Accreditation

Eastern Mennonite University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate and masters degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Eastern Mennonite University. The university is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

The teacher education department at Eastern Mennonite University is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), 2010 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20036; phone (202) 466-7496. This accreditation covers initial teacher preparation programs and advanced educator preparation programs. NCATE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit programs for the preparation of teachers and other professional school personnel. The program is approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

The MA in Counseling Program is acccredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. The Graduate Counseling Program also is approved as a training program by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

Nondiscriminatory Policy

EMU does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, age, handicap, national or ethnic origin in administration of its employment and educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs. EMU's designated coordinator for matters related to nondiscrimination policies is the provost, telephone 540-432-4105.

FERPA Provisions for Student Rights

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the university receives a request for access. Students should submit to the registrar a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The registrar will make arrangements for access and notify the students of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the registrar’s office, the registrar shall advise the students of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
   
   
2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students may ask the university to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the university official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want 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 his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for the amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
   
   
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. 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, research, or support staff position; a person or company with whom the university has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official had legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
   
   
4. The right to file a student complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Eastern Mennonite University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and the address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington DC 20202-4605.

FERPA-based Definition of Directory Information

Eastern Mennonite University's current definition of directory information is listed below in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as Amended. Should you wish not to have this information released, please make a formal request in writing to the university registrar prior to September 5, 2008. You must sign and date request. Any request will be honored for the 2008-09 academic year only. Directory Information may be unconditionally released to the public without the consent of the student, unless he/she has specifically asked that prior consent be obtained before releasing such information. Directory Information includes:

• a student's name and enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
• address and telephone listing (permanent, local, or residence hall)
• date of birth
• major and minor field(s) of study
• participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• weight and height of members of the athletic teams
• dates of attendance
• degrees, awards, and honors (including Dean's List and graduation honors) received
• the most recent previous education institution attended by the student
• student level
• degree sought and anticipated graduation date
• photograph
• email address

Students will be notified each year by the university registrar's office as to what is considered Directory Information.

Statement of Legal Control

According to Article IV of the Articles of Incorporation "The affairs of the corporation shall be managed by a Board of . . . Trustees . . . . The Board of Directors of Mennonite Education Agency, Inc., a religious corporation organized under the laws of the State of Indiana shall appoint three-fourths of the Trustees and the Board of Trustees shall appoint one-fourth of the Trustees..."

Historical Sketch

The year 1917 was a year of revolution and war—revolution in Russia and, for Americans, first-hand encounter with modern warfare as the United States entered World War I. It seems, in retrospect, an inauspicious time for pacifist Mennonites who abhor war and revolution to be launching a new educational venture. But the people of God respond to a time clock governed by faith. Therefore, the humble beginning of Eastern Mennonite University in the peaceful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia provides a moving counterpoint to a year of rapine and violence seldom matched in the annals of human history.

Eastern Mennonite School, as it was first called, began as a Bible academy and is now a fully accredited university with 1,600 students in the undergraduate, seminary and graduate programs. EMU was founded to provide a setting for young men and women of the Mennonite Church to deepen their biblical faith, study the liberal arts and gain specific skills in a variety of professions.

That tri-part objective has remained central to the purpose of the university, and its history is the story of an ever-broadening curriculum and program. In 1930 the university was accredited by the Virginia Board of Education as a junior college. Seventeen years later, in 1947, a four-year degree program was approved by the state of Virginia, and regional accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools was achieved in 1959.

By 1965 a graduate theological school had evolved. Eastern Mennonite Seminary, which seeks to prepare persons for Christian ministry--especially in the local congregation-- offers an intensive, well-rounded program of biblical, theological, historical and practical studies.

During the early 1970s, the university instituted a unique interdisciplinary core curriculum, Christianity and Civilization. That program has evolved into a core curriculum entitled the Global Village Curriculum which is not only interdisciplinary but also cross-cultural in its focus.

The first graduate program (other than seminary)--counseling--began in 1993. It was followed by two others in the next two years--conflict transformation and education. An adult degree completion program was established in 1994 and an MBA program was added in 1999.

The school's name was changed from "college and seminary" to "university" in 1994. Biblical studies, liberal arts, graduate programs and professional training--EMU is still evolving, but its roots reach deep into Mennonite heritage which takes history seriously and reveres humble service guided by faith and knowledge.

Mission Statement

Identity

Eastern Mennonite University, founded in 1917 in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is an educational institution of Mennonite Church USA. EMU serves students of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds and confers undergraduate, graduate, and seminary degrees. As a leader among faith-based universities, EMU emphasizes peacebuilding, creation care, experiential learning, and cross-cultural engagement.

Mission

EMU educates students to serve and lead in a global context. Our Christian community challenges students to pursue their life calling through scholarly inquiry, artistic creation, guided practice, and life-changing cross-cultural encounter. We invite each person to follow Christ’s call to

bear witness to faith,
serve with compassion, and
walk boldly in the way of nonviolence and peace.

Vision

EMU envisions a learning community marked by academic excellence, creative process, professional competence, and passionate Christian faith, offering healing and hope in our diverse world. To this end, we commit ourselves to

do justice,
love mercy, and
walk humbly with God.

Shared Values

EMU embodies the enduring values of the Anabaptist tradition:

Christian discipleship,
community,
service, and
peacebuilding.

Together we worship God, seek truth, and care for God’s creation.

Approved by the Board of Trustees, June 28, 2008

Location

Eastern Mennonite University is located in the heart of the scenic and historic Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Situated in Harrisonburg, a city of 40,000 people, EMU is fronted on the east by the Massanutten and Blue Ridge mountain ranges. To the west lie the Alleghenies. Only 125 miles from the nation's capital and 115 miles from Richmond, the state capital, EMU has an ideal location for historical and cultural field trips. Harrisonburg is served by Interstate 81 as well as two national highways, U.S. 33 and 11. The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport, about 15 minutes from the university, provides regular air service.

In addition to the Harrisonburg campus, EMU operates a site in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for working adults. This site, known as EMU at Lancaster, is located at 1846 Charter Lane in the Greenfield Corporate Park. Programs offered at this location include an RN-BSN program, Master of Arts in education program, associate in arts in pastoral ministries program, and seminary classes. The facility houses three classrooms and administrative offices.

Admission: Decisions and Appeals

Each graduate program establishes and maintains its admission requirements. Admission committees composed of faculty members make admission decisions in each graduate program. A student denied admission may address a written appeal to the admission committee, providing additional information pertinent to an admission decision. Prospective students may appeal a second denial of admission to the graduate dean, whose determination for admission is final.

Advising

Each graduate student is appointed a faculty member to serve as an advisor. Until the faculty advisor's appointment, the program director serves as the advisor. The faculty advisor helps the graduate student with career planning and course selection. The advisor also functions as a mentor, monitoring the student's academic progress and working as an informal advocate for the student to the program faculty. Requests to change academic advisors should be made to the program director.

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all class meetings. If unusual or emergency circumstances prevent class attendance, the student should notify the professor in advance if possible. Multiple absences from class will result in lower grades. The student is responsible for the material presented in classes missed.

Commencement Participation

To be eligible to participate in spring commencement ceremonies, students must complete all degree requirements by the following deadline: the August following commencement for Graduate Counseling graduates and the December following commencement for Conflict Transformation, MBA and MA in Education graduates.

Course Cancellation

The university reserves the right to cancel courses or to combine class sections when insufficient enrollment occurs.

Credit Hour

Courses for degree credit typically require a minimum of 15 class contact hours for each semester credit hour.

Grading System and Quality Points

EMU uses the four-point system. The grade point average (GPA) is computed by dividing the number of quality points earned by the number of graded semester hours.

Graduate students are expected to earn A and B grades. The minimum GPA requirement for graduation varies with the program.

A Excellent
A	4.0 quality points per semester hour
A-	3.7 quality points per semester hour
B Good
B+	3.3 quality points per semester hour
B	3.0 quality points per semester hour
B-	2.7 quality points per semester hour
C Marginal
C+	2.3 quality points per semester hour
C	2.0 quality points per semester hour
F	Failure, 0 quality points
P	Pass: Applies only to approved courses, no quality points. Indicates performance at a B- level or better.
SP	Satisfactory Progress: A non-terminal grade for a continuing course
W	Withdrawal: Indicates student withdrawal from the course
AU	Audit: No credit given.
I	Incomplete: Each student is expected to complete all course work on time and to the satisfaction of the instructor. Incompletes will be allowed only in cases of emergency, when circumstances beyond the control of the student prevent completion of course requirements on time. An incomplete shall be requested one week before the end of the term and must be approved by the instructor and the program director. A grade will be assigned based on the work completed.

Grade Reports

Grades are available to students through the EMU Campus Web (http://www.emu.edu/registrar/grades/viewing) within one week from the date they are submitted to the university registrar's office. Payment of account is required for the release of grades.

Grade Appeals

A student who believes that a grade received for a course does not accurately reflect his/her achievement of course requirements and expectations should:

1. Confer with the teacher who assigned the grade, stating the reason(s) she/he believes a grade change is warranted.
2. If the teacher does not agree to change the grade, the student may appeal to the program director. This appeal must state in writing the evidence the student believes indicates that a grade change is warranted.
3. If the program director does not agree to ask the teacher to change the grade, the student may appeal in writing to the graduate dean, whose decision will be final.

All grade changes must be authorized by the person who agreed to the change and use the formal grade change process of the university registrar’s office.

An appeal to any grade assigned between September 1 and December 31 must be initiated no later than February 15 of the following year; an appeal to any grade assigned between January 1 and May 15 must be initiated by July 1; and an appeal to any grade assigned between May 16 and August 31 must be initiated by October 15.

Grievance Procedures

The grievance procedures are applicable to all students, faculty and staff of Eastern Mennonite University as well as applicants for faculty, staff or student status. These procedures comply with the requirements of Title IX of the Federal Health, Education, and Welfare procedures and the general employee grievance policy of the Mennonite Education Agency.

The main concern in any grievance procedure is to bring reconciliation and growth in ways that enhance community. To implement this goal, the American Council on Education definition of grievance is adopted: "Grievable issues are those in which there is the possibility of an error in the institutional policies (or lack of them), in its prescribed procedures for carrying out the policies, in the administration of those procedures, or in varying combinations of these." If it is determined that an institutional error has occurred, the second function of the grievance procedure is to provide a process to determine appropriate redress for the grievant.

The first approach to any grievance should be non-adversarial and open, undertaken with careful attention to fostering understanding, problem-solving attitudes. The expectation is that the majority of grievances can be resolved through a flexible process of conflict resolution. These procedures are based on the understanding that differences can be resolved within the institutions of the church without adopting adversarial positions and that the resources of the wider church community are available when mediation is requested. A complete copy of these procedures is available upon request from the President's Office.

Honesty

Personal integrity and mutual trust are essential to the learning community at Eastern Mennonite University. Students are expected to uphold high standards of personal ethics, including the professional ethics associated with academic life. EMU considers a student's lying, cheating or stealing through the wrongful use or inappropriate attribution of information on tests, term papers or other academic assignments to be a serious violation of the standards of integrity in the academic community.

Plagiarism, the intentional use of ideas and words taken from another source without proper credit, is a serious ethical offense. Knowingly helping or allowing someone to cheat also violates the ethical standards of the community.

When there is confirmed evidence of academic dishonesty, the teacher deals with the student on an individual basis and may assign a failing grade for the particular assignment or for the course. In cases where any disciplinary action is taken, a written record of the offense and the action is submitted to the graduate dean.

Ineligibility

Persons with criminal histories seeking admission may appeal to the director by presenting evidence of personal change and restoration.

Open Communication Policy

Eastern Mennonite University welcomes open communication from students regarding its policies and practices. Student feedback helps administrators determine effectiveness and clarify and improve processes and procedures. If a student has a complaint, such complaint should be communicated to the administrator responsible for the area of the complaint. Most complaints can be dealt with through oral communication.

When a student wishes to lodge a more formal complaint in writing, the Student Complaint Form is to be submitted to the person to whom the complaint is addressed. Electronic communication will not be acceptable. Administration will respond in writing to written complaints, normally within ten days. The administrator will submit copies of the written complaint and response to the president's office for filing and monitoring.

In the event that a student is not satisfied with the response to the complaint, the student may choose to follow the grievance procedure for resolution.

The university recognizes its obligation to ensure that students who make complaints do not suffer adverse treatment as a result of the complaint. In the event that a student alleges such treatment, the student shall be referred to the grievance procedure for resolution and reconciliation.

Approved by President’s Cabinet, March 12, 2007

Registration

Registration materials will be provided by graduate program personnel prior to each term of study. A student wishing to add or drop a course shall contact his or her advisor. For courses offered on a standard semester basis, the following applies: courses may be added through the first five days of the semester and may be dropped with no grade through the first four weeks. Courses dropped during the fifth through ninth week are recorded as "W" (withdrawal). No change is permitted after the ninth week. Drop/Add deadlines are adjusted accordingly for courses offered on other time frames.

Standards

Academic warning
Students who have completed nine hours in a graduate program will be placed on academic probation if their GPA falls below 2.75. The director of the program will notify such students in writing of the probationary status, which remains in effect until they raise their GPA above 2.75 or are dismissed from the program. Those on probation should work with their faculty advisor to develop a plan for maximizing future academic success.

Dismissal
Graduate students may be dismissed from a graduate program upon:

1. Falling below a 2.75 GPA after at least 12 hours of graduate study or
2. Receiving a grade of "C" or below on nine hours of graded work or
3. Receiving a second grade of "F" or
4. Exhibiting attitudes, behaviors or lifestyle inconsistent with the mission of Eastern Mennonite University or the graduate program.

The admissions committee in the graduate program makes all dismissal decisions.

Student Responsibility

The graduate student carries complete responsibility for knowing and fulfilling course requirements, program regulations and degree requirements. Graduate students should take the initiative to meet with their advisors to assure that they are making satisfactory progress toward meeting all program requirements. Students are subject to program requirements in effect at the time of their admission. They may elect to graduate under a subsequent catalog, subject to approval by their advisor.

Time limits for completing degree requirements

All work for a graduate degree must be completed within six years from the date of initial admission to the graduate program. To request an extension of the time limit, the student must submit a written request to the director of the graduate program specifying the amount of time needed and the reasons an extension is necessary. The director, in consultation with the program faculty, will notify the student in writing of the decision on an extension request.

Transcripts

To assure confidentiality of academic records, all requests for official transcripts must be submitted by the student in writing. Requests should be made to the university registrar's office, allowing one week for processing. Requests can be made at the following URL: www.emu.edu/registrar/transcripts/. There is a $3 charge for each transcript.

Requests for transcripts may be submitted by fax with payment to follow. If a student requests to have a transcript faxed to another location, the university registrar's office carries no responsibility for the confidentiality of the record and may charge an additional fee for the fax transmission.

Transfer Credits

EMU graduate programs accept a limited amount of graduate transfer credit from other colleges and universities. The transfer credit must meet the graduate program requirements for electives or core requirements. The director of the graduate program makes the final determination of the applicability of transfer credit to an individual's graduate program. See respective graduate program for additional transfer regulations.

Withdrawal (Voluntary) and Refunds

A student considering withdrawal from graduate courses should discuss the reasons with his/her advisor and the program director. Before the student discontinues attendance, he/she must complete an application for withdrawal and secure the proper signatures. Official withdrawal is required for honorable withdrawal and possible tuition refunds.

Writing Standards

A excellent

 This essay or writing has clarity of purpose, as well as depth of content. It displays insight or originality of thought and demonstrates quality and breadth of resources. The structure is coherent and logically developed. The author uses very effective transitions. The writing is concise, eloquent and rhetorically effective. Sentence structure is nicely varied. The writing is engaging throughout and enjoyable to read. Sentences are well constructed and there are virtually no errors of conventions. Sources are cited for all quotations, paraphrases are credible and cited correctly, a reference page is included, and there are virtually no errors in documentation style..

B minimal expectations

This essay or writing has clarity of purpose and substantial information, as well as sufficient support. It contains some originality of thought and uses quality resources. The structure is coherent and logically developed. The author uses smooth transitions. The writing displays concern for careful expression. Sentence structure shows some variation. The writing is generally enjoyable to read. The author usually has well-constructed sentences, makes minimal errors in grammar and spelling, and generally uses accurate words. Sources are cited for all quotations, paraphrases are credible and usually cited correctly, a reference page is included, and there are minimal errors in documentation style.

C below expectations

This essay or writing has clarity of purpose but lacks depth of content and may depend on generalities or the commonplace. It has little originality of thought while using mostly quality resources. The structure is coherent and logically, but not fully, developed. There are some awkward transitions. Although the writing shows some personality, it lacks imagination and may be stilted. Little variation in sentence structure is present. The writing is not very interesting to read. The author does not always have well-constructed sentences, makes several errors in grammar rules and word choices that distract the reader, and frequently uses jargon and clichés. Sources are cited for all quotations. Most paraphrases are credible and sometimes are cited correctly. A reference page is included, but there are several errors in use of sources.

Approved by University Faculty, April 28, 2004
Revised by the Writing Committee, April, 2008

2008-09 Tuition and Fees

Graduate admission application fee       (non-refundable) ..........$25 Tuition per semester hour* Audit per semester hour ....$135 Technology Services (per semester)       Full-time student ......$30       Part-time student......$12

Computer Access (per semester)       Residence hall student ...........$64       Non-residence hall student.....$16 Student activity fee (some graduate programs)       per semester ..... $23       per credit hour (part-time) ..... $2 Graduation fee .....$30 Graduation fee (graduate certificate).....$15

*See respective graduate program office for current tuition rates.

Living expenses, books and supplies, personal expenses, practicum and internship expenses, travel, class fees and miscellaneous expenses are the responsibility of the student.

Payment and Payment Plans

All charges are due and payable at registration for the semester or individual course. Arrangements for payment in advance of the beginning of courses can be made by calling the university business office at (540) 432-4112. There is a monthly finance charge of 1.5% (18% annually) on past-due balances. EMU accepts personal checks, cashiers checks and money orders.

A monthly payment plan with Tuition Management Systems, Inc. (TMS) is available. Please contact the Business Office at 1-888-432-4112 for further information prior to setting up any payment plan. Brochures are available in the Students Accounts Office.

Eastern Mennonite University will not release grades, transcripts, diplomas or teaching licenses until all accounts are settled.

Please be aware that unpaid accounts will go before a review committee. If payment is not received, it will be necessary to cancel the student registration; attendance in classes will not be permitted.

Failure to meet financial obligations is cause for denying the student the privilege of registering for or attending subsequent classes, receiving a degree, or releasing grades or a transcript of credit. Collection costs or charges along with all attorney fees necessary for the collection of any debt to the university will be charged to and paid by the debtor. All accounts in collection are reported to the credit bureau.

EMU Credit Card Acceptance Policy

Tuition and Rent Accounts: EMU accepts major credit cards (except VISA) via Tuition Management Systems for a convenience fee per transaction. To make a payment, visit their website at www.afford.com or call 800-722-4867. (Depending on amount charged, convenience fee typically amounts to 2-4%.)

Miscellaneous Account: EMU accepts VISA, MasterCard, and Discover payments directly. EMU has determined that the cost of accepting credit card payments for tuition and major fees is an expense that we can no longer support.

Financial Assistance

The financial assistance office, located on the first floor of the campus center, coordinates student financial aid programs including scholarships, grants, employment and loans. Additionally, each graduate program office may have information about "outside" sources of aid related to the program. The financial assistance office staff helps graduate students with the application process as well as financial planning.

Available aid for graduate students may include the following programs for those who qualify:

• Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant -- for full-time Virginia residents in standard semester programs. Application required; deadline July 31; not available for "religious training" programs.
• Church Matching Grant (not available for all graduate programs) -- for students who receive financial support from a church that has a grant or scholarship program; must be at least half-time enrolled. Application required; preferred response date March 1. $1,000 per year with $2,000 career maximum.
• Institutional Scholarship/Grant -- recipients selected by each graduate program; awarded if funding is available and student meets criteria; applications may be required.
• Federal Work-Study -- on campus (or approved off campus) employment offered to federal aid applicants who are eligible and who secure a position; limited eligibility and pay rates apply. FAFSA and Student Employment Application required; preferred response date April 15.
• Federal Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized) -- low interest student loans offered by the government to US Citizens or eligible non citizens; annual maximum $20,500; eligibility based on "financial need" as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); must be at least half-time or more enrolled. FAFSA and EMU Financial Aid Information Sheet required; preferred response date April 15.
• Federal Graduate PLUS Loan - non-subsidized, credit-based, fixed-interest rate loan for graduate students; repayment begins 60 days after final disbursement; in school deferrment available for halftime enrolled students, but interest is due. Eligibility determined after federal subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans have been awarded (FAFSA required); however, the subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford Loans may be declined and only the Graduate PLUS Loan borrowed.

If a student applies for and is determined eligible for any financial aid, an award letter will be sent to notify the student of eligibility. Additional required forms will be included with the award letter. Stafford Loan borrowers must complete a Loan Request Form for each period of enrollment.

Stafford Loans must be repaid after graduating from a program or when enrollment status is less than half time. The monthly repayment amount is based on the loan volume, current interest rate and length of repayment schedule. Repayment may be deferred for internships, fellowships, economic hardship, unemployment, half-time or more enrollment, etc. Consolidation of graduate loans with prior loans may be advantageous to borrower. More information about repayment is available from the financial assistance office.

Aid recipients who change their course registration after the beginning of each semester must notify the financial assistance office. Enrollment status is very important to aid eligibility. Students who withdraw must also notify the financial assistance office. Financial aid refunds due to withdrawal are calculated using the percentage of term not completed as mandated by federal aid regulations. More information about aid adjustments and refunds related to changes in enrollment status may be obtained from the Financial Assistance Office.

Contact the Financial Assistance Office at (800) 330-9683 or (540) 432-4137 or email finaid@emu.edu.

Career Services

Career Services, located in University Commons room 244, is open for use by graduate students. Resources include a career library with extensive job search materials and information about applying to graduate programs of study. Services available from a trained and certified career counselor include assistance with resume development, interviewing, job-search skills and finding job opportunities. Most career services are available without charge except for some career or graduate school testing services for which a standard fee is charged. Appointments may be made by calling (540) 432-4135 to speak to the administrative assistant in student life.

Community Lifestyle Commitment

Expectations and Responsibilities for Community Life for faculty, staff, and students at Eastern Mennonite University

Preamble

Eastern Mennonite University is a Christian community in the Anabaptist/Mennonite tradition joined together for the purpose of academic study, personal development and spiritual growth. We are committed to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and believe that the scriptures establish the basic principles that should guide our life together. These principles include the responsibility to love God with all our being, love our neighbors as ourselves, seek after righteousness, practice justice, help those in need, forgive others, seek forgiveness and exercise freedom responsibly with loving regard for others.

We acknowledge that it is impossible to create a community with expectations that are totally acceptable to every member. Nevertheless, clearly stated expectations promote orderly community life. Because of the importance of trust in and responsibility to one another, violations of these standards are regarded as a serious breach of integrity within the community.

Commitment

As a member of the EMU community, I will strive to practice stewardship of mind, time, abilities and finances. I will pursue opportunities for intellectual and spiritual growth and demonstrate care for my body. I also will exercise social responsibility in my standard of living and use of economic resources. Realizing the destructive character of an unforgiving spirit and harmful discrimination based on prejudice, I will seek to demonstrate unselfish love in my actions, attitudes and relationships. I will be honest and show respect for the rights and property of others.

I recognize that some social practices are harmful to me, as well as harmful or offensive to others. Therefore, respecting the values of others and the mission of Eastern Mennonite University, I recognize my responsibility as a member of the community to refrain from sexual relationships outside of marriage, sexual harassment and abuse, pornography, acts of violence, abusive or demeaning language and the use of illegal drugs. Recognizing that EMU supports nonuse of alcohol and tobacco, I will respect and abide by the university policy that prohibits the use of alcohol and tobacco on campus or at university functions and the misuse of alcohol off campus.

I pledge myself to carry out this commitment in a spirit of openness and helpfulness through mutual accountability motivated by love.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees; March 23, 2001

Computer Network

EMU has an extensive computer network readily accessible to all faculty, staff and students. The library has its on-line catalog on the network. Internet access is provided. Several computer labs are available for student use.

Disability Support Services

EMU accepts and encourages students with disabilities who are motivated and who exercise responsibility and commitment to achieving their academic goals. EMU is committed to working out reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities to ensure equal access to the university and its related programs. The university complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1988, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Disabilities include learning, neurological, physical, psychological, and medical disabilities. Students should be willing to voluntarily identify their disabilities and register their documentation in order to obtain reasonable and appropriate accommodations.

Faculty and staff support individual students needing reasonable accommodations in classroom policies and procedures due to documented needs. The faculty and staff also foster the development and use of strategies that promote independence and personal success.

Accessing Services

Upon acceptance to EMU, students with documented disabilities should register the necessary documentation with the Coordinator of Student Disability Support Services (SDSS) (540-432-4233) in the Academic Support Center so it can be processed prior to registration and the student's arrival on campus. The office of SDSS is located in Sadie Hartzler Library, third floor. Students with physical disabilities related to housing should also contact the Director of Housing and Residence Life located in the Student Life Office, University Commons (540-432-4128).

Students are encouraged to meet with the SDSS Coordinator during their EMU campus visit.

Disclosure of a disability is voluntary and all documentation is kept on file and held confidential in the SDSS Office. However, students need to identify their disabilities if they wish to obtain appropriate and reasonable accommodations within their academic disciplines. Accommodations are not retroactive. Upon request, a packet of materials is available from SDSS and provides additional information to help students register their documentation and understand their rights and responsibilities in the university setting.

Students without documented evidence of disabilities who exhibit several indicators of learning or attention disorders should make an appointment with the Coordinator of SDSS for further counseling and evaluation. Screening inventories are available to further process their concerns. Referrals can be made to other community resources for further assessment and evaluation by an appropriate professional.

Disciplinary Information and Policies

Student Discipline

Eastern Mennonite University seeks to provide an educational setting where faculty, administration, staff and students work together in the common purpose of creating and maintaining the highest possible standards of academic and community life.

Our commitments reflect two basic concerns: to encourage behavior which is in harmony with the aims and purposes of the graduate programs and at the same time to provide sufficient freedom for persons to exercise individual responsibility. These concerns also extend to off-campus activities, when they affect campus life.

We believe that personal maturity and growth are encouraged most when the entire community shares in responsibility for one another. Growth is not entirely an individual process but involves the entire community as we seek to share our own concerns and at the same time respect the convictions of other persons. Our commitments include the responsibility to love God and seek after righteousness, to love others and practice justice, and to exercise stewardship and freedom responsibly.

Lines of Responsibility

The disciplinary authority of the graduate programs is vested in the president, dean of graduate programs, faculty, and the individual himself or herself. When self-discipline breaks down, direct confrontation may be required. This should be done in a spirit of concern and caring. Any student, faculty or staff member may bring an alleged violation to the attention of the provost for investigation.

Standards of Conduct

We request graduate students to respect campus standards whenever and wherever behavior impacts campus life. These standards include but are not limited to the following specific examples. Students shall refrain from immorality and the use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages and drugs prohibited by law. (See "University Policies" for the "Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drug Policy.") Substances controlled by law are not to be abused. Unbecoming speech, conduct or dress shall be avoided.

Harassment is a violation of these standards. Communications, actions or threats which intentionally denigrate another because of his or her race, gender, religion, age, handicap or national origin will not be tolerated. This explicitly includes sexual harassment in any form of threat, coercion or unwelcome verbal advances. Respect for the dignity of all persons must be the standard.

Sexual integrity must be upheld by all.

Violence and the threat of violence against another person or group are prohibited. Unauthorized firearms and weapons are not allowed on campus.

Academic honesty is a standard of particular concern, for violations threaten the integrity of individuals and the levels of trust in the learning community. Truthfulness is essential to our concepts of God. All forms of cheating, plagiarism, forgery and furnishing false information on official documents or to campus officials are violations of this policy.

Dishonesty includes copying from another's work in an examination, submitting the same work in more than one course without the instructor's knowledge and permission, and collaboration in course assignments without permission and acknowledgement. Plagiarism, the intentional use of ideas and writings taken from another source without proper credit, is a serious offense. Knowingly helping or allowing someone else to cheat is an act of academic dishonesty.

When there is evidence of academic dishonesty, the instructor deals with the student on an individual basis and may assign a failing grade for the particular assignment or the course. The instructor will report to the student's academic advisor and the graduate dean.

Disciplinary Procedures

The director or other designated person assume responsibility for initial inquiries into an alleged infraction in consultation with the dean of graduate programs. All pertinent sources of information will be checked, including a discussion with the referred student(s). If there is evidence to support the charge, it is the task of the provost to determine which hearing procedure should be used. Faculty in whose courses violations may have occurred will be included.

For major concerns, the formal procedures outlined in the EMU policy on grievance procedures will be utilized. For other incidents, two further possibilities exist.

Informal Hearing

This procedure will involve discussion among the graduate dean, the referred student and the student's advisor.

Formal Hearing

This procedure involves a "judicial council," which will be composed of one administrator who has not been directly involved in the investigation of the situation and who can act as chairperson, one faculty member appointed by the faculty, and the student's academic advisor or another person selected from the graduate community by the student to serve as advocate.

This judicial council is used for serious or repeated violations of the standards set forth here, with formal record of the proceedings kept on file in the provost's office.

Among the possible sanctions for serious violations are: informal warning, written reprimand, letter of probation, notification of temporary suspension, indefinite suspension or a letter of dismissal (with notation on official transcript: "dismissal by graduate program action"). In case of dismissal, faculty action is necessary. Appeal of formal action taken under this policy may be filed in writing within one week of notification of its outcome, according to formal grievance procedures (statement available in the provost's office).

Hazing

Actions which are initiated against someone's will by harassing through force, banter, ridicule or criticism are strictly prohibited.

Health Insurance

All students are encouraged to have health insurance; however, athletes, students traveling on cross cultural, and international students are required to have health insurance. Students taking at least six credit hours are eligible for the plan available through EMU. Applications are available at the Student Accounts Office (ext. 4114).

Health Services

The Health Center provides a comprehensive program of health services and wellness programming. The center is located on the upper level of the University Commons in the Weaver Wellness Suite.

The Health Center director is a family nurse practitioner who is qualified to diagnose, order diagnostic testing, and prescribe medications for health problems; perform physicals; and provide immunizations. Additionally, the college physician is available for consultation by phone during clinic hours and in person for an hour every week. Office visits are available for a minimal fee. Additional services including supplies, medications, dressings and laboratory tests are available. Equipment such as crutches, ice packs and heating pads are available for loan if needed. The cost of office visits and other services may be billed to student accounts or paid in cash at the time of service.

Rockingham Memorial Hospital is a modern, well-equipped facility located three miles from campus and is available to students. Anyone requiring treatment in a larger medical center is referred to the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville.

Identification Card

An I.D. card is issued to each student and it is advisable that students carry their I.D. with them. A validation sticker for the current academic year is required proof that students are currently enrolled. An EMU I.D. entitles full-time students admission to all events sponsored by the student activity fee, including athletics.

The card is required for admission to the Dining Hall, for all transactions at the Business Office, for checking out books in Hartzler Library and for purchases at the Campus Bookstore. Replacement cards are made by appointment in Learning Resources at a cost of $5.

International Student Services

The presence of students from many nations of the world and from various ethnic traditions represented in our own country enriches the campus and helps to bring the global village into daily contact. The office of international student services provides leadership to a variety of programs and activities that affirm and support the diversity represented on campus.

The office of international student services assists international students with immigration matters, helping them in fulfilling the requirements of their visa status. Orientation for new international students is held prior to the beginning of classes each fall, and excursions are arranged to help familiarize new arrivals with the Harrisonburg region.

Throughout the year, the office coordinates intercultural activities that promote understanding of other cultures and heritages and encourage student and community interactions. Visit the office's web site at www.emu.edu/studentlife/iss/ for more information.

This office also acts as advisor to the International Student Organization.

Liability

Students are expected to respect the rights and property of others and to use campus facilities in a responsible manner. Costs of damage to university property are charged to the account of the student responsible for the damage. Students assume responsibility for damaged property and should report it promptly to the residence director and/or physical plant office. EMU is not liable for the loss of money or valuables or the loss of or damage to any person's private property on the campus due to fire, water or theft. This includes the property of resident and non-resident students and their guests.

Library

The Sadie A. Hartzler Library, which includes the Menno Simons Historical Library and the EMU archives, collaborates with classroom faculty in the educational mission of the university by acquiring educational resources, arranging them for easy access and providing instruction on their use. The Library is dedicated to saving the students' time when they are engaged in research.

The library's website (www.emu.edu/library) is the portal to many authoritative resources and services. Sadie, the online library catalog, provides efficient access to reliable sources including both print and electronic material. The numberous databases, of course, can be accessed by students anywhere they have access to the internet, but the library building provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for study and research. The library's dedicated staff is committed to quality service.

The print collection includes over 170,000 books, 1,000 current periodicals and 97,000 microfilm and microfiche, primarily periodicals.

Research databases provide access to over 13,000 full-text journals, newspapers and magazines and a catalog of over 150 million books and other materials held by libraries worldwide. The library participates in the Virtual Library of Virginia (VIVA), a library consortium that allows broader access to expensive online resources. Off-campus access is available to most of the research databases..

Interlibrary loan provides access to materials not owned by the Hartzler Library. To speed up access to articles, the library uses Ariel, a system that provides electronic delivery.

The library is open daily during the academic year for a total of 90 hours each week. Accommodations on all three floors provide individual study space as well as rooms for group study. Most of the library is equipped for wireless access to the internet.

Several specialized collections are located in the Hartzler Library: 1) The Menno Simons Historical Library has the finest collection of Mennonite and Anabaptist materials on the east coast with items dating from the sixteenth century to the present. The Historical Library also has an extensive collection of local history materials. 2) Collections of curriculum materials and children's literature support the teacher education program. 3) The Hartzler Library also houses the archives for Eastern Mennonite University and Virginia Mennonite Conference. 4) Learning Resources provides audiovisual and presentation equipment and support. Other services offered include producing ID cards, taking passport pictures and laminating.

The Art Gallery on third floor of the library exhibits a variety of art work throughout the academic year, including senior art majors' presentations.

Multicultural Services

The office of Multicultural Services is charged with the responsibility to be a support service for American students of African, Hispanic, Asian and Native American descent (AHANA). In addition, the office will serve in a support capacity to the university as a whole when dealing with issues concerning AHANA students or diversity issues.

The office also is responsible for helping students to organize Black Heritage Month, Latino Heritage Month, Martin Luther King Celebrations and a number of other activities which affirm the ethnic diversity represented on campus. The office also advises various student organizations whose issues have a direct link to AHANA students.

Ultimately, the office intends to provide educational experiences for all students, faculty and staff, which will help them to understand and affirm cultural differences. All are encouraged to participate in events, programs and special functions. Visit the office's web site at www.emu.edu/studentlife/multicultural for more information.

Personal Property Insurance

EMU does not maintain insurance on student-owned property. In some cases family homeowner's insurance may provide coverage for personal property. Tenant insurance may be obtained from a local agency if desired.

Post Office

The Post Office, located in the Campus Center, carries full postal service, including stamps and certified, registered and insured mail. United Parcel Service (UPS) and fax service are also available. Full-time students are provided with a mailbox which is used for on-campus as well as postal-service mail. Campus mail is delivered free of charge, but large quantities should be alphabetized. Please restrict items to 3 x 5 and larger. Post Office hours are posted at the window.

A plain-paper fax machine is available during regular Post Office hours. The fax number is (540) 432-4444. A cover sheet is required for all faxes. Prices are:

• Local call faxes: $1.00 per page
• Long distance call faxes: $1.50 per page
• International faxes: $1.00 per page plus the cost of the phone call, which must be charged to a student, employee or department account
• No charge for cover sheet on outgoing faxes
• No charge for incoming faxes
• Prices are subject to change based on actual experience

Security

The campus security program is intended to provide a safe and friendly campus environment that supports the mission of the university. Development and enforcement of regulations, procedures and practices provide a reasonable level of security for property and provide for the personal safety of employees, students and visitors. Contact Campus Security at ext. 4911 (weekdays) or 9-432-4911 (after 5 p.m. ) with any special concerns.

Student Housing

The university operates two apartment complexes on campus for graduate students. One complex (Village) has one-bedroom units and one complex (Mt. Clinton) has two bedroom units. All of these apartments are conveniently located and within walking distance to classes.

Please visit the following web address www.emu.edu/conferences/rentals for information or feel free to contact the apartment office at 540-432-4662.

Student Programs

Access to a wide variety of activities is one of the advantages of a university campus. Graduate students may especially enjoy the film series, performing arts events and recreational sports opportunities. Many clubs are open to both undergraduate and graduate members. See the Student Handbook at www.emu.edu//studentlife/studenthandbook/ for more details.

Telephone Service

Phone lines, including voice mail boxes, are provided in residence hall rooms and Parkwood and Mt. Clinton apartments. Students need to bring their own telephone. There is no charge for local calls. Direct-dial long-distance calls are billed monthly on the student account. Students are charged $5 for collect calls, third-number calls or any other operator-assisted calls.

Students should refer to the directions in the Campus Directory for operating instructions. If students experience difficulty with their phone or voice mail, they should dial the Help Desk at 4357 for assistance.

University Bookstore

The University Bookstore, located in the University Commons, is a full-service bookstore providing textbooks as well as inspirational and general reading. The bookstore also carries a selection of school supplies, imprinted gifts and clothing, health and beauty supplies, Hallmark cards, and CDs.

Board of Trustees Susan Godshall, chair, Mount Joy, Pa. Paul R. Yoder Jr., vice chair, Harrisonburg, Va. Wilma Bailey, Indianapolis, In. John M. Bomberger, Harrisonburg, Va. Andrew Dula, Lancaster, Pa. Gilbert Flores, Newton, Kan. Curtis D. Hartman, Bridgewater, Va. Shirley N. Hochstetler, Kidron, Ohio Gerald R. Horst, New Holland, Pa. Joan King, Telford, Pa. Linford D. King, Lancaster, Pa. Herb H. Noll, Lancaster, Pa. Kathleen Nussbaum, Grant, Minn. Kathy Keener Shantz, Lancaster, Pa. J. Richard Thomas, Ronks, Pa. Lillis Troyer, Walnut Creek, Ohio Diane Z. Umble, Lancaster, Pa.

Associate Trustees Myron E. Blosser, Harrisonburg, Va. Steve Brenneman, Nappanee, Ind. Dan Garber, Hutchinson, Ks. Robert P. Hostetler, Erie, Pa. Charlotte Hunsberger, Souderton, Pa. Clyde G. Kratz, Broadway, Va. E. Thomas Murphy, Jr., Harrisonburg, Va. Amy L. Rush, Harrisonburg, Va. Judith Trumbo, Broadway, Va.

University Personnel

President	Loren E. Swartzendruber		432-4100
Interim provost	Lee F. Snyder		432-4105
Vice president for student life	Ken L. Nafziger		432-4135
University registrar	David A. Detrow		432-4109
Director of the academic support center	Linda W. Gnagey		434-4355
Coordinator of student disability support services	Joyce Hedrick		432-4233
Director of career services/testing			432-4131
Director of financial assistance	Michele R. Hensley		432-4139
Director of information systems	Jack Rutt		432-4478
Director of libraries	Donald Smeeton		432-4170
Director of marketing services	Andrea Wenger		432-4348
Director of physical plant	C. Eldon Kurtz		432-4392
Health services coordinator	Margaret Upton		432-4317
International student advisor	Jonathan A. Kratz		432-4459
Interim graduate dean	P. David Glanzer		432-4244
Assistant to the provost and graduate dean	Lois R. Shank		432-4105

Graduate Program Personnel

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding
Director	Lynn Roth
Administrative assistant/CTP registrar	Janelle Myers-Benner
Director for the Practice and Training Institute	Jan Jenner
Director of STAR	Elaine Zook Barge
Director of Summer Peacebuilding Institute
Master of Arts in Counseling
Director	P. David Glanzer
Program administrator	Pamela D. Comer
Administrative assistant	Brenda Fairweather
Master of Arts in Education
Director	Donovan D. Steiner
Administrative assistant (Harrisonburg)	Yvonne Martin
Assistant director (Lancaster)	Pamela Rutt
Graduate program assistant (Harrisonburg)	Yvonne Martin
Graduate program assistant (Lancaster)	Gloria Shenk Kniss
Master of Business Administration
Director	Anothony E. Smith & Ronald L. Stoltzfus
Administrative assistant	Patricia S. Eckard
Seminary
Vice president and seminary dean	Ervin R. Stutzman
Associate dean	Sara Wenger Shenk
Director of seminary and graduate admissions	Don A. Yoder

President’s Cabinet

Loren E. Swartzendruber, 2003, president

B.A., Eastern Mennonite University;
MDiv., Eastern Mennonite Seminary;
D.Min., Northern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Lee F. Snyder, 2008, interim provost

B.A., Univeristy of Oregon;
M.A., James Madison University;
Ph.D., University of Oregon.

Marie S. Morris, 1984, vice president and undergraduate academic dean

B.S., Eastern Mennonite University;
M.S.N., University of Virginia;
Ph.D., George Mason University.

Kenneth L. Nafziger, 2003, vice president for student life

B.A., Eastern Mennonite University;
A.M., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign;
Ph.D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Ronald E. Piper, 1986, vice president for finance

B.B.A., University of Iowa; Certified Public Accountant.

Kirk L. Shisler, 2005, vice president for advancement

B.A., Eastern Mennonite University

Ervin R. Stutzman, 1998, vice president and seminary dean

B.A., Cincinnati Bible College;
M.A., University of Cincinnati;
M.A.R., Eastern Mennonite Seminary;
Ph.D., Temple University.

Twila K. Yoder, 1998, assistant to the president

M.A., Eastern Mennonite Seminary.

For more information, contact...

Provost's Office, Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, VA 22802-2462
Phone: (540) 432-4105 | Fax: (540) 432-4600 | E-mail:

Purpose and Philosophy

The Master of Arts in Counseling program provides academic preparation for the professional practice of community counseling. Completion of the program meets educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia. The community counseling track is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the community track with a pastoral counseling focus is approved as a training program by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC).

The Master of Arts in Counseling program provides accredited training within the context of the Mennonite tradition of mutual caring and community building that emphasizes both individual growth and just social structures. The ideals of personal and community wholeness are values grounded in the ethical contexts embodied in this faith tradition. We welcome students and faculty from other traditions who enrich our community.

We believe that individual personal worth or value to God is not dependent on the level of social or spiritual development. People are valued and accepted by God unconditionally. Within this context of grace, the goal of counseling is to promote growth, Christian discipleship, and maturity in individuals, churches, and communities.

The Master of Arts in Counseling program is committed to creating an educational environment that values relationships in community. Our mutual support and shared learning creates a place of safety for the sacred work of counseling.

Students will become knowledgeable about and committed to the ethical standards of the counseling profession, the American Counseling Association, and other professional standards which govern the practice of counseling. These are minimal standards for practice and character. Students are mentored and encouraged in the process of internalizing ethical sensitivities and practices toward their professional counselor identity.

Admission Criteria

The admissions selection process is designed to identify students who have potential for completing the counseling program. Students are admitted on the basis of many different expressions of their qualities and abilities: scholastic achievement, work experience, and factors relating to character, personality, and faith.

Applicants must be a graduate of a regionally accredited college or university. Applicants are required to submit official transcripts of credit from all colleges and universities attended and three references, two of which must be academic. Potential candidates will be invited for an interview.

Expectations include an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.00, references indicating clear support for graduate work, a clear and relevant essay, and the ability to present oneself clearly and effectively in the interview. Additional factors given consideration in the admission decision include undergraduate field of study, performance in previous graduate level study, related counseling work experience, and other evidence of success in academic and professional endeavors. The admissions committee may make exceptions to admission requirements in special cases.

Program enrollment is limited to the equivalent of 15 full-time students per class. Part-time students are encouraged to apply. Part-time status is defined as taking less than nine semester hours in a semester.

New students are admitted for the fall semester. The application deadline is March 1. Applications submitted after March 1 will be processed provided there are still positions available.

A complete application includes the following:

1. A completed Master of Arts in Counseling application form.
   
   
2. A non-refundable application fee of $25.00.
   
   
3. Official transcripts from each college or university attended.
   
   
4. Three letters of reference (at least two of which must be academic).
   
   
5. Statement of purpose: write a narrative (1-3 pages) that describes your
   a) academic/research interest and professional goals
   b) volunteer and professional experiences, and
   c) life experiences that have influenced your view of compassionate service and social justice.
   
   
6. A current résumé.
   
   In addition to the requirements above, international applicants should submit the following
   information:
   
7. Nationality and country of birth. International applicants currently residing in the United States must indicate status with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
   
   
8. A completed International Student Sponsor Agreement form.
   
   For applicants whose native language is not English:
   
9. A 550 on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). (EMU’s institutional code is 5181. Applicants who have studied and received a degree from a college or university where all instruction is in English are not required to submit TOEFL scores).

Community Counseling Track

The Master of Arts in Counseling, Community Counseling track, is a 60 semester hour program. The curriculum meets educational requirements for professional licensure in accordance with the regulations of the Virginia Board of Behavioral Sciences. The curriculum includes study in the areas of professional identity, counseling theories, group counseling, counseling techniques, abnormal behavior, appraisal, career development, human growth and development, social and cultural functions, research, social and multicultural issues, ethics, spirituality and religion, addictions, marriage and family counseling, and supervised clinical work.

To graduate, the student will have met all course requirements with a minimum GPA of 2.75, will have obtained satisfactory internship references, met program assessment criteria for competency, and obtained the formal approval of the faculty for graduation.

Full-time students should be able to complete the program in two years (the equivalent of 5 semesters of full-time study). However, many find a three year plan of study helpful to integrative learning.

Pastoral Counseling Focus

The Master of Arts in Counseling, Community/Pastoral Counseling track, is a 60 semester hour program with course work in the Community Counseling track. The focus is on development of a pastoral counseling identity through membership in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors, participation in program sponsored seminars and faculty mentorship and supervision.

Dual Degree: M.Div. and M.A. in Counseling

A Dual Degree enables a student to earn both an M.Div. and a Master of Arts in Counseling in approximately one year less and at less cost than if the degrees were pursued separately.

Purpose/Rationale

The Dual Degree program enables a student to earn both an M.Div. through Eastern Mennonite Seminary (EMS) and a Master of Arts in Counseling. Graduates are enriched by the interdisciplinary character of theological/pastoral preparation in conversation with counseling disciplines; are prepared to work part-time as pastor and within another professional field in ways that enhance their economic stability and potential service to the church; are more thoroughly prepared for leadership in Christian institutions and organizations with expanded management skills and professional breadth; and are well prepared to bring a deeper spiritual and religious perspective to their work within community counseling agencies.

Academic and Administrative Matters

1. To participate in the Dual Degree Program, a student is admitted to both the Seminary’s M.Div. program and to the Master of Arts in Counseling program. Admission to one program does not in any way assure admission to the other program.
2. Students deal with the two programs separately for purposes of admission, tuition payment, financial aid, etc.
3. Academic standing in the respective programs is determined solely on the basis of work done in each program.
4. Each program is responsible for the integrity of its degree in terms of course requirements.
5. Students complete the requirements for both degrees, as specified below, in order to receive either degree in the program. If the requirements for the dual degree are not met, the requirements of each program taken separately apply.

The Seminary Associate Dean and the Master of Arts in Counseling director serve as contact persons and as advisors for students pursuing a dual degree. Eastern Mennonite Seminary would recommend that a year of seminary study come first in the sequence. The recommended design would be to take the first and final years at the Seminary.

Academic Requirements For a Dual Degree M.Div./Master of Arts in Counseling (total of 123 SH):

• Seminary M.Div. degree requires 93 SH, 75 SH core requirements and 18 SH electives.
• The Master of Arts in Counseling degree requires 57 SH which are non-negotiable and one approved 3 SH elective for a total of 60 SH.

In light of the Association of Theological Studies policy on “shared credit in degree programs,” the Seminary allows up to 30 hours to be reduced from the current M.Div. requirements for a dual M.Div./Master of Arts in Counseling degree. A student is free to take additional electives in either program. Each program currently specifies the core required courses for their respective degree programs.

M.Div: a total of 63 hours required (93 SH minus the 18 open electives and up to 12 SH from the M.Div. core). This should be doable in 2 years, including May and summers. Master of Arts in Counseling: a total of 60 SH required.

The Master of Arts in Counseling courses listed below are available for substitution for the seminary core courses (in italics) but some flexibility is allowed for negotiating substitution of another comparable course or two instead of those mentioned below in light of schedule constraints and/or individual needs.

• Professional Function, Identity and Ethics and Counseling Techniques (6 SH) can replace Formation in Personhood I & II (2 SH) and Pastoral Care (3 SH)
• Ethics in multiple classes can replace Christian Ethics (3 SH)
• Multicultural Counseling (3 SH) can replace Cross-Cultural Experience (3 SH)

Fall Semester

August 26	FALL SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN
October 20-21	Mid-semester recess
October 22	Classes resume
November 25	Thanksgiving recess begins 5:05 p.m.
December 2	Classes resume
December 3	Last day of classes
December 9-10	Final exams

 

Spring Semester

January 6	SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN
March 2-6	Mid-semester recess
March 10	Classes resume
April 9	Easter recess begins 5:05 p.m.
April 14	Classes resume
April 15	Last day of classes
April 21-22	Final exams
April 26	90th annual commencement

Summer Term

April 29-June 3

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9:00 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.

Academic Probation

A student whose GPA falls below 2.75 during any given term will be placed on probation for the next term. If sufficient progress is not made to remove the probation, continuation in the program will be reviewed.

Academic Standards

The program maintains both qualitative and quantitative requirements. Daily classwork, assigned projects, research papers, tests, examinations and regular attendance form the basis of standing and credit.

Admission to Candidacy

After beginning graduate work, students apply for candidacy, a process of establishing professional goals and seeking direction for completing the program. “Admission to Candidacy” involves the successful completion of 30 hours (practicum included), a minimum of 2.75 GPA and faculty approval. The process is a prerequisite to beginning the internship.

A student who completes 30 hours of graduate work in counseling with a 2.75 GPA, but is not admitted to candidacy, is eligible to receive a Certificate in Counseling.

A student must complete the M.A. in Counseling degree within three years after admission to candidacy and within a total of six years.

Changes in Graduate School Policies and Programs

Because it is the nature of the graduate experience to obtain mastery of a chosen field, each graduate student should understand that published descriptions of degree requirements establish only minimum requirements. It is the prerogative of the counseling program to make changes in degree requirements at any time.

Classroom and Study Time

Course schedules are planned to have 15 hours of classroom interaction between the instructor and student for each credit hour. Approximately two and one-half hours of out-of-class study are expected for each hour in class.

Completion of Course Work

Each student is expected to complete all course work on time and to the satisfaction of the instructor. Incompletes will be allowed only in cases of emergency, when circumstances beyond the control of the student prevent completion of course requirements on time. An incomplete shall be requested at least one week before the end of the term and must be approved by the instructor and the director of the program. An incomplete must be removed within six weeks after the close of the term in which it was obtained. A grade will be assigned based on the work completed.

Course Syllabi

Instructors will prepare a syllabus for each course describing its purpose, requirements and other appropriate information such as bibliography and schedule. Students may request to see course syllabi when making course selections. Such requests should be made to the program office.

The university has established the following guidelines for instructors to use in setting course requirements:

• Research and Learning Projects. Daily assignments and/or a term project are assumed. However, the ratio of such work to reading and other requirements is arranged at the discretion of the instructor. Where term projects represent 50% beyond daily requirements, a guideline is 5-7 pages of double-spaced typed text per credit hour.
• Reading. Assigned reading is expected in all courses. Where reading assignments constitute 50% of the total course requirements, the guide is 500 pages per credit hour.

Courses Taken by EMU Students at Other Schools

A student should secure advance approval from the director of the counseling program before enrolling for work in other colleges, including correspondence or extension courses, where credit is to be transferred back to EMU for graduation. The program reserves the right to limit the amount of transfer credit which may be applied to degree requirements.

Field Work and Supervision

The program requires students to complete a supervised practicum and internship. Supervision takes three forms, combining the advantages of three different learning situations: weekly individual supervision, weekly group supervision (5-6 persons) and case work. A learning atmosphere of trust and safety, wherein threat is kept to a minimum, is created. Affirmation of the student counselors’ gifts and inner resources is a model for the formative and evaluative components of supervision.

Course Load

To complete the entire degree in two academic years requires 30 SH each year. This is a full-time load, and the strong expectation is that students carrying this load will undertake very little or no additional employment.

Outcomes Assessment

The program reserves the right to require students to participate in institutional testing programs as part of ongoing assessment of student outcomes.

Student Classification

Level 1 students have earned from zero through 30 credits toward their degree. Students who have earned 31 credits toward graduation are classified as Level 2 students. These levels apply to both full-time and part-time students. Graduate special students are those who enroll in one or more courses toward the degree but who have not been formally admitted.

Transfer Credit

Transfer credits may be considered for inclusion in the program of study upon the approval of the director of the program. A grade of “B” or better must be earned in courses requested for transfer credit. Courses considered for transfer credit must be applicable toward a comparable degree at the institution offering the course. Application for consideration of transfer credit taken more than five years before the date at which the student is admitted must be accompanied by substantial documentation of prior work and evidence of continued and current competence. Transfer credit taken more than ten years before the date at which the student is admitted may not be used to satisfy degree requirements. No practicum or internship credits are eligible for transfer credit. Decisions with respect to number of transfer hours accepted will be handled by the Admissions Committee on a case-by-case basis, but normally a maximum of 12 hours of credit obtained from an accredited college or university may be applied to the degree.

Tuition Refund Policy

Students who withdraw, drop out, are dismissed or otherwise cease enrollment prior to the tenth week of the semester or the tenth day of a mini-term equivalent shall receive a refund equal to the percentage of the term remaining (rounded down to the nearest 10%) and multiplied times the refundable university charges for tuition and room and board.

Aid recipients who change their course registration after the beginning of each semester must notify the financial assistance office. Enrollment status is very important to aid eligibility. Students who withdraw must also notify the financial assistance office. Financial aid refunds due to withdrawal are calculated using the percentage of term not completed as mandated by federal aid regulations. More information about aid adjustments and refunds related to changes in enrollment status may be obtained from the Financial Assistance Office.

Students who withdraw prior to the first day of classes shall receive a full refund of all payments except tuition deposits.

In certain cases there is value in advising students to register for a course in order to permit them to test their interest or to evaluate overall course load for the semester. To make this possible without financial loss to the student, a course may be dropped with full tuition refund during the designated time for adding new courses, with the recommendation of the academic advisor and approval of the respective graduate program director.

Community Counseling Curriculum Design

60 semester hours
The following curriculum design lists the courses, including requirements and typical electives in the sequence a full-time student would typically take them.

FIRST YEAR

Fall Semester
COUN 507     Professional Identity, Function & Ethics (3 hrs.)
COUN 508     Counseling Techniques (3 hrs.)
COUN 527     Psychopathology I (3 hrs.)
COUN 547     Counseling Theories (3 hrs.)

Spring Semester
COUN 528     Practicum (3 hrs.)
COUN 567     Group Counseling (3 hrs.)
COUN 587     Crisis Intervention & Trauma Healing (3 hrs.)
COUN 518     Integrated Counseling Process: Skills, Techniques, & Intervention (3 hrs.)
COUN 628     Psychopathology II (2 hrs.)

Summer Term
COUN 607     Multicultural Counseling (3 hrs.)
COUN 637     Career Development (3 hrs.)

SECOND YEAR

Fall Semester
COUN 517     Human Growth and Development (3 hrs.)
COUN 537     Counseling Research & Program Evaluation (2 hrs.)
COUN 617     Child and Adolescent Counseling (3 hrs.)
COUN 627     Marriage & Family Counseling (3 hrs.)
COUN 688     Internship (3 hrs.)

Spring Semester
COUN 537     Counseling Research & Program Evaluation (2 hrs.)
COUN 557     Assessment & Evaluation Procedures (3 hrs.)
COUN 618     Professional Seminar (3 hrs.)
COUN 688     Internship (3 hrs.)
COUN 697     Addictions Counseling (3 hrs.)

ELECTIVES:
PAX 533       Analysis: Understanding Conflict (3 hrs.)
COUN 542     Psychology of Religious Experience (3 hrs.)
COUN 677     Independent Studies Arr.

COUN 507 Professional Identity, Function & Ethics 3

A process of self examination and professional development of one’s gifts and skills, ethical base, philosophical perspective and the integration of one’s faith with the role of counselor. A beginning study of the ACA code of ethics, professional identity, counselor role and the counseling process. A beginning experience of supervision and skill development.

COUN 508 Counseling Techniques 3

An intensive practical experience in counseling techniques designed to prepare the student to enter the field placement/practicum phase of the degree program. Audio, video, personal supervision, and feedback are used to help the student attain competency in the application of theory in the counseling interview and the counseling relationship. Students are involved in a supervised practicum assignment in which they enter a counseling relationship with another person. Prerequisite: COUN 507; co-requisite COUN 528.

COUN 517 Human Growth and Developmental 3

A study of life span learning and personality development with application to counseling. Both individual and family development are studied. Covers topics related to the physical, cognitive, social and emotional aspects of growth. Change processes, stresses accompanying change, and strategies for facilitating development will be explored. Implications of multicultural and pluralistic trends are examined.

COUN 518 Integrated Counseling Process: Skills, Techniques, & Intervention 3

This course provides an opportunity to apply counseling techniques in working with clients. Class sessions and readings will explore various ways to implement counseling techniques and utilize apropriate client interventions in clinical work. Theoretical models will provide a context from which to apply each counseling technique. Students will engage in experiential exercises, techniques based role-plays and skill enhancement group praxis. Students are encouraged to take risks and develop their personal style in applying experiential methods in treatment.

COUN 527 Psychopathology I: 3

An in-depth examination of primary mental/behavioral disorders, including considerations of their origin, treatment, and prevention. Includes an introduction to the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the primary guide to diagnosis used by mental health professionals, and its use in the diagnostic process.

COUN 528 Practicum 3

An intensively supervised practical experience in a setting consistent with the student’s area of interest/specialization. The student assumes the professional role and responsibilities of a counselor under supervision by an approved professional. Minimum of 100 counseling hours. Prerequisite: COUN 507; co-requisite COUN 508.

COUN 537 Counseling Research and Program Evaluation 4

A review of the research methods used in counseling. Included are experiences in searching research literature databases, understanding basic statistics and using statistical software, planning research, and communicating research findings. The application of research strategies to program evaluation is emphasized.

COUN 542 Psychology of Religious Experience 3

A focus on the dialogue between psychology and theology as it relates to religious experience. Various religious realities such as childhood religious experience, conversion, mysticism, adult religious experience and prayer are addressed. The academic discipline of the psychology of religion is explored for relevant insights. There is also an examination of various developmental theories with respect to their application to religious experience. Students focus on a particular topic or issue for in-depth exploration.

COUN 547 Counseling Theories 3

An examination of the various contemporary theories and techniques of counseling. These approaches are examined critically from a faith perspective. Opportunity also is given to develop a personal counseling theoretical statement with incorporation of ethics and professional identity. Co-requisite: COUN 507.

COUN 557 Assessment and Evaluation Procedures 3

Students achieve basic understanding of assessment and evaluation procedures. Special emphasis is given to counseling decision making and treatment planning. Theoretical and applied material will be integrated so as to provide the student with an understanding of the context of assessment and evaluation. Emphasis will be placed on equipping students to understand technical terms in professional journals, test manuals, and test reports.

COUN 567 Group Counseling 3

This course will focus on the theories, dynamics, process, and practice of group counseling. Leadership styles and approaches, and a variety of types of groupwork, are studied. Experiential learning is emphasized. Prerequisite: COUN 507.

COUN 587 Crisis Intervention and Trauma Healing 3

Students gain education and limited experience in effectively dealing with clients in crisis. Specific attention will be given to assessment, identification, treatment methods, and available resources for clients in crisis. Theoretical and applied information is presented. Student’s personal response to crisis is also explored.

COUN 607 Multicultural Counseling 3

Explores theories and techniques useful to multicultural counseling. Identifies new approaches to diversity incorporating cultural dynamics of the individual and groups. The course will include self-exploration, identification of skills and study of models which expand attention to cross-cultural issues of congregations and community.

COUN 617 Child & Adolescent Counseling 3

A study of the dynamics shaping the development and behavior of children, adolescents, and families. Emphasis is on diagnosis with a framework for systematic observation and interview techniques.

COUN 618 Professional Seminar 3

This seminar course is offered in the last semester of student training in conjunction with internship. It provides an opportunity to integrate academic and applied learning in a consulatation conversation with peers and all full-time faculty. Various counseling topics will be addressed emphasizing counselor identity, professionalism and ethics. This unique context provides a bridge between academic training and professional life.

COUN 627 Marriage and Family Counseling 3

An introduction to family systems counseling as a means of providing counseling to couples and families. A variety of family systems theories and techniques are explored from a faith perspective. Students develop a genogram covering their own family experience. Various issues such as sexuality, gender, abuse, divorce, culture and ethnicity, and blended family experience will be discussed. Practical experience is a requirement for the course and ethical issues are integrated in the study.

COUN 628 Psychopathology II 2, 3

A continuation of Psychopathology I with emphasis on disorders less frequently encountered in the general practice of professional counseling. Includes an in-depth study of Axis II (Personality) Disorder and development of the integration of case-report writing, case-conceptualization, treatment planning, and intervention skills integrated with generation of clinical diagnosis.

COUN 637 Career Development 3

Students will recognize the importance and uniqueness of career counseling. Emphasis is given to developmental consideration and the role of testing. Career development counseling considers the issues of personal faith and values, Christian calling, and ethics.

COUN 677 Independent Studies Arr.

This refers to studies of specific issues or areas not covered by any of the standard offerings. These studies may be requested by the student or suggested by an instructor. Approval by the instructor and the director is required. Methodology may involve assigned readings, written reports or any other methods the supervising instructor chooses. A student should have credit for three courses, and must qualify academically for independent study in the judgment of the director before approval is granted. A limited number of hours in independent study will be applied toward a degree.

COUN 688 Internship 3

The internship experience is designed to give advanced students in counseling the opportunity to put into practice the skills and knowledge they have developed throughout their counseling program. The student may select from a var