Seminary Community Standards

Seminary Community Standards

The Seminary has set forth lifestyle standards that express the nature of this particular Christian community, enhance the purposes of the community, and provide for the life and growth of community members. These standards are based on scriptural principles, insights from various academic disciplines, and appreciation for the evangelical heritage of the Seminary and its constituency. A detailed treatment of standards of conduct and of Seminary policy regarding disciplinary process is available separately.

Responsibilities inherent in membership in the Seminary community involve both general patterns of community lifestyle and particular requirements regarding specific activities. In signing an application for admission, the applicant assumes responsibility to maintain these standards upon acceptance as a student at the Seminary.

Scripture does not provide specific teaching regarding all behaviour; controversy regarding individual practices has arisen throughout the history of the church. Nevertheless, the Seminary has established guidelines for all students which specifically prohibit particular practices, including: dishonesty, all forms of academic dishonesty, theft, premarital sex, adultery, homosexual behaviour, profanity, gossip, racism, infringement of the rights of others, disregard for governmental authority, abuse of one’s body through the use of harmful substances, the practice of gambling on campus, the possession and use of tobacco and alcohol on campus, hazing, harassment, hateful communication, sexual harassment and assault, and any behaviour that threatens the safety of a student.

Violation of these guidelines will lead to disciplinary action. While the first concern of such action is restoration, a violation of a serious nature or consistent disregard for the standards of the community may result in dismissal from the Seminary.