the University’s domains are permitted to be sent through the respective gateways. The two Amridge University domains are “amridgeuniversity.edu” and “cirservices.com.”

§ Set your email settings with your ISP provider to accept email messages in HTML and URL addresses.

Two other important steps that should be taken include the following:

§ Notify Amridge University if you change your email address. The notification may be sent via email to: emailaddresschange@amridgeuniversity.edu Please include your full name, student identification number, old email address, and new email address in the message.

§ Check your email daily and make certain that your email box is not full. In many instances, your ISP will simply delete overflowing email messages.

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS

As a minimum, the following computer requirements are recommended for working through the Amridge University distance learning programs and courses:

§ Operating Systems

· Windows Operating Systems

o Windows XP (32 Bit with 32 Bit JVM, Java)

o Windows Vista (32 Bit with 32 Bit JVM, Java)

o Windows Vista (64 Bit with 64 Bit JVM, Java)

o Windows 7 (32 Bit with 32 Bit JVM, Java)

o Windows 7 (64 Bit with 64 Bit JVM, Java)

· Hardware for Windows Operating Systems

o Pentium III 1 GHz processor

o 256 MB available RAM

o 20 MB of available disk space

o Broadband Internet connection

o Headset with microphone

· Macintosh Operating Systems and Software

o OS X 10.5 (32 Bit with 32 Bit JVM, Java)

o OS X 10.6 (64 Bit with 32 Bit JVM, Java)

o OS X 10.6 (64 Bit with 64 Bit JVM, Java)

o PC Emulator for Summit Point 2 (for access to archived classes recorded in the Summit Point 2 format)

§ Hardware for the Macintosh Operating Systems

o G4, G5 or Intel processor

o 256 MB available RAM

o 20 MB of available disk space

o Broadband Internet connection

o Headset with microphone

· Computer operating systems no longer supported

o Windows 95

o Windows 98

o Windows ME

o Windows NT

o Windows 2000

o Solaris 10 x86

§ Internet Browsers

· Internet Browsers for the Windows Operating Systems

o Internet Explorer 7 or higher

o Firefox 3.5 or higher

· Internet Browsers for the Macintosh Operating Systems

o Safari 4.0 or higher

o Firefox 3.5 or higher

HARDWARE FOR Elluminate

Amridge University recommends the following hardware for the SumitPoint2 interactive system:

§ Camera

· Logitech “QuickCam Express”

· Logitech “Pro 4000”

· Creative “WebCam Instant”

§ Headset

· Logitech “Premium USB Headset 350”

· Logitech “Extreme PC Gaming Headset”

· Plantronics “Audio 60”(Enhanced Multimedia Headset)

· Plantronics “DSP 400” USB Headset

REQUIRED COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Amridge University recommends several key computer software packages for student use. Most of these software packages can be purchased at any computer store and can even be included in the purchase of a new computer. These recommended computer software packages include the following:

§ Latest edition of Microsoft Office that should include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

§ Latest edition of Adobe Acrobat Reader. Visit the Amridge University web site for a link to the Adobe web site where you can download a free version of the Adobe Acrobat Reader.

§ Latest edition of the Internet Explorer. Although the Netscape web browser will work, we find that the Internet Explorer is best for our web site and distance learning portal.

§ Latest edition of RealOne Player. Visit the Amridge University web site for a link to the RealNetworks web site where you can download a free version of the RealOne Player.

KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER IN TOP WORKING ORDER AND OBTAINING AND INSTALLING VENDOR SOFTWARE UPDATES

Because your computer will be a major learning tool, it is important that you keep your computer in good working condition. Following a few simple practices can help ensure that your computer will be in good working condition so that you can have the best learning experience possible. As a very minimum, the following recommendations should be considered:

§ Use, and keep updated, virus protection software.

§ If you use DSL or a cable modem, then use a firewall. There are many inexpensive hardware and software versions of firewalls that will be effective in keeping out unwanted computer intruders.

§ Clean your hard drive regularly and delete unneeded temporary files with “.tmp” extensions.

§ Obtain and install operating system updates regularly.

§ Obtain and install program software updates regularly.

§ Clean your computer screen and keyboard regularly with industry approved cleaners that may be purchased at almost any office supply store.

§ Purchase a computer backup system for your computer and backup your computer files and system regularly. If you use CDs or tapes for backups, be sure to store them at a safe and secure location.

Section 5: Academic Regulations

This section includes important information on Amridge University academic policies, procedures, regulations, and other related requirements. Exceptions may be noted in the respective sections for a specific school within Amridge University, noted in later editions of this publication, and/or published addenda (paper- and web-based) [Version 2.2012-2013, Effective 2.24.2013].

REGISTRATION

Students must register on the dates printed in the semester schedule. In order to facilitate the process, each student is assigned an ID number to be used at registration. This number will be used to identify all permanent academic records.

To make the registration process as simple as possible, Amridge University provides the following course registration options:

1. Students may visit the Amridge University web site at https://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/Amridge/Instructions.aspx
to register by the Internet.

2. Students may come to campus to register in person.

When students register for a course by Internet or in person, they are officially registered and all withdrawal, drop/add, and refund policies automatically apply.

Academic advisors are available at the student’s request. Academic advisement is often essential to student success and advisors are readily available to help students with course selection, information on prerequisites and other information regarding the academic plan.

It is the responsibility of the student to 1) review their academic plan each semester, 2) contact their academic advisor to have any questions answered regarding the student’s academic plan, 3) review course selection and make sure all prerequisites have been satisfied, and 4) register for courses that fit within the students’ academic plan.

All students are responsible for their course selection. If you are unsure for which courses to register, please contact your advisor before you complete the online registration form.

Amridge University reserves the right to modify the semester course schedule at any time, without prior notice, to accommodate student needs and faculty availability.

ADDING A COURSE AND COURSE LOADS

Students may add one or more courses to his or her schedule through the Registrar’s Office up to the end of the first week of classes by calling his or her assigned advisor. The following rules apply for adding a course and for course overloads.

§ Undergraduate students must have the prior approval of the respective advisor to register for an additional course over full-time (i.e., over 12 semester hours). In turn, undergraduate students must have the prior approval of the respective dean for any course load beyond 16 semester hours.

§ Graduate students must have the prior approval of the respective advisor to register for any courses over full-time (i.e., anything over 9 semester hours).

§ Doctoral students must have the prior approval of the dean of the respective Amridge University school or college to register for any courses over full-time (i.e., 6 semester hours).

POLICY ON REPEAT OF COURSES

Amridge University students who repeat courses that they have failed or in which they did not meet the minimum required grade for a specific program of study may lose federal financial aid eligibility or other financial benefits for those courses (Note: See section on “Repeated Courses for Veterans Receiving Educational Benefits”). In addition, students repeating courses jeopardize their satisfactory academic progress status and may be subject to loss of eligibility for financial aid. Students should make every effort to avoid a situation which would result in the student needing to repeat a course. Students are encouraged to consult with their financial aid advisor if a course repeat is needed.

A student may not take a course more than (3) times unless otherwise approved by the Amridge University Appeals Committee. The Appeals committee may authorize a student to enroll in a given course for a fourth (4) time provided the respective student provides a written plan on actions her or she will initiate to help ensure successful completion of said course in accordance with the guidelines and requirements of the specified program of study. Please note the enforcement of this policy necessarily means that if a student fails a course within the provisions of this policy and is not able to successfully complete the course per the guidelines of the respective program of study and the course is a required course, then the student will not be able to successfully complete said degree.

VETERANS

A list of all students certified by the Veterans Administration (VA) for educational benefits is kept in the Financial Aid Office. The records of students who receive benefits are accessible upon request by the state approving agency. Enrollment certification should reflect proper credit for previous education and training. Any change in academic status from the last certification is promptly reported. Please refer to Section 3: Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid of this catalog for detailed information on veterans’ programs and requirements.

COURSE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

Amridge University uses a two or three letter with a four-digit identification system. The first two (or three) letters denote the area of study. The first digit indicates the academic level of the course; the second digit indicates the semester hours of course credit; the third and fourth digits, along with the prior designations, distinguish between one course and another. Occasionally, a fifth digit is used to indicate a continuation of a course for a second semester. A letter at the end distinguishes different sections of a course when it is offered more than once in the same semester.

The following chart illustrates the use of each mark:

ACADEMIC LEVELS OF COURSES

The academic levels of courses are as follows:

· Courses with numbers of 1000, 2000, 3000, or 4000 numbers are undergraduate courses.

· Courses with 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, or 9000 numbers are graduate level courses.

· Courses with 9000 numbers are primarily doctoral courses.

Students who apply for undergraduate work without an Associate of Arts degree or its equivalent will be required to take a core curriculum to fulfill the requirements needed for admission to upper division undergraduate work. These are in addition to the 64 semester hours normally required on the upper division level for the bachelor’s degree.

GRADING SYSTEM FOR ASSOCIATE, BACHELOR, MASTER, AND DOCTOR OF MINISTRY DEGREES

The following symbols are used on the students’ permanent records for all courses in which they are enrolled after the initial registration and schedule adjustment period: “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” “F,” “P,” “W,” “AU,” “MX”, “WF,” and “NR.” These marks will remain on a student’s permanent record and may be changed only if the original instructor certifies that an actual mistake was made in reporting or recording the grade. The PRT Appeals Committee or Policy Review Team (PRT) must approve all other grade changes.

The significance of the grade symbols is as follows: "A" denotes excellent comprehension of the subject and outstanding scholarship. In computations of cumulative or semester averages, an “A” (95-100) will be assigned a value of 4.0 quality points per credit hour; an “A-” (90<95) will be assigned a value of 3.9 quality points per credit hour. "B" denotes good comprehension of the subject. In computation of cumulative or semester averages a “B+” (86<90) will be assigned a value of 3.7 quality points per credit hour; a “B” (83<86) will be assigned a value of 3.3 quality points per credit hour; and a “B-” (80<83) will be assigned a value of 3.0 quality points per credit hour. "C" denotes acceptable comprehension. It is awarded for normal achievement. In computation of cumulative or semester averages, a “C+” (76<80) will be assigned a value of 2.7 quality points per credit hour; a “C” (73<76) will be assigned a value of 2.3 quality points per credit hour; and a “C-” (70<73) will be assigned a value of 2.0 quality points per credit hour. "D" denotes borderline understanding of the subject. It is awarded for marginal performance, and it does not represent satisfactory progress toward a degree. In computations of cumulative or semester averages, a “D+” (66<70) will be assigned a value of 1.7 quality points per credit hour; a “D” (63<66) will be assigned a value of 1.3 quality points per credit hour; and a “D-” (60<63) will be assigned a value of 1.0 quality points per credit hour. "F" denotes failure to gain an adequate comprehension of the subject. It indicates unsatisfactory performance. In computations of cumulative or semester averages, an “F” (0<60) will be assigned a value of 0.0 quality points per credit hour. The “MX” is used in special situations to replace asterisk grades where the student is in qualifying military deployment. "P" denotes a passing grade without indicating the quality of the student's work. "W" is used to denote that the student withdrew from a course in which he or she was enrolled after the scheduled adjustment period. "WF" is used to denote that the student withdrew with a failing grade. The “NR” symbol denotes that no grade was reported. The “W,” “WF” and “NR” symbols will not be used in any computation, and will be placed on the permanent record. "AU" denotes an audit course. This notation does not imply attendance or any other effort in the course.

“I” is not used at Amridge University. Incomplete grades are not assigned. An asterisk (*) following a letter grade denotes an exceptional, temporary grade, which is an instructor’s option. It is given only when, because of illness or other circumstances beyond his or her control, the student has been unable to complete a portion of the work of the course. See items 15 and 16 below for exceptions to asterisk grade rules. The following rules must be observed:

1. Asterisk (*) grades are not automatic nor are they a right. Students should make every effort to complete assigned work within the semester and should not assume that an asterisk grade will be granted.

2. Students are expected to contact their instructors as soon as problems occur and attempt to work through the problems during the semester.

3. Asterisk (*) grades are issued to allow students to complete a portion of the work of the course and are not a substitute for a withdrawal — the appropriate action for students who have not done any work.

4. Students may not request asterisk (*) grades in consecutive semesters.

5. Students may not request nor may faculty issue asterisk grades, after all work in the class has been completed.

6. Asterisk (*) grades may be assigned only for “C,” “D,” or “F” grades. (Note: The only exception would be for those students serving in the U.S. military, in the U.S. military reserve, or in a Homeland Security unit that is activated and deployed to a war zone, police action, disaster, or similar actions. In such cases the respective student is required to notify all of his or her instructors and submit a copy of the military orders to the Registrar’s Office. If more than one semester is required, the Vice President of Academic Affairs will coordinate all course extensions beyond the one semester asterisk grade grace period). Amridge’s practices do not negate a military policy regarding tuition assistance.

7. Asterisk (*) grades of “C”, “D”, “F” cannot be changed to an “A” grade.

8. A “B” grade is the maximum grade adjustment. (Note: The only exception would be for students serving in the military as described in #6, above.)

9. Asterisk (*) grades of “C”, “D” which have been officially recorded in the Registrar’s office may not be lowered by the instructor.

10. Asterisk (*) grades are to be given only for exceptional and documented cases of hardship such as illness or having to relocate within the semester.

11. The student has until Friday 5 pm Central Time of week five of the following semester in which to finish the deficiency and the instructor will report the grade change to the Registrar’s Office within the following week.

12. Following the period of grace, all asterisks (*) will be removed the day after semester grades are reported, leaving the student with the letter grade without the (*).

13. WARNING: If a student requests a transcript before the period of grace has expired, all asterisks (*) will be removed from the grades before the transcript is released.

14. Asterisk grades shall not be allowed for a language proficiency examination registration (course). The allowable grades for a language proficiency examination registration are P, IP, or F. The awarded grade shall be recorded on the student’s transcript for the semester that the grade is assigned. The Language Proficiency Examination Fee shall be charged each time a student registers for the language proficiency examination.

15. Procedures

a. An asterisk (*) grade must be requested between Monday 12 am Central Time of week 10 and Friday 5 pm Central Time of week 14 of the semester for which the grade is requested. Students must complete the online request form available on the Amridge website. The form includes a certification by the student that all information provided is correct and that he or she has not had any asterisk grades granted for his or her immediate past semester of attendance at Amridge.

b. Students should not assume that submittal of the form constitutes the granting of an asterisk grade. Students will be advised immediately of receipt of the form by the Amridge coordinating office. However, the decision regarding issuance of the asterisk grade will be communicated to the student in a separate email correspondence from the instructor and through the grade report.

c. The issuance of an asterisk grade assumes that all information on the request form is accurate, including the student certification regarding consecutive terms. An asterisk grade will be rescinded if it is later determined that information provided by the student was not correct.

d. Asterisk grade assignments for courses are at the discretion of the respective assigned course instructor. Note: Asterisk grades are not allowed for language proficiency examinations.

16. Instructors are not required to participate in issuing (*) grades. Instructors maintain consistent practices within their own courses, but practices will differ amongst instructors and programs. The decision to issue an asterisk grade rests with the individual instructor. Absent the appearance of capriciousness, discrimination, or violation of Amridge policy by a faculty member, his or her decision to issue/not issue an asterisk grade is final. The University may direct the issuance of asterisk grades for students in the case of national emergencies. However, this is a rare situation, for groups of students who are similarly impacted, and is directed only by the office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

17. Asterisk grades are not given for FD 1412 – Management Intervention.

AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY’S FINAL COURSE GRADING POINTS CHART FOR UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE DEGREE COURSES
Grade	Percent	Points
A	95-100	1140-1200
A-	90<95	1080-1139
B+	86<90	1032-1079
B	83<86	996-1031
B-	80<83	960-995
C+	76<80	912-959
C	73<76	876-911
C-	70<73	840-875
D+	66<70	792-839
D	63<66	756-791
D-	60<63	720-755
F	0< 60	0-719

GRADING SYSTEM FOR DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY DEGREES

The following symbols are used on the students’ permanent records for all courses in which they are enrolled after the initial registration and schedule adjustment period: A, B, F, P, IP (for selected dissertation courses only), W, “AU,” “MX,” “WF,” and “NR.” These marks will remain on a student’s permanent record and may be changed only if the original instructor certifies that an actual mistake was made in reporting or recording the grade. The Policy Review Team (PRT) or PRT Appeals Committee must approve all other grade changes.

The significance of the grade symbols is as follows: "A" denotes excellent comprehension of the subject and outstanding scholarship. In computations of cumulative or semester averages, an “A” (95-100) will be assigned a value of 4.0 quality points per credit hour; an “A-” (90<95) will be assigned a value of 3.9 quality points per credit hour. "B" denotes good comprehension of the subject. In computation of cumulative or semester averages a “B+” (86<90) will be assigned a value of 3.7 quality points per credit hour; a “B” (83<86) will be assigned a value of 3.3 quality points per credit hour; and a “B-” (80<83) will be assigned a value of 3.0 quality points per credit hour. "F" denotes failure to gain an adequate comprehension of the subject. It indicates unsatisfactory performance. In computations of cumulative or semester averages, an “F” (0<80) will be assigned a value of 0.0 quality points per credit hour. The grades of C and D are not used in courses for the Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Ministry degrees. The MX is used in special situations to replace asterisk grades where the student is in qualifying military deployment. "P" denotes a passing grade without indicating the quality of the student's work. “IP” denotes work in a dissertation module course or dissertation first continuation module course which meets satisfactory progress requirements but does not complete all module requirements. "W" is used to denote that the student withdrew from a course in which he or she was enrolled after the scheduled adjustment period. "WF" is used to denote that the student withdrew with a failing grade. The “NR” symbol denotes that no grade was reported. The “W,” “WF” and “NR” symbols will not be used in any computation, and will be placed on the permanent record. "AU" denotes an audit course. This notation does not imply attendance or any other effort in the course.

“I” is not used at Amridge University. Incomplete grades are not assigned. An asterisk (*) following a letter grade denotes an exceptional, temporary grade, which is an instructor’s option. It is given only when, because of illness or other circumstances beyond his or her control, the student has been unable to complete a portion of the work of the course. See item 14 below for exceptions to asterisk grade rules. The following rules must be observed:

2. Students are expected to contact their instructors as soon as problems occur and attempt to work through the problems during the semester.

3. Asterisk (*) grades are issued to allow students to complete a portion of the work of the course and are not a substitute for a withdrawal—the appropriate action for students who have not done any work.

4. Students may not request asterisk (*) grades in consecutive semesters.

5. Students may not request nor may faculty issue asterisk grades, after all work in the class has been completed.

6. Asterisk (*) grades may be assigned only for “F” grades. (Note: The only exception would be for those students serving in the U.S. military, in the U.S. military reserve, or in a Homeland Security unit that is activated and deployed to a war zone, police action, disaster, or similar actions. In such cases the respective student is required to notify all of his or her instructors and submit a copy of the military orders to the Registrar’s Office. If more than one semester is required, the Vice President of Academic Affairs will coordinate all course extensions beyond the one semester asterisk grade grace period). Amridge’s practices do not negate a military policy regarding tuition assistance.

7. Asterisk (*) grades of “F*”, cannot be changed to an “A” grade.

8. A “B” grade is the maximum grade adjustment. (Note: The only exception would be for students serving in the military as described in #6, above.)

9. Asterisk (*) grades are to be given only for exceptional and documented cases of hardship such as illness or having to relocate within the semester.

10. The student has until Friday 5 pm Central time of week five of the following semester in which to finish the deficiency and the instructor will report the grade change to the Registrar’s Office within the following week.

11. Following the period of grace, all asterisks (*) will be removed the day after semester grades are reported, leaving the student with the letter grade without the (*).

12. WARNING: If a student requests a transcript before the period of grace has expired, all asterisks (*) will be removed from the grades before the transcript is released.

13. Asterisk grades shall not be allowed for a language proficiency examination registration (course). The allowable grades for a language proficiency examination registration are P, IP, or F. The awarded grade shall be recorded on the student’s transcript for the semester that the grade is assigned. The Language Proficiency Examination Fee shall be charged each time a student registers for the language proficiency examination.

14. Procedures

15. Instructors are not required to participate in issuing (*) grades. Instructors maintain consistent practices within their own courses, but practices will differ amongst instructors and programs. The decision to issue an asterisk grade rests with the individual instructor. Absent the appearance of capriciousness, discrimination, or violation of Amridge policy by a faculty member, his or her decision to issue/not issue an asterisk grade is final. The University may direct the issuance of asterisk grades for students in the case of national emergencies. However, this is a rare situation, for groups of students who are similarly impacted, and is directed only by the office of the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

16. Exceptions to the above grading policies are:

a. The grades of C and D are not used in Doctor of Philosophy Degree courses.

b. Asterisk grades are not allowed for dissertation modules, except for students enrolled in doctoral programs prior to spring 2007 who elected to remain under previous dissertation policies.

c. The grade of IP (in-progress) is allowable for Dissertation Modules and for Dissertation Module First Continuation courses.

AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY’S FINAL COURSE GRADING POINTS CHART FOR DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY AND DOCTOR OF MINISTRY DEGREE COURSES
Grade	Percent	Points
A	95-100	1140-1200
A-	90<95	1080-1139
B+	86<90	1032-1079
B	83<86	996-1031
B-	80<83	960-995
F	0<80	0-959

STUDENT GUIDELINES FOR MILITARY DEPLOYMENT

Within the framework of academic integrity, Amridge University is committed to meeting the special needs of U.S. military students, including Reservists and State National Guardsmen, who are called to active duty or who experience an unexpected change of orders in defense of our nation. Students are expected to factor into their registration decisions that a greater than usual risk of non-completion exists during identified periods of heightened military activity. Realizing that some situations cannot be anticipated, the Amridge University military withdrawal policy is designed to assist these students and includes the following situations:

1. Unexpected deployment (eligible for combat pay)

2. Assigned extra military duty (guard duty due to higher security requirement)

3. Sent to other installation to cover for service members who have been deployed.

4. Working longer hours at regular job due to deployments that cut staffing level

A service member whose academic work is interrupted for one of these reasons prior to the scheduled end of a semester must select one of the following options:

1. A service member can make every effort to complete the course before leaving the country or otherwise reporting for reassignment/active duty. The service member should work directly with the instructor(s) to ascertain if early completion will be possible. Depending upon the nature of the coursework and the time remaining in the semester, this option may not always be possible.

2. A service member who anticipates that he or she will be able to complete coursework from the reassigned location, but not within the timeframe of the regular semester, may request an asterisk grade for a five week extension. For military service members, the Amridge University policy that no grade above a “B” may be earned for an asterisk course will be waived. A service member who is unable to complete the course within the five week extension will receive a grade of “MX” and will receive a nonrefundable credit for a period of one year commencing with the date of return to normal duty status. The service member may re-enroll in the same course(s) without additional charge within the specified time period by contacting the Vice President of Academic Affairs with this request and presenting the official military documentation. If the course is not completed within the one year timeframe, the “MX” grade will remain but will not adversely affect the GPA calculation at Amridge University. Service members must be aware that when they re-enroll in the same course(s) after deployment, they may be unable to use any assignments or exams they have completed during their first enrollment.

3. A service member who determines that course completion will not be possible may request a military withdrawal from Amridge University. This option generally best serves students who will be on an extended deployment. The service member should contact the education service officer to find out if a military withdrawal is possible so that he or she will not be responsible for recouping tuition assistance. Courses from which students withdraw under this policy will receive grades of “MX” which will not adversely affect the grade point average at Amridge University. No drop course fees will be charged to the service member. As with option #2, above, the service member will receive a nonrefundable credit for a period of one year commencing with the date of return to normal duty status. The service member may re-enroll in the same course(s) without additional charge within the specified time period by contacting the Vice President of Academic Affairs with this request and presenting the official military documentation. If the course is not completed within the one year timeframe, the “MX” grade will remain but will not affect the GPA calculation at Amridge University. Service members must be aware that when they re-enroll in the same course(s) after deployment, they may be unable to use any assignments or exams they have completed during their first enrollment.

Students wishing to extend or withdraw must send documentation of deployment to the Office of the Registrar. This documentation should be accompanied by a delivered, mailed, emailed, or faxed (fax #334.387.3878) request which includes the student’s name, student number, and specified request (withdrawal or extension.)

Reasonable efforts will be made to maintain contact with the service member regarding completion of work for which an asterisk grade or a “MX” has been assigned. Service members granted these options will be asked to provide contact information for themselves and/or family members to whom Amridge University may provide information. However, it remains the responsibility of the service member to recognize and fulfill his or her responsibility for keeping the University informed of his or her status and for completing work within the timelines established to gain the benefits provided by this policy.

Withdrawing from the course(s) through the University does not automatically release students from their obligations to the military program providing assistance. Service members should check with their education service officers before making decisions to withdraw.

GRADE REPORTING

Grades will be reported no later than three weeks following the conclusion of an academic semester. The student will be sent a grade report consisting of an accurate description of current courses taken, grades received, hours attempted, hours earned, cumulative hours to date, current grade point average, cumulative grade point average, total hours transferred from previous institutions, and total hours transferred and earned at Amridge University that will apply toward his degree.

Grades are reported in written form only. They will not be reported to students orally.

Grade point averages (GPAs) are calculated by dividing the total number of quality points earned in a semester by the total number of hours attempted for that semester. Cumulative grade point averages (CGPAs) are calculated by dividing the total number of quality points earned at Amridge University for all undergraduate or graduate work taken by the total number of undergraduate or graduate hours attempted.

COURSE LOAD

Undergraduate Course Load

The minimum full-time course load for an undergraduate student is twelve semester hours. Undergraduate students must have the prior approval of the respective advisor to register for an additional course over full-time.

Graduate Course Load

The minimum full-time course load on the graduate level is nine hours per semester. Graduate students must have the prior approval of the respective advisor to register for more than an additional course over full-time.

Doctoral Course Load

The minimum full-time course load on the doctoral level is six hours per semester. Doctoral students must have the prior approval of the dean of the respective Amridge University school or college to register for an additional course over full-time.

DEFINITION OF ACADEMIC YEAR

The academic year consists of thirty (30) weeks of instructional time.

STANDARDS FOR ACADEMIC PROGRESS

Satisfactory Progress toward Degree Completion

Amridge University defines satisfactory academic progress by two factors: an acceptable cumulative grade point average (CGPA) and completion of degree requirements within a specified time limit.

If a student is not receiving government funded financial aid, the following time limits for completion of a certificate or degree program are:

Certificate.................................................................. No time limit

Associate................................................................... No time limit

Baccalaureate............................................................ No time limit

Master of Arts or Science.......................................... Five (5) years

Master of Divinity....................................................... Seven (7) years

Doctor of Ministry (36 hours)..................................... Five (5) years

Doctor of Ministry (66 hours)..................................... Seven (7) years

Doctor of Philosophy................................................. Seven (7) years

For a student who is receiving Federal financial aid, satisfactory progress is determined by following guidelines that are listed in detail in Section 3: Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid of this catalog.

Academic Probation

The semester following academic probation, the student must take a minimum of two courses but no more than 12 semester hours, and receive grades for the next 12 hours sufficient to bring his or her CGPA up to the required level.

Academic Suspension

Students who are on academic probation and fail to satisfy requirements for probation removal will be suspended and will not be allowed to enroll for classes for one full semester.

Additional Policies for Academic Progress in Doctor of Philosophy Programs

A student who begins the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program based upon a degree plan accepted by the student and the University (which includes PhD courses and, if applicable, leveling courses) shall be subject to the following policies:

1. A student who has received at least two “F” grades, two asterisks grades (“C*”, “D*” or “F*”), or one “F” grade and one asterisk grade will not be permitted to enroll for or take any other courses until all “F” grades and all asterisk grades have been removed from the student’s transcript by the student receiving passing grades for the respective courses.

2. A student who receives a third failing grade for any course or combination of courses shall be removed from the program.

Web-Enabled Research Log System Required For Most Courses

The Research Log is required of all students and will help in many ways:

1. It helps students keep track of the number of library resources they have obtained from a library, web site, or other research sources.

2. It helps faculty obtain a better understanding of where and how students are going to conduct their research for a given class.

3. From this information, faculty can review the research logs to help determine if they need to make adjustments in courses to further students’ mastery of the research processes.

4. This system provides the Amridge faculty and administration with more accurate information on the types of resources the university should invest in to better meet the needs of its students and faculty.

To Access the Research Log and Record Entries to the Research Log

1. Log into Blackboard.

2. On My Amridge page, scroll down to “Online Library and Research Log Links.”

3. Notice the WRL Log ID number for the current semester.

4. Click on the “Click Here” for students entering the Research Log.

5. Log in with the same ID and password as for entering Blackboard.

6. Type in the WRL Log ID number for students (see 3 above) (ex. “38”). This number is the same for all students but it changes each semester.

7. Click “Log-in Now.”

Courses Exempt from Research Log Requirements:

§ ALL Language Courses

§ ALL Practicum Courses

§ ALL Clinical Training Courses

§ MH 1402 -- Introductory Algebra

§ MH 1403 -- College Algebra

§ FD 7322 -- Synthesis of Theological Curriculum I

§ FD 7323 -- Synthesis of Theological Curriculum II

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

A student seeking a degree at Amridge University may graduate when all requirements have been completed.

Complete an Amridge University Degree Completion Application available from Amridge University’s web site. The properly completed and signed application must be submitted no later than the first day of classes of the semester prior to the semester the student plans to graduate. Following this schedule permits the University to conduct a full audit of the respective student’s records to make sure that all courses, programs, and respective graduation requirements have been met. Students having any questions regarding the Degree Completion Application should contact the Registrar’s Office.

The Graduation exercise is held in either the month of May or June each year. The academic records and diplomas will show graduation as being in the semester in which all degree requirements were met. Students completing their work in the fall or summer semesters must wait until graduation to receive their diplomas.

A degree completion fee is required for all students who petition the university for graduation. This fee is required for all students even if they choose not to attend the graduation ceremony.

ACADEMIC DEGREE STUDENT ACADEMIC EVALUATION

Amridge University reserves the right to modify the requirements for completion of its various degrees. Students who enroll in the University will be given a Student Academic Evaluation specifying the requirements for completing the degree.

Students who do not enroll in a three (3) semester period must reapply for admission and will be subject to the requirements of a new Student Academic Evaluation and Academic Catalog in force at the time of re-enrollment.

A student who completes a degree program and then returns for a higher degree will make application for re-admission and be subject to the Student Academic Evaluation prepared for him or her for the higher degree and the Academic Catalog in force at the time of re-admission.

ON-CAMPUS ATTENDANCE POLICY

The University policy on class attendance is based on the premise that regular communication between the teacher and the student and, also, among students themselves, has significant value in the learning process. It is recognized, however, that the diverse types of instruction carried on argue against a uniform policy applicable to all units of the academic program.

On-campus students are expected to attend all class sessions of a course. Absences may affect the student’s grade unless those absences are approved by the course instructor.

Allowances for student absences caused by illness or personal emergency should be handled on a case-by-case basis between the student and instructor. Arrangements to make up work missed because of the absence should be initiated by the student.

Attendance of on-campus students is monitored by the Extended Learning Center.

CURRICULUM CHANGE

If a student changes from one curriculum program to another with different requirements, the requirements of the new curriculum program must be met. The change of program must be registered with the Registrar’s Office. A change of program fee will be assessed.

COURSE PAPERS

Unless specified otherwise by the professor, all course papers must be typewritten and in the proper thesis form. For the Amridge University School of Human Services the form is specified by the latest edition of The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. For the Amridge University College of Business and Leadership, College of General Studies, and the Turner School of Theology, the form is specified by the latest edition of The Chicago Manual of Style.

SPECIAL AWARDS AT GRADUATION

Amridge University encourages quality in the academic pursuits of its students. Outstanding achievement is rewarded by graduation honors and by special awards in certain areas.

At the Spring Commencement the following awards are provided through endowment funds and/or annual cash gifts and are presented to those students who have excelled in their fields of study:

§ The Rex A. Turner, Jr., Legacy of Leadership Award: (Eligible recipients: Faculty, Staff, Community and Church Leaders and Amridge University Students in the University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree programs). This award is provided by the Rex A. Turner, Jr., (Dr. Rex) family in loving memory of Dr. Rex’s life of leadership in the family as well as in the educational and spiritual realms. The crystal, mountain-shaped award, represents his mountain top view of life’s challenges for the future. It will be presented to an individual who has exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication in his/her life’s work.

§ The Military Scholar Award (Undergraduate and Graduate Studies). A plaque is provided in honor of all service members and veterans of the armed forces who have provided for the defense of the United States of America. This award recognizes service members and veterans who have excelled in scholarly achievement. They have distinguished themselves, bringing credit on their respective branch of service and this nation. It is awarded to the military student who has demonstrated academic excellence in undergraduate and graduate studies.

§ The Leadership and Human Services Award (Undergraduate and Graduate Studies). A plaque is provided recognizing the student who has demonstrated academic excellence in studies related to Leadership and/or Human Services. This student’s achievement exhibits a passion to lead and a concern for the needs and welfare of one’s fellow man.

§ The Humanities and Philosophy Award (Undergraduate Studies). A plaque is provided recognizing the student who has demonstrated academic excellence in the study of Theology and Philosophy. In dedication to the pursuit of truth, this student’s achievement exhibits the character qualities sought in ministry and Biblical study, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the many diverse world views prevalent today.

§ The Rex A. Turner, Sr., Award for “Love of the Scriptures.” A plaque is provided in honor of Rex A. Turner, Sr. It is awarded to the student who has demonstrated academic excellence in the study of the scriptures. Only one selection is permitted for this award.

§ The Jacqueline Turner Long Award in Christian Service (Eligible Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Arts in Practical Theology, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry in Ministry). A plaque is provided by the Turner Family in loving memory of Jacqueline Turner Long, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Rex A. Turner, Sr., and sister of Mary Turner Hargis. She was a faithful wife and mother and a strong promoter of Christian education. This plaque is awarded to the student who has excelled in Christian service.

§ The Velma West Award in the Greek Language. A plaque is provided in loving memory of Mrs. Velma West, a teacher of the Greek language at Harding University Graduate School of Religion and at Amridge University. The plaque is awarded to the student who has demonstrated academic excellence in the Greek language.

§ The Herman Register Award in Personal and Public Evangelism (Eligible Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Arts in Practical Theology, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry in Ministry). A plaque is provided by brethren in southern Alabama in fond memory of and high regard for the late Herman Register, a gospel preacher who gave of himself in both personal and public evangelism. This plaque is awarded annually to the student who excels in the spirit of evangelism, as was characteristic of Herman Register.

§ The Great Commission Award, Matt. 28:18-20. A plaque is given annually by the Missions Department at Amridge University to the student who has demonstrated the greatest zeal, participation, and academic achievement in foreign missions.

§ The Scholarly Achievement in Biblical Studies Award (Eligible Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Bible/Ministry, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Science in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Divinity in Ministerial Leadership, Master of Arts in Practical Theology, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry in Ministry). Proficiency in biblical studies is of primary importance at Amridge University. The faculty selects a student each year that has excelled in this area of study. The award is a Bible so that the student may continue to grow in the knowledge of the Word of God throughout his or her life of service in the Lord’s work. Only one selection is permitted for this award.

§ Winnie Hohn Christian Counseling Award (Eligible Degrees: Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, Master of Divinity in Marriage and Family Therapy, Master of Divinity in Professional Counseling, Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling, Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy I, Doctor of Ministry in Family Therapy II, Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling, Doctor of Philosophy in Pastoral Counseling, and Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy). A plaque is provided in loving honor of Mrs. Winifred S. Hohn, an encourager of mankind, and a supporter of Amridge University for many years. The plaque is awarded by the faculty to a student who is an active Christian and who has excelled in academic studies and in the practice of marriage and family therapy.

Additional Criteria for Awards

In addition to the specific requirements for each award, the following general criteria apply:

1. The student should be in the current graduating class to receive the award. An exception may be exercised when no one in the graduating class qualifies for the award.

2. Transient, cross-enrolled, and noncredit students are not eligible for awards.

Selection Process

Students who receive awards are selected by the faculty, staff, and administrators two weeks prior to the Spring Commencement.

GRADUATION HONORS

The graduation honors and the required cumulative grade point average for each level of honor are as follows:

Summa Cum Laude................... 3.900 – 4.000

Magna Cum Laude..................... 3.700 – 3.899

Cum Laude................................. 3.500 – 3.699

Graduation honors calculation will be based on semester hours of credit taken at Amridge University at the respective program level. Graduation honors will not be announced at commencement exercises but will be published in the commencement exercise programs and on the respective student’s permanent academic record.

OTHER ACADEMIC RECOGNITION:

· Qualifying with Distinction on Comprehensive Examination. Candidates for the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, the Master of Arts in Practical Theology, or the Master of Divinity degree are required to take written comprehensive examinations. Those who pass the examination are designated by the readers of the examination papers as either “Qualifying” or “Qualifying with Distinction.” Those “Qualifying with Distinction” are so designated in the commencement program and announced at the commencement exercise.

NOTIFICATION TO STUDENTS OF RIGHTS UNDER THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

A. Notification to Students of Rights Afforded by Amridge University Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”), Amridge University (the “University” or “Amridge University”) affords to its students certain rights related to their “educational records.” These rights are:

1. The general right to inspect and review the education record (pertaining to the individual student) within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. The student must submit to the Registrar’s Office (the Registrar’s Office) a written request that identifies the record(s) to be inspected. The University will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the record(s) may be inspected. If the University official to whom the request was submitted does not maintain the record(s), that official shall, if he or she is able, advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

Under FERPA, there are exceptions to the general right of a student to review his or her own educational records. These exceptions include:

· The financial statement of the student's parents.

· Confidential letters and confidential statements of recommendation placed in the education records of the student before January 1, 1975, as long as the statements are used only for the purpose for which they were specifically intended.

· Records connected with an application for admission to Amridge University that was denied.

· Those records which are excluded from the FERPA definition of “education records.” An example would be records that were:

§ Made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in his or her professional capacity;

§ Made, maintained, or used only in connection with treatment of the student;

§ Disclosed only to individuals providing the treatment. For the purpose of this definition, “treatment” does not include remedial education activities or activities that are part of the program of instruction at the agency or institution; and

§ Records that only contain information about an individual after he or she is no longer a student at that agency or institution.

2. The right to request an amendment to the student’s education record(s) the student believes is inaccurate or misleading. The student may ask the University to amend a record believed to be inaccurate or misleading. The student should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record to be changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures is outlined within under Correction of Educational Records.

3. Procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

4. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education record, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Examples of instances in which a student may consent to disclosure to third persons of personally identifiable information in a student record, as well as circumstances under which disclosure may occur without consent, are provided later in this policy. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agency); a person serving on the Board of Regents; or a student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or appeals committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfil her/his professional responsibility. Upon request, the University discloses education records without consent to officials of another school to facilitate the student’s transfer and enrollment.

5. The right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Amridge University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The complaint can be sent to the following office that administers FERPA:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

Web site: http://www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco/

B. Definitions.

For purposes of this Student Records Inspection and Release Policy, the following definitions of terms apply:

1. Education Records.

“Education records” means, except as may be provided otherwise below, those records, files, documents, and other materials which –

a. contain information directly related to a student; and

b. are maintained by the University or by a person acting for the University;

The term “education records” does not include any of the following:

a. records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel and educational personnel ancillary thereto which are in the sole possession of the maker thereof and which are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a substitute;

b. records maintained by any future law enforcement unit of the University that are created by that law enforcement unit for the purpose of law enforcement;

c. records on a student which are made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in his or her professional or paraprofessional capacity, or assisting in that capacity, and which are made, maintained, or used only in connection with the provision of treatment to the student, and are not available to anyone other than persons providing such treatment, except that such records can be personally reviewed by a physician or other appropriate professional of the student’s choice.

2. Directory Information.

“Directory information” means categories of information about a student that, without the consent of the student, may be included in publications, disclosed upon request, or otherwise disclosed to the public or third parties. From time to time the University, acting within the constraints of FERPA or guidance of the U.S. Department of Education on how to properly implement FERPA, may determine or revise what categories of information are to be deemed as “information generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy” and therefore to be included within directory information. Public notice of these categories of information is given to allow sufficient time for the student to inform the University that any or all of this information should not be released without prior consent. At the present time, the term “directory information” includes the following:

a. Student’s name;

b. Address (physical or P.O. box address(es), but not including email address);

c. Telephone listing;

d. Major field of study;

e. Participation in officially recognized activities;

f. Dates of attendance;

g. Level of education;

h. Degrees and awards received;

i. Most recent education agency or institution attended;

j. Date of birth; and,

k. Place of birth.

Directory Information does not include student identification numbers, nor social security numbers. Inquiries in writing (or on occasion, by telephone), for directory information as listed above may be honoured. The Registrar’s Office will answer such inquiries as time permits. Blanket inquiries or inquiries requiring information as a specific format may be denied, and/or a charge may be levied for the service. The University may also decide to respond to some or all requests for directory information by providing some, but not all, of the categories of information listed in items “a” through “k” above. The University reserves the right to respond to requests for directory information as to more than one semester by providing such information for less than all of the semesters requested. However, the University shall not respond to requests by third persons for directory information in a manner that treats requests for directory information from the armed forces of the United States in an inferior way or with less-favourable treatment as compared to requests from persons or entities other than the United States armed forces. A student may request in writing to withhold the release of directory information, or particular categories of directory information. Such a request to place a privacy hold on the student record should be sent to: Registrar’s Office, Amridge University, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117-3520.

3. Student.

“Student” includes any person with respect to whom the University maintains education records or personally identifiable information, but does not include a person who has not been in attendance at the University.

C. Military Requests for Directory Information.

1. University Compliance with Solomon Amendment.

It is Amridge University’s present understanding that, under Title 10 of the United States Code, Section 983 (the so-called “Solomon Amendment”) and judicial interpretations thereof by courts situated within the Eleventh [Judicial] Circuit of the United States, the University is required to provide to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Defense, and to each of the military departments (Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, etc.) access to the above-stated directory information upon request. The University complies with this requirement.

2. Student Requests to Withhold Directory Information.

The University has noted that, unlike FERPA, the Solomon Amendment does not itself specifically provide for students to request that the institution withhold the release of directory information to the U.S. Military. However, the University’s experience is that military representatives generally work with institutions to whom they make requests, so as not to insist that the institution release directory information for students who have requested that the university withhold the release of directory information to third persons. Consequently, the University endeavours to honour timely student requests to withhold directory information access, even as to the U.S. Armed Forces. Yet, the University cannot, under the current, somewhat underdeveloped state of relevant law, absolutely guarantee to its students that representatives of the U.S. Armed Forces will not in the future insist upon and cause the release of directory information for students which have previously requested that access to student information by third persons be denied. However, the University shall faithfully endeavour to honor all pertinent law concerning the release of student records.

D. Student Requests that Access to Directory Information be withheld.

1. How to Request that Access be Withheld.

Any student desiring that access by third persons to directory information concerning him or her be withheld may complete and submit to the University’s Registrar’s Office the appropriate request form. The form for this purpose is located both in the Registrar’s Office and on the University’s web site, at http://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/au_studentresources.html. Once the form is completed it should be submitted to the proper Amridge University office or official, as directed on the form. Properly completed forms submitted within the period commencing 30 days prior to the first day of class of Fall Semester and ending 10 days after first day of class Fall Semester will be processed and honored as soon as practicable, but not later than 60 days after the first day of class; while forms submitted during other times of the year shall be processed and honored as soon as practicable but not later than 90 days after submission.

2. Nature of Request.

Requests by students that access by third persons to directory information may request either that a) access to all categories of directory information be withheld, or b) that access to only certain designated categories of directory information be withheld. However, the applicable request form does not provide for students to request that access be denied only to representatives of one or more braches of the U.S. Armed Services or U.S. Military department (and not be denied to other non-military agencies, entities, or individuals), and (unless in the future required by law) such attempted requests need not, and normally will not, be honored by the University.

E. Disclosure of Confidential Records.

Consistent with the provisions of FERPA, it is the policy of the University that:

1. Disclosure of Confidential Information to the Student.

A student may inspect, review, or obtain a photocopy of his or her educational record by submitting a written request, signed by the student, to the Registrar. The Registrar will arrange a time and date for the student to view the record, or provide the student with a photocopy of the record requested, within 45 days after receiving the request. The University may permit a student to inspect, review, or obtain a photocopy of his or her educational record upon receipt of that student’s in-person, oral request. However, a student must, if requested, provide photo identification, which may be photocopied and kept in the student’s file, before viewing or receiving a copy of his or her educational record. Students may request photocopies of their official records at a cost of a $3.00 processing fee and $1.00 per page.

2. Disclosure of Confidential Information to Third Parties.

Except as stated above and to the extent FERPA or the Solomon Amendment authorizes disclosure without consent, personally identifiable information contained in a student’s educational record will be disclosed to third parties only with the prior written consent of the student. The consent must (1) identify the individual, agency, or classes of individuals or agencies to whom the information is to be made available; and (2) specify the records to be released.

FERPA authorizes the disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in a student educational record without the consent of the student under various circumstances. The University may disclose such information: (1) to other Amridge University officials, including (but not limited to) teachers, whom the University has determined to have legitimate educational interests; (2) to officials of another school where a student seeks or intends to enroll; (3) to authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or state educational authorities (under applicable conditions set forth at 20 U.S.C. 1232g(b)(3); (4) in connection with a student’s application for and receipt of financial aid; (5) to organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions to develop, validate, or administer predictive tests, or to administer student aid programs, or to improve instruction (if such studies are conducted in a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organizations and such information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted); administer student aid programs; or improve instruction; (6) to accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions; (7) to parents of a dependent student, as defined in Title 26 U.S.C. 152 (the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended); (8) to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena; (9) to persons in connection with a health or safety emergency (if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health and safety of the student or other persons); (10) information designated “directory information;” (11) to an alleged victim of any crime of violence (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 16) or a non-forcible sex offense the final results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the University against the alleged perpetrator of that crime or offense with respect to such crime or offense, and further, to make such disclosure to other persons if the University determines as a result of the disciplinary proceeding that the student committed a violation of University rules or policies with respect to such crime or offense; and (12) authorized representatives of the U.S. Attorney General for law enforcement purposes (under applicable conditions set forth at 20 U.S.C. 1232g(b)(3)). In addition, FERPA notwithstanding, under Public Law 107-56 (commonly known as the “USA Patriot Act”) the U.S. Attorney General and designated U.S. Assistant Attorney Generals may apply to courts for orders requiring an educational institution (such as Amridge University) to permit the Attorney General or his or her designee to, in connection with the investigation or prosecution of an act of terrorism, collect, retain, disseminate, or otherwise use education records, and to do so in a manner whereby notice of the application, court order, and release of the education records is not provided to the student. Amridge University shall comply with the USA Patriot Act until it sunsets and for as long as it and any successor enactments of federal law remains effective.

3. Release of Information Form.

Any person requesting to review or copy student education records must submit a Release of Information Form signed by the student. The form may be obtained from the Registrar’s Office, Amridge University, 1200 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117-3520, or from the Amridge University web site, at http://www.amridgeuniversity.edu/au_studentresources.html. As with all requests to review records, any person requesting access to student records must provide photo identification that may be photocopied and kept in the student’s file.

4. Amridge University Withholding Records.

Amridge University reserves the right to deny (to the fullest extent it may be permitted by law to do so) requests by a student or other persons that copies (certified or not certified) of student transcripts or other education records be provided to a student or other person in those instances in which the student has an unpaid financial obligation to the University or an unresolved disciplinary action against the respective student.

F. Types, Locations, and Custodians of Educational Records.

The following is a list of the types of records that the University maintains, their locations, and their custodians.

TYPES	LOCATION	CUSTODIAN
Admissions	Registrar’s Office	Registrar
Cumulative Academic (current student and five years after graduation or withdrawal)	Registrar’s Office	Registrar
Financial Aid	Financial Aid Office	Financial Aid Office
Financial	Business Office	Bursar
Disciplinary	Vice President of Academic Affairs	Vice President of Academic Affairs

G. Correction of Education Records.

Students have the right to ask to have records corrected that they believe are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their privacy rights. Following are the procedures for the correction of records:

1. A student must ask the Registrar in writing to amend or otherwise correct a record. In so doing, the student should identify the part of the record to be changed and specify why the student believes it is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of his or her privacy rights.

2. If the University denies the request, the student will be notified of the decision and be advised of the right to a hearing to challenge the information believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student's privacy rights.

3. Upon request, the University will arrange for a hearing, and notify the student, reasonably in advance, of the date, place, and time of the hearing.

4. The hearing will be conducted by a hearing officer who is a disinterested party; however, the hearing officer may be an official of the institution. The student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues raised in the original request to amend or otherwise correct the student's education records.

5. The University will prepare a written response based solely on the relevant records and the evidence presented at the hearing. The response will include a summary of the evidence presented and the reasons for the decision.

6. If the University decides that the challenged information is not inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student's privacy rights, it will allow the student to place a statement in the record on the challenged information and/or reasons for disagreeing with the decision.

7. The statement will be a part of the student's education records as long as the contested portion is maintained. If the University discloses the contested portion of the record, it will also disclose the statement.

8. If the University decides that the information is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student's privacy rights, it will amend the record and notify the student, in writing, that the record has been amended.

H. Privacy Act Notice.

Pursuant to the Privacy Act of 1974, students are hereby notified that disclosure of their social security numbers is mandatory for registration at Amridge University. Social security numbers are used: (1) to verify the identity of students, (2) to keep, maintain and access the records of students, and (3) for purposes of student financial aid and other benefits available under law. The University is required to report the social security numbers of its students to the Internal Revenue Service pursuant to the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, as amended.

STATEMENT ON SAFEGUARDING STUDENT RECORDS

All Amridge University employees are required to protect the privacy of student records and abide by the following principles:

§ University information systems shall contain only that student data necessary to fulfil the University’s mission.

§ Safeguarding of student data shall be a responsibility of each staff member having knowledge of such data.

§ Due care shall be exercised to protect student data from unauthorized use, disclosure, alteration or destruction.

§ Applicable federal and state laws and University policies and procedures concerning storage, retention, use, release, transportation, and destruction of student data shall be followed.

§ University procedures shall be followed in reporting any breach of security or compromise of safeguards.

§ This statement of principles is applicable to all areas of the University and must be followed by all persons dealing with such information.

§ Faculty and staff requiring computerized student data for official University business will be provided access. The term “access” means to read or view student data. It does not include the ability to create or modify data.

§ Certain areas of the University that store and maintain student data, whether computerized or not, may have individual guidelines which will supplement, but not supplant, this statement of principles.

§ Any Amridge University employee engaging in unauthorized use, disclosure, alteration, or destruction of student data in violation of this statement of principles shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, including dismissal.

FEES FOR COPIES OF RECORDS

The fee for copies will be a $3.00 processing fee and $1.00 per page.

GRADUATION RATES

Graduation rates are available in the Registrar’s Office.

COURSE CANCELLATION

Amridge University reserves the right to cancel any course.

CONFORMANCE TO RULES AND REGULATIONS

Students, by registering for courses, obligate themselves to conform to all rules and regulations of the University. Also, students are expected to obey the pertinent laws of the United States. Students attending classes on the Amridge University campus are also expected to obey the laws of the state of Alabama and the City of Montgomery. Likewise, students outside the United States learning via the Amridge University Distance Learning program are expected to obey the laws of their host country and any pertinent international laws that the United States has formally agreed to honor.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY

The Drug-Free Workplace Act imposes special requirements upon this institution and its employees. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any employee or student who is in violation of this act.

Pell Grant recipients must certify that they will not engage in the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance during the period covered by the Pell Grant. Any student convicted of a drug-related offense committed during that period will be reported to the U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC, within five days after the conviction.

Employees and students of Amridge University who violate the drug-free policy are subject to suspension and/or dismissal. Those who have a substance abuse problem are invited to use the services of a competent therapist and treatment facility. As a starting point, the following web sites may be useful in locating someone to provide the necessary help:

§ American Association of Pastoral Counselors http://WWW.AAPC.ORG/

§ American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy: http://www.therapistlocator.net

As a condition of employment, employees must agree to notify the President of Amridge University of any criminal statute conviction of a violation occurring in the workplace, no later than five (5) days after the conviction. Within 30 days after the employee notifies the institution, the employee must have been terminated or have entered into a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides an information and referral Hotline to direct callers to treatment centers in their local communities. The number is 1.800.662.HELP.

REQUESTING AN OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT

To request a transcript please follow the steps listed below:

§ Go to the Amridge University home page.

§ Click on the Student Resources Link.

§ Click on the Transcript Request Link.

§ Fill out the information in the Transcript Request Link

§ Submit Transcript Request

Official transcripts are sent within ten working days and are sent from the University to the requesting institution. Additionally, a transcript will request will not be processed if the respective transcript request fee has not been paid in advance.

Unofficial transcripts are emailed to the student. No transcript will be released if the student has an unpaid financial obligation to the University or the admissions file is incomplete per University requirements. These requirements are as follows:

Undergraduate

1. Application with fee

2. Proof of high school diploma or GED

3. Official transcripts from every college previously attended

Graduate

1. Application with fee

2. Standardized test score

3. Official transcripts from every college previously attended

Doctoral

1. Application with fee

2. Three letters of recommendation

3. Standardized test score

4. Official transcripts from every college previously attended

5. Monograph on career goals

6. Term paper from masters degree or doctoral dissertation

7. Interview of the applicant

8. Committee approval

9. Response form

Transcript requests to pre-1982 information will be subject to special fees and are directed to contact the Registrar’s Office for additional information.

ACADEMIC CREDIT BY EXAMINATION, TRANSFER, AND LIFE EXPERIENCES FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL, VETERANS, AND CIVILIANS

Hundreds of universities and colleges have recognized the wealth of learning that adult students bring with them and have responded by offering testing options and/or creating prior learning assessment programs. These programs have enabled thousands of adult learners to gain recognition and credit for the college-level learning they have accomplished on their own.

Several methods are used by Amridge University and other universities/colleges to translate learning from life experience into college credits. A sampling of these methods includes the following:

1. Credit by Examination:

a. Advanced Placement Program (APP) Tests: 30 subject areas for advanced placement in college testing. Educational Testing Service (ETS)

b. College Level Examination Program (CLEP): Over 30 subject exams in undergraduate courses in history, political science, psychology, economics, sociology, foreign language, composition and literature, science, mathematics and business. College Level Examination Program.

c. DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSSTs): credit-by examination tests similar to CLEP.

d. Excelsior College Examination: 42 tests covering the areas of nursing, business, arts and sciences, and education. American College Testing Programs.

f. Job Ready Level Assessment Tests: measures proficiency in a broad range of occupational/vocational areas through written and performance tests.

2. Credit for Licenses and Certificates in Professional Areas:

a. Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)

b. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

c. Many more

3. Credits for Completion of Evaluated Programs by the American Council on Education (ACE): The ACE evaluates both military schools and a multitude of civilian training programs for college credit. Amridge University fully supports the ACE program and will accept the respective ACE recommendations for college credit. In many instances, related college credit can be awarded for the following military experiences:

a. Formal service school courses

b. Correspondence courses with proctored exams

c. Department of Defense courses

d. Military occupation specialties

4. Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC): Amridge University is a member of the Service Members Opportunity Colleges (SOC) that was established in 1972 to provide educational opportunities to service members who have found it challenging to complete their higher education goals due to job demands and frequent relocation. SOC is in a consortium of over 1,200 colleges and universities, providing educational opportunities for service members and their families. The SOC, coupled with Amridge University’s flexible distance learning delivery system, permits active-duty service members and their dependents to pursue college level programs without penalty due to military reassignments. The SOC provides a system whereby credit is easily transferred between institutions. Only 25% of coursework is required at any institution. Credit is awarded for military experience. Credit is awarded for national testing programs such as College Level Examination Program (CLEP), Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), Subject Standardized Testing Program (DSST), and Excelsior College Examinations (formerly ACT/PEP).

Military credit is evaluated by recommendations of the American Council on Education and the Guide to the Educational Experience in the Armed Services. Official transcripts (or other evidence) must be submitted to the Registrar before credit is applied.

Special Note on Credit by Examination, Transfer, and Life Experiences for Military Personnel, Veterans, and Civilians

Potential students and current students should consult with the Admissions Office to obtain the procedures on how to have an evaluation for credit earned by examination, transfer, or life experiences. The table below provides an overview on the categories and type of credit that may be accepted for credit by Amridge University. Also note that approval to take examinations does not guarantee award of credit.

Matrix of Accepted Credit by Examination, Transfer, and Life Experiences

Type of Examination, Transfer, or Life Experience	Will Amridge University Generally Accept Verifiable Credit	Required Score or Grade
Transfer credit from another regionally accredited college or university	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	D on a 4.0 Scale
CLEP	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Admissions Office
DANTES	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Admissions Office
Type of Examination, Transfer, or Life Experience	Will Amridge University Generally Accept Verifiable Credit	Required Score or Grade
Departmental Exams from Other Regionally Accredited Colleges and Universities	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	D on a 4.0 Scale
Community College of the Air Force	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Registrar’s Office
Excelsior (formally Regents College Examination)	Yes	Contact the Registrar’s Office
ACE Recommended College Credit for Military Schools	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Registrar’s Office
CE Recommended College for Civilian Training	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Registrar’s Office
U.S. Armed Forces Institute (USAFI) or Institution approved by USAFI	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree	Contact the Registrar’s Office
Defense Language Institute	Yes – credit must be related to desired degree or degree language requirement	Contact the Admissions Office

TRANSFERABILITY OF AMRIDGE UNIVERSITY CREDIT

Transfer of credit from one institution to another is controlled by the receiving institution. As such, Amridge University does not guarantee transferability.