Academic Notes and Policies
The following information pertains to students enrolled in Columbia’s academic degree programs. Additional policies and information related to a particular degree program may be found in the student handbook or the manual for that program.
HONORS PROJECT
First-level Master Degree Students SUMMER GREEK SCHOOL
Entering students in the MDiv or MA(TS) degree programs may choose to begin their studies in the summer with Greek language study. The seminary offers a 3 credit-hour course, B501, during the summer. This six-week course meets each weekday morning for two hours, with small group afternoon tutorial sessions when offered in person. It may also be offered online. Students who have previously studied Greek should consult the registrar about taking a Greek proficiently exam which will allow them to proceed to exegetical courses. ADVANCED STANDING
Students who satisfactorily demonstrate they have already achieved the objectives of a given course but do not have graduate credit in the area may be exempt from the course and permitted to take an advanced course in the area to satisfy the required course credit. Requests for flexibility in a student’s program should be made to the Office of Academic Affairs.
Students in the Master of Divinity degree program may pursue an Honors project if they pass their Candidacy Discernment Consultation with a cumulative grade point average of 3.60 and a 3.80 average in the proposed area of study. Students may choose to work with a particular professor in the biblical, historical-doctrinal, or practical theology areas. The program consists of guided study in both long semesters for a total of 6 credit hours. If the area determines that the project should receive honors, then the advisor will grant an A to the student for each semester of study. If the area determines that the project should not receive honors, then the advisor, with the input from the area, will determine the final grade for each semester of study. For additional information, see the chairperson of the area of interest. ORDINATION EXAMS
Students in the Master of Divinity degree program who become candidates for ordination in the Presbyterian Church (USA) are required to take written examinations in the areas of Bible, theology, worship and sacraments, and polity. The regular master’s degree curriculum provides students with ample opportunity to take coursework preparatory to the exams.
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