First
Year
OT 500 OLD TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION
This course is designed to introduce the
student to the progressive unfolding of redemptive history
in the Old Testament. The student will explore the issues
of canon, textual criticism, and the various approaches to
Old Testament interpretation. The course will serve as an
introduction to the Biblical Theology of the Old Testament
and as a survey of the contents of the Pentateuch, Historical
and Prophetic books, and the Writings. The course begins with
a survey of the history, geography, and religion of the Ancient
Near East. As a survey-style course, it is intended to provide
the skeleton which further in-depth study of the Old Testament
will flesh out. This survey also seeks to enable the student
to discover how the focus of the Old Testament is the Lord
Jesus Christ, as he himself declared, "These are the
Scriptures that testify about me" (John 5:39). 3 hours/week;
1st semester. Mr. Dennison.
NT 510 GREEK 1A
This beginning course is designed to introduce
the beginning student to the alphabet, vocabulary, grammar
and introductory syntax of New Testament Greek (Koine). In
particular, this course will focus upon the morphology of
the Greek nouns and adjectives, and the Greek verbal system.
This course will provide a useful foundation for further careful,
exegetical study of the Greek N.T. through learning, memorization,
translation and reading. It will also enable the student to
make more informed use of the multitude of Greek reference
materials available. No prior knowledge of Greek is necessary.
3 hours/week; 1st semester, Mrs. Harrell.
NT 511 GREEK 1B
This intermediate course is designed to
continue the study of the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax
of Koine Greek by a guided reading of New Testament texts.
In particular, this course will focus upon the complexities
of Greek syntax, the verbal system, and clause and sentence
structure for translation and exegesis. Special attention
will be given to the methods of word study and reading notes
for exegetical work in the text. The course includes a survey
of grammars and reference tools available to the N.T. Greek
student. Prerequisite: NT 510. 3 hours/week; 2nd semester,
Mrs. Harrell.
NT 512 NEW TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION
This course is designed as an introduction
to the fulfillment of redemptive history in the New Testament.
The various genres of the New Testament will be examined in
terms of canonicity, textual criticism, and the various approaches
to interpretation. The course will serve as an introduction
to the Biblical Theology of the New Testament and as a survey
of the contents of the Gospels, the Epistles, and Revelation.
The course begins with an overview of the history and cultural
background of the Hellenized Mediterranean world. As a survey-style
course, it is intended to display how the various streams
of redemptive history come to a head in their fulfillment
in the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 hours/week; 2nd semester. Mr.
Sanborn.
ST 520 INTRODUCTION TO SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY
This course will cover the nature, method
and sources of theology including the nature of necessary
inference in theology and methods and sources for theological
research. Special attention will be given to the nature and
meaning of revelation in Reformed theology. Will also include
analysis of contemporary views of theological method and revelation
from Schleiermacher to Pannenberg. Special attention will
be given to the method of grounding Systematic Theology in
Biblical Theology and comparing various biblical authors in
organic theological unity. 4 hours/week; Concentrated Course.
Dr. William D. Dennison.
ST 521 INTRODUCTION TO APOLOGETICS
Foundation and method for defending the
Reformed Faith. Topics will include the exegetical foundations
of apologetics, a systematic survey of apologetical approaches
(e.g., Evidentialism, Natural Theology, New Reformed Epistemology,
Presuppositionalism), distinctiveness of a revelational epistemology
and presuppositional method. Special attention will be given
to reading and discussing key sections from the works of Dr.
Cornelius Van Til, the father of presuppositional apologetics.
4 hours/week; Concentrated Course. Dr. William D. Dennison.
PT 530/531 FIRST YEAR HOMILETICS IA/IB
A Biblical-theological study of the nature
of preaching the Word; the method of sermon preparation and
construction; the delivery of the sermon including the use
of the voice, gestures and notes; practice in formulating
and delivering a sermon including preaching before the class.
PT 530 begins a series of homiletics courses and is designed
to be taken sequentially with PT 531, PT 630, PT 631 and PT
730. PT 530 is a prerequisite to PT 531: these courses are
to be taken in sequence. 2 hours/week; 1st and 2nd semesters.
Mr. Vosteen.
CH 540/541 PATRISTICS I/II
The early church's response to the history
of redemption culminating in Christ. A survey of the church
fathers and the early church from the first to the seventh
centuries. Exposure to primary documents with evaluation of
crucial issues in the development of orthodoxy. CH 540 is
a prerequisite to CH 541: these courses are to be taken in
sequence. 2 hours/week; 1st and 2nd semesters. Mr. Dennison.
CH 542 WESTMINSTER CONFESSION OF FAITH
The course provides an overview of the
system of Reformed doctrine via the Westminster Standards.
Attention will be given to the historical context of the Confession
together with exposition of the individual chapters. Assessment
and evaluation of the Puritan-Calvinistic reflection of the
history of redemption in Christ is a feature of this course.
2 hours/week;1st semester. Mr. Dennison.
CH 543 HISTORY OF BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
Critical foundation for a truly Reformed
redemptive-historical approach to the Bible. Survey of the
history of critical interpretation of Scripture from the Reformation
to the modern era. Evaluation of rationalism, idealism, existentialism
and postmodernism as they impact biblical theology. Includes
close reading of critical works. 2 hours/week; 2nd semester.
Mr. Dennison.
CH 544/545 VOS/RIDDERBOS READINGS
Close reading of selected writings of
Geerhardus Vos and Herman Ridderbos. Redemptive-historical
surveys with special emphasis on the Apostle Paul. 2 hours/week;
1st and 2nd semesters. Mr. Dennison.
Second Year
OT 600 HEBREW IA
An introductory study of the vocabulary,
verb and noun morphology and grammar of biblical Hebrew for
the beginning student. 3 hours/week; 3rd semester. Mr. Sanborn.
OT 601/602 HEBREW IB
An intermediate study of the vocabulary,
grammar and syntax of biblical Hebrew with guided readings
in Old Testament texts. Prerequisite: OT 600. 3 hours/week;
4th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
OT 603 PENTATEUCH
Discussion of the Pentateuch using critical
and orthodox methodologies. Close reading of select Hebrew
passages of each of the “Five Books of Moses”
is included. Prerequisite: OT 500, (assumes OT 600 contemporaneously
or as a prerequisite). 3 hours/week; 3rd semester. Mr. Dennison.
OT 604 HISTORICAL BOOKS
The history and theology of Israel/Judah
from the Conquest under Joshua to the return from the Babylonian
Exile. Archaeology, biblical theology and critical views are
thoroughly considered. Close reading of Hebrew texts from
Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 2
Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther. Prerequisite: OT 500,
OT 600, (assumes OT 601 contemporaneously or as a prerequisite)
3 hours/week; 4th semester. Mr. Dennison.
NT 610 GOSPELS
Detailed study of the synoptic gospels
plus the gospel of John with attention to the distinctive
focus of each. Critical opinions, the synoptic question, narrative
analysis and biblical theology will be featured. Prerequisite:
NT 510, NT 511, NT 512. 3 hours/week; 3rd semester. Mr. Dennison.
NT 611 ACTS AND PAUL
A review of the formation and spread of
the Christian church in the first century missionary journeys
of the apostle Paul. In addition, the structure and biblical
theology of the Pauline epistles is reviewed. Prerequisite:
NT 510, NT 511, NT 512. 3 hours/week; 4th semester. Mr. Dennison
(Acts); Mr. Sanborn (Paul).
ST 620 THE DOCTRINE OF GOD AND MAN
A discussion of the existence, attributes
and knowability of the Triune God as revealed progressively
in Scripture. Other topics include the deity of Christ, the
personhood of the Holy Spirit, the divine decrees, creation,
providence, and miracles. Includes the integration of the
doctrine of God with the theology of covenant history, developing
implications for philosophical theology, and analysis of Post-Enlightenment
formulations of the doctrine of God (from Schleiermacher to
Pannenberg). Also a discussion of the origin, nature, and
original state of man, including an in-depth exploration of
the theology of the image of God, the covenant of works, the
fall, the doctrine of sin, and moral free agency. Particular
attention will be given to Roman Catholic, Lutheran, and Neo-Orthodox
anthropologies in the context of the developments in Reformed
Theology. ST 620 begins a series of systematic doctrine courses
and is designed to be taken sequentially with ST 621, ST 720
and ST 721. Prerequisite: ST 520. 4 hours/week; 3rd semester.
Mr. Sanborn.
ST 621 THE DOCTRINE OF CHRIST AND SALVATION
This course will cover the covenant of
grace and the person and work of Christ with reflection on
the nature of the Church’s union with objective redemptive
history. Topics include the impact of eschatology on the distinction
between moral, ceremonial and judicial law, the relationship
between the old and new covenants, Christ’s incarnation,
obedience, death and resurrection, the Mediatorial office
and intercession of Christ, as well as the extent of his work
and the nature of his kingdom. Modern Christology from Schleiermacher
to Pannenberg will be analyzed and criticized. Particular
attention will be given to implication of biblical theology
for systematic theology. Prerequisite: ST 520, ST 620. 4 hours/week;
4th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
PT 630/631 SECOND YEAR HOMILETICS IIA/IIB
Preaching from the various genres of Scripture:
history, wisdom literature, prophetic literature, gospels
and epistles. Instruction and practice preaching before the
class. Prerequisite: PT 530, PT 531. PT 630 is a prerequisite
to PT 631: these courses are to be taken in sequence.1 hour/week;
3rd and 4th semesters. Mr. Vosteen.
PT 632 CHURCH POLITY
An historical survey of church polity
contrasting Presbyterian polity with other forms and a Biblical-theological
study on the ministerial nature of Presbytery polity. Special
emphasis will be given to the Church Order of Dordt and the
Form of Presbyterian Church Government of the Westminster
Assembly. PT 632 is scheduled in conjunction with PT 630.
1 hour/week; 3rd semester. Mr. Vosteen.
PT 633 MISSIONS
A study of the biblical-theological foundation
of missions and its place in the redemptive plan of God. This
will be followed by a survey of the history of foreign missions
and a discussion of the proper place of missions in the life
of the local church. PT 633 is scheduled in conjunction with
PT 631. 1 hour/week; 4th semester. Mr. Vosteen.
CH 640/641 MEDIEVAL AND REFORMATION CHURCH
HISTORY
A survey of the history of the church
and the history of doctrine from Gregory the Great to Francis
Turretin. The first semester traces the story of the church
from the Dark Ages to Anselm, Abelard, Aquinas and the formation
of the Medieval tradition. The second semester examines the
Renaissance and Reformation developments including post-Reformation
movements such as Puritanism, Arminianism, Scholasticism and
Latitudinarianism. 2 hours/week; 3rd and 4th semesters. Mr.
Dennison.
Third Year
OT 700 HEBREW READING
Supervised close reading of the Hebrew
Old Testament narrative of Joseph. Emphasis is placed on facility
with the Hebrew text as well as familiarity with exegetical
tools. Prerequisite: OT 600, OT 601. 1 hour/week; 6th semester.
Mr. Sanborn.
OT 701 PSALMS AND WISDOM LITERATURE
An evaluation of Hebrew wisdom literature
with attention to Hebrew prosody in biblical-theological perspective.
Numerous Hebrew texts from the Psalter are carefully analyzed
including critical approaches and their inadequacy. Prerequisite:
OT 500, OT 600, OT 601. 3 hours/week; 5th semester. Mr. Dennison.
OT 702 OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS-MAJOR AND
MINOR PROPHETS
A survey of the prophetical books (Isaiah
through Malachi) and their place in the history of redemption.
Integration of the prophetic corpus with the historical events
in and around Palestine together with an assessment of critical
views of prophetism are included. Prerequisite: OT 500, OT
600, OT 601. 3 hours/week; 6th semester. Mr. Dennison.
NT 710 GREEK READING
Supervised reading of the Greek New Testament.
Selections will be made from various genres. Prerequisite:
NT 510, NT 511. 1 hour/week; 5th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
NT 711 GENERAL EPISTLES AND REVELATION
Insights into the biblical theology and
structure of the Catholic Epistles. Special attention is given
to the structure, meaning and eschatology of the Apocalypse
(Revelation). Modern critical assessments will be analyzed
and critiqued. Prerequisite: NT 510, NT 511, NT 512. 3 hours/week;
5th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
ST 720 THE HOLY SPIRIT AND UNION WITH
CHRIST
Involves detailed attention to the relationship
between the history of salvation (historia salutis) and the
application of salvation (ordo salutis). Specific attention
will be given to integrating the theology of God’s eternal
decrees with this relationship. Also examined will be the
redemptive historical context and work of the Holy Spirit
and modern approaches to salvation from Schleiermacher to
Pannenberg. Topics include the impact of eschatology and union
with Christ on calling, regeneration, faith and repentance,
justification, adoption, sanctification, perseverance and
the last things. Particular attention will be given to how
biblical imperatives are grounded in the indicative of union
with Christ, including an examination of Christian ethics
and the law of God. Prerequisite: ST 520, ST 620, ST 621.
4 hours/week; 5th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
ST 721 DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH
Discussion of the nature of the church,
ecclesiastical power/authority, and the philosophy of church
government. Will include a biblical theological and historical
theological discussion of office, the spirituality of the
church, the eschatology of the church, and the sacraments.
Prerequisite: ST 520, ST 620, ST 621, ST 720. 4 hours/week.
5th semester. Mr. Sanborn.
PT 730 WORSHIP /THIRD YEAR HOMILETICS
The order of worship and the regulative principle of worship Biblically considered. Specialized preaching situations such as weddings, funerals, evangelistic meetings, catechism, etc. will be covered. The Homiletics section will include practice preaching before congregations with class discussion afterward using tapes. Prerequisite: PT 530, PT 531, PT 630, PT 631. 2 hours/week; 5th semester. Mr. Vosteen.
PT 731 PASTORAL LIFE/CHURCH ADMINISTRATION
The pastoral work of the minister as described by Scripture and as worked out in the life of the church with the elders; including pastoral visits, family visits, hospital calling, etc. A study of church administration including holding session meetings and congregational meetings; church finances and budgeting. Management of the minister’s household with special emphasis on personal family life, finances and time management. 1 hour/week; 6th semester. Mr. Vosteen.
PT 732 COUNSELING
This course instructs students in the
basics of pastoral counseling in a series of lectures, beginning
with an examination of the biblical theology of counseling,
then addressing the implementation of this foundation in the
practice of pastoral counseling. Special attention will be
given to the doctrine of the church and how it informs the
methodology of counseling. Specific and common counseling
situations such as pre-marital, marriage and grief counseling
will be addressed. 1 hour/week; 6th semester. Mr. Renkema.
CH 740 MODERN CHURCH HISTORY
The story of the church from the 17th
century to the present with special emphasis on American church
history. Special attention is given to the Enlightenment,
modern denominationalism, the rise of the missionary movement
and the acculturization of Christianity. 2 hours/week; 5th
semester. Mr. Dennison.
CH 741 AMERICAN PRESBYTERIANISM
A survey of Presbyterian bodies in America
from colonial to modern times. Special attention is given
to major personalities and theological developments which
have shaped contemporary Presbyterianism. 2 hours/week; 6th
semester. Mr. Dennison.
CH 742 JONATHAN EDWARDS AND THE FREEDOM
OF THE WILL
A survey of the life and times of Jonathan
Edwards, the great New England genius. Students will be asked
to master his greatest work, The Freedom of the Will.
2 hours/week; 5th or 6th semester. Elective, Mr. Dennison.
CH 743 ECCLESIASTICAL LATIN
An introduction to Ecclesiastical Latin
using grammar and primary readings. The readings are chosen
from patristic, biblical, medieval and reformation sources.
2 hours/week; 5th or 6th semester. Elective, Mr. Dennison.
CH 744 FRANCIS TURRETIN AND PROTESTANT
SCHOLASTICISM
An introduction to Reformed Scholasticism
using Turretin’s most famous work, Institutes of
Elenctic Theology. 2 hours/week; 5th or 6th semester.
Elective, Mr. Dennison.
NT 712 GOSPEL OF JOHN
A biblical-theological investigation of
the fourth gospel incorporating structural analysis derived
from the Greek text, narrative analysis (plot characterization,
dramatic development, etc.), and Christological focus (the
“I AM’s”). 2 hours/week; 5th or 6th semester.
Elective, Mr. Dennison.
ST 722 THE THREE FORMS OF UNITY
This class will examine the Belgic Confession,
the Heidelberg Catechism and the Canons of Dordt in light
of their immediate historical background, including sixteenth
and early seventeenth century continental Reformed theology.
Included will be a study of their influence on the life of
the church. 2 hours/week; 5th or 6th semester. Elective, Mr.
Sanborn.
ST 723 GALATIANS AND ROMANS AND PAUL’S
VIEW OF THE LAW
A biblical-theological investigation of
Galatians and Romans incorporating insights from Greco-Roman
letters, rhetoric and structure. Modern assessments of Paul’s
view of the law will be analyzed and criticized. 2 hours/week;
5th or 6th semester. Elective, Mr. Sanborn.
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ADMISSIONS POLICIES
Admissions to Degree Programs
Admissions are administrated by the Academic Dean/Registrar and/or the Faculty Committee on Admissions. Northwest Theological Seminary will admit part-time or full-time students for a credited degree program on the basis of their application and an interview with the Academic Dean. If for some reason, the requirements of the application are not met before admissions, the application will not be processed until an explanation and correction of the full account of the application is received. Students who are not admitted to a degree program will be notified personally or by a letter from the Academic Dean. Students who are granted admission will receive a letter of acceptance from the Academic Dean.
M.Div. Application Requirements
Download Application for M.Div. (PDF)
·One-time non-refundable $25.00
application fee.
All information requested on
the application including:
· B.A. Degree including official
transcripts from all undergraduate and any graduate institutions.
· Ecclesiastical affiliation by
church membership with a church body.
· Letters of Ecclesiastical Recommendation
from (1) the board of elders, (2) the pastor, (3) a member
of the congregation of which the student is a member.
· Letter of Academic Reference from
a professor or teacher at an undergraduate or graduate
level institution attesting to the student's ability and
motivation for graduate studies.
· Letter of Personal Reference from
a college roommate or housemate (or other person with
whom you have lived, but not a relative or family member)
attesting to the student's Christian witness and conduct.
· Report on student's financial
resources and plan to pay for seminary education.
· One brief typewritten paragraph
explaining the student's Christian faith and testimony,
interest in biblical theology and why the student desires
to attend NWTS.
· Interview with the Academic Dean
in person or by phone.
M.T.S. Application Requirements Download
Application for M.T.S. (PDF)
· One-time non-refundable $25.00
application fee.
· All information requested on the
application including:
· B.A. Degree including official
transcripts from all undergraduate and any graduate institutions.
· Ecclesiastical affiliation by
church membership with a church body.
· Letter of Ecclesiastical Recommendation
from the pastor of the student's church body.
· Letter of Academic Reference from
a professor or teacher at an undergraduate or graduate
level institution attesting to the student's ability and
motivation for graduate studies.
· Letter of Personal Reference from
a college roommate or housemate (or other person with
whom you have lived, but not a relative or family member)
attesting to the student's Christian witness and conduct.
· Report on student's financial
resources and plan to pay for seminary education.
· One brief typewritten paragraph
explaining the student's Christian faith and testimony,
interest in biblical theology and why the student desires
to attend NWTS.
· Interview with the Academic Dean
in person or by phone.
Special
Students Policy for the M.Div. Program
In unusual cases, Northwest Theological
Seminary may admit select students who lack a bachelor's
degree. Such admission will be considered exceptional and
for the M.Div. program only. The faculty committee on admissions
will require the following:
· The applicant's indication that
he has explored the ordination requirements of the denomination
in which he is seeking licensure and/or ordination.
· "Life experience" as
a substitute for a portion of the bachelor's degree. Life
experience is defined as a combination of employment and
Christian service. Life experience alone will not qualify
for admission to NWTS. Academic work in the liberal arts
(at least one-half in courses other than Bible, theology,
etc.) will also be required. 30 units of academic work
will be measured as one year of undergraduate effort.
4 years of employment and 4 years of Christian service
will be credited toward admission to NWTS as equivalent
to one year of bachelor's study. For example, a person
with 60-90 units of academic work and 8 years of employment
and 8 years of Christian service may apply for admission
to the M.Div. program.
· The applicant must have obtained
a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 or better for all academic
work.
· The applicant must take the GRE
(Graduate Record Exam) and score at or above the 50th
percentile in verbal and analytic sections.
· The applicant must submit copies
of two papers (of more than 10 pages each) from two separate
undergraduate academic courses.
· The applicant must submit one
audio tape of a presentation made during his Christian
service, i.e., Sunday School, Bible study, small group
study, retreat, etc.
· All other elements of the M.Div.
application must be submitted.
International Students
Northwest Theological
Seminary is not approved for foreign student enrollment at
present.
When Northwest Theological Seminary is approved for foreign
student enrollment, international students must follow all
the federal regulations of the United States in obtaining
a non-immigrant status student visa. In addition, international
students seeking admission must follow the procedures of application
and registration into a degree program at full-time status.
In order to be admitted into a degree program, they must submit
transcripts and any other applicable academic documents which
would attest to their high academic standing and abilities.
Students whose first language is not English
must submit their scores on the TOEFL/TWE (Test of English
as a Foreign Language and Test of Written English) for review
by the Academic Dean. Only a score of at least 570/4.5 on
the paper based TOEFL/TWE or at least 230 on the computer-based
TOEFL with a score of 4.5 on the essay portion will be considered.
The Academic Dean may also request a college-level paper and/or
ministerial tape demonstrating the student's ability to effectively
communicate in English.
In addition, all international students should
be aware that the seminary must issue a Certificate of Eligibility
in order for an international student to obtain a student
visa (non-immigrant status). In order to receive such certification,
international students are required to have been admitted
as full-time students in a degree program at NWTS, as well
as to supply sufficient documented evidence of financial support
appropriate to the cost of living in the United States. Adequate
funding for tuition, books, living expenses, transportation
and medical insurance pertaining to the student and any of
his/her dependents while living in the United States (or abroad
in the case of his/her dependents) must be demonstrated.
Transfer Credits
Students seeking transfer credits from other
graduate-level institutions must provide transcripts and course
descriptions and/or syllabi that demonstrate the nature and
content of the course and its required work for review by
the Academic Dean. NWTS will only consider courses in which
a B- or above was received eligible for transfer credit review.
If necessary, the Academic Dean may also request that a catalog
from the institution and coursework from the course be provided.
Upon consultation with the Faculty, transfer credit may be
granted if the courses under review are sufficiently compatible
to the academic level and theological focus of the coursework
within the NWTS curriculum.
Transfer credits from undergraduate institutions
will not be granted with the exception of Greek or Hebrew
coursework. The student must provide the Academic Dean with
transcripts demonstrating that the student received no less
than a B- in Greek and Hebrew classes and course descriptions
of all applicable Greek and Hebrew classes. It is also required
that the student complete an NWTS Greek and/or Hebrew examination
in order to demonstrate their competence in the Greek or Hebrew
first year requirements. Upon evaluation of these biblical
language course descriptions, transcripts and examination,
transfer credit may be granted.
Completed courses at NWTS may be eligible for
transfer credit at other graduate level seminaries based on
the policy of each individual seminary. Students are advised
to contact the seminary to which they wish to transfer and
follow their guidelines.
Admission on Probation
Students who are admitted as Special Student
into the M.Div. program or students who have fulfilled the
requirements of the application process but their transcripts
verifying completion of a degree are pending may be admitted
on probation. Probation is a period of testing and initial
evaluation as to the student's ability and motivation for
seminary studies. Students may take up to 20 credits under
probation. At the completion of 20 credits and if all other
application requirements are satisfied, the student and his
coursework will be evaluated by the Academic Dean and/or Faculty
Committee to confirm admission.
Auditing Students
Northwest Theological Seminary also offers
classes to adults over the age of 18 on an audit student basis.
Auditors may take classes without academic credit for a $40.00
fee per class per semester. Ministers and laypersons who would
like to learn more about the Scriptures, church history, Greek
and Hebrew (as pertains to Biblical analysis) and other spiritually
enriching classes are able to take NWTS classes on this audit
basis. Prerequisites described in the course descriptions
are not required for auditors, except at the discretion of
the instructor of the course. We encourage the community to
come and learn more about the Word of God through this method.
Auditors must be adults of 18 years of age
or over. Minors under the age of 18 are only permitted to
register for classes on an audit basis upon faculty approval
and parental consent and supervision in class.
Members of the Faculty or Administration and
their spouses may audit classes without academic credit. The
usual charge is waived.
Non-Discriminatory Policy
Northwest Theological Seminary does not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in
the administration of its educational policies, admission
policies, scholarship and loan programs.
Preparation for Northwest Theological
Seminary
The following is a short list of recommended
readings to help students orient themselves to the theological
direction of Northwest Seminary prior to enrollment. If you
have questions concerning readings beyond this list, please
contact the Academic Dean, James T.
Dennison, Jr.
· Many sermons and articles on the
Kerux website (www.kerux.com)
· Geerhardus Vos, Biblical Theology: Old and
New Testaments
· Herman Ridderbos, Paul: An Outline of His Theology
· Richard B. Gaffin, Resurrection and Redemption
· James T. Dennison, Building the Biblical-theological
Sermon, Part
1 and Part
2
· J. Gresham Machen, Christianity and Liberalism
HERE
· Cornelius Van Til, The Defense of the Faith
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ACADEMIC POLICIES
Enrollment
and Registration
Registration for classes after admission as a student represents
an intent to enroll as a student on a full-time or part-time
basis. Registration for classes is available one month prior
to the beginning of the academic semester. Students should
register for classes with the Registrar by the end of the
first week of classes. Late registration for any class is
subject to the approval of the Registrar and respective instructor.
Tuition may be submitted with registration or it is due by
the first day of classes at the beginning of the semester,
unless other payment arrangements have been made with the
Registrar. Students will receive a formal notification of
their registration and tuition schedule.
An enrolled student may add or drop classes
or change to Audit status without any additional financial
penalty although they are subject to the financial obligations
of the refund and cancellation policy. An enrolled student
may officially withdraw from classes or change to Audit status
without academic penalty until the 8th week of class by informing
the Registrar by letter or with a change in registration form.
Unofficial withdrawal of classes or withdrawal after the 8th
week is subject to academic review by the Academic Dean and
a "W" (Withdrawal) will be issued on official transcripts.
A student may enroll on a full or part-time
basis. A full-time course load is considered at least 12 credit
hours or above with a maximum threshold of 22 credit hours.
A part-time course load is considered to be at least 2-11
credit hours.
Academic Standing
and Retention
Enrolled students at Northwest Theological Seminary are expected
to achieve and retain good academic standing. A student with
a cumulative Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) of at least 2.00
or more is considered to be in good academic standing. Students
must also maintain consistent attendance in class lectures
and complete course work assigned for each course.
A student in good academic standing may withdraw
from two full-time semesters of their degree program and be
re-admitted without repeating the application process. If
a student decides to withdraw for a period greater than two
full-time semesters, he/she must re-apply to gain admissions
into a degree program.
If a student falls below a 2.00 G.P.A. after the completion
of 18 credit hours of coursework, he/she will be placed under
academic probation by the Academic Dean and notified. Academic
probation is a period of evaluation in which the student is
required to seek academic advising on a regular basis in order
to assist his/her academic performance. A faculty member is
assigned to assist the student to remain accountable to a
plan of study. After a student is placed on probation, he
must raise his/her G.P.A. to a 2.00 within two semesters or
the student may be subject to dismissal from the program.
Students subject to dismissal because of poor
academic standing or failure to complete course requirements
unto the completion of his/her degree program will be notified
by the Academic Dean in writing. Students who have been dismissed
must apply to be re-admitted on probation status.
Degree Program
Changes
A student may make a written request for permission to change
degree programs to the Registrar and Academic Dean. If the
request is reasonable and within the guidelines of each degree
program, the Academic Dean may issue permission and grant
the change.
Degree Completion
and Graduation Requirements
To apply for graduation, a student must have completed the
requirements of the degree program in which he/she is currently
enrolled at Northwest Theological Seminary. Completion of
the M.Div. or M.T.S. degree programs is determined by the
successful completion of all the required and elective courses
for each program. Students must also be in good academic standing
with a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.0 or above. All financial obligations
to NWTS must be fulfilled.
Transcript
and Grading Policy
An official transcript from Northwest
Theological Seminary may be requested by an enrolled or
previously enrolled student by written and signed letter.
At the completion of each semester, students in degree programs
will receive an official copy of their transcript. A transcript
is official if it states "This is an official transcript"
with the original signature of the Registrar of Northwest
Theological Seminary. Any unauthorized duplication of a transcript
is not an official transcript. This transcript cannot be released
to a third party without the written consent of the student.
This is in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act of 1974. If you have additional questions about
this document, please contact the Registrar
at (425) 787-5144.
One credit hour is equivalent to a course which
meets for one 55 minute class or requires an equivalent graduate
research hour per week for a 15 week semester. Grades are
calculated on a standard system of grade points. A student’s
academic standing is determined by their overall Grade Point
Average (G.P.A.). Students receive a G.P.A. calculation each
semester as well as a cumulative G.P.A. Classes taken for
credit should be graded according to the following grading
system:
Grading System
| |
|
|
Letter Grade |
Grade Points |
A
A-
B+
B
B-
C+
C
C-
D+
D
D-
F |
4.0
3.7
3.3
3.0
2.7
2.3
2.0
1.7
1.3
1.0
0.7
0.0 |
|
|
TR = TRANSFER CREDIT
AUD = AUDIT
W = WITHDRAWAL
UW = UNOFFICIAL WITHDRAWAL
I = INCOMPLETE |
Students receiving a grade of A to D- receive
class credit. Any grade less than a D- is considered a failing
grade. Credit is not received for a failing grade. Students
receiving a failing grade must repeat a course in order to
earn class credit.
In cases of serious illness, death in the family
or other emergency based on extenuating circumstances, an
instructor may grant an Incomplete grade upon petition in
writing to be reviewed by the Academic Dean and the Faculty.
An Incomplete may be granted if the student has completed
all required class attendance, but is not able to finish coursework
because of serious illness, death in the family, or other
emergency. The student will then be given notification of
a period of time set by the instructor in order to finish
any coursework. If the Incomplete remains unfinished, the
student will be given a failing grade for the class.
A student may officially withdraw from a class
without academic penalty by submitting written notification
by letter or with a change in registration form to the Registrar.
No record of registration in this class will be recorded on
the transcript if the student officially withdraws by the
8th week of classes. If a student officially withdraws after
the 8th week, a "W" will be recorded on the transcript
indicating that the student was enrolled in the course and
withdrew. No credit or grade will be given for the class.
Any student who withdraws from a class must discharge any
financial obligations according to our refund and cancellation
policy.
If a student fails to notify the Registrar
or the faculty of their withdrawal, a "UW" will
be recorded on the transcript indicating that the student
unofficially withdrew and no credit will be given for the
class. The student will be subject to academic review by the
Academic Dean. Any student who withdraws from a class must
discharge any financial obligations according to our refund
and cancellation policy.
Any discrepancy or changes in address on the
transcript must be reported to the Registrar immediately or
prior to the end of the next term when grades are issued.
If the discrepancy is not reported until after the end of
the following term, the student must then petition the Registrar
and the Academic Dean in a written letter for a review and
correction of the transcript. If no forwarding address is
left for the transcript to be issued, the transcript will
be recorded in the student's permanent file by NWTS.
Conduct and Disciplinary Policy
Students of Northwest Theological Seminary
are expected to adhere to principles of biblical conduct as
set forth by the Scriptures. As a part of the application
in admissions procedures, students must sign a statement of
conduct: The moral and behavioral
standards of NWTS are those of the Word of God as interpreted
by the Westminster Standards and The Three Forms of Unity.
I, the undersigned, understand that I will be responsible
to live in a Christ-like manner and act in accordance with
these standards if I am admitted as a student at NWTS. I will
be subject to dismissal if I do not.
If policies of conduct are in breach, the Academic
Dean will contact the student in question and pursue a biblical
resolution. If a biblical resolution cannot be reached and
the student refuses to change the behaviour that is in violation
of the moral and behavioral standards of NWTS, the student
will be subject to dismissal upon consultation with the Faculty.
Grievance
and Appeal Process
Grievances and appeals regarding decisions of an academic
nature or of behavioral conduct may be submitted in writing
to the Academic Dean. The Academic Dean will carefully review
each case with the faculty and return a decision to the student
by the beginning of the next academic term.
FINANCIAL POLICIES
Tuition
Schedules
Potential students wishing to apply
for the M.Div. or M.T.S. degree programs are required to
submit a non-refundable $25.00 application fee along with
the application. Applications may be obtained by contacting
the Registrar at (425) 787-5144, 17711 Spruce Way, Lynnwood,
WA 98037. Applications may also be downloaded from the Northwest
Theological Seminary website at www.nwts.edu.
Tuition is $150.00 per credit hour. Tuition
is payable at the beginning of classes each semester. If
alternate payment arrangements need to be made, please see
the Registrar. Students will not be allowed to take final
examinations, receive course credit or request transcripts
if their tuition accounts are outstanding and no payment
arrangements have been made with the seminary.
Classes may be audited on a non-credit basis
by any enrolled student or adult layperson for a fee of
$40.00 per course. This fee is due on the first day of class,
but those wishing to audit must register with the Academic
Dean or Registrar before the start of class. Auditors may
receive copies of all free materials distributed to the
class. Professors may restrict questions and discussion
from auditors.
Students are responsible for purchasing their
textbooks and supplies. NWTS does not provide bookstore
services. We recommend that students seek textbooks for
classes through internet sources.
Refund and Cancellation
Policies
If enrolled students withdraw from a class, they may receive
a refund for the number of class hours from which they will
withdraw. Tuition refunds will be calculated according to
a schedule of tuition for a class divisible by the number
of lecture hours (not including non-lecture hours in research,
reading week or exam week) that semester.
Auditor's fees are refundable within the
first week of class by request of the auditor. Auditor's
fees are non-refundable after the first week of classes.
Financial Aid
Northwest Theological Seminary has no scholarship or financial
aid programs at present. Students who are under the care
of a church or denomination which issues scholarships may
make arrangements for tuition fee payments to be issued
to the seminary directly.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Academic
Advising
Northwest Theological Seminary
strongly encourages students to seek academic advising from
the Registrar, the Academic Dean or any Faculty member.
These members of the faculty and administrative staff are
available for consultation by appointment or during office
hours. They are conversant with school policy as well as
curriculum. Appointments can be made by contacting the office
at (425) 787-5144.
Northwest Theological Seminary fosters relationships
with several local churches in the Washington area. Students
seeking a local church or opportunities for ministerial
training may seek advice from the Academic Dean or the Homiletics
faculty.
Devotional Life
Northwest Theological Seminary strongly encourages students
to associate with the life of the local church body. The
seminary is a training institution that cannot replace the
work of the church in the spiritual life of the believer.
NWTS maintains a list of local churches and their pastors,
which is accessible to students.
Each summer, the seminary the seminary holds
a Kerux Conference or a Summer Conference on topics of theological
interest for the edification and education of the students
and the local Christian community.
Pastoral Internships
Northwest Theological Seminary believes that ministerial
students pursuing seminary education should be members in
good standing of a church body, and encourages M.Div. students
to be under the care of a church body or denomination. The
training of a minister in a pastoral internship position
should be properly facilitated by the local church or denomination;
thus, NWTS does not require M.Div. students to take a pastoral
internship for academic credit. The Faculty is available
to assist and advise students in the matter of pastoral
internships.
Library
Northwest Theological Seminary currently houses a
library of over 4,600 bound theological volumes and periodicals
which are accessible for student and faculty research. In
addition, students at NWTS are encouraged to share the library
facilities of local university and theological libraries,
such as Seattle Pacific University, where library cards
may be purchased on a yearly or quarterly basis.
Computer Research
Students are required to have the use of a computer and
access to the internet for research purposes. Computers
are on-site and online for internet research and word processing.
Students also have access to on-site printers and the copy
machine.
Textbook Acquisition
Northwest Theological Seminary has no on-site bookstore
and cannot provide textbooks. NWTS requires that students
acquire textbooks on their own. Required book lists are
published before each term generally listing a publisher
contact or an internet bookstore, from which textbooks are
accessible for purchase.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2007-2008
Applications-Fall 2007
Applications
Deadline is August 15, 2007
Deferment may be made at the discretion of the Registrar.
Applications-Spring
2008
Applications Deadline is December 2, 2007
Deferment may be made at the discretion of the Registrar.
Applications-May Term 2008
Applications Deadline is April 7, 2008
Fall Semester 2007
Fall Registration begins August 5, 2007
Classes begin September 4, 2007
Classes end December 7, 2007
Reading Week is December 8-14, 2007
Exam Week is December 17-21, 2007
Thanksgiving Holiday is November 22-23, 2007
Winter Break is December 24, 2007 - January 2, 2008
Spring Semester 2008
Spring Registration begins December 3, 2007
Classes begin January 2, 2008
Classes end April 11, 2008
Reading Week is April 14-18, 2008
Exam Week is April 21-25, 2008
Spring Break is March 3-7, 2008
May Term 2008-Concentrated Courses
May Term Registration Begins April 10, 2008
Class Schedules to be announced in the Spring.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2008-2009
Fall Semester 2008
Classes begin September 2, 2008
Classes end December 75, 2008
Reading Week is December 8-12, 2008
Exam Week is December 15-19, 2008
Thanksgiving Holiday is November 26-27, 2008
Winter Break is December 21, 2008 - January 1, 2009
Spring Semester 2009
Classes begin January 5, 2009
Classes end April 10, 2009
Reading Week is April 13-17, 2009
Exam Week is April 20-24, 2009
Spring Break is March 2-6, 2009
May Term 2009-Concentrated Courses
May Term Registration Begins April 10, 2009
Class Schedules to be announced in the Spring.
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Catalog Disclaimer:
The catalog is a statement of the policies, personnel, programs
and financial arrangements of Northwest Theological Seminary,
Lynnwood, Washington, as projected by the responsible authorities
of the seminary. The seminary reserves the right to make alterations
without prior notice in accordance with the seminary's institutional
needs and academic purposes.
Academic Status
Disclaimer: The Washington State Higher Education Coordinating
Board has determined that Northwest Theological Seminary qualifies
for religious exempt status from the Degree Authorization
Act for the following programs: Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
and Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.). Any person desiring
information about the requirements of the Act or the applicability
of those requirements to the institution may contact the Board
at P.O. Box 43430, Olympia, WA 98504-3430.
Equal Opportunity
Disclaimer: Northwest Theological Seminary does not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic
origin in the administration of its educational policies,
admission policies, scholarship and loan programs.
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