Southern Adventist University
Graduate Catalog 2008-2009
Admissions Information:
Nationwide: 1-800-768-8437
(1-800-SOUTHERN)
Mailing Address:
Graduate Studies Office
P.O. Box 370
Collegedale, TN 37315-0370
Ph.: 423-236-2694
FAX: 423-236-1694
E-mail:
GraduateStudies@southern.edu
Website:
GraduateStudies.southern.edu
All Other Inquiries:
General Number: 423-236-2000
School of Business & Management:
Ph.: 423-236-2751
FAX: 423-236-1527
School of Education & Psychology:
Ph.: 423-236-2496
FAX: 423-236-1765
School of Nursing:
Ph.: 423-236-2940
FAX: 423-236-1940
School of Religion:
Ph.: 423-236-2977
FAX: 423-236-1976
In publishing this catalog, every reasonable effort has been made to be factually accurate The publisher assumes
no responsibility for editorial, clerical, or printing errors. The information presented is, at the time of printing,
an accurate description of course offerings, policies, and requirements of Southern Adventist University The
provisions of this catalog, however, are not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the University
and the student The University reserves the right to change any provision or requirement at any time, without
prior notice.
2 Table of Contents
Contents
Degrees Offered 4-5
Academic Calendar 6
This is Southern Adventist University 7
Mission Statement 7
Vision 7
Core Values 7
Educational Philosophy 7
Institutional Goals 7
Student Learning Goals 8
Guiding Principles for Graduate Programs 9
History 9
Setting 9
Accreditation and Memberships 10
Facilities 10
Admissions 12
Admission Requirements 12
Admission Categories 13
Registrations 13
Admission of International Students 14
Academic Policies 16
General Requirements for Master's Degree 16
Enrollment 18
Medical Records 18
Online Programs 18
Grade Policies 19
Petition and Academic Grievance Procedures 20
Financing Your Education 22
Federal Stafford Loan Requirements and Disbursement 22
Ability to Benefit 22
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Students Receiving
Financial Aid 22
Requirements 23
Time Frame for Receiving Financial Aid 23
Progress Review 23
Fees and Charges 23
Tuition 23
Table of Contents 3
Special Fees and Charges 23
Financial Aid Budget 24
Refunds 25
International Student Deposit 25
Credit Cards 25
Summer Residence Hall 26
University Apartments 26
Books and Supplies 26
Release of Transcripts or Diplomas 26
Schools of Instruction
Business and Management 27
Education and Psychology 35
Nursing 47
Religion 67
Course Descriptions 76
Registry 110
Graduate Instructional Faculty Ill
Adjunct Faculty 112
4 Degrees Offered
Graduate Studies
The Board of Trustees of Southern Adventist University has authorized master's degrees in
the following areas:
School of Business and Management
Master of Business Administration
- Accounting
- Church and Nonprofit Leadership
- Healthcare Administration (available online)
- Management (available online)
- Marketing Management
Dual Degree— MSN and MBA (MBA component available online)
Master of Financial Services
Master of Science in Administration
- Church Administration
- Outdoor Education
School of Education and Psychology
Master of Science
- Professional Counseling
- School Counseling
Master of Science in Education
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Inclusive Education (available online)
- Literacy Education
- Outdoor Teacher Education (available online)
School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing
- Adult Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Educator
Accelerated RN to MSN
- Adult Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Educator
Accelerated RN to MSN and MBA (MBA component available online)
Dual Degree— MSN and MBA (MBA component available online)
Post Master's Certificate
- Adult Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Educator
Degrees Offered 5
School of Religion
Master of Arts
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Church Leadership and Management
- Church Ministry and Homiletics
- Evangelism and World Mission
- Religious Studies
6 Academic Calendar
Academic Calendar
2008-2009
Summer 2008
May 5-Jul 24 School of Business and Management classes begin and end
May 5-23 School of Religion classes begin and end
May 5-30 School of Education— Counseling classes begin and end
Jun 2-26 School of Education and Psychology classes begin and end
Jun 2-Jul 25 School of Education— Counseling classes begin and end
Jun 9-27 School of Religion classes begin and end
Jun 30-Jul 24 School of Education and Psychology classes begin and end
Jul 7-25 School of Religion classes begin and end
First Semester, Fall 2008
Aug 28-Dec 17 School of Nursing classes begin and end
Aug 28-Dec 17 School of Education— Counseling classes begin and end
Aug 31-Sep 10 School of Education— Outdoor Education classes begin and end
Sep 1-Nov 21 School of Business and Management classes begin and end
Oct 1 Begin ordering December graduation regalia
Oct 16-19 Mid-Semester Break
Oct 23-26 Alumni Weekend
Oct 31 Deadline to request Dec/may graduation at Records & Advisement Office
Nov 3-14 Online Registration for W09
Nov 26-30 Thanksgiving Break
Dec 5 MSN Project/Thesis Presentation
Dec 16-19 Semester Examination
Dec 19 Commencement 7:00 p.m. lies Auditorium
Dec 18-Jan 4 Christmas Vacation
Second Semester, Winter 2009
Jan 5-Apr 2 School of Business and Management classes begin and end
Jan 5-Apr 30 School of Nursing classes begin and end
Jan 5-Apr 30 School of Education— Counseling classes begin and end
Jan 18-28 School of Education— Outdoor Education classes begin and end
Jan 19 Martin Luther King Jr. Day/no classes/Community Service Day
Feb 6 Begin ordering May graduation regalia
Feb 27-Mar 8 Spring Break
Apr 27 MSN Project/Thesis Presentation
Apr 27-May 1 Semester Exams and Registration for First Summer Session
May 3 Commencement 9:30 a.m. Memorial Auditorium
Note:
1. Late registration fee applies the first day of class.
2. Last day to add a course is two weeks for semester classes and two days for
intensives.
3. Last day to drop and receive a "W" is two-thirds of class days. After 90% of class
days, students will receive a F.
4. No tuition refunds after half of class term is over.
This is Southern Adventist University 7
This is Southern Adventist University
Southern Adventist University is a co-educational institution established by the
Seventh-day Adventist Church, offering master's, baccalaureate, and associate degrees,
and one-year certificates.
The Mission
Southern Adventist University as a learning community nurtures Christ-likeness and
encourages the pursuit of truth, wholeness, and a life of service.
Vision
Southern Adventist University, responsive to its diverse constituencies, will provide high
quality education benefit, lead in the integration of faith and learning, and model
academic and professional excellence. The institution will graduate servant leaders
guided by faith and integrity, and committed to living balanced lives.
Core Values
• A Christ-centered, Seventh-day Adventist campus
• Academic and professional excellence
• Hospitality and service
• Affordable education
• Balanced lifestyle
Educational Philosophy
Rooted in its theological understanding of God and humanity, the educational philosophy
of the Seventh-day Adventist church is summarized as follows:
• God, the creator and Sustainer of the universe, is the Source of all knowledge.
• Created in the image of God for the purpose of communion with Him, humanity
has sinned and has separated from Him.
• Through infinite love, God sent His Son to restore this relationship with us— a
personal relationship that begins now and continues throughout eternity.
Within the context of this theological understanding, education is viewed as an essential
element of redemption, and must focus on developing the whole person. Through
harmonious development of the physical, mental, and spiritual, and social dimensions,
the individual becomes better equipped to bring wholeness to a broken world.
Institutional Goals
Southern Adventist University will
• Learning Community
nurture campus learning communities that engage students with ideas that
mark educated persons, global and multicultural perspectives, and advanced
technology to develop both ethical principles and intellectual flexibility.
8 This is Southern Adventist University
• Faculty and Staff
hire and develop a competent and diverse faculty and staff who model balanced
ethical lives, integrate faith and learning, demonstrate scholarship through
teaching, research, and other scholarly and creative activities, and celebrate and
energize the student spirit as they respect and support the different ways
students develop their minds, their persons, and their citizenship.
• Students
recruit, retain, and support a capable, diverse student body.
• Campus Environment
provide a safe, nurturing learning community of faith for students, faculty, and
staff.
• Student Service
enable every student to participate in local service and/or mission service
activities.
• Partnerships
pursue and nurture partnerships with alumni, church, community, business and
industry, civic organizations, and government in order to analyze, project, and
respond to changing needs to help ensure that graduates are prepared for a life
of service.
• Stewardship
steward resources entrusted to the university through effective fiscal
management to fulfill its mission, vision and goals.
Student Learning Goals
Students of Southern Adventist University will
• Spiritual
grow in a vibrant relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, while integrating into
their lives Bible-based beliefs and values as understood by the Seventh-day
Adventist church.
• Intellectual
develop a commitment to life-long-learning and demonstrate a mastery of the
cognitive skills of critical reasoning, independent thinking, reflective judgment,
communication, and creativity needed to confront the issues, ideas, and values
of historical and contemporary civilization.
• Occupational
exhibit excellence and moral leadership in their chosen field of study and/or
profession.
• Social
develop socio-emotional maturity that will enable them to be effective leaders
and contributing members of their churches, families, groups, and communities
in a global society.
• Physical
take responsibility for their own well-being through a health-promoting lifestyle.
This is Southern Adventist University 9
Guiding Principles for Graduate Programs
In keeping with the institutional mission statement, graduate education at Southern
Adventist University provides an opportunity for motivated students to combine the
acquisition of knowledge with refinement of their intellectual skills in the pursuit of truth.
This experience extends beyond the transmission of information in the traditional
disciplines. Rather, the learning environment consists of a community of scholars where
students and professors jointly share dilemmas as well as discoveries and insights,
resulting in a mutually fulfilling growth experience. Such opportunities motivate the
student to engage in open dialogue, debate, critique, thoughtful query and independent
thinking. Previous knowledge and understandings are examined, reconsidered, and
synthesized in light of new learning; and accepted practices undergo the rigor of
thoughtful analysis.
Students study and integrate theory, research, and practice in specialized areas of
expertise. Considerable emphasis is placed upon independent and collaborative projects,
which require a complexity of skills, including problem identification, inquiry, problem
solving, analysis, and synthesis. Depending upon the particular graduate program;
comprehensive examinations, capstone seminars, portfolio, and thesis afford additional
demonstrations of scholarship and the potential for contributions to the field. Sound
scholarship is expected, and these projects may lead to formal papers, professional
presentations, or publishable manuscripts.
At Southern Adventist University, the quest for truth relates to matters of Christian faith.
Because Biblical ideals lead to an appreciation of human dignity, participants in the
community of scholars seek to apply theory in ways that preserve human worth. Christian
education combines faith and learning, understanding and practice, erudition and
service.
History
In 1892 the educational venture that developed into Southern Adventist University had its
beginning in the small village of Graysville, Tennessee. The school became known as
Graysville Academy. In 1896 the name was changed to Southern Industrial School and
five years later to Southern Training School.
In 1916, because of limited acreage available for further expansion of plant facilities, the
school was moved to the Thatcher farm in Hamilton County, Tennessee. The name
"Collegedale" was given to the anticipated community. At its new location, the school
opened as Southern Junior College and continued as such until 1944 when it achieved
senior college status, after which the name was changed to Southern Missionary College.
In 1982 the name was changed to Southern College of Seventh-day Adventists. University
status was achieved in 1996 when the name was changed to Southern Adventist
University.
Setting
Southern Adventist University's 1,100 acre Collegedale campus is nestled in a valley 18
miles east of Chattanooga. The quietness and beauty of the surroundings are in keeping
with the University's educational philosophy.
10 This is Southern Adventist University
Accreditation and Memberships
Southern Adventist University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia
30033-4097; telephone number 404.679.4501) to award one-year certificates, associate
degrees, baccalaureate, and masters' degrees. It is also accredited by the Accrediting
Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools, Colleges, and Universities. Additional
information regarding the University may be obtained by contacting the State Board of
Independent Colleges and Universities, Department of Education, Tallahassee, FL 32399
(850.488.8695). The Master of Science degree in School Counseling is approved by the
Tennessee State Board of Education.
The Schools of the University are also accredited by various organizations. The School of
Business and Management is accredited through the International Assembly for Collegiate
Business Education (Olathe, KS 66221, telephone number, 913.631.3009). The School
of Education and Psychology teacher education program is accredited by the National
Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. The University is approved by the
Tennessee State Board of Education for the preparation of secondary and elementary
teachers, and has received preliminary approval for Administrator PreK-12 licensure. The
Associate of Science, Bachelor of Science, and Master of Science degree programs in
nursing are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (61
Broadway, New York, NY 10006, telephone number, 212.363.5555 ext. 153). The
School of Nursing is an agency member of the Council of Baccalaureate and Higher
Degree Programs and the Council of Associate Degree Programs of the National League
for Nursing. The School of Nursing is approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing.
Facilities
The following buildings house the academic and other activities of the University:
• Brock Hall— Business and Management, English, History, Journalism and
Communication, Visual Art and Design, WSMC FM90.5
• Daniels Hall— Social Work and Family Studies
• Hackman Hall— Religion
• Hickman Science Center— Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Mathematics, Physics
• J. Mabel Wood Hall— Music
• Ledford Hall— Technology
• Lynn Wood Hall— Advancement, Alumni, Development, Heritage Museum,
Student Success Center/Counseling and Testing
• Mazie Herin Hall— Nursing
• McKee Library— Main Campus Library
• Miller Hall— Modern Languages
• Southern Online Campus
• Summerour Hall— Education and Psychology, Teaching Materials Center, 21st
Century Classroom
This is Southern Adventist University 11
• William lies Physical Education Center— Physical Education, Health, and
Wellness, Swimming Pool
• Wright Hall— Administration
Other facilities on or near campus that may serve student needs:
• Campus Services-security
• Campus Shop— student bookstore and gift shop
• Southern Village
• Student Apartments
• Talge Hall— men's residence hall
• Thatcher Hall— women's residence hall
• Thatcher Hall South— women's residence hall
• University Health Center— health services
12 Admissions
Admissions
Southern Adventist University welcomes applications from students who will commit
themselves to an educational program that unites academic integrity and Christian
principles. The University does not discriminate in admissions on the basis of age, gender,
race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, or disability.
Application for admission to graduate study, with the exception of the RN to MSN
program, is open to any person with a four-year bachelor's degree from a regionally
accredited institution. Applicant must have a satisfactory grade point average (see
requirement of individual Schools). All application materials become the property of the
University and will not be forwarded or returned. Incomplete and inactive applications are
maintained in an active file for 12 months, after which the file is purged. An applicant
whose file has been purged will be required to resubmit all new application materials prior
to the deadline dates for the term in which registration/enrollment is anticipated.
Enrollment in a graduate program is a privilege, which may be withdrawn by the University
if it is deemed necessary by the Dean of the Graduate Studies to safeguard the
University's standards.
Admission Requirements
Applicants seeking admission should have a complete application on file by the following
preferred dates: July 1 for the fall semester, November 1 for the winter semester, and
April 1 for the summer session. These deadlines are for U.S. residents. International
students should plan on submitting their paperwork at least two months prior to the
deadlines for U.S. residents.
Admission to a master's degree program in the School of Graduate Studies requires a
3.00 undergraduate GPA (on a 4.00 scale). The following materials must be submitted
before an applicant will be considered for admission:
1. A completed application form. (Applications can be submitted electronically via the
web at: http://graduatestudies.southern.edu ).
2. Non-refundable application fee of $25.
3. One official transcript of all previous undergraduate and graduate coursework.
4. Professional recommendations, as requested, by the respective School.
5. Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management
Admission Test (GMAT) and/or entrance examination scores as required by the
respective School. To register for the GRE and GMAT contact: Educational Testing
Service at http://www.ets.org .
6. Additional materials as required by the respective School.
When all pertinent materials are received, the Graduate Studies Office will review the
application and forward the materials to the respective School. No action is taken until a
file is complete. The decision to admit or reject an applicant rests with the admissions
committee of the respective School. The applicant will be notified by mail of any action
taken.
Admissions 13
Admission Categories
Admission to the graduate studies program is based on academic preparation and
potential. Admission is denied to those applicants who do not qualify for one of the
following categories of admission:
Regular Admission
An applicant granted regular admission is a degree-seeking student who meets all
admission requirements (see Admission Requirements) to a degree program, and who
meets any additional School requirements. [Refer to the respective School for specific
requirements for admission to the degree program.]
Provisional Admission
This category of admission may be granted to an applicant who does not meet all of the
criteria for regular admission requirements. A maximum of 12 semester hours may be
taken on this basis.
The provisional status will be removed after completion of 12 hours of graduate credit
with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Failure to maintain a 3.00 while in this status will result in
dismissal.
Non-degree Admission
Admission as non-degree seeking is designed for an applicant having a four-year
bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent who needs
additional time to fulfill application requirements or does not wish to pursue a degree
program.
An applicant who does not wish to pursue a graduate degree must submit the following
materials to the Office of Graduate Studies:
• A completed Non-degree Application form
• Non-refundable application fee of $25
• One official transcript from all colleges and universities attended
A maximum of 12 graduate hours may be taken in graduate non-degree status. A non-
degree student must maintain a 3.00 grade point average to continue enrollment in non-
degree status (see Academic Policies). Admission to non-degree status does not
constitute admission to a degree program. The student who seeks to enter a degree
program will be directed to the appropriate School. An international student on a student
visa may not enroll in the non-degree status. Some Schools do not permit non-degree
students to register for graduate courses.
Registrations
All registrations may be done online.
• Obtain a Southern email account by going to: access.southern.edu click on user
name and password.
• Using access.southern.edu, supply user name and password, click on
Registration.
• Grades may be obtained through access.southern.edu as well as academic
history and degree audit.
14 Admissions
• Prior to web registration, financial arrangement must be cleared by Student
Finance (423.236.2835).
• Prior to web registration, health records (main campus only) must be cleared by
Health Services (423.236.2713.)
Note:
1. Late registration fee applies the day after each registration.
2. Last day to add a course is two weeks after each registration (intensives are two
days).
3. Last day to drop and automatically receive a "W" (equals two-thirds of the class
days.)
4. All withdrawals after two-thirds of course will receive an "F" (equals to 90% of class
days.)
5. No tuition refunds after half of class term is over.
Admission of International Students
An international applicant must have an equivalent four-year bachelor's degree with at
least a "B" average on undergraduate coursework, and meet the admissions
requirements for acceptance to a graduate program.
The following items must be received before admission will be considered.
1. A completed application form with a nonrefundable application fee of $25.
2. Official or attested university records (including proof of all degrees received), with
certified translations and evaluations if the records are not in English.
3. Certification of English proficiency. Graduate students whose native language is not
English must submit a score of 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100
(internet-based). Visit the TOEFL website at http://www.ets.org/toefl for the most up-
to-date information and exam registration.
4. Documented evidence of financial resources sufficient to support the student for the
calendar year, in addition to a required US$3,000 international student deposit.
5. Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management
Admission Test (GMAT), if required.
6. Letters of recommendations or rating forms.
Admission must be granted, and financial documentation and degree confirmation must
be received prior to issuance of an 1-20 form needed to obtain a visa.
The University will not enroll any student who has not been approved by the Immigration
and Naturalization Service to attend Southern Adventist University. International students
accepted for graduate study at Southern will receive a letter of acceptance from their
program of study. This letter and the SEVIS 1-20 form furnished by the University must be
presented to the consular officer of the United States to whom the student applies for a
student visa. Southern will not accept visas issued for admission to other colleges or
universities. International students admitted to graduate study are encouraged to arrive
on campus two weeks prior to the beginning of classes and should contact the
International Students Adviser as soon as they arrive. The office of Graduate Studies
must be notified of any change in entering date after admission has been granted. All
Admissions 15
international students with student visas are required by current immigration laws to be
enrolled in a full course study (a minimum of nine credit hours) for each semester in
attendance.
According to current immigration laws, international students with student visas may work
on campus provided that employment is available and provided that the student is
enrolled in a full course of study nine (9) hours for each semester in attendance and is
making progress to the completion of a degree. On-campus employment is limited up to
20 hours per week when there are regular classes held. Such employment may be full
time (up to 40 hours per week) during school vacation periods.
International students should not leave their homeland until they have in their
possession:
1. An admission letter of acceptance from Southern Adventist University
2. Form 1-20 (from Southern Adventist University)
3. A valid passport
4. A valid visa to enter the United States
5. Sufficient funds for the first year at Southern Adventist University
International Transcripts
Precise, word-for-word, English translations are required for all foreign language
documents. Often the issuing institution will provide an English translation. Alternatively,
the student may provide the translation. If the translation is anything other than the
issuing institution's official document, an original language official transcript is still
required from the issuing institution. Inclusion of the student's name in English on an
original language transcript, by the issuing foreign school, helps identify the transcript.
International Evaluations
All international (non-US) transcripts must be submitted to one of the following evaluation
services. Evaluations by companies other than those listed are not accepted and will
necessitate the resubmission of foreign transcripts to one of the following evaluation
services:
• American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO),
http://www.aacrao.org/international/foreignEdCred.cfm
• Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc (ECE), http://www.ece.org
• World Education Services (WES), http://www.wes.org
Results of the evaluation are to be sent to Southern directly from the evaluation service.
All evaluation reports are advisory. Southern reserves the right to make final equivalency
decisions.
English Proficiency
Regardless of nationality or citizenship, an applicant whose native language is not English
and whose education has been given outside the U.S. will be exempt from taking the
Graduate Record Exam, but must provide an official Test of English as a Foreign Language
(TOEFL) score of at least 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100 (internet-
based). TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. If it has been more than
two years since the test taker last took the TOEFL, the test must be taken again to have
the score reported.
16 Academic Policies
Academic Policies
General Requirements for Master's Degree
Admission, Progression and Degree Candidacy
Students admitted under regular admission criteria are regarded as candidates for their
declared degrees as long as they maintain a minimal grade point average of 3.00,
including no more than two classes with a minimum grade of C.
Applicants who do not satisfy the regular admission requirements may be permitted to
enroll in specific classes as provisional status while completing such requirements. A
maximum of twelve (12) semester hours may be taken in residence with a grade point
average of 3.00 with no grade lower than C, including a maximum of one course with a
grade of C.
Credit and Course Requirements and Limitations
Students are responsible for meeting the semester hour requirement for the chosen
degree.
A maximum of six semester hours taken for graduate credit from courses numbered 450
or higher, under special circumstances, may be applied to a student's graduate program.
Such courses must be approved by the student's School and carry grades of B or better.
A student may receive credit for the course from only one program (ie. graduate or
undergraduate).
Only earned credit that applies to its graduate programs is recognized. Credit by validation
exam is only permitted when a student has successfully completed a predefined
structured course of study for which a validation exam has been established and
approved by the School. Credit obtained by validation exam is considered earned credit.
A maximum of 12 hours of credit may be obtained by validation exam. Credit for
experiential learning, credit by challenge examination, and other categories of non-
traditional credit may not apply to a graduate degree. Students may validate their
knowledge in specific courses by waiver examinations but must also complete a
commensurable number of hours in approved courses to meet the minimum amount of
earned credit for graduation.
Graduation Requirements
In order to graduate, a candidate must:
1. Complete an application to graduate which must be filed with the Records and
Advisement Office two months prior to the anticipated graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below a C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree.
3. Pass a comprehensive examination and/or a defense of a thesis/research project,
portfolio, or case study, as may be required by the respective School. For additional
graduate requirements, see the Catalog section on degree to be earned.
Academic Policies 17
Responsibilities of the Student
Each graduate student is responsible for knowledge of all regulations and procedures
published in this bulletin and in school entrance materials. Continued advancement in
the program is contingent upon the adherence to the decisions of the Graduate Council
and the policies and procedures as published in this catalog. The student must assume
the initiative in such matters as securing approval of a program of study and arranging for
required tests and examinations. Failure to do so may result in unnecessary delay or
interruption of graduate studies.
Second Master's Degree
Degree programs for students who have already completed a master's degree will be
arranged individually. The amount of applicable class work from the first degree will be
determined by the age of previously earned credit and its appropriateness to the program.
Ordinarily, theory courses that are more than ten years old and technology application
courses that are more than five years old must be repeated or waived by a validating
examination. Students must complete a minimum of two-thirds of the credits required for
a second degree which may include independent study in residence. A thesis or research
project may be required. The GRE/GMAT is not required for a student pursuing a second
master's degree from a U.S. accredited institution.
Thesis Requirement
If the School requires a thesis, the student must secure the School's approval of the
thesis topic and research design. Research and thesis preparation are under the direction
of the student's School.
Two copies of the approved thesis, one of which will be placed in the library, must be
provided to the School.
Time Requirement
The time required to complete a degree is as follows:
School of Years
Religion 7
Education & Psychology 7
Business & Management & Nursing (MSN/ MBA) 6
Business & Management 5
Nursing (MSN) 5
Ordinarily, theory courses that are more than ten years old and technology application
courses that are more than five years old must be repeated or waived by a validating
examination.
Transfer Credit
Transfer credits may be applied toward the requirements for a degree. Transcripts will be
accepted from an officially accredited institution, and courses must carry grades of B or
better and be approved by the School. A transfer student must complete seventy-five
percent of the degree program at Southern Adventist University.
18 Academic Policies
Veterans Educational Benefits
VA benefits will be terminated if the student's cumulative grade point average falls below
3.00. Practical training or Internships required for graduation may be certified to VA and
must meet the same standards of progress as students pursuing resident courses.
Withdrawal from a Course
The last day to drop and automatically receive a "W" equals two-thirds of the class days.
Enrollment
Advisement
Each graduate student will be assigned an adviser who will provide academic counseling,
approve course scheduling, and supervise research.
Attendance
Students are responsible for attending classes regularly and must comply with the
attendance policies described in the course syllabi for courses in which they are enrolled.
Course Load for Intensive Classes
No more than one credit hour per week for any given course may be earned. For every
week of class instruction a maximum of one credit hour may be earned.
Enrollment Status
Nine semester graduate hours constitutes full-time status and five semester graduate
hours is equivalent to part-time status. The maximum number of hours for which
graduate students may enroll is 12, unless special permission is given through the Dean
of Graduate Studies. A mixture of graduate and undergraduate classes could jeopardize
the student status with loan deferment and/or health insurance policies. Students
enrolled in 12 undergraduate hours are classified as full-time. Six undergraduate hours
constitutes half-time enrollment. Students should check with their health insurance
provider or loan company for eligibility.
Independent Study
A maximum of six semester hours may be taken as independent study within the graduate
degree.
Medical Records
All students attending classes on the university campus are required to submit a
completed Health Information form. Forms are available at the University Health Center
or on the website http://studenthealth.southern.edu . Failure to complete this form will
delay registration.
Online Programs
Online graduate programs are available from the School of Business and Management
and the School of Education and Psychology. These online programs provide the same
quality of educational experience as that received by students on campus. For course
availability and more information you may visit http://online.southern.edu or contact the
Southern Online Office at 423.236.2087.
Academic Policies 19
Readmission
A student who has not registered for graduate courses at Southern Adventist University for
three consecutive terms (including summers), or in the case of summer intensives two
consecutive summers, must apply for readmission. An admission application should be
submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies at least two weeks prior to the desired reentry
date. A student, who has attended another institution since enrollment at Southern
Adventist University, must submit one official transcript showing all coursework and any
degrees earned at that institution. The student will be notified when the School/program
and the Office of Graduate Studies have taken action.
Reclassification
A student who wishes to change a major program of study must complete a Request for
Change of Graduate Program form, which can be obtained online or from the Office of
Graduate Studies. The form requires the signature of the Dean of the School in which
admission was previously granted. No signature is needed if a student requests to
change from non-degree status to a degree program or from one degree to another within
the same School. The student must be in good standing for a revision to be processed.
Acceptance into a new degree program is contingent upon review and recommendation by
that School. If the student is not accepted into the program requested, he/she remains in
the former program. The results of each request for program change are communicated
to the student by mail.
Registration
Students must register for course work (online or regular) no later than the beginning of
the second week of class.
Reinstatement Policy
A student may apply for reinstatement to a program when he/she has not met
progression and candidacy requirements. The application will be considered by the
Graduate Council.
Repeated Courses
A course may be repeated on the resident campus for the purpose of improving the GPA.
A maximum of two courses may be repeated. This does not apply for provisionally
accepted students.
Second Emphasis
Each emphasis must include a minimum of one-third the total hours required for the
respective degree that do not overlap with any other emphasis.
Grade Policies
Grading System
An institutional grading system is not followed as course syllabi describe methods of
evaluating students' work and the grading system for each course. The following
equivalencies are used:
20 Academic Policies
CR
0.00
Credit
1
0.00
Incomplete
IP
0.0
In Progress
NR
0.00
Not Reported
P
0.00
Pass
S
0.00
Satisfactory
W
0.00
Withdrawal
A 4.00 grade points per hour
A- 3.70
B+ 3.30
B 3.00
B- 2.70
C+ 2.30
C 2.00
F 0.00
Minimum Grades
A maximum of two courses with C grades may count toward a master's degree. Grades
lower than C (2.00) are not applied toward completion of a graduate program.
Provisionally accepted students may only have one C grade.
Petition and Academic Grievance Procedures
Academic Grievances
The student, believing that he or she has been unfairly treated or disciplined, may enter
into an academic grievance process. The student shall first discuss the grievance with the
instructor, within two weeks, of the grievance in an informal conference. If the student
believes that the solution is not appropriate, the student may submit the grievance, in
writing, to the School's Dean within four weeks of the informal conference. If the student
believes that the resolution facilitated by the School Dean is not appropriate, the student
can appeal to the Dean of Graduate Studies within six weeks of the informal conference.
The Dean of Graduate Studies will ask the Graduate Council to appoint a Grievance
Committee according to the policies of the Employee Handbook. The decision of the
Grievance Committee shall be final.
Academic Integrity
Students are expected to practice academic integrity in all instances. The penalties for
dishonesty including plagiarism may include the following:
1. Record a failing grade on the exam, assignment, or project.
2. Assign a failing grade in the class.
3. Allow the student to resubmit the assignment with a reduced value for the
assignment.
4. Assign the student a paper, project, or activity that improves the student's
understanding of the value and nature of academic integrity.
5. Dismissal from the University.
Disability Services
Southern is in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (1973) and is
dedicated to the elimination of architectural and prejudicial barriers which prevent any
qualified person from attending. Southern has designated Disability Support Services
(DSS), located on the third floor of Lynn Wood Hall, to provide academic disability services
according to the provisions of applicable disability law.
Academic Policies 21
The University does not assume the responsibility of identifying students who qualify for
accommodations or special services. The student must 1) voluntarily and confidentially
identify to the Disability Services Coordinator (DSC) as having a qualifying disability and 2)
provide appropriate documentation to be certified to receive accommodations.
Students with physical or academic disabilities that could impact their learning
experiences at Southern must contact DSS, by phone (423.236.2574) or in person (LWH
308), to schedule an appointment with the DSC. It is expected that students with
disabilities will make this contact no later than the first three weeks of the semester.
Otherwise, the process of certifying eligibility and arranging for reasonable
accommodations might not be completed in time to meet their needs before mid-term.
Students who make initial contact with DSS after the first month of the semester should
not expect to receive accommodations for that semester.
To find out more about services, as well as the requirements and processes involved in
qualifying for accommodations at Southern, please visit http://dss.southern.edu .
Petitions
Students may petition the Graduate Council for exceptions to policy. Petitions should
include reasons for the request. The form may be obtained from the Records and
Advisement Office.
22 Finances
Financing Your Education
Southern Adventist University operates on the basis of each graduate student assuming
the primary responsibility for his/her educational costs. Financial aid is available to U.S.
citizens and permanent residents in the form of low interest federal and private
educational loans. Repayment of these loans does not begin until after a student drops
below half-time status. A limited number of private institutional scholarships and graduate
assistantships are available for students in the Master of Business Administration,
Education, Counseling, and Nursing programs. (Students may apply for these
scholarships/assistantships through the school in which they are enrolled.)
Students receiving a Seventh-day Adventist conference subsidy/assistance for tuition and
living expenses may not be eligible for financial aid. Specific assistance may vary
between the conferences, therefore tuition and expenses not covered by the subsidy must
be paid at, or before, registration. International students are not eligible for U.S. federal
financial aid.
Federal Stafford Loan Requirements and Disbursements
Students must register for, and attend, a minimum of five credit hours per semester to
receive a Federal Stafford Loan. The first half of the loan amount will be credited to the
student's account after the student's attendance in at least five credits has been verified.
The amount that graduate students may borrow per year is up to $20,500 ($8,500
Subsidized, $12,000 Unsubsidized Stafford Loan) or the cost-of-attendance, whichever is
less, at an annual interest rate of 6.80%. Principal repayment begins six months after the
student ceases to be enrolled in at least five credit hours. Students receiving a Federal
Stafford Loan will need to complete and mail the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
(FAFSA) and a loan application six to eight weeks prior to registration. Student borrowers
may not receive anticipated loan funds unless the amount borrowed exceeds the direct
costs, and the funds have been received by Southern. If extenuating circumstances
occur, students may appeal to the Financial Appeals Committee.
Ability to Benefit
The federal government requires that the university have an official copy of the
baccalaureate transcript from an accredited institution prior to disbursement of federal
financial aid to graduate students. Therefore, students accepted provisionally will not
receive their loan proceeds until an official of their baccalaureate transcript is received by
the Records and Advisement Office at Southern.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy for Graduate Students
Receiving Federal Financial Aid
Government regulations require all financial aid recipients to maintain satisfactory
academic progress toward a degree, as measured both qualitatively and quantitatively, in
order to receive financial aid, including federal loans. This requirement applies to the
entire period of enrollment in Southern Adventist University's graduate program— including
periods during which a student does not receive financial aid. Failure to comply with this
requirement may result in a student becoming ineligible for financial aid.
Finances 23
Requirements
A student must maintain a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 and
complete at least 67.00% of attempted credit hours.
"Attempted credits" are those credits for which a student registers and of which he/she
attends at least two class periods. Aid is awarded based on these credits. {Incompletes,
withdrawals, and failed classes count toward the total attempted credits. A repeated
course counts as attempted credit each time it is taken.)
"Completed credits" are those that apply to a student's degree and for which a passing
grade is received. (Incompletes, withdrawals, failed classes, and audits do not count as
completed credits.)
Time Frame For Receiving Financial Aid
The maximum time to receive financial aid is 150% of the established course length. A
student may receive financial aid for up to two graduate degrees.
Progress Review
Student Finance will review each student's academic progress at least once per semester
and will send a notice, in writing, if a student has not maintained satisfactory academic
progress as outlined above.
A student whose financial aid/loans have been suspended as a result of failing to comply
with this policy, and who feels that unusual and unavoidable circumstances led to this
suspension, may appeal to the Financial Appeals Committee. Student Finance will advise
the student, in writing, of the committee's decision.
Fees and Charges 2008-2009
Tuition
Southern Adventist University requires full payment of tuition at or before registration for
each graduate course. Students receiving loans that are equal to or greater than their
tuition expenses and are guaranteed by the lender prior to registration are not required to
pay until the loan proceeds are received by Southern.
Effective May 1, 2008, graduate tuition is $464 per credit hour.
Special Fees and Charges
The following special fees and charges are assessed individually as applicable:
Add/Drop Fee $ 20.00
Application fee 25.00
Graduation fee 50.00
Insufficient funds for check 25.00
International Graduate Study Tours 1/3 regular tuition rate
Lab fees:
Lab fee 1 10.00
Lab fee 2 15.00
Lab fee 3 20.00
24 Finances
Lab fee 4 30.00
Lab fee 5 60.00
Lab fee 6 90.00
Lab fee 7 120.00
Lab fee 8 150.00
Lab fee 9 180.00
Lab fee 10 210.00
Lab fee 11 240.00
Lab fee 12 300.00
Lab fee 13 325.00
Lab fee 14 350.00
Lab fee 15 400.00
Late registration 50.00
Parking fee 15.00
Replacement of ID card 15.00
Transcript fees:
1-5 copies first class mail Free
Each additional 5 copies 10.00
FEDEX service 25.00
International fax service 15.00
Validation exam recording fee 35.00
Financial Aid Budget 2008-2009
Program Length
Degree Programs (# of months/acad.yr.)
Business (all emphases) 12
Education (Outdoor Education emphasis) 12
Education and Psychology (all Counseling emphases) 12
Nursing (all emphases) 12
Education (all emphases excluding Outdoor Education) 4
Religion (all emphases) 4
Finances 25
(12 mos.)
(8 mos.)
(4 mos.)
Tuition (9 credit hrs)
$12,528
$8,352
$4,176
Housing
6,000
4,000
2,000
Board
3,000
2,000
1,000
Books and Supplies
1,200
800
400
Personal/Transportation
3,000
2,000
1,000
Financial Aid Budget* $25,728 $17,152 $8,576
*Estimate: Figures are estimated and will vary, depending upon individual needs and number of credit hours for
which the student has enrolled.
Refunds
If a student officially withdraws during the course or semester, a refund of tuition for
hours dropped is made according to the date on the withdrawal form. All required
signatures must be obtained and the form must be filed with the Records and Advisement
Office.
Tuition refunds, when a student withdraws from a course, are calculated as follows:
• during the first two class periods 100%
• from the third class to course midpoint 50%
• from midpoint to course ending date 0%
International Student Deposit
In addition to regular University charges, international students must provide an
International Student Deposit of $3,000 U.S. This applies to all international students
except documented permanent residents of the U.S. or residents of Canada. The deposit
must be received by the Enrollment Services Office before a U.S. Immigration Form 1-20 is
sent to the prospective student for entry to the U.S. Because mail service from many
foreign countries takes time, this deposit should be sent at least eight weeks prior to
enrollment. This deposit, once paid, remains untouched (with interest paid at the rate of
two percent) until the student graduates, withdraws from Southern, or is unable to pay his
or her student account, at which time the international deposit will be applied to the
student's account. If the student's account has been paid in full, the deposit will be
refunded after the final statement is issued.
Credit Cards
The Cashier's Office honors VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards for
making payments on a student's account. No cash withdrawal service is available from
the Cashier's Office. This service may be obtained from a local financial institution or
ATM.
When using a credit card to pay on an account, the following information must be
supplied: 1) type of credit card being used, 2) cardholder's name, 3) credit card number,
and 4) expiration date.
26 Finances
Summer Residence Hall
A refundable deposit of $250 is required of each student. This deposit is held in reserve
until the student permanently moves out of the residence hall. Seventh-day Adventist
conference-sponsored students enrolled part-time in the summer program are exempt
from this requirement.
The rental charge per person for dual occupancy is $11 per day. When available, single
occupancy is permitted at $17 per day. Room charges will be posted to a student's
account monthly, based on the number of days a room was occupied/reserved during the
month.
Pets and children of students are not permitted to stay in the residence halls.
University Apartments
The University apartments are available on a first-come first-served basis. Rental
arrangements are made with the office of the Vice President for Financial Administration.
The first month's rent and a $250 housing deposit is required before a rental agreement
is issued. An additional $5 per key deposit must be paid before keys to the apartment are
issued. These deposits are fully refundable unless there are unpaid rental charges,
cleaning charges and/or unreturned keys. Additional charges will be assessed if the
deposit is insufficient to cover these costs. Semester rental charges will be posted to the
student's account to be paid monthly. Subject to change without notice.
Books and Supplies
Textbooks, school supplies, and other class materials are available at the Campus Shop.
Release of Transcripts or Diplomas
It is the policy of the university to withhold transcripts, diplomas, certificates of
completion, and other records if a student has an unpaid or past-due account at the
school, any unpaid account for which the university has co-signed, or if a federal loan
borrower has not completed a Federal Stafford Loan Exit Interview.
When payment is made by personal check, the transcript will be held for up to ten working
days to allow the check to clear.
Any student that has an amount that has been written off due to an uncollectible account,
settlement, or lost account must pay the written off amount prior to enrolling in any class
or being accepted or re-accepted as a graduate student.
Any student with an account that has not been paid in full due to a bankruptcy filing, must
be paid in full before acceptance or enrollment unless (1) the student has received a
hardship discharge from the bankruptcy court and provides a copy of the same to the
University or (2) the student can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the University that his
or her account falls outside of the educational benefit discharge exception of Section
523(a)(8) of the Bankruptcy Code.
School of Business and Management 27
School of Business and Management
Accredited by International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
Dean: Don Van Ornam
Faculty: Michael Cafferky, H. Robert Gadd, Jan Haluska, Rob Montague, Cliff Olson, Don
Van Ornam, Jon Wentworth
Adjunct Faculty: Herbert Coolidge, Neville Webster, Greg Willett, Ben Wygal
Mission Statement
The mission of the School of Business and Management lies within the mission of
Southern Adventist University. The mission of the School of Business and Management is
to develop Christ-centered business leaders who integrate knowledge and application
with high moral values.
Objectives
In order to carry out this mission, the Graduate School of Business and Management
seeks to accomplish the following goals for each master emphasis:
1. To give the student a broad background of knowledge of the free enterprise system
within a framework of moral and ethical guidelines.
2. To assist the student in developing a sound Christian philosophy toward our current
economic environment and the ever-changing business world of the future.
3. To provide the student with a quality academic program at the graduate level with
skills required for today's job placement.
4. To prepare the student to serve in a position of business leadership.
5. To provide the necessary academic background for entrance into terminal degree
programs in business or related areas of concentration and obtain professional
degrees.
Degrees Offered
The School of Business and Management offers a Master of Business Administration
(MBA), Master of Financial Services (MFS), and a Master of Science in Administration
(MSA). In conjunction with the School of Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing/Master
of Business Administration degree is offered (MSN/MBA).
Online Program
The Master of Business Administration (Management and Healthcare Administration
emphases) degree program is available online. You may contact
http://business.southern.edu or the School of Business and Management
(423.236.2751) for more information.
28 School of Business and Management
Accreditation
Southern Adventist University has received specialized accreditation for its business and
business-related programs through the International Assembly for Collegiate Business
Education (IACBE), Olathe, Kansas. The following degree programs are accredited by the
IACBE:
• Bachelor of Business Administration degree
• Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration, Computer Information
Systems, Corporate Community Wellness Management, Long-Term Care
Administration, and Sports Studies
• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Financial Services
• Master of Science in Administration
Admission Requirements
In addition to the admission requirements for graduate study, a candidate for a Master of
Business Administration, Master of Financial Services, or a Master of Science in
Administration will comply with the following requirements:
1. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any major.
2. A cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or higher.
3. A Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) taken within the past five years.
Students will be admitted based on the following formula: GPA x 200 + GMAT =
1000. An applicant with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. college or
university, and who has an undergraduate GPA of 3.25 or above, or a GPA of 3.00
and five years of full-time business-related management experience may be admitted
without a GMAT score.
4. International students must provide an official GMAT score as a prerequisite for
acceptance. In addition they must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper
based)/250 (computer-based)/100 (internet-based), having taken the test within the
past year or demonstrate proficiency in the use of the English language.
Note: All graduate admission documents are to be sent to the Graduate Studies Office.
Provisional Admission
An applicant with a combined GPA/GMAT score of less than 1000 may be admitted
provisionally. A student accepted provisionally will be admitted to regular status upon the
completion of 12 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Students are not permitted
to repeat courses in order to satisfy this requirement. Students who do not satisfy this
requirement will not be permitted to continue in the program.
Admission to the Programs
Full-time students may be admitted into the program during the fall semester. Part-time
students may enter the program at the beginning of any semester. (Fall, Winter, Summer)
School of Business and Management 29
Time Limits
The programs are structured to meet the needs of the part-time as well as the full-time
student. Normal progress through the programs for the full-time student will be four
courses per semester. Normal progress for part-time students will be one or more
courses per semester. The time allowed from enrollment to the graduate program to the
conferring of the Master of Business Administration degree may not exceed five years.
Application for an extension will be considered on an individual basis.
Residence
The last 30 semester hours (24 hours for the MFS) must be taken through the Southern
Adventist University School of Business and Management.
Progression
1. A maximum of six semester hours with a minimum grade of B may be transferred into
the program to satisfy graduation requirements provided they are equivalent to
course requirements.
2. A course may be repeated one time for the purpose of improving the GPA. A
maximum of two courses may be repeated.
Second Emphasis
Each emphasis must include a minimum of 12 hours that do not overlap with any other
emphasis.
Criterion Lab Fee
Because effective writing is essential for managers, emphasis is placed on the writing
component throughout the graduate business programs. Each student will be charged
lab fee 1 in all core graduate classes as listed in the Catalog for the use of the Criterion
writing website. This website provides a way for students to check their written
assignments for basic writing errors as required by professors.
Graduation Requirements
A candidate must:
1. Complete an application to graduate, which must be filed with the Records and
Advisement Office two months prior to the anticipated graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below a C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree.
Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration program consists of 36 hours of courses. The
regular schedule is a three semester regimen of four courses each.
The emphases in the MBA are:
• Accounting
• Church and Nonprofit Leadership
• Healthcare Administration (SAU Campus, Online)
30 School of Business and Management
• Management (SAU Campus, Online, Chattanooga)
• Marketing Management
Applicants without undergraduate accounting and finance courses will be required to
complete prerequisite accounting and finance courses (see Admission Requirements).
Courses for the Master of Business Administration
Emphasis in ACCOUNTING
ACCT 507, 508* Intermediate Accounting or equivalent
FNCE 505* Principles of Finance
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World
BUAD 510 Accounting for Control and Decision Making
BUAD 520 Financial Management
BUAD 530 Organizational Behavior
BUAD 540 Marketing Management
BUAD 555 Leadership and Change
BUAD 562 Integrating Faith and Business
BUAD 570 Strategic Decision Making
ACCT Accounting Electives
Total
Emphasis in
ACCT 505*
FNCE 505*
BUAD 505
BUAD 510
BUAD 520
BUAD 530
BUAD 540
BUAD 555
BUAD 562
BUAD 570
BEXM 505
BHRM510
NPLD
Total
CHURCH AND NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP
Financial Accounting
Principles of Finance
Management in a Changing World
Accounting for Control and Decision Making
Financial Management
Organizational Behavior
Marketing Management
Leadership and Change
Integrating Faith and Business
Strategic Decision Making
Legal Framework of Decisions
Human Resource Management
Church and Nonprofit Electives
Emphasis in HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION (available online)
ACCT 505* Financial Accounting
FNCE 505* Principles of Finance
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World
BUAD 510 Accounting for Control and Decision Making
BUAD 520 Financial Management
BUAD 530 Organizational Behavior
BUAD 540 Marketing Management
BUAD 555 Leadership and Change
Credit
6
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
12
*36-45
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
6
*36-42
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
School of Business and Management 31
BUAD 562
BUAD 570
BEXM 505
BHRM 510
HADM
Total
Emphasis in
ACCT 505*
FNCE505*
BUAD 505
BUAD 510
BUAD 520
BUAD 530
BUAD 540
BUAD 555
BUAD 562
BUAD 570
BEXM 505
BHRM 510
BEXM
Total
Emphasis in
ACCT 505*
FNCE505*
BUAD 505
BUAD 510
BUAD 520
BUAD 530
BUAD 540
BUAD 555
BUAD 562
BUAD 570
BEXM 505
BHRM 510
BMKT
Total
Integrating Faith and Business
Strategic Decision Making
Legal Framework of Decisions
Human Resource Management
Healthcare Administration Electives
MANAGEMENT (available online)
Financial Accounting
Principles of Finance
Management in a Changing World
Accounting for Control and Decision Making
Financial Management
Organizational Behavior
Marketing Management
Leadership and Change
Integrating Faith and Business
Strategic Decision Making
Legal Framework of Decisions
Human Resource Management
Management Electives
MARKETING MANAGEMENT
Financial Accounting
Principles of Finance
Management in a Changing World
Accounting for Control and Decision Making
Financial Management
Organizational Behavior
Marketing Management
Leadership and Change
Integrating Faith and Business
Strategic Decision Making
Legal Framework of Decisions
Human Resource Management
Marketing Management Electives
3
3
3
3
6
*36-42
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
6
*36-42
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
6
*36-42
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
32 School of Business and Management
Master of Financial Services
The Master of Financial Services is designed to meet the needs of three distinct groups of
applicants: (1) applicants who have completed an undergraduate degree in accounting,
(2) applicants who have completed an undergraduate degree in finance, (3) students
pursuing a dual BBA-FS/MFS degree. Graduate admission requirements for each group is
listed below.
Applicants without an accounting or finance undergraduate degree will be required to
complete prerequisite accounting and finance courses (see Admission Requirements).
Admission Requirements
In addition to the admission requirements for graduate study and SBM admissions
requirements, a candidate for a Master of Financial Services will comply with the following
requirement:
A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in accounting, finance, or financial
services. Applicants with a bachelor's degree in another area are required to add ACCT
505, ACCT 507, ACCT 508, and FNCE 505 to their programs unless they can show credit
for such courses at the undergraduate level.
Note: All graduate admission documents are to be sent to the Graduate Studies Office.
Admission Requirements for Dual BBA-FS/MFS Degree Applicants (five-year
program)
1. A cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 or higher.
2. Successful completion of the following undergraduate courses:
• ACCT 311, 312 (Intermediate Accounting I, II)
• BUAD 221 (Business Statistics)
• EC0N 224, 225 (Macro/Micro Economics)
• FNCE 315 (Business Finance)
• MATH 120 (Precalculus Algebra)
Courses for the Master of Financial Services
The program consists of 30 hours of courses.
Core Courses Credit
ACCT 507, 508* Intermediate Financial Accounting I, II 6
FNCE 505* Principles of Finance 3
ACCT 510 Accounting for Control and Decision Making 3
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World 3
BUAD 562 Integrating Faith and Business 3
FNCE 510 Financial Management 3
ACCT 564/ Financial Statement Analysis 3
FNCE 564
Core Subtotal *15-24
School of Business and Management 33
Electives Credit
Select five (5) electives from the following:
ACCT520 Accounting Theory 3
ACCT 530 Controllership 3
ACCT 550 Advanced Accounting 3
ACCT 552 Auditing 3
ACCT 556 Federal Taxation 3
ACCT 557 Advanced Federal Taxation 3
ACCT 558 Federal Tax Problems/Research 3
ACCT 585 Contemporary Issues of Professional Practice 3
ACCT 587 Accounting and Reporting in the SEC Environment 3
BHRM 510 Human Resource Management 3
BUAD 530 Organizational Behavior 3
FNCE520 Finance Theory 3
FNCE 525 International Finance 3
FNCE 545 Mergers and Acquisitions 3
FNCE 552 Money and Banking 3
FNCE 555 Fundamentals of Investments 3
FNCE 561 Portfolio Management 3
FNCE 585 Contemporary Issues in Finance 3
Subtotal 15
Total *30/39
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
Master of Science in Administration
The Master of Science in Administration degree is designed for students with a non-
business undergraduate background or who desire further preparation in leadership.
Students with an undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution may be
accepted in the program without further prerequisites upon compliance with the
admission requirements for graduate study.
The emphases in the MSA are:
• Church Administration
• Outdoor Education
Admission Requirements
In addition to the admission requirements for graduate study, a candidate for a Master of
Science in Administration will comply with the following requirement:
In some instances a Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) taken within the
past five years may be required. In such situations students will be admitted based on
the following formula: GPA x 200+GMAT=1000.
Note: All graduate admission documents are to be sent to the Graduate Studies Office.
Admission to the Program
The program is designed for part-time students. Part-time students may enter the
program at the beginning of any semester based on when courses are offered.
34 School of Business and Management
Courses for the Master of Science in Administration
The program consists of 36 hours of courses including eight courses (24 hours) in the
business area and the emphasis of four courses (12 hours) in the professional area.
Select one of the areas of emphasis either in Church Administration or Outdoor Education.
The Business Courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
ACCT 505* Financial Accounting 3
BHRM 510 Human Resource Management 3
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World 3
BUAD 510 Accounting for Control and Decision Making 3
BUAD 540 Marketing Management 3
BUAD 555 Leadership and Change 3
BUAD 562 Integrating Faith and Business 3
NPLD 530 Strategic Management in Nonprofit Organizations 3
MBA (ACCT, BUAD, BEXM, BHRM, BMKT, FNCE 3
(HADM, NPLD) Electives
Business Courses Subtotal *24-27
Emphasis in CHURCH ADMINISTRATION
The following courses are required:
RELP 513 Effective Church Leadership 3
RELT 581 Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society 3
Select six (6) hours from the course offerings in the School of Religion. 6
Subtotal
Total *36-39
Emphasis in OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Choose one of the following course combinations:
EDOE 503/504 Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education/Field Exp
EDOE 523/524 Leadership in Outdoor Education/Field Experience
EDOE 533/534 Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites/Field Experience
Subtotal 3
Select nine (9) hours from the elective course offerings in EDOE from the
School of Education and Psychology
Subtotal 9
Business Courses Subtotal *24-27
Total *36-39
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
School of Education and Psychology 35
School of Education and Psychology
Dean: Denise Dunzweiler
Faculty: Krystal Bishop, Charles D. Burks, Myrna Colon, Robert Coombs, Alberto dos
Santos, Denise Dunzweiler, lleana Freeman-Gutierrez, Carleton L. Swafford, John Wesley
Taylor V, Ruth WilliamsMorris
Adjunct Faculty: Jean Lomino
Mission Statement
The mission of the School of Education and Psychology at Southern Adventist University is
to prepare students at both undergraduate and graduate levels who can function
effectively in a culturally pluralistic society and who are dedicated to assisting individuals
in reaching their maximum potential in service to God and humanity.
Degrees Offered
The School of Education and Psychology offers a Master of Science degree with two
emphases in Counseling and a Master of Science in Education degree with five
emphases.
The emphases in Counseling are:
• Professional Counseling
• School Counseling
The emphases in Education are:
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Educational Administration and Supervision
• Inclusive Education (available online)
• Literacy Education
• Outdoor Teacher Education (available online)
Online Programs
The Master of Science in Education is available online in the following emphases:
Outdoor Teacher Education and Inclusive Education. For course availability and more
information you may visit http://online.southern.edu or contact the Southern Online office
at 423.236.2087.
Master of Science
Professional Counseling and School Counseling
Objectives
1. Provide students with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge base in those areas
of the social/behavioral sciences applicable to the profession of counseling. This
includes emphasis on the multidimensional personal, familial, and societal issues
that affect development throughout the human lifespan.
36 School of Education and Psychology
2. Aid students in the acquisition of counseling and related skills, such as individual
counseling, couples and family counseling, supervision of counseling activities,
testing, consulting, group work, interviewing, diagnosis, and assessment.
3. Provide students with knowledge of the organization and administration of human
service agencies or education institutions, as well as clarity regarding the role of the
professional counselor in these settings.
4. Educate students regarding research and evaluation tools relevant to the delivery of
helping services in various settings.
5. Introduce students to the wide scope of diverse populations they will encounter in
their work settings, and aid them in developing sensitivity to difference and the skills
to address differences appropriately.
Prerequisites for Admission
In addition to the admission requirements for graduate study, a candidate for the Master
of Science program with emphases in Professional Counseling or School Counseling must
comply with the requirements listed below. Students who wish to enroll prior to
completing all prerequisites for regular admission may be granted non-degree student
status. Students who have not met all requirements for regular admission upon
completion of 9 semester hours will be prohibited from registering for additional credits
until all requirements are satisfactorily completed.
1. Academic records are examined to determine whether the applicant has established
a firm basis for graduate work in the proposed field of study. The completion of a
minimum of nine upper division semester hours in psychology or behavioral sciences
on the undergraduate level or on the graduate level, including one class in research
and/or statistics, is required.
2. The absence of any felony or pending prosecution for felony. (Completion of form
verifying such and background check are required).
3. Three letters of recommendation, including one academic and one professional, from
recent sources, are required. Letters are required and additional recommendation
forms (to be attached to letters) are available from the Graduate Studies Office.
4. An interview by counseling area faculty to assess the candidate's values,
commitment to multiculturalism, attitudes, and communication skills. This interview
will generally be conducted within one month of the student's initial enrollment.
5. Prior to the faculty interview, candidates are asked to complete a written "Statement
of Purpose" regarding their motivation for joining the counseling program. Guidelines
are available from the School of Education and Psychology.
6. In harmony with accepted academic practice for regular admission status, a
minimum of 3.00 grade point average on the undergraduate level or on nine
semester hours of graduate credit is required. Students with a grade point average
less than 3.00 may be considered for provisional admission on an individual basis.
Regular admission status may be granted if the student's GPA averages 3.0 or
higher at the end of the first nine graduate semester hours, and all other regular
admission requirements have been met.
7. The results of the required Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test provide
additional evidence of the applicant's aptitude and knowledge. Consideration is
given to scholarly promise as well as achievement. The minimum required for
School of Education and Psychology 37
regular admission is a combined verbal and quantitative score of 900. International
students whose language of education is not English will be exempt from taking the
GRE, but must submit their score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language
(TOEFL). A minimum score of 600 on the paper-based test, 250 on the computer-
based TOEFL, or 100 on the internet-based TOEFL is required.
8. 16 PF (personality test) results on record prior to completion of 9 semester hours of
credit.
The School of Education and Psychology reserves the right to revoke admission should a
candidate be deemed inappropriate for a counseling degree.
Graduation Requirements
A candidate must:
1. Complete an application to graduate, which must be filed with the Records and
Advisement Office two months prior to the anticipated graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree.
3. Pass a written comprehensive examination designed by the faculty.
4. Complete a final position paper and/or pass an oral defense of a video case
presentation.
Courses for Master of Science in Professional Counseling Emphasis
The program includes 55 semester hours of courses and field practice. Additional
semester hours may be required for candidates who need to remove deficiencies or who
have particular interests. Candidates who wish to meet the requirements for the state
licensure (LPC) exam need a minimum of five (5) additional hours to equal the required
sixty (60) hours.
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
COUN 510 Advanced Lifespan Development 3
COUN 514 Drugs and Addictions 3
COUN 516 Career Counseling 3
COUN 520 Principles of Counseling 3
COUN 521 Psychopathology 3
COUN 526 Ethics and Legal Aspects of Counseling 2
COUN 530 Assessment and Appraisal 3
COUN 553 Group Therapy and Procedures 3
COUN 556 Theories and Techniques of Psychotherapy 3
COUN 561 Multicultural Issues in Counseling 3
COUN 570 Counseling in Community Agencies 3
COUN 575 Administration of Counseling Services 3
COUN 582 Clinical Practicum I 1
COUN 583 Clinical Practicum II: Professional Counseling 2
COUN 584 Clinical Internship: Professional Counseling 6
COUN 587 Statistics 2
COUN 590 Marriage and Family Therapy I 3
38 School of Education and Psychology
COUN 593 Child and Adolescent Problems and Treatment 3
COUN 598 Research and Program Evaluation 3
Subtotal 55
Electives
To be eligible for state LPC licensure, candidates must select an additional five (5) hours
from the following courses (courses in bold are recommended):
Courses Credit
COUN 551* Psychology of the Exceptional Child 3
COUN 558 Crisis Counseling 2
COUN 565 Topics in Counseling 1-3
COUN 591 Marriage and Family Therapy II 3
COUN 595 Independent Study 1-3
Subtotal 5
Total 60
*C0UN 551 is offered in summer only
NOTE: Availability of courses may vary
Courses for Master of Science in School Counseling Emphasis
The Master of Science degree in School Counseling is approved by the Tennessee State
Board of Education. This program includes 51 semester hours of courses and field
practice. Additional semester hours may be required of candidates who need to remove
deficiencies or who have particular interests. Because of the State of Tennessee
certification requirements, school counseling candidates without prior teaching
experience will need to participate in a semester long orientation experience, including
observation of, participation in, and analysis of classroom teaching in a school setting as
an early part of their academic program. Candidates who wish to meet the requirements
for School Counselor certification in Tennessee must complete their degree and pass the
designated PRAXIS II exam.
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
EDUC 541 Principles of Counseling 3
COUN 503 Foundations of School Counseling 3
COUN 510 Advanced Lifespan Development 3
COUN 514 Drugs and Addictions 3
COUN 516 Career Counseling 3
COUN 526 Ethics and Legal Aspects of Counseling 2
COUN 528 Learning and School Counseling Interventions 3
COUN 530 Assessment and Appraisal 3
COUN 553 Group Therapy and Procedures 3
COUN 556 Theories and Techniques of Psychotherapy 3
COUN 558 Crisis Counseling 2
COUN 561 Multicultural Issues in Counseling 3
COUN 577 Administration of School Counseling Services 3
COUN 582 Clinical Practicum I 1
School of Education and Psychology 39
COUN 583 Clinical Practicum II: School Counseling 2
COUN 584 Clinical Internship: School Counseling 6
COUN 587 Statistics 2
COUN 598 Research and Program Evaluation 3
Total 51
Master of Science in Education
Objectives
The goal of the Master of Science in Education program is to facilitate the comprehensive
development of educators as servant leaders in their communities.
This goal is realized by providing opportunities for candidates to become effective in the
following roles: (a) a caring person, (b) an informed facilitator of learning, (c) a reflective
decision-maker, and (d) a committed professional. These then lay the foundation for
professional excellence and constitute the core objectives of the Master of Science in
Education program.
Prerequisites for Admission
The School of Education and Psychology has received preliminary approval from the
Tennessee State Board of Education to offer TN State Administrator licensure
(Endorsement, Beginning Administrator PreK-12). To be eligible for this licensure, M.S.Ed,
students must complete additional admission, program, and graduation requirements,
shown in italics.
In addition to the admission requirements for graduate study, a candidate for the Master
of Science program in Education will comply with the following requirements:
1. In harmony with accepted academic practice for regular admission status, a
minimum of 3.0 grade point average on the undergraduate level or 3.0 average on
12 semester hours of graduate credit is required. Students with a grade point
average of less than 3.0 may be considered for provisional admission on an
individual basis.
2. Academic records are examined to determine whether the applicant has established
a firm basis for graduate work in the proposed field of study. Completion of a
minimum of nine semester credits in education courses is required. Generally,
candidates who have graduated from undergraduate education programs easily fulfill
this requirement. Candidates for the Master of Science in Education with an Outdoor
Education emphasis are exempt from this requirement.
3. The results of the required Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test provide
additional evidence of the applicant's aptitude and knowledge. The minimum
required for regular admission is a combined verbal and quantitative score of 900.
International students whose language of education is not English will be exempt
from taking the Graduate Record Exam, but must submit their score on the Test Of
English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimum score of 600 on the paper-based
test, 250 on the computer-based TOEFL, or 100 on the internet-based test is
required.
4. Two professional recommendations. Forms are provided. For Administrator
licensure candidates, these will be used to assess leadership potential.
40 School of Education and Psychology
5. An interview by education area faculty to assess the candidate's values, professional
commitment, attitudes, and communication skills. For Administrator licensure
candidates, one or more practicing education administrators will assist with
conducting the interview.
6. Prior to the faculty interview, candidates are asked to complete a written "Statement
of Purpose" regarding their motivation for choosing their emphasis area and what
they hope to gain from their M.S.Ed, program. Guidelines are available from the
School of Education and Psychology.
7. For Administrator licensure candidates only: Two years successful teaching
experience in a public school or non-public school, preK-12, that is approved by a
recognized accrediting agency or approved by a state department of education; an
institution of higher education approved by a regional accrediting association; U.S.
Government teaching programs; teacher exchange programs; and teaching in the
armed forces of the United States. Graduate students desiring recommendation by
the School of Education and Psychology for the Beginning Administrator License
must submit a completed and signed Experience Verification form.
Progression
In order to progress beyond 24 semester hours, a candidate must:
1. Maintain a minimum graduate grade point average of 3.00.
2. Obtain a Graduate Adviser Recommendation form (available from the School of
Education and Psychology) from their area coordinator.
3. Submit a Graduate Candidacy Self-Assessment form (available from the School of
Education and Psychology).
4. Complete a graduate research proposal (as part of EDUC 592, Educational Research
course).
Graduation Requirements
A candidate must:
1. Complete an application to graduate, which must be filed with the Records and
Advisement Office two months prior to the anticipated graduation date.
2. Completion of the program with a minimum GPA of 3.00 and no more than two
courses with C grades (one C grade for students initially admitted provisionally).
3. Pass a written comprehensive examination designed by the faculty or present a
cumulative portfolio (available only to Outdoor Education emphasis) or complete a
professional project (available only to Literacy Education emphasis).
4. For Administrator licensure candidates only: Successful completion of the Praxis
Series Specialty Test: School Leadership Licensure Assessment (SLLA, ETS code
11010). Note: Currently, successful completion requires a minimum score of 156.
School of Education and Psychology 41
Courses for the Master of Science in Education
One of the following emphases is to be selected:
Emphasis in CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
The REQUIRED courses are required as follows:
Courses Credit
EDCI 545 Foundations of Curriculum Development 3
EDCI 546 Improving Instruction 3
EDCI 560 Curriculum Design 3
EDCI 570 Educational Assessment 3
EDCI 580 Field Work OR 2
EDCI 582 Master's Practicum*
EDIE 502 Inclusive Education: History and Foundations 3
EDUC 531 Technology and the Educator 3
EDUC 587 Statistics 2
EDUC 592 Educational Research 3
Subtotal 25
Select three (3) hours from the following courses:
EDAD 545 Supervision of Instruction* 3
EDCI 565 Seminar: Trends in Education 3
EDCI 595 Independent Study in Curriculum and Instruction 1-3
EDUC 577 Reading Assessment and Remediation 3
EDUC 599 Master's Research Project 3
Subtotal 3
Select eight (8) hours of electives from EDAD, EDCI, EDIE, EDLE,
EDOE or EDUC. At least six (6) hours must be from an area other than EDCI.
OR
For Beginning Administrator licensure candidates only:*
EDAD 524 Foundations of Educational Administration 3
EDAD 570 Personnel Administration 3
EDAD 574 Legal Aspects of Education 3
EDAD 579 School Finance 3
Subtotal 8
Total *36-40
*Required for TN Beginning Administrator License
NOTE: Availability of courses varies from year to year
Emphasis in EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION & SUPERVISION
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
EDAD 524 Foundations of Educational Administration 3
EDAD 545 Supervision of Instruction 3
EDAD 570 Personnel Administration 3
EDAD 574 Legal Aspects of Education 3
42 School of Education and Psychology
EDAD 579 School Finance
EDCI 545 Foundations of Curriculum Development
EDUC 531 Technology and the Educator
EDUC 587 Statistics
EDUC 592 Educational Research
Subtotal
Select two to three (2-3) hours from the following courses:
EDAD 575
EDAD 576
EDAD 578
EDAD 582
EDAD 595
EDUC 599
Subtotal
Internship in Administration
School Public Relations
Educational Facilities Planning
Master's Practicum*
Independent Study in Educational Administration
Master's Research Project
Select eight (8) hours of electives from EDAD, EDCI, EDIE, EDLE,
EDOE, or EDUC. At least six (6) hours must be from an area other than EDAD.
Subtotal
Total
3
3
3
2
3
26
1-2
2
1
2
1-3
3
2-3
36-37
Emphasis in INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
(Special Needs in the Regular Classroom)
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses
EDIE 502
EDIE 531
EDIE 541
EDIE 557
EDIE 567
EDIE 580
EDIE 582
EDUC 531
EDUC 587
EDUC 592
Subtotal
Select two to three (2-3) hours from the following courses:
EDAD 545 Supervision of Instruction* 3
EDIE 512 Counseling and Psychology of Exceptional Individuals and Their Families3
EDIE 595 Independent Study in Inclusive Education 1-3
EDUC 577 Reading Assessment and Remediation 3
EDUC 599 Master's Research Project 3
Subtotal 2-3
Inclusive Education: History and Foundations
Behavior Management of Exceptional Individuals
Assessment of Exceptional Individuals
Leadership in Inclusive Education
Curriculum and Strategies for Children with Learning Differences
Field Work OR
Master's Practicum*
Technology and the Educator
Statistics
Educational Research
Credit
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
2
3
25
School of Education and Psychology 43
Select eight to nine (8-9) hours of electives from EDAD, EDCI, EDIE, EDLE, EDOE, or
EDUC. At least six (6) hours must be from an area other than EDIE.
OR
For Beginning Administrator licensure candidates only:*
EDAD 524 Foundations of Educational Administration 3
EDAD 570 Personnel Administration 3
EDAD 574 Legal Aspects of Education 3
EDAD 579 School Finance 3
Subtotal 8-9
Total *36-40
*Required for TN Beginning Administrator License
NOTE: Availability of courses varies from year to year
Emphasis in LITERACY EDUCATION
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
EDLE 527 Implementing Reading Workshop 3
EDLE 537 Implementing Writing Workshop 3
EDLE 565 Critical Thinking in Content Literacy 3
EDLE 567 Literacy Instruction in Primary Classrooms 3
EDLE 580 Literacy Internship 2
EDLE 585 Professional Applications in Literacy 2
EDUC 531 Technology and the Educator 3
EDUC 577 Reading Assessment and Remediation 3
EDUC 587 Statistics 2
EDUC 592 Educational Research 3
Subtotal 27
Select nine (9) hours of electives from EDAD, EDCI, EDIE, EDLE,
EDOE, or EDUC. At least six (6) hours must be from an area other than EDLE.
OR
For Beginning Administrator licensure candidates only:*
EDAD 524 Foundations of Educational Administration 3
EDAD 545 Supervision of Instruction 3
EDAD 570 Personnel Administration 3
EDAD 574 Legal Aspects of Education 3
EDAD 579 School Finance 3
EDLE 582 Master's Practicum 2
Subtotal 9
Total *36-44
*Required for TN Beginning Administrator License
Note: Availability of courses varies from year to year
44 School of Education and Psychology
Emphasis in OUTDOOR TEACHER EDUCATION
This program is designed for classroom teachers, outdoor professionals, youth workers or
anyone who wants to use more effectively God's book of nature in teaching and outdoor
programming. Generally, the classes and field experiences involve examining, evaluating,
developing, and implementing outdoor education programs. Activities, such as canoeing,
kayaking, backpacking, and rock climbing, are included as part of many of the courses, but are
not the primary focus. Students can complete their coursework in three to four semesters, and
may choose from two attendance options. Candidates applying to the Outdoor Teacher
Education program must submit to a criminal background check, in addition to completing all
other requirements for admission (see pp. 12-13).
Option 1 : The Outdoor Professional Intensives
These intensive sessions are designed for outdoor professionals (camp directors,
naturalists, etc.) who need to continue working while enrolled in classes. To
accommodate the work schedules of such professionals, each semester requires
attendance of a ten-day intensive, with additional projects and/or assignments to be
completed individually in an outdoor setting after the session. Participation in these
intensive sessions represents a commitment to the outdoor education field and is an
opportunity for students to test their skills, knowledge, desires, and career goals while
sharing topics of discussion and interest with the instructors and each other. Students in
this attendance option must be employed or have access to an outdoor facility in order to
complete field experiences required.
Option 2 : The Classroom Teacher Summer Field School
The summer field school attendance option is designed for K-12 teachers who would like
to use outdoor laboratories to enrich the classroom curriculum. Typically the student will
attend three consecutive eight-week summer field school sessions in order to complete
the degree. Some students may elect to do Independent Study or Internship as part of
their coursework. Independent Study allows the teacher to develop outdoor units of study
within their classrooms. Internships allow the teacher to network with outdoor
professionals in their home community. Resources used for Internships typically include
nature centers, parks, zoos, aquariums, museums, and government agencies offering
outdoor education programming for teachers and schools. All students attending the
summer field school should come prepared with outdoor appropriate clothing and basic
camping gear. Suggested schedules for Summer Field School and a list of items typically
required for classes are available from the School of Education and Psychology.
The REQUIRED courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
EDOE 538 Technology in Outdoor Education 2
EDOE 543 Environmental Ministries for Teachers and Youth Leaders 2
EDOE 593 Adventure-based Counseling 2
EDUC 592 Educational Research 3
Subtotal 9
Select twelve (12) hours from the following courses:
EDOE 503 Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education 2
EDOE 504 Field Experience in Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Educ 1
EDOE 513 Nature Study 2
School of Education and Psychology 45
EDOE 514 Field Experience in Nature Study
EDOE 523 Leadership in Outdoor Education
EDOE 524 Field Experience in Leadership in Outdoor Education
EDOE 533 Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites
EDOE 534 Field Experience in Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites
EDOE 535 Outdoor Therapy: Design and Procedures
EDOE 536 Field Experience: Outdoor Therapy
Subtotal
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
12
Electives
Select thirteen (13) hours from any Master's-level Business, Counseling, or Education
courses (must have pre-approval of Outdoor Education adviser).
Eight (8) hours must be EDOE courses. Candidates seeking TN Beginning Administrator
licensure must complete the following:
Courses
EDAD 524
EDAD 545
EDAD 570
EDAD 574
EDAD 579
EDOE 582
Subtotal
Foundations of Educational Administration
Supervision of Instruction
Personnel Administration
Legal Aspects of Education
School Finance
Master's Practicum
Credit
3
3
3
3
3
2
13
* 34-45
Total
*Required for TN Beginning Administrator License
Note: EDUC 599 Master's Research project is recommended
Note: A Master of Science in Administration (MSA) with an Outdoor Education emphasis is available through the
School of Business and Management (see p. 34)
Suggested Schedules for OUTDOOR PROFESSIONAL INTENSIVES
Winter Outdoor Site Development Intensive (even years)
EDOE 513 Nature Study 2
EDOE 514 Field Experience: Nature Study 1
EDOE 528 Interpretation of Natural and Historical Resources 2
EDOE 533 Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites 2
EDOE 534 Field Experience: Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites 1
EDUC 592 Educational Research 3
Winter Outdoor Perspective Intensive (odd years)
EDOE 503 Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education 2
EDOE 504 Field Experience: Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education 1
EDOE 538 Technology in Outdoor Education 2
EDOE 539 Outdoor Recreation 1-2
EDOE 593 Adventure-based Counseling 2
46 School of Education and Psychology
Fall Outdoor Leadership Intensive
EDOE 523 Leadership in Outdoor Education 2
EDOE 524 Field Experience: Leadership in Outdoor Education 1
EDOE 543 Environmental Ministries for Teachers and Youth Leaders 2
EDOE 563 Wilderness Stewardship 2
EDOE 565 Nature Joumaling 1-2
School of Nursing 47
School of Nursing
Dean: Barbara James
Graduate Program Coordinator: Holly Gadd
Faculty: Desiree Batson, Holly Gadd, Barbara James
Mission Statement
The mission of the School of Nursing is to provide a Christian learning environment that
values academic excellence and fosters personal and professional growth to meet the
diverse needs of individuals, families, and communities.
The School of Nursing's graduate program is designed to provide opportunities for
advanced practice and upward mobility within healthcare. The purpose of the graduate
program is to provide an SDA Christian graduate nursing education for individuals who
desire to serve the Seventh-day Adventist world church and local communities in
advanced nursing roles.
Degrees Offered
The School of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing with the following emphases:
• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
The School of Nursing in collaboration with the School of Business and Management
offers a dual degree:
• Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA)—
[MBA component available online]
The School of Nursing offers an accelerated RN to MSN program for Registered Nurses
with an Associate Degree or Diploma in nursing. The emphases include:
• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
• Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA)—
[MBA component available online]
The School of Nursing offers post-Master's certificate programs with the following
emphases:
• Adult Nurse Practitioner
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator
48 School of Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing
MSN Admission Requirements
1. Completed graduate application.
2. A baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing from a recognized college or
university with an accredited program.
3. Current licensure as a registered nurse in Tennessee or current multistate license
with privilege to practice in the state of Tennessee. A Georgia license is
recommended for nurse practitioner students.
4. Three hours in statistics.
5. An undergraduate GPA of 3.00 or better. If the candidate has previously taken 12 or
more graduate credits from another college or university, the graduate GPA may be
substituted for the undergraduate GPA.
6. Applicants with less than a 3.00 grade point average may be admitted provisionally.
Students initially granted provisional acceptance may progress through the program
with a maximum of one C grade.
7. Personal interview and two professional references.
8. One year of nursing experience after graduation or recommendations from nursing
faculty.
9. International students must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based), 250
(computer-based), or 100 (internet-based) with testing within the past year.
Admission to the Program
Full or part-time students may be admitted to the program during the fall or winter
semesters. Admission in the winter semester reduces the number of hours taken each
semester and extends the length of the full time program by one semester.
Application Process
1. Submit completed SAU nursing graduate application and all required documents for
University admission to the Graduate Studies Office prior to July 1 for fall admission,
and by November 1 for winter admission. Priority is given to early applicants and
applicants with current nursing work experience. Enrollment in the nurse practitioner
emphasis is limited.
2. Arrange for a personal interview with a School of Nursing graduate faculty prior to the
application deadline.
3. Provide proof of current Tennessee RN licensure or multistate RN licensure, current
immunization, and Health Care Provider CPR certification to School of Nursing MSN
Enrollment Counselor.
4. A criminal background check is required of all students. Background checks are
facilitated by the School of Nursing MSN Enrollment Counselor and the Office of
Human Resources and are charged to the student account upon enrollment.
Time Limits
The program is arranged to meet the needs of part-time and full-time students. Normal
progression through the program for the full-time student requires registration for 9 to 12
School of Nursing 49
hours per semester and takes four regular semesters. Those beginning in a winter
semester can expect to take five regular semesters to complete. Normal progression for
the part-time student requires registration for a minimum of one course per semester.
Time permitted from enrollment in the program to conferring of the MSN degree may not
exceed five years. Application for an extension will be considered on an individual basis.
Progression
Progression in the program may be inhibited by a variety of circumstances. Adverse
criminal background information is subject to faculty review and may affect progression.
Student academic standing is monitored regularly for incomplete, in-progress, or
unsatisfactory or low course grades and GPA. Students noted to have difficulties in any of
these areas are subject to advisement and consideration regarding program progression.
A student must withdraw from pre-registered courses if transcript record shows two or
more incomplete or in-progress grades from the previous semester.
Residence
The last 30 semester hours must be taken through the Southern Adventist University
School of Nursing. Seventy-five percent of program requirements must be completed at
Southern Adventist University. Transfer courses must be taken at an accredited
institution, carry grades of B or better, and be approved by the School of Nursing.
MSN Graduation Requirements
1. Completed application to graduate, to be filed with the Records and Advisement
office a minimum of two months prior to expected graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree. Students initially granted
provisional admission are limited to one C grade.
3. Successful completion of NRSG 598 with a minimum of four credit hours or NRSG
596 with a minimum of three hours.
Courses for the Master of Science in Nursing
The CORE courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
NRSG 515 Theoretical Concepts of Nursing 2
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3
NRSG 527 Nursing Research: Foundations of Evidence-based Practice 4
NRSG 531 Research Seminar 1
NRSG 541 Health Care Policy 2
NRSG 596 Nursing Project OR 3
NRSG 598 Thesis 4
Core Subtotal 15-16
50 School of Nursing
One of the following emphases is to be selected
Emphasis in ADULT NURSE PRACTITIONER*
Objectives
The Adult Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for adults, families, and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
3. Promote holistic Christ-centered care for adults, families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence health care policy and the future direction of nursing.
Courses Credit
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 552 Advanced Pharmacology 3
NRSG 554 Advanced Physical Assessment 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 561 Primary Care of Adults 3
NRSG 562 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I 4
NRSG 563 Primary Care Role Development 3
NRSG 566 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II 4
Subtotal 26
Core Subtotal 15-16
Total 41-42
*Successful completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
Emphasis in FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER*
Objectives
The Family Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for infants, children, adolescents, adults, families,
and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
3. Promote holistic Christ-centered care for infants, children, adolescents, adults,
families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence health care policy and the future direction of nursing.
Courses Credit
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 552 Advanced Pharmacology 3
NRSG 554 Advanced Physical Assessment 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 561 Primary Care of Adults 3
NRSG 563 Primary Care Role Development 3
NRSG 570 Primary Care of Children 3
School of Nursing 51
NRSG 571
NRSG 573
Subtotal
Core Subtotal
Practicum: Primary Care of Families I**
Practicum: Primary Care of Families II**
5
5
31
15-16
46-47
Total
♦Successful completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
**Substitution of NRSG 562, Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I, NRSG 566 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II
plus NRSG 572, Practicum: Primary Care of Children may be made.
Emphasis in NURSE EDUCATOR
Objectives
The Nurse Educator program will prepare graduates who will:
1. Demonstrate competency in curriculum development, classroom, and clinical
education, evaluation, and use of instructional technology.
2. Demonstrate expertise in a defined area of clinical interest.
3. Utilize the process of scientific inquiry to validate and refine knowledge.
4. Implement wholistic, Christ-centered education for students.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
(See the School of Education and Psychology for EDUC course descriptions)
Courses
EDUC 520
EDUC 531
NRSG 550
NRSG 556
NRSG 576
NRSG 581
NRSG 583
NRSG 585
NRSG 591
Subtotal
Core Subtotal
Total
Theories of Learning
Technology and the Educator
Advanced Pathophysiology
Family and Community Systems
Assessment for Advanced Practice
Nursing Curriculum Design
Classroom Instruction and Evaluation
Educator Role Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis
Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis
Credit
2
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
2
24
15-16
39-40
Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration
Objectives
Graduates of the MSN/MBA program will:
1. Demonstrate interdisciplinary expertise in nursing, business, and healthcare
administration.
2. Develop a wholistic Christ-centered nursing and business philosophy related to the
dynamic healthcare arena.
52 School of Nursing
3. Acquire a balance of nursing, administrative and business skills for service in
positions of leadership and management.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
Prerequisites for Admission
The Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (MSN/MBA) is
designed for students with a baccalaureate degree in nursing and ability to demonstrate
competency in healthcare management. Individuals with minimal or no
business/management background may be required to demonstrate basic knowledge
and/or skills in these areas.
MSN/MBA Admission Requirements
1. Submit completed SAU nursing graduate application and all required documents for
University admission to the Graduate Studies Office prior to July 1 for fall admission,
and by November 1 for winter admission.
2. A baccalaureate degree with a major in nursing from a college or university with an
accredited nursing program.
3. Current licensure as a registered nurse in Tennessee or current multistate license
with privilege to practice in the state of Tennessee.
4. Three hours in statistics, equivalent to MATH 215.
5. A Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) taken within the past five years.
Students will be admitted based on the following formula: GPA x 200+GMAT = 1000.
An applicant with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. college or
university, and who has an undergraduate GPA of 3.25 or above, or a GPA of 3.00
and five years of full-time business-related experience may be admitted without a
GMAT score.
6. One year of nursing experience after graduation or recommendations from nursing
faculty.
7. International students must provide an official GMAT score as a prerequisite for
acceptance. In addition they must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based),
250 (computer-based), or 100 (internet-based) with testing within the past year.
8. Personal interview with both the School of Nursing and School of Business and
Management Graduate Program Coordinators.
9. A criminal background check is required of all students. Background checks are
facilitated by the School of Nursing MSN Enrollment Counselor and the Office of
Human Resources and are charged to the student account upon enrollment.
School of Nursing 53
Provisional Admission
An applicant with a combined GPA/GMAT score of less than 1000 may be admitted
provisionally. A student accepted provisionally will be admitted to regular status upon the
completion of 12 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Students are not permitted
to repeat courses in order to satisfy this requirement. Students who do not satisfy this
requirement will not be permitted to continue in the program.
Admission to the Dual-degree Program
Full-time or part-time students may be admitted to the MBA program during the fall,
winter, or summer semesters and the MSN courses for the fall or winter semesters. Fall
applications must be made by July 1 and winter applications by November 1. Students
may choose to take the MSN core courses and MBA courses at the same time or
complete one program of study prior to entering the other.
Time Limits
The programs are structured to meet the needs of part-time and full-time students.
Normal progression through the dual-degree program for the full-time student requires
registration for a minimum of 9 to 12 hours per semester. Normal progression for the
part-time student requires registration for a minimum of one course per semester. Time
permitted from enrollment in the dual-degree program to conferring of the MSN/MBA
degrees may not exceed six years. Application for an extension will be considered on an
individual basis.
Progression
Progression in the program may be inhibited by a variety of circumstances. Adverse
criminal background information is subject to faculty review and may affect progression.
Student academic standing is monitored regularly for incomplete, in-progress, or
unsatisfactory or low course grades and GPA. Students noted to have difficulties in any of
these areas are subject to advisement and consideration regarding program progression.
A student must withdraw from pre-registered courses if transcript record shows two or
more incomplete or in-progress grades from the previous semester.
Residence
The last 30 semester hours must be taken through the Southern Adventist University
School of Nursing and/or the School of Business and Management. Seventy-five percent
of MSN program requirements must be completed at Southern Adventist University.
Transfer courses must be taken at an accredited institution, carry grades of B or better,
and be approved by the School.
MSN/MBA Graduation Requirements
1. Completed application to graduate, to be filed with the Records and Advisement
office a minimum of two months prior to expected graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree. Students initially granted
provisional admission are limited to one C grade.
54 School of Nursing
3. Successful completion of NRSG 598 with a minimum of four credit hours or NRSG
596 with a minimum of three hours.
Courses for the Master of Science in Nursing/Master in Business
Administration
The Nursing CORE courses are as follows:
Courses
NRSG 515
NRSG 520
NRSG 527
NRSG 531
NRSG 541
NRSG 596
NRSG 598
Core Subtotal
Theoretical Concepts of Nursing
Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
Nursing Research: Foundations of Evidence-based Practice
Research Seminar
Health Care Policy
Nursing Project OR
Thesis
Emphasis in HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
(See School of Business and Management for course descriptions)
ACCT 505*
FNCE505*
BUAD 505
BUAD 510
BUAD 520
BUAD 530
BUAD 540
BUAD 555
BUAD 562
BUAD 570
BEXM 505
BHRM 510
NRSG 578
HADM
Subtotal
Core Subtotal
Total
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
Financial Accounting
Principles of Finance
Management in a Changing World
Accounting for Control and Decision Making
Financial Management
Organizational Behavior
Marketing Management
Leadership and Change
Integrating Faith and Business
Strategic Decision Making
Legal Framework of Decisions
Human Resource Management
Advanced Nursing Leadership and Role Development
Healthcare Administration Elective
Credit
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
15-16
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
36-42
15-16
51-58
Accelerated RN to Master of Science In Nursing
The accelerated RN to MSN program allows the RN to move more quickly through the
nursing requirements toward a professional career goal. In this program there is no BS
degree. Instead the student moves through a combination of BS and MSN course work
and is awarded only a MSN degree at completion of all MSN requirements. Students
choosing not to complete the accelerated RN to MSN program may receive the BS degree
in nursing only by completing the regular BS program requirements (see undergraduate
catalog).
School of Nursing 55
RN to MSN Admission Requirements
1. Completed graduate application.
2. An Associate degree or diploma with a major in nursing from a recognized college or
university with an accredited program.
3. Current licensure as a registered nurse in Tennessee or current multistate license
with privilege to practice in the state of Tennessee. A Georgia license is
recommended for nurse practitioner students.
4. Completion of all Southern Adventist University general education and cognate
course requirements for the BS degree with a major in nursing, or an approved plan
for concurrent completion of these requirements.
5. A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25.
6. Applicants with less than a 3.25 grade point average may be admitted provisionally.
Students initially granted provisional acceptance may progress through the program
with a maximum of one C grade.
7. One year of nursing experience after graduation or recommendations from nursing
faculty.
8. International students must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based), 250
(computer-based), or 100 (internet-based) with testing within the past year.
Admission to the Program
Full-time or part-time students may be admitted to the program during the fall or winter
semesters after completion of BS general education and cognate requirements.
Application Process
1. Submit completed SAU nursing graduate application and all required documents for
University admission to the Graduate Studies Office prior to July 1 for fall admission,
and by November 1 for winter admission. Priority is given to early applicants and
applicants with current nursing work experience. Enrollment in the nurse practitioner
emphasis is limited.
2. Arrange for a personal interview with a School of Nursing graduate faculty prior to the
application deadline.
3. Provide proof of current Tennessee RN licensure or multistate RN licensure, current
immunization, and Health Care Provider CPR certification to School of Nursing MSN
Enrollment Counselor.
4. A criminal background check is required of all students. Background checks are
facilitated by the School of Nursing MSN Enrollment Counselor and of Office of
Human Resources and are charged to the student account upon enrollment.
Time Limits
The program is arranged to meet the needs of part-time and full-time students. Normal
progression through the program for the full-time student requires registration for a
minimum of 9 to 12 hours per semester. Normal progression for the part-time student
requires registration for a minimum of one course per semester. Time permitted from
enrollment in the program to conferring of the MSN degrees may not exceed five years.
Application for an extension will be considered on an individual basis.
56 School of Nursing
Progression
Progression in the program may be inhibited by a variety of circumstances. Adverse
criminal background information is subject to faculty review and may affect progression.
Student academic standing is monitored regularly for incomplete, in-progress, or
unsatisfactory or low course grades and GPA. Students noted to have difficulties in any of
these areas are subject to advisement and consideration regarding program progression.
A student must withdraw from pre-registered courses if transcript record shows two or
more incomplete or in-progress grades from the previous semester.
Residence
The last 30 semester hours must be taken through Southern Adventist University School
of Nursing. Seventy-five percent of MSN program must be completed at Southern
Adventist University. Transfer courses must be taken at an accredited institution, carry
grades of B or better, and be approved by the School.
Accelerated RN to MSN Graduation Requirements
1. Completed application to graduate, to be filed with the Records and Advisement
office a minimum of two months prior to expected graduation date.
2 Complete all coursework* with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below a C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree. Students initially granted provision
admission are limited to one C grade.
3. Successful completion of NRSG 598 with a minimum of four credit hours or NRSG
596 with a minimum of three hours.
*BS level nursing, MSN core, and emphasis courses
Substitutions for BS to MSN
BS level courses
NRSG 316 Applied Statistics for Health Professions 3
NRSG 322 Transitions in Professional Nursing 3
NRSG 328** Nursing Assessment 3
Substitute NRSG 554, Advanced Physical Assessment (3 hrs) OR
NRSG 576, Assessment for Advanced Practice (2 hrs)
NRSG 340 Community Health Nursing 5
NRSG 389* Nursing Pharmacology 3
Substitute NRSG 552, Advanced Pharmacology
NRSG 434** Pathophysiology 4
Substitute NRSG 550, Advanced Pathophysiology
School of Nursing 57
NRSG485*** Nursing Leadership and Management 3
Substitute NRSG 578, Advanced Nursing Leadership & Role Development
NRSG 492**** Senior Nursing Practicum 2
Substitute MSN emphasis course
NRSG 497**** Research Methods in Nursing 3
Substitute NRSG 527, Nursing Research, Foundations of Evidence-based Practice
and NRSG 531, Research Seminar
NRSG**** Nursing Electives 2
Substitute MSN emphasis course
* Adult Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner emphases only
**Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Educator Emphases only
***MSN/MBAonly
****AII emphases (Adult Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and
MSN/MBA)
Courses for Accelerated RN to Master of Science in Nursing
The Nursing CORE courses are as follows:
Courses Credit
NRSG 515 Theoretical Concepts of Nursing 2
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3
NRSG 527 Nursing Research: Foundations of Evidence-based Practice 4
NRSG 531 Research Seminar 1
NRSG 541 Health Care Policy 2
NRSG 596 Nursing Project OR 3
NRSG 598 Thesis 4
Subtotal 15-16
One of the following emphases is to be selected
Emphasis in ADULT NURSE PRACTITIONER (accelerated option)*
Objectives
The Adult Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for adults, families, and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
3. Promote holistic Christ-centered care for adults, families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence health care policy and the future direction of nursing.
58 School of Nursing
Emphasis courses
BS level nursing courses
NRSG 316 Applied Statistics for Health Professions
NRSG 322 Transitions in Professional Nursing
NRSG 340 Community Health
NRSG 485 Nursing Leadership and Management
Master level
NRSG 550
NRSG 552
NRSG 554
NRSG 556
NRSG 561
NRSG 562
NRSG 563
NRSG 566
Subtotal
Core Subtotal
nursing courses
Advanced Pathophysiology
Advanced Pharmacology
Advanced Physical Assessment
Family and Community Systems
Primary Care of Adults
Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I
Primary Care Role Development
Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II
Credit
3
3
5
3
3
3
3
3
3
4
3
4
40
15-16
55-56
Total
(Excluding general education and cognates)
*Successful completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
Emphasis in FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER (accelerated option)*
Objectives
The Family Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for infants, children, adolescents, adults, families,
and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
3. Promote holistic Christ-centered care for infants, children, adolescents, adults,
families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence health care policy and the future direction of nursing.
Emphasis courses
BS level nursing courses
NRSG 316 Applied Statistics for Health Professions
NRSG 322 Transitions in Professional Nursing
NRSG 340 Community Health Nursing
NRSG 485 Nursing Leadership and Management
Credit
3
3
5
3
School of Nursing 59
MSN level courses Credit
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 552 Advanced Pharmacology 3
NRSG 554 Advanced Physical Assessment 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 561 Primary Care of Adults 3
NRSG 563 Primary Care Role Development 3
NRSG 570 Primary Care of Children 3
NRSG 571 Practicum: Primary Care of Families I** 5
NRSG 573 Practicum: Primary Care of Families II** 5
Subtotal 45
Core Subtotal 15-16
Total 60-61
(Excluding general education and cognates)
♦Successful completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
**Substitution of NRSG 562, Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I, NRSG 566 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II
plus NRSG 572, Practicum: Primary Care of Children may be made.
Emphasis in NURSE EDUCATOR (accelerated option)
Objectives
The Nurse Educator program will prepare graduates who will:
1. Demonstrate competency in curriculum development, classroom, and clinical
education, evaluation, and use of instructional technology.
2. Demonstrate expertise in a defined area of clinical interest.
3. Utilize the process of scientific inquiry to validate and refine knowledge.
4. Implement wholistic, Christ-centered education for students.
5. Influence health care policy and the future direction of nursing.
Emphasis courses
(See the School of Education and Psychology for EDUC course descriptions)
BS level nursing courses Credit
NRSG 316 Applied Statistics for Health Professions 3
NRSG 322 Transitions in Professional Nursing 3
NRSG 340 Community Health Nursing 5
NRSG 389 Nursing Pharmacology 3
NRSG 485 Nursing Leadership and Management 3
MSN level courses
EDUC 520 Theories of Learning 2
EDUC 531 Technology and the Educator 3
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 576 Assessment for Advanced Practice 2
NRSG 581 Nursing Curriculum Design 3
NRSG 583 Classroom Instruction and Evaluation 3
60 School of Nursing
NRSG 585 Educator Role Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 3
NRSG 591 Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 2
Subtotal 41
Core Subtotal 15-16
Total 56-57
Accelerated RN to Master of Science in Nursing/Master of
Business Administration (mba available online)
Objectives
Graduates of the RN to MSN/MBA program will:
1. Demonstrate interdisciplinary expertise in nursing, business and healthcare
administration.
2. Develop a wholistic Christ-centered nursing and business philosophy related to the
dynamic healthcare arena.
3. Acquire a balance of nursing, administrative and business skills for service in
positions of leadership and management.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
Prerequisites for Admission
The accelerated RN to Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration
(MSN/MBA) is designed for Registered Nurse students with the ability to demonstrate
competency in healthcare management. Individuals with minimal or no
business/management background may be required to demonstrate basic knowledge
and/or skills in these areas. The accelerated RN to MSN/MBA program allows the RN to
move more quickly through the nursing requirements toward a professional career goal.
In this program there is no BS graduation. Instead the student moves through a
combination of BS, MSN and MBA course work and is awarded both the MSN and MBA
degrees at completion of all BS and MSN/MBA program requirements. Students choosing
not to complete the accelerated RN to MSN/MBA program may receive the BS degree in
nursing only by completing the regular BS program requirements (see Undergraduate
Catalog).
RN to MSN/MBA Admission Requirements
1. Submit completed SAU nursing graduate application and all required documents for
University admissions to the Graduate Studies Office prior to July 1 for fall admission,
and by November 1 for winter admission.
2. Personal interview with both the School of Nursing and School of Business and
Management Graduate Program Coordinators.
3. An Associate degree or diploma with a major in nursing from a college or university
with an accredited nursing program.
4. Current licensure as a registered nurse in Tennessee or current multistate license
with privilege to practice in the state of Tennessee.
School of Nursing 61
5. Completion of all Southern Adventist University general education and cognate
course requirements for the BS degree with a major in nursing, or a plan for
concurrent completion of these requirements approved by both the School of Nursing
and the School of Business and Management.
6. One year of nursing experience after graduation or recommendations from nursing
faculty.
7. International students must provide an official GMAT score as a prerequisite for
acceptance. In addition they must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based),
250 (computer-based), or 100 (internet-based) with testing within the past year.
8. Personal interview with both the School of Nursing and School of Business and
Management Graduate Program Coordinators.
9. A criminal background check is required of all students. Background checks are
facilitated by the School of Nursing MSN Enrollment Counselor and the Office of
Human Resources and are charged to the student account upon enrollment.
Admission to the Dual-degree Program
Full-time or part-time students may be admitted to the MBA program during the fall,
winter, or summer semesters and to the MSN courses for the fall or winter semesters.
Ideally, all BS general education and cognate courses are completed prior to admission
and registering for graduate courses. Overlap between final BS courses and MSN core
courses may occur. All baccalaureate courses must be completed prior to registering for
any MBA courses (except for ACCT 505 and FNCE 505), unless approval for concurrent
completion is granted by the School of Business and Management.
Time Limits
The programs are structured to meet the needs of part-time and full-time students.
Normal progression through the dual-degree program for the full-time student requires
registration for a minimum of 9 to 12 hours per semester. Normal progression for the
part-time student requires registration for a minimum of one course per semester. Time
permitted from enrollment in the accelerated dual-degree program to conferring of the
MSN/MBA degrees may not exceed six years. Application for an extension will be
considered on an individual basis.
Progression
Progression in the program may be inhibited by a variety of circumstances. Adverse
criminal background information is subject to faculty review and may affect progression.
Student academic standing is monitored regularly for incomplete, in-progress, or
unsatisfactory or low course grades and GPA. Students noted to have difficulties in any of
these areas are subject to advisement and consideration regarding program progression.
A student must withdraw from pre-registered courses if transcript record shows two or
more incomplete or in-progress grades from the previous semester.
62 School of Nursing
Residence
The last 30 semester hours must be taken through the Southern Adventist Univeristy
School of Nursing and/or the School of Business and Management. Seventy-five percent
of MSN program requirements must be completed at Southern Adventist University.
Transfer courses must be taken at an accredited institution, carry grades of B or better,
and be approved by the School.
MSN/MBA Graduation Requirements
1. Completed application to graduate, to be filed with the Records and Advisement
office a minimum of two months prior to expected graduation date.
2 Complete all coursework* with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below a C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree. Students initially granted provision
admission are limited to one C grade.
3. Successful completion of NRSG 598 with a minimum of four credit hours or NRSG
596 with a minimum of three hours.
*BS level nursing, MSN core, and emphasis courses
Courses for Accelerated RN to Master of Science in Nursing/Master of
Business Administration (MBA available online)
BS level nursing courses Credit
NRSG 316 Applied Statistics for Health Professions 3
NRSG 322 Transitions in Professional Nursing 3
NRSG 328 Nursing Assessment 3
NRSG 340 Community Health Nursing 5
NRSG 389 Nursing Pharmacology 3
NRSG 434 Pathophysiology 3
Subtotal 20
The Master of Science in Nursing CORE courses are as follows:
Courses
NRSG 515 Theoretical Concepts of Nursing 2
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3
NRSG 527 Nursing Research: Foundations of Evidence-based Practice 4
NRSG 531 Research Seminar 1
NRSG 541 Health Care Policy 2
NRSG 596 Nursing Project OR 3
NRSG 598 Thesis 4
Subtotal 15-16
Emphasis in HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
ACCT 505* Financial Accounting 3
FNCE 505* Principles of Finance 3
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World 3
BUAD 510 Accounting for Control and Decision Making 3
BUAD 520 Financial Management 3
BUAD 530 Organizational Behavior 3
School of Nursing 63
BUAD 540 Marketing Management 3
BUAD 555 Leadership and Change 3
BUAD 562 Integrating Faith and Business 3
BUAD 570 Strategic Decision Making 3
BEXM 505 Legal Framework of Decisions 3
BHRM 510 Human Resource Management 3
NRSG 578 Advanced Nursing Leadership and Role Development 3
HADM Healthcare Administration Elective 3
Subtotal *36-42
BS Subtotal 20
Core Subtotal 15-16
Total 71-77
(Excluding general education and cognates) (72-78 thesis)
*Required for students who have not taken undergraduate equivalents.
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Prerequisites for Admission
1. Completed graduate application.
2. A master's degree with a major in nursing from a recognized college or university with
an accredited program.
3. Current license as a registered nurse in Tennessee or current multistate license with
privilege to practice in the state of Tennessee. A Georgia license is recommended for
nurse practitioner students.
4. A graduate GPA of 3.00 or better.
5. Applicants with less than a 3.00 grade point average may be admitted provisionally,
but may progress through the program with a maximum of one C grade.
6. Personal interview and two professional references.
7. One year of nursing experience or recommendations from nursing faculty.
8. International students must have a TOEFL score of at least 600 (paper-based), 250
(computer-based), or 100 (internet-based) with testing within the past year.
Admission to the Program
Full or part-time students may be admitted to the program during the fall or winter
semesters.
Application Process
1. Submit completed SAU nursing graduate application and all required documents for
University admission to the Graduate Studies Office prior to July 1 for fall admission,
and by December 1 for winter admission. Priority is given to early applicants and
applicants with current nursing work experience. Enrollment in the nurse practitioner
emphasis is limited.
2. Arrange for a personal interview with a School of Nursing graduate faculty prior to the
application deadline.
64 School of Nursing
3. Provide proof of current Tennessee or multistate RN licensure, current immunization,
and Health Care Provider CPR certification to School of Nursing MSN Enrollment
Counselor.
4. A criminal background check is required of all students. Background checks are
facilitated by the School of Nursing MSN Enrollment Counselor and the Office of
Human Resources and are charged to the student account on enrollment.
Time Limits
The program is arranged to meet the needs of part-time and full-time students. Normal
progression through the program for the full-time student requires registration for 9 to 12
hours per semester. Normal progression for the part-time student requires registration for
a minimum of one course per semester. Time permitted from enrollment in the program
to conferring of the post-masters certificate may not exceed five year. Application for an
extension will be considered on an individual basis.
Progression
Progression in the program may be inhibited by a variety of circumstances. Adverse
criminal background information is subject to faculty review and may affect progression.
Student academic standing is monitored regularly for incomplete, in-progress, or
unsatisfactory or low course grades and GPA. Students noted to have difficulties in any of
these areas are subject to advisement and consideration regarding program progression.
A student must withdraw from pre-registered courses if transcript record shows two or
more incomplete or in-progress grades from the previous semester.
Residence
The last 20 semester hours must be taken through the Southern Adventist University
School of Nursing. Seventy-five percent of MSN program requirements must be
completed at Southern Adventist University. Transfer courses must be taken at an
accredited institution, carry grades of B or better, and be approved by the School of
Nursing.
Post-Master's Certificate Graduation Requirements
1. Completed application to graduate to be filed with the Records and Advisement office
a minimum of two months prior to expected graduation date.
2. Complete all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no
more than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below C will not
be counted for credit toward the master's degree. Students initially granted
provisional admission are limited to one C grade.
Courses for the Post-Master's Certificate
One of the following emphases is to be selected:
Emphasis in ADULT NURSE PRACTITIONER*
Objectives
The Adult Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for adults, families, and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
School of Nursing 65
3. Promote wholistic Christ-centered care for adults, families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
Courses Credit
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 552 Advanced Pharmacology 3
NRSG 554 Advanced Physical Assessment 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 561 Primary Care of Adults 3
NRSG 562 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I 4
NRSG 563 Primary Care Role Development 3
NRSG 566 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II 4
TOTAL (does not include core) 29
♦Successful completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
Emphasis in FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER*
Objectives
The Family Nurse Practitioner program will prepare graduate nurses who:
1. Provide advanced nursing care for infants, children, adolescents, adults, families,
and communities.
2. Integrate theoretical knowledge as a guide for advanced practice.
3. Promote wholistic Christ-centered care for infants, children, adolescents, adults,
families, and communities.
4. Contribute to nursing knowledge through active involvement in research.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
Courses
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology
NRSG 552 Advanced Pharmacology
NRSG 554 Advanced Physical Assessment
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems
NRSG 561 Primary Care of Adults
NRSG 563 Primary Care Role Development
NRSG 570 Primary Care of Children
NRSG 571 Practicum: Primary Care of Families I**
NRSG 573 Practicum: Primary Care of Families II**
Credit
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
5
5
34
Total (does not include core)
*Successfu/ completion of the program satisfies eligibility requirements for certification examination.
**Substitution of NRSG 562, Primary Care of Adults I, NRSG 566 Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II plus NRSG
572, Practicum: Primary Care of Children may be made.
66 School of Nursing
Emphasis in NURSE EDUCATOR
Objectives
The Nurse Educator program will prepare graduates who will:
1. Demonstrate competency in curriculum development, classroom, and clinical
education, evaluation, and use of instructional technology.
2. Demonstrate expertise in a defined area of clinical interest.
3. Utilize the process of scientific inquiry to validate and refine knowledge.
4. Implement wholistic, Christ-centered education for students.
5. Influence healthcare policy and the future direction of nursing.
(See the School of Education and Psychology for EDUC course descriptions)
Courses Credit
EDUC 520 Theories of Learning 2
EDUC 531 Technology and the Educator 3
NRSG 520 Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3
NRSG 550 Advanced Pathophysiology 3
NRSG 556 Family and Community Systems 3
NRSG 576 Assessment for Advanced Practice 2
NRSG 581 Nursing Curriculum Design 3
NRSG 583 Classroom Instruction and Evaluation 3
NRSG 585 Educator Role Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 3
NRSG 591 Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 2
Total (does not include core) 27
School of Religion 67
School of Religion
Dean: Greg A. King
Faculty: Stephen Bauer, Michael G. Hasel, J. Douglas Jacobs, Greg A. King, Judson Lake,
Donn W. Leatherman, Carlos G. Martin, Alan Parker, Edwin Reynolds, Philip G. Samaan,
Douglas Tilstra
Research Faculty: Norman Gulley
Adjunct Faculty: Gordon Bietz, Jack J. Blanco, Ron E.M. Clouzet, Ganoune Diop, Mark
Finley, Derek Morris, John S. Nixon
Mission Statement and Purpose
The mission of the School of Religion is to equip students to carry out the global mission
of the Seventh-day Adventist Church more effectively.
The Master of Arts is intended to provide quality graduate education in the areas of the
five possible emphases available to students: 1) Biblical and Theological Studies; 2)
Church Leadership and Management; 3) Church Ministry and Homiletics; 4) Evangelism
and World Mission; and 5) Religious Studies. The emphasis in Biblical and Theological
Studies is designed to provide a deeper knowledge of Scripture and theology while
preparing students to enter an academic doctoral program. The emphasis in Church
Leadership and Management is a joint program with the School of Religion and the School
of Business and Management. It is designed to enhance the administrative and
leadership skills of pastors and other church leaders. The emphasis in Church Ministry
and Homiletics is designed to enrich the preparation of pastors for local church ministry.
The emphasis in Evangelism and World Missions is designed to enrich the preparation of
workers for gospel outreach to the world. The emphasis in Religious Studies is designed
to provide a flexible graduate program in religion for those who want to enter an academic
doctoral program in some area of religious knowledge or to enhance their religious
education in a more general way. Overall, the Master of Arts program has the goal of
enhancing the ability of students to serve a culturally diverse church and society from a
biblical perspective and to deepen each student's personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Degree Offered
The School of Religion offers a Master of Arts (MA) with the following five emphases:
• Biblical and Theological Studies
• Church Leadership and Management (with the School of Business and
Management)
• Church Ministry and Homiletics
• Evangelism and World Mission
• Religious Studies
General Information
The curriculum of the Master of Arts consists of a minimum of 36 semester credit hours
beyond the baccalaureate degree. Electives must be approved by the School of Religion.
A maximum of six semester hours of transfer credit are allowed from other institutions. All
degree requirements must be completed within seven years from the time of
68 School of Religion
matriculation. Courses are offered primarily as intensive sessions during the summer.
These courses generally require a pre-session reading assignment and a three-week
intensive class session when the student must be in residence. Also, all courses require a
research paper or major project, which is usually the post-session assignment for the
class.
Admission to Classes
1. Registration for any graduate religion class is by permission of the School of Religion.
2. A non-refundable commitment deposit of $100 per session is required to reserve a
place in a graduate class. This deposit can be applied to tuition or other school
expenses.
3. Students are considered to/be admitted to classes on a non-degree basis until they
are granted either regular or provisional acceptance into the MA program.
4. Students can only take up to 12 hours of coursework before completing the
admissions process and being formally accepted into the MA program.
Course Audit
With the approval of the School of Religion, students may register on an audit basis in
courses for which they are qualified. Auditors may be admitted to classes if space is still
available after all students who wish to enroll for credit have been accommodated. Class
attendance is expected, but examinations, reports, and other assignments will be omitted,
except as requested by the student and allowed by the professor. With the approval of
the professor and School dean, the student may change a course registration from audit
to credit or from credit to audit only during the first three days of the summer intensive
classes. No credit may be given at any later time for courses audited. Courses taken for
audit are charged at one-half of the regular graduate tuition charge.
Admission to Program
In addition to submitting the appropriate application and application fee for graduate
study, the candidate comply with the following requirements in order to be accepted into
the MA program:
1. Two recommendations. If the applicant is employed by the Seventh-day Adventist
Church, one of these recommendations must be from the applicant's employing
organization.
2. If applicable, a record of denominational employment indicating the places and dates
of service, and the capacity/capacities in which the applicant was employed.
3. Completion of the 16 Personality Factor Profile concurrently with the first course
taken in residence at Southern Adventist University, or submission of results from a
16PF taken not more than a year prior to the beginning of the student's first course.
4. A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00, or a GPA of 2.50-2.99 plus a
Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score which, when combined with the GPA x 200, is not
less than 1400. A student who scores between 1300 and 1400 will receive only
provisional admission into the program.
5. Submission of a formal paper of at least ten pages that meets the following criteria:
a) It is research based, demonstrating appropriate use of valid sources.
b) It reflects the ability to write lucidly, with careful organization of ideas.
c) It demonstrates care and consistency in format, style, and mechanics.
School of Religion 69
d) It meets the standards of at least a B letter-grade paper when compared with
other research papers that are completed on the undergraduate level.
6. Presentation of an official transcript with a completed bachelor's degree from an
accredited institution. This transcript must include a minimum of 12 semester hours
in religion. If some or all of these 12 hours have not been taken, they must be
completed before the student begins graduate classes. (Other course prerequisites
may apply to the specific emphases as stated below).
7. Upon request, a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of
600 (paper-based)/250 (computer-based)/100 (internet-based), for students for
whom English is not the first language.
8. International graduate students with TOEFL scores between 550 and 599 will be
required to study English as a Second Language (ESL). If they maintain ESL grades
of B or above for two semesters or when their TOEFL scores reach 600, they will be
permitted to take a full courseload of graduate classes.
9. Final decisions about acceptance into the program are made by the MA Program
Committee of the School of Religion.
Guidelines for Pre-Session and Post-Session Assignments
1. Students should expect pre-session assignments for summer graduate intensives.
Typical pre-session assignments include 1000-1200 pages of reading per intensive
class, depending on other pre-session assignments.
2. Pre-session assignments are due the first day of the intensive. Only assignments
submitted on time will receive full credit. There will be no credit for pre-session
assignments that are submitted following the completion of the intensive.
3. Post-session assignments give the student opportunity to apply information learned
during the intensive to the local ministry context for further research on the subject
matter. Due dates for these assignments are listed in the course syllabus.
Graduation Requirements
1. File a completed graduate application with the Records and Advisement Office two
months before the expected graduation date.
2. Finish all coursework with a minimum grade-point-average of 3.00, including no more
than two classes with a grade below B-. Classes with a grade below a C will not be
counted for credit toward the master's degree.
3. Pass a written comprehensive examination taken no earlier than three months and
no later than twelve months after completion of the last class period of the student's
final course in the program. A specific date for the examination will be proposed by
the student for approval by the School of Religion.
a) The examination is expected to last four and one-half hours.
b) The candidate for graduation will need to give comprehensive answers to
several questions drawn from a larger list of questions available for research
and review at the end of his or her coursework.
c) A score of 80% or above will constitute a passing grade.
d) In case of failure, the examination may be repeated only once. A second
failure will disqualify the student for graduation from the MA program.
70 School of Religion
Project and Thesis Procedure for Emphases in Biblical and Theological
Studies and Religious Studies
1. All MA students choosing the emphasis in Biblical and Theological Studies must
complete a thesis, while students who choose the emphasis in Religious Studies
must complete either a thesis or a project.
2. The project must be done in conjunction with an adviser assigned by the MA Program
Committee of the School of Religion. The adviser will work with the student to select
a topic for the paper, plan the research, guide in the organization of the paper, and
evaluate the result.
3. The thesis must be done in conjunction with a three-person thesis committee chaired
by an adviser and appointed by the MA Program Committee of the School of Religion.
The student will select a topic in consultation with the adviser and prepare a thesis
proposal to be submitted to the thesis committee for approval. After approval by the
thesis committee, the student will complete the research, chapter by chapter, under
the guidance of the adviser, submitting each chapter to the thesis committee for
approval. The thesis committee must approve the final product.
4. The project or thesis must conform to the style guidelines of the School of Religion,
which are based on the footnote and bibliographic style of the latest edition of the
Chicago Manual of Style and Turabian's Manual for Writers.
Emphasis in BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
Objectives
1. To enhance the student's knowledge of biblical and theological issues.
2. To prepare the student for academic studies at the doctoral level.
3. To increase the student's facility in research and writing.
4. To increase critical thinking skills and enlarge the student's awareness of the trends
and secondary literature in biblical and theological studies.
5. To increase the student's ability to interpret the Bible in harmony with sound
principles of biblical hermeneutics.
6. To establish a sound theological foundation for Christian faith and practice.
Additional Prerequisites for Admission
Six semester credits in a biblical language with a grade of C or higher. (This may be part
of the 12 required credits in religion.)
The CORE Courses are as follows:
Biblical Studies courses Credit
RELB 510 Archaeology and Bible Interpretation OR 3
RELB 530 Archaeological Fieldwork OR
RELB 565 Topics in Biblical Studies
RELB 555 Studies in Daniel 3
RELP 556 Studies in Revelation 3
RELB 545 General Epistles OR 3
RELB 546 Pauline Epistles
Subtotal 12
School of Religion 71
Theological Studies courses Credit
RELT 531 Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation 3
RELT 542 Studies in Biblical Doctrines 3
RELT 546 Doctrine of Salvation OR 3
RELT 563 Contemporary Theological Issues
RELT 581 Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society 3
Subtotal 12
Research courses
RELG 600 Research Methods and Writing 3
RELB 650 Thesis in Biblical Studies OR 6
RELT 650 Thesis in Theological Studies
Subtotal 9
Electives
Select three (3) semester hours from graduate courses in biblical or
theological studies offered by the School of Religion
Subtotal 3
Total 36
Emphasis in CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
Objectives
1. To develop a sound Christian leadership philosophy.
2. To provide a broad knowledge of leadership and management theory skills.
3. To provide the student with quality training required for new responsibilities in the
church and ministry.
Additional Prerequisites for Admission
1. A minimum of three years of pastoral experience or as approved for admission by the
School of Religion.
2. Presentation of an official transcript from an accredited bachelor's degree program
indicating successful completion of: (a) at least 12 semester hours in biblical and
theological studies (18 quarter hours); and (b) at least one introductory course in
biblical preaching. Students lacking preaching credits must take RELP 401,
Fundamentals of Biblical Preaching, or an equivalent course to meet the necessary
requirement.
The CORE Courses are as follows:
Ministry courses Credit
RELP 513 Effective Church Leadership 3
RELP 521 Time and Life Management 3
RELT 520 Spirituality in Ministry 3
RELP 515 Equipping Laity for Ministry OR 3
RELT 581 Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society
Subtotal 12
72 School of Religion
Management courses Credit
BUAD 505 Management in a Changing World 3
BHRM 510 Human Resource Management 3
BUAD 555 Leadership and Change OR 3
ACCT 505 Financial Accounting
Subtotal 9
Research course
RELG 600 Research Methods and Writing 3
Subtotal 3
Electives
Select twelve (12) semester hours from graduate courses offered by the following:
• Select nine (9) hours from the School of Religion
• Select three (3) hours from the School of Business and Management
Subtotal 12
Total 36
Emphasis in CHURCH MINISTRY AND HOMILETICS
Objectives
1. To develop advanced skills in pastoral ministry oriented to the local church.
2. To equip the local pastor with tools for enhancing his or her ministry.
3. To provide the student with advanced training in expository preaching.
4. To increase the student's ability to interpret the Bible in harmony with sound
principles of biblical hermeneutics.
Additional Prerequisites for Admission
1. A minimum of three years of pastoral experience or its equivalent as approved by the
School of Religion.
2. Successful completion of at least one introductory course in biblical preaching (which
can be part of the 12 required hours in religion). Students lacking the preaching
course must take RELP 401, Fundamentals of Biblical Preaching, or an equivalent
course, to meet the necessary requirement.
Biblical and Theological courses Credit
RELB 541 Preaching from the Old Testament Text OR 3
RELB 551 Preaching from the New Testament Text
RELT 520 Spirituality in Ministry 3
RELT 525 Theology of Ministry 3
RELT 531 Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation 3
RELT 581 Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society 3
Subtotal 15
School of Religion 73
Professional courses Credit
RELP 501 Advanced Preaching Methods OR 3
RELP 508 Expository Preaching
RELP 513 Effective Church Leadership 3
RELP 515 Equipping Laity for Ministry 3
RELP 521 Time and Life Management 3
RELP 561 Preaching to the Secular Mind OR 3
RELP 591 Preaching Practicum
Subtotal 15
Electives
Select six (6) semester hours from graduate courses offered by the School of Religion
Subtotal 6
Total 36
Emphasis in EVANGELISM AND WORLD MISSION
Objectives
1. To enhance the student's skills in personal outreach and public evangelism.
2. To introduce the student to new methods of evangelism and mission outreach for a
rapidly changing, post-modern society in North American and the world.
3. To increase the student's ability to interpret the Bible in harmony with sound
principles of biblical hermeneutics.
4. To enable the student to communicate the gospel in the context of the Three Angels'
Messages of Revelation 14.
5. To develop skills for societal analysis and interpersonal interaction.
Additional Prerequisites for Admission
A written list of church offices which the applicant has held (e.g., elder, deaconess,
Sabbath School teacher, etc.) and outreach activities in which the applicant has engaged
(e.g., Bible studies, Revelation seminars, health education seminars).
The CORE Courses are as follows:
Biblical and Theological courses Credit
RELB 555 Studies in Daniel OR 3
RELB 556 Studies in Revelation
RELT 531 Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation 3
RELT 552 Theology of Mission and Evangelism 3
RELT 568 World Religions 3
Subtotal 12
74 School of Religion
Professional courses
RELP 524 Evangelistic Preaching OR
RELP 561 Preaching to the Secular Mind
RELP 532 Principles and Strategies for Church Growth OR
RELP 537 Church Planting Strategies
RELP 534 Personal Soul-Winning Skills
RELP 542 Urban Ministry and Evangelism
RELP 570 World Mission
RELP 591 Preaching Practicum
Subtotal
Credit
3
3
3
3
3
18
Electives
Select six (6) semester hours from graduate courses offered by the School of Religion.
Subtotal 6
Total 36
Emphasis in RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Objectives
1. To prepare the student for academic studies in religion at the doctoral level.
2. To increase the student's facility in research and writing.
3. To enhance critical thinking skills and enlarge the student's awareness of the trends
and literature in religious studies.
4. To provide resources for developing and implementing a biblical philosophy of life.
5. To establish a sound theological foundation for Christian faith and practice.
The CORE Courses are as follows:
Biblical and Theological courses
RELB 553 Studies in Romans OR
RELB 546 Pauline Epistles
RELB 555 Studies in Daniel OR
RELB 556 Studies in Revelation
RELT 531 Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation
RELT 538 Prophetic Guidance in the Adventist Church OR
RELT 563 Contemporary Theological Issues
RELT 542 Studies in Biblical Doctrines OR
RELT 546 Doctrine of Salvation
RELT 568 World Religions
RELT 581 Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society
Subtotal
3
3
3
3
3
3
21
Research courses
RELG 600
RELB 620
RELT 620
RELB 650
RELT 650
Subtotal
Research Methods and Writing
Project in Biblical Studies OR
Project in Theological Studies OR
Thesis in Biblical Studies OR
Thesis in Theological Studies
School of Religion 75
Credit
3
3
6
6-9
Electives
Select six (6) to nine (9) semester hours from graduate courses offered by the School of
Religion
Subtotal 6-9
Total
36
76 Course Descriptions
Course Descriptions
Accounting Courses
ACCT 505. Financial Accounting 3 hours
An introduction to financial accounting. Emphasis is on uses of information
contained in financial statements. Students are also introduced to the principles
of managerial accounting. (ACCT 505 is required for students who have not taken
two semesters of undergraduate accounting or can validate equivalent work
experience approved by the dean or accounting professor.)
ACCT 507. Intermediate Financial Accounting I 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or a course in Principles of Accounting I & II.
An in-depth course in financial accounting. Topics include the accounting
conceptual framework, the hierarchy of GAAP, accounting for assets, liabilities and
owners' equity. (ACCT 507 and 508 are required for students who have not taken
undergraduate intermediate accounting.)
ACCT 508. Intermediate Financial Accounting II 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 507.
Continue an in-depth study in financial accounting. Topics include revenues and
expenses, income taxes, leases, pensions, and financial statement reporting and
disclosure requirements. (ACCT 507 and 508 are required for students who have
not taken undergraduate intermediate accounting.)
ACCT 510. Accounting for Control and Decision Making 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or a course in Principles of Accounting I & II.
This course is cross-listed with BUAD 510. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Review of basic financial accounting and financial statements. Study of the use of
accounting for the planning and control of a firm, application of accounting
techniques for budgeting, pricing, and decision making. Lab fee 1 will be
assessed for this course.
ACCT 520. Accounting Theory 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 508 or equivalent.
This course provides a survey of theories applied to accounting. Emphasis is given
to theories applicable to financial accounting and reporting, but other theories
frequently used in managerial accounting, taxes, and accounting systems may
also be introduced. These theories are then used to evaluate critically the U.S.
accounting standard-setting process, both past and present.
ACCT 530. Controllership 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
This course provides an advanced study of accounting techniques, concepts, and
procedures as they relate to the functions and responsibilities of the controller.
Topics will include planning and control functions, management reporting
systems, and investment planning.
Course Descriptions 77
ACCT 550. Advanced Accounting 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 508 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 450 in the BBA program. A student may
receive credit for this course from only one program.
This course is an in-depth study of selected accounting topics such as
consolidated financial statements, partnerships, business firms in financial
difficulty, estates and trusts, foreign exchange, and segment reporting.
ACCT 552. Auditing 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 550 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 452 in the BBA program. A student may
receive credit for this course from only one program.
This course is primarily a study of generally accepted auditing standards
promulgated by various standard-setting bodies. It includes a study of the AICPA
code of professional ethics, audit planning, and audit procedures. It also includes
a consideration of various attest and other quasi-audit services.
ACCT 556. Federal Taxation 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 456 in the BBA program. A student may
receive credit for this course from only one program.
This course is a study of the Federal tax system. The primary emphasis is the
Federal income tax as it applies to individuals. A study of other federal taxes and
the taxation of other entities is included.
ACCT 557. Advanced Federal Taxation 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 556 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 457 in the BBA program. A student may
receive credit for this course from only one program.
This course is a continued study of the Federal tax system. The primary emphasis
is the Federal income tax as it applies to for-profit and not-for-profit entities other
than individuals. A study of other Federal taxes is included.
ACCT 558. Federal Tax Problems/Research 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 557 or equivalent.
This course is a study of tax law sources, tax research methodology, research
documentation, and the preparation and presentation of research-based solutions
to selected Federal tax problems.
ACCT 564. Financial Statement Analysis 3 hours
Prerequisites: ACCT 508, 550; FNCE 510 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with FNCE 564. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
A capstone class designed to synthesize financial information learned in previous
courses. Utilizing information from financial accounting and finance courses,
students analyze financial statements of various companies and make investing,
lending, and management decisions based on the information provided in those
statements.
78 Course Descriptions
ACCT 585. Contemporary Issues of Professional Practice 3 hours
Using contemporary issues facing the accounting profession, the content for this
course will vary each semester to include recent issues the accounting profession
is facing. Topics may include professionalism, non-audit attest services,
independence, practice organizational form, and non-attest services.
ACCT 587. Accounting and Reporting in the SEC Environment 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 450 or 550.
The course investigates accounting issues that arise in a SEC/environment, both
from the perspective of the corporation functioning in a SEC environment and
from the perspective of the public accounting firm auditing a SEC corporation.
ACCT 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Designed to develop specialized knowledge in an accounting topic, the student will
perform individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser
and the student.
ACCT 597. Accounting Research 3 hours
Designed to develop research skills, this course requires the student to conduct a
research project under the supervision of a faculty member in the discipline. The
research includes a review of literature, research design, data collection and
analysis leading to a paper appropriate for professional publication and/or
presentation.
Management Courses
BEXM 505. Legal Framework of Decisions 3 hours
Examines the legal environment within which legislative bodies, courts, and
administrative agencies act upon the operation of business and government.
Contracts, judicial and legislative process, and administrative rule-making
reviewed.
BEXM 520. Corporate Intrapreneurship 3 hours
Presents concepts, tools, and techniques for managing new business creations, or
creating an environment of innovation/entrepreneurship within larger existing
organizations. The spectrum of activities to be considered is broad including new
ventures launched by both corporate and division managers in established and
emerging businesses.
BEXM 560. Seminar in Entrepreneurship 3 hours
Examines the theory and practice of entrepreneurship and how the field fits
traditional business models. A business plan is developed and presented,
including market research, legal organization business forms, and a human
resource plan. Includes case studies devoted to successful entrepreneurial
business.
BEXM 585. Contemporary Issues in Management 3 hours
A seminar of open discussion and guest lectures relating to current issues
developing within the science of management. Topics include key concepts in
leadership, motivation, management of change, societal issues, community
relations, and organizational development.
Course Descriptions 79
BEXM 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
BEXM 597. Management Research 3 hours
A research project under the supervision of a faculty in the discipline, which
includes review of literature, research design, data collection and analysis leading
to a paper appropriate for professional publication and/or presentation.
Human Resource Management Course
BHRM 510. Human Resource Management 3 hours
Provides a framework for understanding and thinking strategically about
employment relations and the management of human resources in organizations.
The course builds on insights from the social sciences to explore how employment
relations are influenced by economic, social, psychological, legal, and cultural
forces. Specific topics include: recruitment and selection; performance
evaluation; compensation and benefits; promotion; job design; training; layoffs;
retention and turnover; and the human resource implications of various strategies.
Marketing Management Courses
BMKT 550. International Marketing Management 3 hours
Analyze international markets and development of strategic and tactical options
for marketing across national boundaries. Cultural norms, behaviors and nuances
are evaluated for appropriate marketing strategies and tactics. Develops
students' knowledge of theoretical concepts and practical aspects of marketing
for firms competing in countries with different cultural, legal, economic, and
political environments. Designed for those who plan to work for multinational
companies and those who want to enrich their knowledge of the international
marketplace.
BMKT 585. Contemporary Issues in Marketing Management 3 hours
A seminar of open discussion and guest lectures relating to current issues
developing within the healthcare industry.
BMKT 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
BMKT 597. Marketing Research 3 hours
Prerequisites: BUAD 540 and Statistics.
Provides study of and experience in the systematic design, collection, analysis,
and reporting of data relevant to a specific marketing situation facing an
organization. Through a marketing research project students develop research
objectives and a research plan, collect and analyze the data, and interpret and
report the findings.
80 Course Descriptions
Business Administration General Courses
BUAD 504. Communication Skills for Managers 3 hours
The course analyzes basic models of communication applicable to the workplace.
This analysis provides a theoretical framework for effective communication.
Emphasis is placed on the connection between communication and the functions
of management. Lab fee 2 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 505. Management in a Changing World 3 hours
Presents an overview of the fundamental issues underlying a post-industrial
society, such as the changing concepts of technology and knowledge. The impact
of technological and workforce changes on society, on organizations, and on the
role of the manager are explored in depth. The nature of organizations in a
changing environment, the evolution of management thought and its relevance for
modern managers. Organizational theory, structure, and design are emphasized.
The relationships between individuals and organizations, the social responsibility
of organizations and ethical issues for managers, workforce diversity, and the
challenges of managing in today's complex organizational environment are
studied. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 510. Accounting for Control and Decision Making 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or a course in Principles of Accounting.
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 510. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Review of basic financial accounting and financial statements. Study of the use of
accounting for the planning and control of a firm, application of accounting
techniques for budgeting, pricing, and decision making. Lab fee 1 will be
assessed for this course.
BUAD 520. Financial Management 3 hours
Prerequisite: An introductory course in finance or FNCE 505.
This course is cross-listed with FNCE 510. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Understanding and analyzing information for decision making. The financial
environment, financial statement analysis, operating, cash and capital budgeting,
working capital management, interest mathematics, and cost of capital are
discussed. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 530. Organizational Behavior 3 hours
Leadership, motivation, group dynamics, decision making, interpersonal relations,
change. Designing and implementing the organizational structure: corporate
divisions, departments, support groups. Organizing work: positions, specifications,
performance standards and review, reward systems, program and project
management. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 540. Marketing Management 3 hours
The marketing process, product development, pricing, packaging, promotional
strategy, development of channels of distribution integrated into a program for
profit and nonprofit organizations. Contains a research component. Lab fee 1 will
be assessed for this course.
Course Descriptions 81
BUAD 555. Leadership and Change 3 hours
Examines theory and leadership practices in various types of organizations.
Particular emphasis is placed on the strategic role of leaders in leading
organizational development and change in an age of rapidly changing markets
and technologies. Examines why organizational change efforts succeed or fail,
and what leaders can do to anticipate and effect needed organizational changes
successfully. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 562. Integrating Faith and Business 3 hours
Explores influences on the integration of religious faith and business practice
including the teaching of Judeo-Christian Scriptures on business and
management, vocation, work as service and worship, models of expressing
personal faith at the workplace, moral tensions that result from the conflict
between business assumptions and religious beliefs, managing personal change,
spiritual disciplines for managers, recognizing and managing spiritual crises at
work. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
BUAD 570. Strategic Decision Making 3 hours
Prerequisites: BUAD 505, 510, 520, 540. Permission of dean or program coordinator if
taken before completion of core curriculum.
A capstone seminar in which the applied behavioral aspects and the impact of the
continuous changes affecting post-industrialized society are linked to the key
organizational function known as decision making. The course integrates previous
course work. Focus is given to effective decision strategies, ensuring decision
quality, differences between group and individual decision making, and a variety
of constraints facing decision makers. Utilizing a case approach to integrate
earlier course work, the course enhances decision making skill by providing
students the opportunity to analyze the effects of various decision strategies on
organizational outcomes. The use of technology to enhance research and
decision making skills are key components. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this
course.
BUAD 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
Counseling Courses
COUN 500. Individual Study and Research 1-3 hours
Individual study and research in psychology, especially designed to make up
deficiencies in a student's undergraduate degree. This class is designed to make
up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate preparation and is not applicable to
the graduate degree program.
COUN 503. Foundations of School Counseling 3 hours
Provides a background for understanding the school setting, and how the diverse
roles of the professional school counselor fit together in a comprehensive manner.
History, philosophy, ethical and legal considerations, modes of intervention (e.g.,
direct services, consultation, curriculum), and current trends in school counseling
are studied.
82 Course Descriptions
COUN 508. Sexuality: Issues in Therapy 3 hours
Provides foundation of knowledge concerning basic human sexual functioning,
knowledge of sexual diseases, awareness of sexual variance, knowledge of sexual
dysfunction and an understanding of basic treatment and sex therapy techniques.
COUN 510. Advanced Lifespan Development 3 hours
Issues in development throughout the life cycle are studied. The impact of early
physical, cognitive, and psychological developmental issues and the effects of
significant periods of life changes are considered along with their impact on family
and community systems.
COUN 514. Drugs and Addictions 3 hours
A comprehensive study of drugs and addictions. Particular focus will be placed on
physiological functions related to the etiology and treatment of addiction in both
therapeutic and educational settings, as well as on the Adventist perspective of
holistic health.
COUN 516. Career Counseling 3 hours
Vocational and academic information; vocational theories, trends, and experiential
approach to career choices; study of how changes in society and technology bring
about changes in the academic and work world. Guidance centers, vocational
interest testing, guidance technology, and materials are also considered.
COUN 520. Principles of Counseling 3 hours
A survey of trends and principles of effective counseling. The quality of the
counselor's personality, the fundamental factors in the counseling relationship,
basic behavioral dynamics such as ethics and multiculturalism and an
introduction to practical approaches are also considered.
COUN 521. Psychopathology 3 hours
Prerequisite: COUN 520.
The course emphasizes diagnostic criteria for the disorders included in DSM-IV. A
descriptive approach is adopted. Mental disorders in terms of their behavioral
signs and symptoms are defined and categorized on the basis of their shared
characteristics. Cultural variations in symptoms are discussed with each disorder.
Gender and age-related features of the disorders are also described.
COUN 526. Ethics and Legal Aspects of Counseling 2 hours
Analyzes counseling ethics and legal factors related to the counseling profession.
Real case studies are considered.
COUN 528. Learning and School Counseling Interventions 3 hours
This course focuses on major theories of learning as they relate to the practice of
school counseling. How learning theory informs effective guidance lesson
planning and school counseling curriculum development is considered. Ability to
apply knowledge from learning theories to identify learning problems and to
facilitate exceptional students' growth and development through counseling,
collaboration, and consulting activities is also studied.
COUN 530. Assessment and Appraisal 3 hours
Theoretical principles and practical applications of standardized instruments used
in counseling and education. This course covers the selection, administration,
interpretation and reporting of the results of appropriate instruments of
assessment. Emphasis is placed on personality, aptitude, achievement, and
pathological testing.
Course Descriptions 83
COUN 551. Psychology of the Exceptional Child 3 hours
This course is cross-listed with EDIE 512. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
See EDIE 512 for course description. (Summer)
COUN 553. Group Therapy and Procedures 3 hours
Prerequisite: COUN 520.
Group therapy dynamics, leadership, stages are studied. Group populations and
types of groups are discussed. Contains a requirement for practical experience
(group facilitation) that involves additional time and work beyond the duration of
class meetings and which may extend into the following semester.
COUN 556. Theories and Techniques of Psychotherapy 3 hours
Provides a comprehensive survey of the major contemporary theories of
counseling and psychotherapy, as well as their implications for practice. Core
topics such as historical background, key concepts, the therapeutic process,
therapeutic techniques and procedures, multicultural perspectives, and evaluation
are examined for each theory. Students are given the opportunity to conceptualize
selected case studies, decide on appropriate counseling interventions, and
practice a variety of techniques that are commonly used in the counseling
practice. Students also begin the process of developing their own personal model
of counseling.
COUN 558. Crisis Counseling 2 hours
A study of major theories and strategies for identifying and treating crises which
affect individuals in both community agency and school settings.
COUN 561. Multicultural Issues in Counseling 3 hours
Study of contemporary issues related to multicultural settings. Aside from
introduction to various cultures and their norms, this course also addresses
theories of multicultural counseling and counseling interventions based on these
theories as they are applied to various populations. In addition, attention is given
to the counselor's role as a liaison or agent of change for the culturally pluralistic
society in either the school or community setting.
COUN 565. Topics in Counseling 1-3 hours
Selected topics in counseling chosen from such areas as religion, ethics, child
and/or youth counseling, practice of school counseling, etc. This course may be
repeated with an appropriate change in topic.
COUN 570. Counseling in Community Agencies 3 hours
Emphasizes developmental and preventative modalities as indicated by the
community counseling discipline, along with a noted emphasis on education,
growth and short-term interventions. Professional identity issues will also be
covered.
COUN 575. Administration of Counseling Services 3 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of at least 42 semester hours in degree program.
The standards of counseling practice, procedures, paperwork, and issues related
to private, group, and state facilities are studied. Emphasis is placed on the
needs of the client and the professionalism of the service rendered. As the
capstone course, this includes the completion of a position paper.
84 Course Descriptions
COUN 577. Administration of School Counseling Services 3 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of at least 32 semester hours in the degree program.
This is the capstone course for School Counseling. The development,
implementation and evaluation of comprehensive school counseling programs are
studied. Special consideration is given to the integration of the school counseling
program into the total school community to facilitate successful development and
achievement of all students.
COUN 582. Clinical Practicum I 1 hour
Orientation to the field experience. The student will be oriented through the use of
books, videos, presentations, discussion, observation, and practice sessions.
COUN 583. Clinical Practicum II: Professional Counseling 1-2 hours
Prerequisites: COUN 510, 520, 521, 526, 553, 556, 561, 582; having obtained regular
admission status in the Professional Counseling program.
Supervised field experience in a psychological setting. A total of 100 clock hours
(50 clock hours per semester hour) of direct observation, consultation in the
clinical area, and practice of counseling skills is required. The student must
attend a weekly hour-long individual supervision session with a supervisor and a
weekly 1-1/2 hour group supervision. Videotaping of counseling sessions is
essential. Applications for Fall Practicum II experiences must be submitted for
approval by April 15 of the previous school year. Applications for Winter Practicum
II experience must be submitted for approval by October 15.
COUN 583. Clinical Practicum II: School Counseling 1-2 hours
Prerequisites: EDUC 541; COUN 503, 516, 526, 553, 558, 561, 582; having obtained
regular admission status in the School Counseling program.
Supervised field experience in educational settings. A total of 100 clock hours (50
clock hours per semester hour) of direct observation, consultation in the clinical
area, and practice of counseling skills is required. The student must attend a
weekly hour-long individual supervision session with a supervisor and attend a
weekly 1-1/2 hour group supervision. Video-taping of counseling sessions is
essential. Applications for Fall Practicum II experiences must be submitted for
approval by April 15 of the previous school year. Applications for Winter Practicum
II experience must be submitted for approval by October 15.
COUN 584. Clinical Internship: Professional Counseling 1-6 hours
Prerequisites: COUN 583; Completion of 40 semester hours in degree program.
Supervised field experience in a community agency. A total of 6 semester hours
and 600 clock hours of clinical work is required. At least 240 clock hours will be
direct client contact in the capacity of a professional counselor. A wide range of
clients will be chosen. This internship will be done under the direction of a
certified or licensed professional and will also include consultation with an
assigned faculty supervisor, research on clinical issues, and attendance at a
weekly supervision group. Applications for Summer or Fall Internship experiences
must be submitted for approval by April 15 of the previous school year.
Applications for Winter Internship experience must be submitted for approval by
October 15.
Course Descriptions 85
COUN 584. Clinical Internship: School Counseling 1-6 hours
Prerequisites: COUN 583; Completion of 34 semester hours in academic program.
Supervised field experience in a school setting. A total of 6 semester hours and
600 clock hours of clinical work is required. This will include a variety of activities
that a regularly employed school counselor is expected to perform. At least 240
clock hours are required in direct client contact, individual counseling, group work,
developmental classroom guidance, and parent/community conferences. This will
be done under the supervision of a certified school counselor and will also include
consultation with an assigned faculty supervisor, research on clinical issues, and
attendance at a weekly supervision group. Applications for Fall Internship
experiences must be submitted for approval by April 15 of the previous school
year. Applications for Winter Internship experience must be submitted for
approval by October 15.
COUN 587. Statistics 2 hours
This course is designed to provide the basic knowledge of descriptive and
inferential statistics to be applied to psychological research: measure of central
tendency and variability; correlation and regression; testing of hypothesis using
the normal; binomial, t, F, and chi-square distribution.
COUN 590. Marriage and Family Therapy I 3 hours
An overview of major family therapy treatment models and their application
utilizing case studies. Communications theory, structural, strategic, the Bowenian
model, short-term brief, and other theories will be considered. Family counseling
in schools is also discussed.
COUN 591. Marriage and Family Therapy II 3 hours
Prerequisite: COUN 590.
Issues of marriage and family will be explored in the context of family systems.
These will include an in-depth study of human sexuality, sexual dysfunction and
treatment, crisis counseling, addictive disorders, orientation to AIDS education
and therapy, and other issues.
COUN 592. Marriage and Family Therapy III 3 hours
Prerequisites: COUN 591; Completion of at least 30 semester hours in degree program.
An intensive study of selected treatment techniques focusing on identifying a
therapeutic style best suited for the individual learner. This course should be
taken with the Clinical Internship as it requires the presentation of case work in a
model. As the capstone course, this course contains an extensive
research/position paper that will require additional time and work beyond the
duration of class meetings and which may extend into the following semester.
COUN 593. Child and Adolescent Problems and Treatment 3 hours
A study of the major aberrant behavioral problems of children and adolescents.
Appropriate interventions will be discussed and practiced.
COUN 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual study and research in psychological and/or counseling issues under the
supervision of the graduate faculty members. A total of no more than six hours
are allowed to apply toward a student's degree.
86 Course Descriptions
COUN 598. Research and Program Evaluation 3 hours
Fundamentals of research and program evaluation relevant to the practice of
clinical mental health counseling and school counseling. This course enables
students to conduct research projects and to critically evaluate findings in order to
improve treatment and program effectiveness in counseling. Principles, models,
and applications of needs assessment and program evaluation are studied.
Research methods such as qualitative, quantitative, single-case designs, action
research and outcome-based research are also examined. Special emphasis is
given to current ethical and culturally relevant strategies for interpreting and
reporting the results of research and/or program evaluation in schools and
community agencies.
Educational Administration & Supervision Courses
EDAD 524. Foundations of Educational Administration 3 hours
This course discusses the purposes, organization, and administration of
educational programs and institutions; the structure and control of school
systems; the nature of administration; and conceptual foundations of educational
administration. Special emphasis is given to servant leadership, diversity, biblical
foundations of administration, spiritual dynamics within the organization and with
the broader community, and the distinctive philosophy and mission of Christian
educational programs.
EDAD 545. Supervision of Instruction 3 hours
Designed for principals, superintendents and instructional supervisors concerned
with the improvement of teaching and learning through instructional leadership
and professional supervision.
EDAD 570. Personnel Administration 3 hours
Explanations of personnel policy determination; procedures employed in
recruitment, selection, appointment and induction of personnel; partnerships
between personnel and community agencies; the formulation and administration
of salary schedules; provisions for professional welfare and in-service
improvement of personnel.
EDAD 574. Legal Aspects of Education 3 hours
Legal issues affecting teachers and educational administrators, including
governmental relations, church-state issues, teacher employment, student control,
children's rights, special services and school board operations and procedures.
EDAD 575. Internship in Administration (by arrangement) 1-2 hours
Planned administrative field experience in a school, school district, or educational
agency; a practical or creative project dealing with an actual situation in an
educational institution under supervision of a faculty member in the area of
educational administration. Plan approval and permission of supervisor is required
one semester in advance of registration. This course may be repeated.
EDAD 576. School Public Relations 2 hours
The interpersonal process in educational organizations, communications and
group dynamics for educational administrators. A study of the means for securing
cooperative educational planning through mutual understanding between the
school and its public.
Course Descriptions 87
EDAD 578. Educational Facilities Planning 1 hour
A study of procedures in school plant planning: selecting a site, determining
educational specifications for the building, selecting and working with an architect
and managing school facilities.
EDAD 579. School Finance 3 hours
Financial and economic issues affecting educational institutions, including school
support, costs of education, sources of school revenue and school budgeting
processes. A study of school financial statements and budgets.
EDAD 582. Master's Practicum 2 hours
Planned administrative field experience in a school, school districts, or
educational agency under supervision of a faculty member in the area of
educational administration. Includes work with a mentor principal or supervisor of
instruction. Note: Individuals who have completed the supervised practicum as a
component of their graduate program may be recommended by the School of
Education and Psychology for the TN State Beginning Administrator License.
EDAD 595. Independent Study in Educational Administration 1-3 hours
Individual research/study project in educational administration under the
supervision of a graduate studies professor. This course may be repeated.
Curriculum & Instruction Courses
EDCI 535. Philosophy of Education 3 hours
The study of philosophical concepts as they apply to education. Scriptural
principles and Christian education principles as expounded by E. G. White are also
covered.
EDCI 545. Foundations of Curriculum Development 3 hours
A study of philosophical, historical, psychological, and sociological foundations,
principles, and issues of curriculum development. Emphasis is given to the
biblical-Christian perspective.
EDCI 546. Improving Instruction 3 hours
The strength and effectiveness of teaching models are presented. Innovation in
lesson preparation, delivery and assessment are studied as well as integrating
technology in the classroom. Students develop their ability to reflect on their own
teaching performance and become skilled in supporting other teachers.
EDCI 560. Curriculum Design 3 hours
Prerequisite: EDCI 545.
This course is designed to help educators who seek to analyze, develop, and
improve curricula at specific levels of schooling.
EDCI 565. Seminar: Trends in Education 3 hours
Trends and issues in curriculum and instruction are discussed, as well as ideas of
educational reformers and recognized leaders, and their critics.
EDCI 570. Educational Assessment 3 hours
Designed to increase the student's understanding and application of traditional
and innovative techniques of educational assessment including use of
technological resources. Both learning and teaching assessment are covered.
88 Course Descriptions
EDCI 580. Field Work 2 hours
Supervised curriculum and instruction experience in approved educational
institutions and agencies. All areas from elementary to higher education may be
considered. Arrangement for this course need to be made a minimum of three
months ahead of time.
EDCI 582. Master's Practicum 2 hours
Planned curricular/administrative field experience in a school, school district, or
educational agency under joint supervision of faculty members in the areas of
curriculum and instruction and educational administration. Includes work with a
mentor principal or supervisor of instruction. Note: Individuals who have
completed the supervised practicum as a component of their graduate program
may be recommended by the School of Education and Psychology for the TN State
Beginning Administrator License.
EDCI 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual research/study project in curriculum and instruction under the
supervision of a graduate professor.
Inclusive Education Courses
EDIE 502. Inclusive Education: History and Foundations 3 hours
A survey of the history of inclusive education with attention to movements in
educational philosophy, curriculum planning, and government legislation.
Includes a comprehensive survey of the psychological and educational problems
faced by exceptional children in the regular classroom. Consideration is given to
exceptionalities such as hearing impairment, speech and language difficulties,
mental retardation, learning disabilities, emotional disturbance, visual
impairment, physical handicaps, and the gifted child. Procedures for including the
exceptional child into the regular classroom are emphasized.
EDIE 512. Counseling and Psychology of Exceptional Individuals 3 hours
and Their Families
This course is cross-listed with COUN 551. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Consideration and practice of counseling techniques for use with exceptional
individuals and their families. Included is a discussion of the psychological
aspects of exceptionality, including giftedness, and disabilities in language,
sensory, physical, intellectual, perceptual, and emotional areas with implications
for counseling and classroom learning.
EDIE 531. Behavior Management of Exceptional Individuals 3 hours
In-depth examination and administration of various models and techniques for the
management of exceptional individuals within the classroom, home, and
community.
EDIE 541. Assessment of Exceptional Individuals 3 hours
Examination and administration of assessment measures for exceptional
individuals. On-site field experience required. Teachers will learn how to
administer screening instruments and draw instructional implications from these.
Case studies will be reviewed and teachers will be assisted in determining when a
student should be referred for further professional testing.
Course Descriptions 89
EDIE 557. Leadership in Inclusive Education 3 hours
A philosophical and practical course designed for teachers to develop leadership
in organizational skills and planning strategies for inclusive classrooms and
schools. Biblical Christ-centered/Servant leadership is emphasized throughout
the course. A review of historical and current research in inclusive school
communities and the Christian administration of these schools will be included.
EDIE 567. Curriculum and Strategies for Children with Learning Differences 3 hours
Planning, developing and implementing curriculum for exceptional students. Study
will include the identification of students with special learning needs and
strategies for inclusion in the multiage classroom. A special emphasis is given to
cognitive studies.
EDIE 580. Field Work 2 hours
Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours of Inclusive Education classes.
Designed to meet the particular needs and interests of the individual participant.
Action research forms the basis for field work.
EDIE 582. Master's Practicum 2 hours
Planned inclusive education/administrative field experience in a school, school
district, or educational agency under joint supervision of faculty members in the
areas of inclusive education and instruction and educational administration.
Includes work with a mentor principal or supervisor of instruction. Note:
Individuals who have completed the supervised practicum as a component of their
graduate program may be recommended by the School of Education and
Psychology for the TN State Beginning Administrator License.
EDIE 595. Independent Study in Inclusive Education 1-3 hours
Individual research/study project in special education in the regular classroom
under the supervision of a graduate studies professor. Must be conducted at a
school where exceptional children are in the regular classroom.
Literacy Education Courses
EDLE 527. Implementing Reading Workshop 3 hours
A course designed to immerse the graduate student in the rationale and
instructional structures of a Reading Workshop approach to the teaching of
reading. Issues of diversity within the context of Reading Workshop will be
addressed. The course includes a significant applications component designed to
assist students in translating theory into practice. Offered concurrently with EDLE
537, Implementing Writing Workshop.
EDLE 537. Implementing Writing Workshop 3 hours
A course designed to immerse the graduate student in the writing process as well
as in the rationale and instructional structures of a Writing Workshop approach to
the teaching of writing. Issues of diversity within the context of Writing Workshop
will be addressed The course includes a significant applications component
designed to assist students in translating theory into practice. Offered
concurrently with EDLE 527, Implementing Reading Workshop so that students
see the interconnectedness of reading and writing.
90 Course Descriptions
EDLE 565. Critical Thinking in Content Literacy 3 hours
Study given to the theoretical framework for teaching literacy in the content areas.
Instructional strategies for facilitating critical thinking, particularly in the context of
the Bible, are modeled and practiced. Strategies are also taught that are
designed to enhance critical and creative thinking, as well as academic
performance in reading, writing, listening, talking, viewing, and visual
representation in all content areas.
EDLE 567. Literacy Instruction in Primary Classrooms 3 hours
An advanced course focusing on the literacy development of K-2nd grade
students. Theory and research relevant to literacy instruction in the primary
grades studied within the context of developmentally appropriate instructional
approaches and practice. The course also examines the implications and
practices for facilitating successful literacy instruction for English Language
Learners.
EDLE 580. Literacy Internship 2 hours
Designed to meet the particular needs and interests of the student as those relate
to classroom instruction in literacy. A proposal will be submitted by the student
using action research as the design.
EDIE 582. Master's Practicum 2 hours
Planned literacy education/administrative field experience in a school, school
district, or educational agency under joint supervision of faculty members in the
areas of literacy education and educational administration. Includes work with a
mentor principal or supervisor of instruction. Note: Individuals who have
completed the supervised practicum as a component of their graduate program
may be recommended by the School of Education and Psychology for the TN State
Beginning Administrator License
EDLE 585. Professional Applications in Literacy 2 hours
Provides opportunity for individual students to identify an area of particular
passion in literacy. In cooperation with the professor, students design a proposal
specifying a plan for applying what has been learned within the context of the
professional community rather than the individual classroom. This class will
enable graduate students to work in collaboration with the university professor to
enhance literacy development in a community or professional setting.
EDLE 595. Independent Study in Literacy Education 1-3 hours
Individual research/study project in literacy education under the supervision of a
graduate professor.
Outdoor Education Courses
EDOE 503. Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education 2 hours
Co-requisite: EDOE 504.
Basic concepts and the history of the outdoor education movement. Scope of
contemporary programs in the U.S. and abroad. Examination of the teaching of
learning processes relevant to outdoor and environmental education. Lab fee 7
will be assessed for this course.
Course Descriptions 91
EDOE 504. Field Experience in Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education 1 hour
Co-requisite: EDOE 503.
Experiences in this course are designed to support and supplement the theoretical
foundations presented in Principles and Concepts of Outdoor Education (EDOE
503) by on-site examinations of schools, nature centers, and residential camps.
EDOE 513. Nature Study 2 hours
Co-requisite: EDOE 514.
A field course for teachers and outdoor leaders to increase their knowledge,
confidence, and awareness of nature. Interpretation of urban and rural wildlife
that could be encountered by the teacher and students in the outdoor classroom
will be covered. Lab fee 7 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 514. Field Experience in Nature Study 1 hour
Co-requisite: EDOE 513.
The experiences in this course are designed to support and supplement the
lectures presented in Nature Study (EDOE 513) and provide practical field
experiences for helping outdoor teachers in using field keys, observing nature, and
acquiring skills needed for studying plants and animals in a variety of habitats.
EDOE 523. Leadership in Outdoor Education 2 hours
Co-requisite: EDOE 524.
This course is for outdoor leaders and gives training in planning, organizing, and
implementing outdoor programs for children, youth, and adults. Experiences
include evaluating the operations of camp, recreation and residential programs.
Lab fee 8 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 524. Field Experience in Leadership in Outdoor Education 1 hour
Co-requisite: EDOE 523.
The experiences in this course are designed to support and supplement the
theoretical foundations presented in Leadership in Outdoor Education (EDOE 523)
and to provide opportunities to conduct on-site evaluations of outdoor education
programs, their curricula, staffing, and financial management.
EDOE 528. Interpretation of Natural and Historical Resources 2 hours
This course will examine the fundamental principles of natural and historical
interpretation. Students will research local resources in order to develop
interpretive programs. Particular attention is given to contemporary methods of
interpretation in parks, nature centers, camps, and other outdoor settings. Lab
fee 4 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 533. Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites 2 hours
Co-requisite: EDOE 534.
This is an intensive seminar designed to provide practical field experience in
developing a wide range of activities for the school yard, park or use in a resident
facility. Participants in this seminar will develop materials in the evenings and
implement them at a camp or environmental school site. Lab fee 7 will be
assessed for this course.
92 Course Descriptions
EDOE 534. Field Experience in Developing Outdoor Teaching Sites 1 hour
Co-requisite: EDOE 533.
This course is designed to support and supplement Developing Outdoor Teaching
Sites (EDOE 533) and to provide practical field experiences in developing
curriculum, as well as trails, gardens, ropes courses, or other physical needs of an
outdoor site. The students will complete a project at a camp, nature center, or
school yard site.
EDOE 535. Outdoor Therapy: Design and Procedures 2 hours
Co-requisite: EDOE 536.
An examination of design, procedure, and group therapy dynamics used as a
therapeutic tool in the outdoor setting. Lab fee 8 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 536. Field Experience: Outdoor Therapy 1 hour
Co-requisite: EDOE 535.
The experiences in this course are designed to support and supplement the
theoretical foundations presented in EDOE 535, Outdoor Therapy: Design and
Procedures, and to provide hands-on training in outdoor therapeutic settings.
EDOE 537. Lab Experience: Technology in Outdoor Education 1 hour
Must be taken concurrently with EDOE 538.
This course is designed to support and supplement Technology in Outdoor
Education (EDOE 538) and to provide practical laboratory experiences in
surveying, sampling, or collecting data for biological research.
EDOE 538. Technology in Outdoor Education 2 hours
This course will provide participants with knowledge in using various types of
equipment used in surveying, sampling, or collecting data for biological research.
Students will work with professionals in the field to develop the skills needed to
use equipment, and then learn ways to involve their students in similar activities in
the outdoor classroom. Lab fee 8 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 539. Outdoor Recreation 1-2 hours
This course focuses on programming and leadership of adventure activities.
Topics covered may include, but are not limited to backpacking, spelunking,
canoeing, and wilderness living. It may be repeated with different skill emphases.
It will be taught at a location suitable for the particular activity being offered. Lab
fee 4 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 543. Environmental Ministries for Teachers and Youth Leaders 2 hours
This seminar will focus on the use of nature study to lead children and youth to
Christ. It is designed for teachers and youth leaders who want to learn more about
using nature as a tool for witnessing. Participants will learn to use nearby and/or
familiar locations for environmental understanding and inspiration.
EDOE 553. Ecology Education 2 hours
A study of the interrelationships of plants, animals, and their environment. Field
work will introduce the teacher to actual activities and simple sampling techniques
that can be reproduced in the classroom and outdoor teaching site. Lab fee 6 will
be assessed for this course.
Course Descriptions 93
EDOE 563. Wilderness Stewardship 2 hours
An intensive back country camping course to be taught entirely in the field. It will
provide the student with basic knowledge and understanding of minimal
environmental impact on nature while pursuing outdoor recreational activities.
Professional reading will be required prior to the trip from writers such as
Thoreau, Leopold, Muir, Carson and other voices of stewardship. Field trip fee will
be charged for food and transportation.
EDOE 565. Nature Journaling 1-2 hours
This class will help the student explore the natural world through journaling. It
focuses on writing and revising a journal. The following will be discussed: the
creative process, and the elements of good writing, including the discovery
process, writing introductions and conclusions, using concrete and specific
language and appropriate style. Lab fee 4 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 568. Nature Photography 1-2 hours
A theoretical and practical study of photography as a means of communicating
and recording nature. Topics will include outdoor lighting, composition, exposure,
color, and choosing equipment and film for nature photography. Students need
their own cameras. Lab fee 5 will be assessed for this course.
EDOE 573. Outdoor Curriculum and Methods, Grades 1-6 1-2 hours
This course may focus on any of the following areas of emphasis: art, music,
language arts, math, social studies, science, technology, health and physical
education. The student will collect and organize a file of teaching materials
appropriate for outdoor education and evaluate outdoor education activities.
Twenty hours (20) of field experiences in selected outdoor schools and attendance
at selected professional meetings are considered a part of this course. (One to
two hours may be taken in each emphasis.) Lab fee 2 will be assessed for this
course.
EDOE 574. Outdoor Curriculum and Methods, Grades 7-12 1-2 hours
This course may focus on any of the following areas of emphasis: English, history,
math, social studies, science, technology, health and physical education.
Students will collect and organize a file of teaching materials appropriate for
outdoor education and evaluate outdoor education activities. Twenty (20) hours of
field experience in selected outdoor schools and attendance at selected
professional meetings are considered a part of this course. Lab fee 2 will be
assessed for this course.
EDOE 575. Internship in Outdoor Education 1-4 hours
An internship designed to meet the particular needs and interests of the individual
participant. Internship will be conducted in cooperation with a day or resident
outdoor education facility. A minimum of forty (40) clock hours are required for
each semester hour of credit. This course may be repeated for a maximum of four
(4) semester hours total.
94 Course Descriptions
EDOE 582. Master's Practicum 2 hours
Planned outdoor education/administrative field experience in a school, school
district, or educational agency under joint supervision of faculty members in the
areas of outdoor education and educational administration. Includes work with a
mentor principal or supervisor of instruction. Note: Individuals who have
completed the supervised practicum as a component of their graduate program
may be recommended by the School of Education and Psychology for the TN State
Beginning Administrator License
EDOE 585. Workshop in Outdoor Education 1-4 hours
Various topics in outdoor education, including nature study, adventure
programming, curriculum, and wilderness medical certification may be covered.
This course may be repeated with different topics. The class will be taught in a
location suitable for the topic being covered. A minimum of lab fee 2 will be
required. Additional lab fees may be assessed depending on credits.
EDOE 593. Adventure-based Counseling 2 hours
A survey course introducing teachers, camp professionals, and outdoor
professionals to adventure-based counseling activities. Theoretical
perspectives/foundations, activity implementation, and assessments will be the
core of the instruction. Specific attention will be given to issues in group
diversities including age, gender, ethnicity, and social economics. Lab fee 5 will be
assessed for this course.
EDOE 595. Independent Study in Outdoor Education 1-3 hours
Prerequisites: EDOE 503 and consent of the School of Education and Psychology.
Individual research/study project in outdoor education under the supervision of a
graduate studies professor. May be conducted at a school or camp site.
Independent studies must be limited to two, with a maximum of six semester
hours of credit earned total.
Education Courses
EDUC 520. Theories of Learning 2 hours
A Biblical view of the learner and the learning process is used to examine current
approaches to learning theory. Behavioristic and cognitive-field learning theories,
as well as adult teaching practices, are examined as they relate to theoretical
perspectives. Theoretical principles are then used to devise practical adult
teaching and learning methodologies.
EDUC 531. Technology and the Educator 3 hours
Study and analysis of the integration of technology in learning environments. The
course examines technology-related issues from instructor, student and
administrator perspectives. Issues include the philosophy of and need for
technology, learning outcomes associated with the use of technology,
implementation of and problems associated with technology in the instructional
environment and technology related to administrative function and professional
development. This course also seeks to provide the educator with an array of
professional competencies so as to optimally leverage technology for instructional
ends. This course incorporates a hands-on approach and assumes basic
competencies in word processing, presentation software, Internet usage, and the
Windows operating system.
Course Descriptions 95
EDUC 541. Principles of Counseling 3 hours
This course is cross-listed with COUN 520. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
See COUN 520 for course description.
EDUC 566. Seminar: Trends and Issues in Education 1-3 hours
Analysis of current and emerging educational trends. Exploration of curricular
concerns and/or instructional issues which shape the teaching/learning process.
EDUC 573. The Art of Teaching Writing 3 hours
This class designed for students wishing to immerse themselves in the study of
living like a writer. This study will focus on an in-depth study of authors who share
what it means to live like a writer as they craft writing. Children's literature will be
studied in light of the writing craft. Students will also focus on applying the skills
of conferring to assist child authors in crafting their writing.
EDUC 577. Reading Assessment and Remediation 3 hours
Examines the various causes of reading difficulties and the instructional
procedures, strategies, and materials for remediating those difficulties.
EDUC 587 Statistics 2 hours
This course is designed to provide the basic knowledge of descriptive and
inferential statistics to be applied to educational research: measure of central
tendency and variability; correlation and regression; testing of hypothesis using
the normal; binomial t, F, and chi-square distribution.
EDUC 592. Educational Research 3 hours
Fundamentals of action research methodology. Analysis, critical reading,
evaluation, and application of research needed for development of skills in
research proposals. Includes the presentation of a proposal and the carrying out
of a research project under supervision.
EDUC 595. Independent Study in Education 1-3 hours
Individual research/study project in education under the supervision of a graduate
studies professor.
EDUC 599. Master's Research Project 3 hours
This is a concentrated study on a problem or issue to be examined in the light of
research. The student is urged to work closely with his/her advisor during each
phase of the development of the research project.
Finance Courses
FNCE 505. Principles of Finance 3 hours
Prerequisite: ACCT 505 or a course in Principles of Accounting I and II.
A study of the fundamental principles of financial organization. Emphasis is on
instruments of finance, policies of capitalization, problems pertaining to working
capital, and corporate expansion and reorganization.
96 Course Descriptions
FNCE 510. Financial Management 3 hours
Prerequisite: An introductory course in finance or FNCE 505.
This course is cross-listed with BUAD 520. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Understanding and analyzing information for decision making. The financial
environment, financial statement analysis, operating, cash and capital budgeting,
working capital management, interest mathematics, and cost of capital are
discussed. Lab fee 1 will be assessed for this course.
FNCE 520. Finance Theory 3 hours
Prerequisite: FNCE 510 or equivalent.
This course provides a survey of theories applied to corporate finance. Emphasis
is given to theories applicable to asset pricing models, theory of interest rates,
financial markets and valuation of assets, decisions under uncertainty, efficient
capital markets, and portfolio theory, but other theories frequently used in
financial decision making may also be introduced. These theories are then used
to critically evaluate current and past financial decision making behavior with
empirical evidence from corporate settings.
FNCE 525. International Finance 3 hours
Prerequisite: FNCE 510 or equivalent.
Covers a detailed examination of the foreign exchange market, exchange rate
determination, international financial institutions, and the management of the
risks associated with international business.
FNCE 545. Mergers and Acquisitions 3 hours
Prerequisite: FNCE 510 or equivalent.
An examination of corporate acquisitions, including firm valuation, bidding
contests, and defense mechanisms, financing the acquisition, and the corporate
tax and legal environment.
FNCE 552. Money and Banking 3 hours
This course is cross-listed with FNCE 452. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Studies mediums of exchange, money and credit, banks and their services, the
Federal Reserve System and other financial institutions, and the impact of
monetary policy on financial business procedures and decisions.
FNCE 555. Fundamentals of Investment 3 hours
This course is cross-listed with FNCE 455. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
A practical, as well as a theoretical, approach is taken for the potential investor of
institutional or personal funds through the use of problems, readings, and cases.
Topics covered will include stocks and bonds in the security market, real estate,
and fixed equipment investments.
Course Descriptions 97
FNCE 561. Portfolio Management 3 hours
Prerequisite: FNCE 555 or equivalent.
This course is cross-listed with FNCE 461. A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
Includes consideration of investment instrument choices that are available to the
investor and the purpose and operation of U.S. and global capital markets. The
course also covers the methods of evaluation for current and future investment
opportunities in the expansion of a portfolio of investments that satisfies an
investor's risk-return goals.
FNCE 564. Financial Statement Analysis 3 hours
Prerequisites: ACCT 508, 550; FNCE 555 or equivalent
This course is cross-listed with ACCT 564 . A student may receive credit for this
course from only one program.
See ACCT 564 for course description.
FNCE 585. Contemporary Issues in Finance 3 hours
A seminar format with guest lectures relating to current issues developing in
Finance.
FNCE 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
FNCE 597. Finance Research 3 hours
A research project under the supervision of a faculty in the discipline, which
includes review of literature, research design, data collection and analysis leading
to a paper appropriate for professional publication and/or presentation.
Healthcare Administration Courses
HADM 520. Operations Management and the Clinical Professional 3 hours
Concepts of decision models for planning, control, forecasting, scheduling, and
analysis. Guest lecturers from clinical areas included.
HADM 530. Healthcare Administration 3 hours
The theory and practice of healthcare in Western culture. Different types of care
delivery studied. Environments, services offered, process of entry into care
systems. Health and quality of care, medical ethics, environmental health, and
delivering of services addressed. Designed for all avenues of healthcare. HADM
536. Advanced Nursing Leadership and Role Development
HADM 536. Advanced Nursing Leadership and Role Development 3 hours
Prerequisite: Permission of program coordinator.
This course is cross-listed with NRSG 578 in the School of Nursing. A student may
receive credit for this course from only one program.
See NRSG 578 for course description.
HADM 550. Entrepreneurship and the Healthcare Professional 3 hours
Creates a focus toward valuing and growing new businesses. Learning how to be
an entrepreneur by creating a business and learning to be a key player and leader
of a business team are key outcomes. Discover how to build a meaningful
business from seasoned professionals through guest corporate lectures,
classroom experience, workshops, mentorships, and internships.
98 Course Descriptions
HADM 585. Contemporary Issues in Healthcare Administration 3 hours
A seminar of open discussion and guest lectures relating to current issues
developing within the healthcare industry. Included in the discussion will be topics
in healthcare finance and legal issues.
HADM 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
HADM 597. Healthcare Administration Research 3 hours
A research project under the supervision of a faculty in the discipline, which
includes review of literature, research design, data collection and analysis leading
to a paper appropriate for professional publication and/or presentation.
Church and Nonprofit Leadership Courses
NPLD 530. Strategic Management in Nonprofit Organizations 3 hours
The integration and application of strategic management principles, concepts, and
practices in nonprofit organizations are discussed. The development of mission
statements, goal-setting concepts, and strategy formulation and implementation
approaches are included. Students are provided the opportunity to design
organizational plans and strategies relevant to their specific needs and the needs
of their organizations.
NPLD 585. Contemporary Issues in Church and Nonprofit Leadership 3 hours
A seminar format with guest lectures relating to current issues developing in
nonprofit organizations. Key issues include the role of spiritual values, ethics,
religious leadership, motivation, change, etc.
NPLD 595. Independent Study 3 hours
Individualized research into a selected topic chosen by the faculty adviser and the
student.
NPLD 597. Nonprofit Leadership Research 3 hours
A research project under the supervision of a faculty in the discipline, which
includes review of literature, research design, data collection and analysis leading
to a paper appropriate for professional publication and/or presentation.
Nursing Courses
NRSG 500. Individual Study and Clinical Practice 1-3 hours
Prerequisite: Permission of dean or program coordinator.
Particularly designed to make-up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate
program. Hours do not count towards MSN degree. This class is designed to
make up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate preparation and is not
applicable to the graduate degree program.
NRSG 505. Directed Study and Research 1-3 hours
Prerequisite: Permission of dean or program coordinator.
Directed study and/or research in nursing designed to meet the needs of the
individual student.
Course Descriptions 99
NRSG 515. Theoretical Concepts of Nursing 2 hours
Prerequisite: Admission to the program or permission of dean or program coordinator.
A survey of the theories and concepts of nursing science as applied to the
increase in substantive nursing knowledge. A wholistic Christian perspective is
taken on major issues involved in the development of nursing knowledge. Critique
of theory is applied to the Neuman Systems Model and other selected models and
theories.
NRSG 520. Health Promotion Across the Lifespan 3 hours
Prerequisite: Admission to the program or permission of dean or program coordinator.
A course emphasizing use of developmental psychological, sociocultural,
physiological, and spiritual approaches to attain and maintain optimal health in
the face of stressors inherent in a sinful world. Biblical principles and SDA-specific
approaches to healthy lifestyle are examined. Change theory, nursing theories,
learning theories, and health promotion principles and frameworks are used to
design and evaluate interventions that enhance client's flexible line of defense.
NRSG 527. Nursing Research: Foundations of Evidence-based Practice 4 hours
Prerequisites: NRSG 316 or equivalent basic statistics and NRSG 515.
Focuses on the steps of ethical quantitative research and on understanding and
utilizing research studies as the basis for advanced practice. Application and
interpretation of descriptive and inferential statistics are included. Emphasizes
integration of research (evidence) into care of individuals, families, and
communities with potential or actual stressors and threats towellbeing.
NRSG 531. Research Seminar lhour
Prerequisite: NRSG 527.
Research concepts are made practical by the development or refinement of a
research project or thesis proposal. Students are guided through the process of
IRB proposal and obtaining permission for specific research and project activities.
Faculty mentoring facilitates readiness for NRSG 596 or 598. (Pass/Fail)
NRSG 541. Health Care Policy 2 hours
Prerequisite: Admission to the program or permission of dean or program coordinator.
Examines health care policy issues affecting nursing education, administration,
advanced clinical practice, clients, and client systems. Includes an overview of
health care policy in the public and private sectors and provides the student with
essential skills to understand and influence current health care policy formation
as it relates to areas of interest for nurses such as clinical practice, health
promotion and disease prevention and intervention at the primary, secondary, and
tertiary levels. Lab fee 8 will be assessed for this course.
NRSG 550. Advanced Pathophysiology 3 hours
A study of alterations in physiologic systems frequently encountered in primary
care, with in-depth analysis of risk factors, pathophysologic changes, and
associated clusters of signs/symptoms. Pathophysiologic theories and research
are presented as a basis for advanced practice.
100 Course Descriptions
NRSG 552. Advanced Pharmacology 3 hours
Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 550.
Focuses on the appropriate clinical use of medications in the maintenance and
strengthening of the client system's lines of resistance and defense. Emphasis is
placed on therapeutic prescription/use of medications in common recurrent
health problems.
NRSG 554. Advanced Physical Assessment 3 hours
Prerequisite: Enrollment in core courses or permission of dean or program coordinator.
In-depth focus on history taking and assessment of the five variables of the client
system. Builds on basic assessment skills through didactic and clinical
applications. Includes advanced preparation in obtaining and interpreting ECGs
and analyzing radiologic films. Includes a minimum of 60 hours clinical practice.
Lab fee 9 will be assessed for this course.
NRSG 556. Family and Community Systems 3 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 340.
Perspectives of family composition, culture, values, ethics, development, growth,
and behaviors that influence the well-being of the client in the framework of the
community. Methods in assessment of family structure, dynamics, performance,
epidemiology, and strengths/weaknesses furnish the basis for developing
approaches for primary, secondary and tertiary interventions and improvement of
family functions.
NRSG 561. Primary Care of Adults 3 hours
Prerequisites: NRSG 550, 554, 556; Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 552.
Comprehensive primary care course emphasizing primary, secondary, and tertiary
care of well and ill individuals across the adult lifespan. Concepts of health
promotion, pathophysiology, epidemiology, pharmacology, and physical
assessment are integrated throughout as common and chronic health problems
are studied. Diagnostic tests are reviewed. Differential and actual diagnoses are
discussed based on client presentation. Management plans are formulated based
on standards of practice and best evidence.
NRSG 562. Practicum: Primary Care of Adults I 4 hours
Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 561.
Clinical practicum in the differential diagnosis and management of common and
chronic adult health problems. Includes intensives for clinical procedures and
wound management. Precepted by nurse practitioners and other healthcare
providers. Includes a minimum of 240 hours of clinical practice. Lab fee 9 will be
assessed for this course.
NRSG 563. Primary Care Role Development 3 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 561.
A capstone course focusing on professional and complex clinical issues, advanced
practice roles, relationships, legal and ethical frameworks for advanced practice,
professional practice management, and preparation for advanced practice nurse
practitioner certification.
Course Descriptions 101
NRSG 565. Graduate Studies - Topics in Nursing 1-3 hours
Prerequisite: Permission of dean or program coordinator.
Selected topics designed to meet the needs or interests of students in specialty
areas of nursing not covered in regular courses. This course may be repeated for
credit.
NRSG 566. Practicum: Primary Care of Adults II 4 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 562; Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 563.
A continuation of clinical practicum with emphasis on the differential diagnosis
and management of the more intensive common, acute, and chronic adult health
problems. Precepted by nurse practitioners and other healthcare providers.
Includes a minimum of 240 hours of clinical practice. Lab fee 9 will be assessed
for this course.
NRSG 570. Primary Care of Children 3 hours
Prerequisites: NRSG 550, 554; Pre- or co-requisite NRSG 552, 556.
Theoretical concepts in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention in infants,
children, and adolescents including the assessment, health promotion, diagnosis,
and therapeutic management of common acute and chronic health problems.
Emphasis is placed on developmental needs and the pathophysiologic stressors
as well as the impact of the family on the health of the child.
NRSG 571. Practicum: Primary Care of Families I 5 hours
Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 561, 570.
Clinical practicum that promotes application of theoretical concepts and
development of skills in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention and
healthcare across the lifespan. Diagnosis and therapeutic management of
common acute and chronic health problems is precepted by nurse practitioners
and other healthcare providers in a variety of adult, family, pediatric, outpatient,
acute, and long-term care settings. Includes intensive for clinical procedures and
wound management. A minimum of 300 hours clinical practice is required. Lab
fee 9 will be assessed for this course.
NRSG 572. Practicum: Primary Care of Children 2 hours
Prerequisites: Permission of program coordinator, NRSG 562; Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG
570.
Clinical practicum that promotes application of theoretical concepts and
development of skills in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention in infants,
children, and adolescents including the diagnosis and therapeutic management of
common acute and chronic health problems. Includes a minimum of 120 hours of
clinical practice. May be used in combination with adult practicum courses to
fulfill practicum requirements for FNP emphasis.
NRSG 573. Practicum: Primary Care of Families II 5 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 571; Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 563.
Clinical practicum that promotes competence for entry into advanced practice in
health promotion/disease prevention; management of patient illness; nurse-
patient relationships; teaching-coaching function; professional roles; managing
and negotiating healthcare delivery; quality assurance; and meeting cultural and
spiritual needs of families across the lifespan. Includes a minimum of 300 hours
clinical practice. Lab fee 9 will be assessed for this course.
102 Course Descriptions
NRSG 576. Assessment for Advanced Practice 2 hours
Prerequisite: Enrollment in core courses or permission of dean or program coordinator.
Advanced studies in history taking and assessment of the five variables of the
client system. Builds on basic assessment skills through didactic and clinical
applications Not open to students in nurse practitioner emphasis.
NRSG 578. Advanced Nursing Leadership and Role Development 3 hours
Prerequisite: Permission of program coordinator.
This course is cross-listed with HADM 536 in the School of Business and
Management. A student can receive credit for this course from only one program.
Examines the role of the nurse executive or manager within the managed care
system through analyses of selected leadership, management, and nursing
theories. The concepts derived from these analyses are applied to the various role
functions (leader, strategic planner, organizer, facilitator, evaluator). Leadership
principles, continuous quality improvement, human resources management,
negotiation skills, marketing, and strategic planning are emphasized. The learner
will complete a project focusing on one of the roles of the nurse leader under
supervision of the course professor and a preceptor in a mid- to top-level
administrative position at a health care facility.
NRSG 581. Nursing Curriculum Design 3 hours
Prerequisite: Enrollment in core courses or permission of dean or program coordinator.
A study of educational philosophy, curriculum development, and design in nursing
education. Theories and models for curriculum design and evaluation are
examined. Curricular strategies that address the various domains of learning are
analyzed. Accreditation implications for curriculum development are reviewed.
(Fall, even years)
NRSG 583. Classroom Instruction and Evaluation 3 hours
Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 581.
Models, concepts, strategies, and technical innovations for classroom instruction
and evaluation are examined. Test design, construction, blue printing, and
analysis are included. Elements of this course are met through attendance at an
off-site "boot camp" for new nurse educators. Lab fee 13 will be assessed for this
course. (Winter, odd years)
NRSG 585. Educator Role Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 3 hours
Pre- or co-requisite: NRSG 581, 583.
Opportunities for application of educational strategies in classroom and clinical
settings that apply to the student area of clinical emphasis. Includes exposure to
other educator roles in a variety of settings. (135 clock hours)
NRSG 591. Practicum: Area of Clinical Emphasis 2 hours
An individualized clinical practicum in the specific area of clinical emphasis
chosen by the student designed to foster growth in clinical expertise and enrich
the nurse educator role. Ninety clock hours of practice. (Pass/Fail) Lab fee 5 will
be assessed for this course.
NRSG 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual study and research under the supervision of the graduate faculty. Only
two independent studies (a total of no more than six hours) are allowed to apply
toward a student's degree.
Course Descriptions 103
NRSG 596. Nursing Project 3 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 531.
The student addresses a practice problem, issue, or need within his or her area of
emphasis by writing a proposal and carrying out activities directed to solving the
problem, resolving the issue, or meeting the need. The project may involve
research, producing a product, or instituting change in a practice setting, or any
combination of these three. The student is supervised by a faculty mentor. The
project should lead to a scholarly paper, a presentation, an implementation, a
product usable by others, or a publishable manuscript. (Pass/Fail) Lab fee 5 will
be assessed for this course.
NRSG 598. Thesis 4 hours
Prerequisite: NRSG 531.
Student designed research under the supervision of a faculty committee
culminating in a master thesis. (Pass/Fail) Lab fee 6 will be assessed for this
course.
Biblical Studies Courses
RELB 500. Directed Study 1-3 hours
Directed study is designed to make up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate
degree.
RELB 510. Archaeology and Bible Interpretation 3 hours
A study of cultures, customs, languages, and religious practices that throw light on
the understanding of Scriptures based on archaeological and other ancient
material cultures found throughout the lands of the Bible.
RELB 520. Middle East Study Tour 1-3 hours
Sponsored by the School of Religion, the Middle East Study Tour focuses on the
archaeological, historical, and geographical study of the region with an emphasis
on the comparative study of cultures, locations, and events as they relate to the
Bible. Students are responsible for tuition and trip expenses.
RELB 530. Archaeological Fieldwork 1-6 hours
In conjunction with the archaeological expeditions, sponsored by Southern
Adventist University, qualified students obtain practical experience and training in
archaeological fieldwork by assisting on the supervising of excavations, drawing,
registering, reading of pottery, and related work. Students are responsible for
tuition and trip expenses.
RELB 540. Old Testament Themes 3 hours
An introduction to the major theological concepts and themes of the Old
Testament from the perspective of the Christian faith through the study of
selected passages of the Old Testament text. The course also discusses the
history of the discipline of Old Testament theology.
RELB 541. Preaching from the Old Testament Text 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
An examination of the presentation and development of the major theological
concepts and themes of the Old Testament from the perspective of the Christian
faith. Course requirements include the preparation of both thematic and
expository sermons based on the Old Testament.
104 Course Descriptions
RELB 545. General Epistles 3 hours
A general background of New Testament history and the Book of Acts, plus
exposition of Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 Peter, Jude, and 1, 2, and 3 John.
RELB 546. Pauline Epistles 3 hours
A study of Paul's epistles, including Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians,
Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus,
and Philemon.
RELB 551. Preaching from the New Testament Text 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
This course engages the student in either a detailed study of selected New
Testament themes or exegesis/interpretation of selected book(s) or passages of
the New Testament. Emphasis is given to the preparation/preaching of sermons
based on the New Testament themes or passages contained within the material
under study.
RELB 553. Studies in Romans 3 hours
This course provides an in-depth study of Romans. It covers core issues regarding
the righteousness of God, salvation in Christ, and the role of the Holy Spirit. Key
topics are studied, such as the nature of the gospel, the identity of the believers in
Christ, and the election of Israel in the plan of God.
RELB 555. Studies in Daniel 3 hours
A study of the prophecies and symbolism of Daniel to discover their meaning and
relevance for today.
RELB 556. Studies in Revelation 3 hours
A study of the prophecies and symbolism of Revelation with their historical
fulfillments. Special attention is given to discovering its special message for our
day.
RELB 565. Topics in Biblical Studies 3 hours
This course covers selected topics of interest in the area of biblical studies.
RELB 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual study and research under the supervision of the graduate faculty.
RELB 620. Project in Biblical Studies 3 hours
Requires the writing of a major paper in the area of biblical studies. Project is to
be completed in accordance with guidelines supplied by the School of Religion and
under the supervision of the project adviser.
RELB 650. Thesis in Biblical Studies 1-6 hours
Requires the writing of a master's thesis in the area of biblical studies. Thesis is
to be completed in accordance with guidelines supplied by the School of Religion
and under the supervision of the thesis adviser.
General Studies Courses
RELG 600. Research Methods and Writing 3 hours
A course dealing with techniques and tools, including library and online sources
available for theological research for the construction and practice of writing
research papers. Emphasis is given to expository and persuasive writing skills,
documentation styles, and bibliography in various religious disciplines.
Course Descriptions 105
Professional Studies Courses
RELP 401. Fundamentals of Biblical Preaching 3 hours
This introductory course focuses on the preparation and delivery of expository
sermons. The student learns and implements a ten-step method in preparing an
expository sermon. This sermon is preached and analyzed in a peer-review
setting. Only available to students with no formal preaching training. Credit will
not be given towards a master's degree.
RELP 500. Directed Study 1-3 hours
Directed study is designed to make up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate
degree.
RELP 501. Advanced Preaching Methods 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
An exploration of various models of biblical preaching, with an emphasis on
inductive method and extemporaneous delivery. Course requirements include
preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons in a peer-review setting.
RELP 508. Expository Preaching 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
An advanced course on the theology and construction of expository sermons.
Attention is given to exegetical procedure, homiletical form, relevant illustration,
and accurate application. The student learns strategies for developing exegetical
outlines of biblical books or chapters and transforming these outlines into fresh,
contemporary sermons for today's audience. Course requirements include
preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons in a peer-review setting.
RELP 513. Effective Church Leadership 3 hours
Church leadership viewed from the perspective of character and effectiveness.
Issues covered include visioning, local mission development, mentoring, effective
administration, and decision making. Case studies and group interaction are used
for learning purposes.
RELP 515. Equipping Laity for Ministry 3 hours
A biblical approach to the effective accomplishment of church ministry, with an
emphasis on the discovery, development, and discipleship of lay ministry. The role
of the pastor as facilitator of ministry in this paradigm is carefully examined.
RELP 517. Pastoral Counseling 3 hours
Counseling theory and practice in church related settings. Mental health programs
and follow-up are studied.
RELP 519. Church and Community Health Education 3 hours
Based on principles outlined in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy, this course
deals with specific methods and programs designed to reach both church and
community in areas of felt needs not ordinarily emphasized in the traditional
evangelistic approach.
106 Course Descriptions
RELP 521. Time and Life Management 3 hours
This course is a comprehensive study of time and life management. It explores
the fundamentals of time and its management within a theological and pastoral
context. Special consideration is given to articulating personal values, achieving
goals, evaluating and implementing a time-management system, overcoming
personal time-management weaknesses, and applying strategies of efficiency and
effectiveness to everyday life.
RELP 524. Evangelistic Preaching 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
This course concentrates on the development and delivery of Christ-centered,
distinctively Adventist messages, with emphasis on soul-winning decisions and the
use of multi-media. Instruction includes sermon preparation for an evangelistic
series.
RELP 525. Youth Ministry in the Local Church 3 hours
This course emphasizes the understanding of the various youth groups in the
local church and how each age level grows spiritually. The purpose of the course is
to demonstrate how to develop effective youth leaders and to enable them to
minister to, retain, and engage youth in the mission of the church.
RELP 532. Principles and Strategies for Church Growth 3 hours
This course focuses on the application of biblical principles of church growth to the
North American church, as well as practical evangelistic strategies for the local
Adventist congregation. These include year-long planning for community outreach,
church planting, evangelistic preparation, and membership training.
RELP 534. Personal Soul-Winning Skills 3 hours
A study of the importance, principles, and methods of personal evangelism. The
course focuses on the development of skills to help individuals make favorable
decisions for Jesus Christ through one-on-one small group evangelism. Practical
experience is gained in laboratory exercises and in the field.
RELP 537. Church Planting Strategies 3 hours
The course focuses on planting churches in a Seventh-day Adventist context.
Biblical and historical models, various methods of church planting, and the current
state of Adventist church planting is surveyed. Students learn how to develop a
strategy for starting and multiplying congregations, how to integrate discipleship
with church planning, and how to protect the personal life of the church pastor.
RELP 542. Urban Ministry and Evangelism 3 hours
A study of the city as the locus of mission and ministry. The course considers the
forces which create cities, their development, and their ethos, with emphasis on
the process of secularization and the church's holistic approach to the urban
setting. Special attention is given to evangelism and church planting in the urban
context. Students are exposed to various ministries dealing with the hungry,
homeless, addicted, and the alienated.
RELP 561. Preaching to the Secular Mind 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
The understanding of post-modern society and how to communicate the character
of God and the truths of Scripture through effective sermons. Course
requirements include preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons in a peer-
review setting.
Course Descriptions 107
RELP 565. Topics in Professional Studies 3 hours
This course deals with selected topics of interest in the area of pastoral studies.
RELP 569. Sermon Designs for Biblical Preaching 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
The student explores a variety of sermon designs, such as inductive, narrative
plots, and other audience-centered preaching forms. Delivery focus is on youth,
secular people, and various ethnic congregations. Course requirements include
preparation, delivery, and evaluation of sermons in a peer-review setting.
RELP 570. World Mission 3 hours
A broad introduction to Christian world missions. This course covers aspects of
the theology of mission; the history of missions; various philosophies of mission,
including the SDA perspective; and strategies for implementing missions in a
variety of cultural settings.
RELP 591. Preaching Practicum 3 hours
Prerequisite: At least one introductory course in biblical preaching.
The course is offered in connection with a field school of evangelism, in which
students participate in supervised evangelistic preaching. Students must
demonstrate adequate preparation in order to be considered for this course.
Class requirements include preparation of a theoretical framework to be done,
field supervision, and a final report.
RELP 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual study and research under the supervision of the graduate faculty.
Theological Studies Courses
RELT 500. Directed Study 1-3 hours
Directed study designed to make up deficiencies in a student's undergraduate
degree.
RELT 520. Spirituality in Ministry 3 hours
An examination of a biblical model for spiritual leadership and its implications for
personal spiritual life and development. The objective of this course is to discover
how to experience life and ministry that is "full of God's grace and power."
RELT 525. Theology of Ministry 3 hours
An in-depth study of the theology of ministry in the context of the church, clergy-
laity roles, and the mission of the local congregation.
RELT 531. Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation 3 hours
An investigation into fundamental hermeneutical presuppositions and the
formulation of both sound principles of biblical interpretation and proper methods
of interpreting the writings of Ellen G. White, for use in preaching and ministry.
Particular attention is paid to contemporary methods of interpretation and their
impact on the authority and trustworthiness of Scripture.
RELT 538. Prophetic Guidance in the Adventist Church 3 hours
An in-depth study of the gift of prophecy as seen in the life and ministry of Ellen G.
White. Controversial issues in revelation and inspiration are explored. An
assignment answering objections is required.
108 Course Descriptions
RELT 542. Studies in Biblical Doctrines 3 hours
An in-depth study of key biblical doctrines, such as salvation, the nature of God
and man, the Great Controversy, and the final destiny of God's people. A
significant research assignment is required.
RELT 546. Doctrine of Salvation 3 hours
The central purpose of this class is to study the plan of salvation/righteousness by
faith. It focuses on building a biblically based understanding of salvation through
the sanctuary and key soteriological books like Romans, Galatians, and John.
Some time is also spent in examining and critiquing varying views of salvation
from theologians such as Abelard, Calvin, Arminius, and Wesley. The significance
of these views for Seventh-day Adventism is also explored.
RELT 552. Theology of Mission and Evangelism 3 hours
The biblical foundation for evangelism. A theological reflection of its essence,
goals, motives, and strategies, with special emphasis on the mission of the SDA
Church. The course provides a theological foundation for all courses in the area of
evangelism, ministry, and missions.
RELT 563. Contemporary Theological Issues 3 hours
A study of contemporary theological issues that impact the Seventh-day Adventist
Church with a view to assisting inquirers to respond appropriately.
RELT 565. Topics in Theological Studies 3 hours
This course covers selected topics of interest in the area of theological studies.
RELT 568. World Religions 3 hours
A study of several major representative Christian and non-Christian religions,
including a survey of the history and the distinctive characteristics of each. This
course also compares and contrasts these religions, considers areas of
commonality between these religions and biblical Christianity, and provides
insights as to how to share Christianity with practitioners of these religions.
RELT 571. Renewal and Mission of the Church 3 hours
A biblical study of ecclesiology as it relates to the mission of the church. Emphasis
is placed on church renewal through worship, small groups, missional focus, and
the empowering baptism of the Holy Spirit.
RELT 573. Biblical Eschatology 3 hours
A biblical evaluation of end-time movements, teachings, and events to prepare the
church for Christ's soon return.
RELT 581. Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Society 3 hours
An examination of the major ethical teachings of the Bible in light of their cultural
and historical setting and in relation to contemporary moral issues. This course
deals with how to approach ethical problems in ministry, as well as Christian
strategies dealing with basic matters such as confidentiality, church-state
relations, racism, sexual vulnerability, and marriage/divorce/remarriage.
RELT 595. Independent Study 1-3 hours
Individual study and research under the supervision of the graduate faculty.
RELT 620. Project in Theological Studies 3 hours
Requires the writing of a major paper in the area of theological studies. Project is
to be completed in accordance with guidelines supplied by the School of Religion
and under the supervision of the project adviser.
Course Descriptions 109
RELT 650. Thesis in Theological Studies 1-6 hours
Requires the writing of a master's thesis in the area of theological studies. Thesis
is to be completed in accordance with guidelines supplied by the School of
Religion and under the supervision of the thesis adviser.
110 Faculty Directory
The Registry
Board of Trustees
*Gordon Retzer, Chair
*Gordon Bietz
John Boskind
Benjamin Browne
Michael Cauley
Donald Chase
Joan Coggin
Jim Davidson
Ken DeFoor
Faith Durkin
Mel Eisele
Tom Evans
Conrad Gill
*Burton Hall
Richard Hallock
Inelda Hefferlin
Heather Hilliard
Scott Hodges
Dan Houghton
* Members of the Executive Board
Lars Houmann
Todd McFarland
Bill McGhinnis
*Ellsworth McKee
Vanard Mendinghall
*John Nixon
Frank B. Potts
Mark Schiefer
Terry Shaw
*Ron Smith, Vice Chair
*Jeanette Stepanske
Wllie Taylor
Izak Wessels
Jeff White
GregWillett
*Ed Wright
DougZinke
Vicky Zygouris-Coe
Administrators
Gordon Bietz, D.Min. (1997)
Dale J. Bidwell, B.S. (1989)
Cristopher Carey, B.S. (2005)
Martin Hamilton, B.A., (1998)
Volker Henning, Ph.D. (1989)
Vinita Sauder, M.B.A. (1983)
Carelton Swafford, Ph.D. (1992)
William Wohlers, Ph.D. (1973)
Robert Young, Ph.D., (2007)
President
Senior Vice President, Financial Administration
Vice President, Advancement
Associate Vice President, Financial Administration
Associate Vice President, Academic Administration
Vice President, Marketing and Enrollment Services
Dean, Graduate Studies
Vice President, Student Services
Senior Vice President, Academic Administration
Other Officials
Kevin Penrod, B.S. (2007)
Jeffrey Erhard, MAT. (1997)
Pegi Flynt, M.A. (2007)
Marc Grundy, M.B.A. (1996)
Henry Hicks, M.B.A. (1998)
John Nixon, D.Min (2006)
Joni Zier, M.S.Ed. (1993)
(Dates in parentheses indicate the beginningyear of employment at Southern Adventist University)
Director, Campus Safety
Director, On-Campus Housing
Director, Online Campus
Associate Vice President, Enrollment Services
Executive Director, Information Systems
Senior Pastor, University Church
Director, Records and Advisement
Faculty Directory 111
Graduate Council
Carelton Swafford Dean, Graduate Studies
Director, Library
Denise Dunzweiler Dean, School of Education and Psychology
Marc Grundy Associate Vice President, Enrollment Services
Barbara James Dean, School of Nursing
Greg King Dean, School of Religion
Vinita Sauder Vice President, Marketing and Enrollment Services
Don Van Ornam Dean, School of Business and Management
Bob Young Senior Vice President, Academic Administration
Joni Zier Director, Records and Advisement
Graduate Instructional Faculty
(Dates in parentheses indicate the beginning year of employment at Southern Adventist University.)
Desiree Batson— Ph.D., Professor of Nursing
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.S.N., University of Wisconsin, Madison; Ph.D.,
University of Tennessee, Knoxville. (1997)
Stephen Bauer— Ph.D., Associate Professor of Religion
B.A., Atlantic Union College; M.Div. and Ph.D., Andrews University. (1999)
Krystal Bishop— Ed. D., Professor of Education
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.A., University of South Florida-Tampa; Ed.D.,
University of South Florida, Tampa. (1996)
Charles D. Burks— Ph.D., Professor of Psychology
B.A., Evangel College; M.S., University of Nebraska— Omaha; Ph.D., Florida State
University. (1998)
Michael Cafferky— Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Business and Management
B.A., Atlantic Union College; M.Div., Andrews University; M.P.H., Loma Linda University;
Ph.D., Southwest University. (2003)
Myrna Colon— Ph.D., Professor of Education
B.A. and MA, University of Puerto Rico; Ed.S. and Ph.D., Andrews University. (2001)
Robert Coombs— Ph.D., Professor of Psychology
B.A., Carson-Newman College; M.Div., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Min.,
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; Ph.D., The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(2004)
Alberto dos Santos— Ed.D., Professor of Psychology
B.A., University of South Africa; M.A. and Ed.D., Andrews University. (1995)
Denise Dunzweiler— Ph.D., Dean and Professor of Education
B.A., Loma Linda University-La Sierra; M.A., Sonoma State University; Ph.D., Andrews
University. (1996)
112 Faculty Directory
lleana Freeman-Gutierrez— Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology
B.A. and MA, Andrews University; Ph.D., Ball State University. (2005)
H. Robert Gadd— Ph.D., C.P.A., Professor of Business and Management
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.B.A., University of Maryland at College Park; Ph.D.
University of Texas at Arlington. (2000)
Holly Gadd— Ph.D., F.N. P., Professor of Nursing
B.S., Andrews University; M.S.N., Loma Linda University; F.N. P., Midwestern State
University, Ph.D., Texas Woman's University. (2000)
Norman Gulley— Ph.D., Research Professor of Systematic Theology
Diploma in Theology, Newbold College; B.A., Southern Adventist University; M.A. and
M.Div., Andrews University; Ph.D., University of Edinburgh. (1978)
Jan Haluska— Ph.D., Professor of English
B.S., Pacific Union College, M.A., Andrews University; Ph.D., University of Tennessee,
Knoxville. (1981)
Michael G. Hasel— Ph.D., Professor of Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology
B.A. and M.A., Andrews University; M.A. and Ph.D., University of Arizona. (1998)
J. Douglas Jacobs— D.Min., Professor of Religion
B.A., Southern Adventist University; M.Div. and D.Min., Andrews University. (2002)
Barbara James— D.S.N., Dean and Professor of Nursing
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.S.N., University of Texas at Arlington; D.S.N.,
University of Alabama at Birmingham. (1991)
Greg A. King— Ph.D., Dean and Professor of Biblical Studies
B.A., Southern Adventist University; M.Div., Andrews University; Ph.D., Union Theological
Seminary. (2004)
Judson Lake— D.Min., Th.D., Professor of Pastoral Theology
B.A., Southern Adventist University; M.Div., Andrews University; D.Min., Reformed
Theological Seminary. Th.D., University of South Africa. (1997)
Donn W. Leatherman— Ph.D., Professor of Old Testament Studies
B.Th., Canadian Union College; M.Div., Andrews University; Ph.D., McGill University. (1992)
Carlos G. Martin— Ph.D., Professor of Missions and Evangelism
B.Div., River Plate College; M.A., Andrews University; M.Div. and Ph.D., Southwestern
Baptist Seminary. (2001)
Robert Montague— Ph.D., C.P.A., Professor of Business and Management
B.S., Loma Linda University; M.B.A., University of Missouri; Ph.D., University of Iowa.
(1999)
Cliff Olson— Ph.D., Professor of Business and Management
B.A., University of Northern Colorado; M.S., Colorado State University; Ph.D., Colorado
State University. (1989)
Faculty Directory 113
Alan Parker— Th.D., Associate Professor of Missiology and Evangelism
B.A., Andrews University; M.Th. and Th.D., Stellenbosch University. (2007)
Edwin Reynolds— Ph.D., Professor of New Testament Studies
B.A., B.S., and MA, Pacific Union College; M.A. and Ph.D., Andrews University. (2004)
Philip G. Samaan— D.Min., Professor of Applied Theology and Evangelism
B.A., Walla Walla College; M.Div., Andrews University; M.S.P.H., Loma Linda University;
D.Min., Andrews University. (1998)
Carleton L. Swafford— Ph.D., Graduate Dean and Professor of Education
B.A., Southern Adventist University; M.S. and Ph.D., University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(1992)
John Wesley Taylor, V— Ph.D., Ed.D., Professor of Education and Psychology
B.A. and B.S., Weimar College; M.S., University of Tennessee, Knoxville; M.A. and Ph.D.,
Andrews University; Ed.D., University of Virginia. (2003)
Douglas Tilstra— Ph.D., Associate Professor of Church Leadership
B.A., Pacific Union College; M.Div., Andrews University; Ph.D., Capella University. (2000)
Don Van Ornam— Ph.D., C.P.A., Dean and Professor of Business and
Management
B.A., La Sierra College; M.S., University of California, Los Angeles; Ph.D., Claremont
Graduate University. (1997)
Neville Webster— D. Comm., Professor of Business and Management
B. Comm, M.Comm., and D.Comm, University of South Africa. (2002)
Penelope Webster— Ph.D., Professor of Psychology
B.A. and MA, University of South Africa; Ph.D., Andrews University. (2002)
Jon Wentworth— M.Tx., Associate Professor of Business and Management
B.A., B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.B.A., University of Tennessee, Nashville; M.Tx.,
Georgia State University. (1996)
Ruth WilliamsMorris— Ph.D., Professor of Psychology
B.A., Oakwood College; M.A., Andrews University; Ph.D., University of Minnesota. (2000)
Adjunct Faculty
Gordon Bietz— D.Min., President, Southern Adventist University
B.A., Loma Linda University-La Sierra; M.Div. and D.Min, Andrews University; Merrill Fellow
at Harvard University Divinity School.
Jack J. Blanco— Th.D., Professor of Theology, Southern Adventist University
B.A., Union College; M.A. and M.Div., Andrews University; M.Th., Princeton Theological
Seminary; Th.D., University of South Africa.
Ron E. M. Clouzet— D.Min., Director of NADEI and NAD Ministerial Secretary
B.A., Loma Linda University — La Sierra; M.Div., Andrews University; D.Min., Fuller
Theological Seminary. Th.D. Candidate, University of South Africa. (1993)
114 Faculty Directory
Herbert Coolidge— Ph.D., C.P.A., Professor of Business and Management,
Southern Adventist University
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.B.A. and Ph.D., Michigan State University.
Ganoune Diop— Ph.D., Professor of Religion, Oakwood College
B.A. and MA, Saleve University; Diploma, Maitrise en Philologie et Histoire de L'Orient
Ancien, Institut Catholique De Paris; Ph.D., Andrews University.
Mark Finley— D.D., General Vice-President, General Conference of Seventh-day
Adventist
B.A., Atlantic Union College; M.A., Andrews University; D.D., Southwestern Adventist
University.
Jean Lomino— Ph.D., Director of Chattanooga Nature Center
B.S., Southern Adventist University; M.A., La Sierra University; Ph.D., Andrews University.
Derek Morris— D.Min., Pastor, Forest Lake Seventh-day Adventist Church
B.A., Columbia Union College; M.Div. and D. Min., Andrews University; D. Min., Gordon-
Conwell Theological Seminary.
John S. Nixon— D.Min., Pastor, Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventist
B.A., Oakwood College; M.A., Fuller Theological Seminary; D.Min., Andrews University.
Neville Webster— D.Comm., Professor of Business and Management,
Southern Adventist University
B.Comm., M.Comm., and D.Comm., University of South Africa.
Greg Willett-J.D., Attorney
B.B.A., Southern Adventist University; J.D., Washington and Lee University.
Ben Wygal— Ph.D., Assistant to the President, Southern Adventist University
B.A., Texas Tech University; M.A. and Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin.