Academic Program
East Tennessee School of Preaching and Missions offers an intensive program conducted on a college level, designed to qualify the serious student to effectively work in the Lord's church. There are four ten-week quarters in the school year.
While basic reading and writing skills are essential, the program is not restricted to those who have completed any certain educational level. ETSPM is more concerned with one's natural ability, sincerity, and determination than with prior education.
Accreditation
Though the educational opportunities available at ETSPM are equal or superior to what is available at other schools, there is no affiliation with any accrediting agency. Such accreditation may serve a useful purpose in secular fields, but ETSPM is a work of the church and cannot be under the oversight of any outside organization. It should be understood that the various accrediting agencies are privately controlled; they are not government agencies. ETSPM is fully recognized by the State of Tennessee to operate according to the school's purposes.
Credit Transfer
ETSPM does not offer a degree program. The 240 credit hours required in this intensive program are equal to the hours required for a B.A. in most colleges. The philosophy of ETSPM, however, is that one's knowledge and ability take priority over degrees.
Several colleges have indicated that they will accept transfer credits from ETSPM and many of our graduates have had their credits transferred when they entered other schools for additional work. This is, of course, at the discretion of the other institutions. ETSPM makes no specific claims regarding such transfers. Graduates who have opportunities to continue their education in degree programs in sound schools are encouraged to do so. ETSPM seeks to provide a solid foundation for life-long continued study.
Credit Hours
The "hours" assigned to a class represent time spent in class for the course during each week of the ten-week quarter. For example, a five-hour course will meet five hours per week. These "hours" are actually fifty minutes. Generally, at least an equal number of hours of work outside of class will be required. This outside time will vary according to student ability. It will also vary according to courses in order to provide for additional study in more critical areas.
This will mean a heavier load for some courses and a lighter load for others. An effort is made to maintain a fair balance.
Class time may also be excused to provide for additional research. This time is determined by the administration, but it is equal to no more than one week of classes per quarter. This is time for working on class projects and is considered "lab" time. All classes will not receive this extra research time. This time will be with faculty supervision and assistance.
Textbooks
Textbooks will be available at the beginning of each quarter. All textbooks should be acquired and paid for at that time unless other arrangements are made with the bookstore. These books will not only be used for class but will also provide the beginning of a well-balanced library for a gospel preacher. At the time textbooks are purchased, certain classes will also require the payment of a class fee to cover the cost of class handouts.
Scholastic Probation
Any student with a failing grade or a Grade Point Average below 2.0 for any quarter will be placed on scholastic probation throughout the following quarter. He must remove the probation status within that time. Failure to do so may be grounds for dismissal, at the discretion of the faculty. Supporters will be informed regarding poor performance. Financial aid provided by the school may be discontinued if the administration determines that a student's work is not satisfactory.
Permanent Records
Permanent transcripts are kept by the school, with a grade recorded upon the completion of each subject. The transcript records the student's progress toward graduation. A student who seeks later enrollment in another school may request that an official copy of his transcript be sent there. A request form for sending a transcript must be completed and recorded in the Registrar's office in order for an official transcript to be sent. Official copies are not released directly to students. Copies may be sent to potential employers if requested by the student. The student's file may also contain information regarding other aspects of the student's work and conduct.
Evaluation System
Each student will be evaluated according to the following system:
Grade Points per hour
A – 93-100 4
B – 85-92 3
C – 77-84 2
D – 69-76 1
F – 0-68 0
An "I" will be given only in cases when a student's work is incomplete due to circumstances beyond his control. An "I" which is not removed within one quarter will result in the missing work being counted as a zero and averaged into the final grade.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
The Grade Point Average is calculated by multiplying the quality points for each grade by the number of hours in the class.
Progress Reports
A progress report will be given to each student soon after the end of each quarter. A copy of the progress report will be sent to supporters. A copy of the student's grades will be sent to those congregations and individuals who support the student and request it. The progress report may also indicate absences (excused and/or unexcused).
Graduation Requirements
A Certificate of Graduation will be awarded upon completion of the two-year course, provided that:
1. The student has demonstrated that his attitude and conduct has been consistent with the purposes of the school.
2. The student has completed satisfactorily all the prescribed courses.
3. An overall Grade Point Average of 2.0 (C) has been maintained.
4. The student has passed a Final Comprehensive Written Examination. This exam covers material studied over the two-year program and represents information that every preacher should know.
5. The student has passed a final oral examination which demonstrates an ability to properly answer often asked religious questions.
6. The student has participated satisfactorily in practical experience activities.
Graduation
Graduation exercises are held in mid-July. Students who complete their work other than at the regular time of graduation can return to participate in the graduation program.