Student handbook 2020 FINAL 1.0 - mac.edu.au · See our website for information not included in...

1

2020 Student

Handbook

1

Contents 1. Welcome ....................................................................................................................... 4 2. Contact Details ............................................................................................................. 6 3 Our Campuses ............................................................................................................... 7 3.1 City Campus ................................................................................................................ 7 3.2 Emu Plains Campus .................................................................................................... 8 3.3 Dapto Campus ............................................................................................................ 8 4 About MAC .................................................................................................................... 8 4.1 Our Story ..................................................................................................................... 9 4.2 Our Courses .............................................................................................................. 11 4.3 Our Relationship with Anglican Deaconess Ministries .......................................... 11 4.4 Australian College of Theology ............................................................................... 11 4.5 MAC Academic Board ............................................................................................. 12 5. Student Life ................................................................................................................. 12 5.1 On Campus ............................................................................................................... 12 5.1.1 Toilets ..................................................................................................................... 12 5.1.2 Accessible (Disabled) Toilet ................................................................................. 12 5.1.3 Morning Tea During Classes ................................................................................ 13 5.1.4 Wifi Password ......................................................................................................... 13 5.2 College Library ......................................................................................................... 13 5.2.1 How to Borrow a Book from the Library .............................................................. 13 5.2.2 How to Return a Book to the Library ................................................................... 14 5.2.3 How to Use the Library Catalogue ....................................................................... 14 5.2.4 Photocopying ......................................................................................................... 14 5.3 Student Orientation ................................................................................................. 14 5.4 Student Card ............................................................................................................. 15 5.5 Other Student Resources ......................................................................................... 15 5.5.1 Endnote .................................................................................................................. 15 5.5.2 Logos Bible Software ............................................................................................ 15 5.6 Important Dates for 2020 ......................................................................................... 16 6 Diploma Courses ......................................................................................................... 17 6.1 Introduction to the Diploma and Advanced Diploma Courses ............................ 17 6.1.1 How much time will it take to complete a diploma? .......................................... 17 6.1.2 How Difficult are the Courses Academically ....................................................... 18 6.1.3 Admissions Requirements .................................................................................... 19 6.2 Course Structure ....................................................................................................... 19 6.2.1 Diploma of Christian Studies (DIPCS20) .............................................................. 20 6.2.2 Diploma of Theology (DIPTH20) .......................................................................... 20 6.2.3 Diploma of Ministry (DIPMIN20) ........................................................................... 21 6.2.4 Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry (DIPTHMIN20) .............................. 22

2

6.2.5 Advanced Diploma of Ministry (ADVDIPM20 & Advanced Diploma of Theology (ADVIPTH20) .................................................................................................................... 22 6.3 Units Offered at MAC in 2020 ................................................................................. 23 6.3.1 Bible and Languages ............................................................................................. 23 6.3.2 Christian Thought and History ............................................................................. 23 6.3.3 Ministry and Practice ............................................................................................. 24 6.4 Do I need to do units in a particular order? ........................................................... 24 7 Certificate Courses ...................................................................................................... 25 7.1 Certificate in Theology (CertTheol) ......................................................................... 25 7.2 What Previous Education is Required? ................................................................... 26 7.3 Graduating Levels ..................................................................................................... 26 8. MAC Pastoral Care Award ......................................................................................... 26 8.1 What Does this Course Consist of? ......................................................................... 26 8.2 What Previous Education is Required? ................................................................... 26 8.3 Who is this Course for? ............................................................................................ 26 9. Attendance Only (Auditing) ....................................................................................... 27 10. Student Services and Support ................................................................................. 28 10.1 Enrolment Support, Course Planning, & Unit Selection ..................................... 28 10.2 Academic Support .................................................................................................. 28 10.3 Library Support ....................................................................................................... 29 10.4 Pastoral Support ..................................................................................................... 29 10.5 Disability Support ................................................................................................... 29 10.6 Financial Support .................................................................................................... 30 10.7 On Campus Safety .................................................................................................. 30 11. Academic Regulations ............................................................................................. 32 11.1.1 Language Qualifications for Non-English Speaking Background Students ... 32 11.2 Student Commitments ........................................................................................... 32 11.2.1 Attendance ........................................................................................................... 32 11.2.2 Assignments ......................................................................................................... 33 12 Enrolment ................................................................................................................... 34 12.1 Enrolment with the Australian College of Theology ........................................... 34 12.1.1 Variation of Enrolment and Withdrawals ........................................................... 34 12.1.1.1 Diploma Dates 2020 ......................................................................................... 37 12.1.1.2 Certificate Dates 2020 ...................................................................................... 38 12.2.1 Re-crediting FEE-HELP Balance ......................................................................... 39 12.2.1.1 Census Dates and FEE-HELP Debt ................................................................. 39 12.2.1.2 Re-Crediting a Student’s FEE-HELP Balance ................................................. 39 12.2.1.3 Review of the Original Decision ...................................................................... 40 12.2.1.4 Contact Persons ................................................................................................ 41 13 Credit for Prior Learning ........................................................................................... 42 14 Receiving Your Results .............................................................................................. 43 14.1 How do I access my Results Online? ..................................................................... 43 14.2 Explanation of Grades and Symbols ..................................................................... 43

3

14.3 Explanation of GPA ................................................................................................ 44 15 Assessments ............................................................................................................... 45 15.1 Assignment Word Limits ........................................................................................ 45 15.2 Late Submission ...................................................................................................... 45 15.3 Extensions ............................................................................................................... 45 15.4 Remarking ............................................................................................................... 47 15.5 Deferred Assessment ............................................................................................. 47 15.6 Academic Misconduct Policy ................................................................................. 49 15.7 Appeals ................................................................................................................... 51 15.8 Grievance Resolution Policy for Domestic Students ........................................... 51 15.8.1 Part 1: The Policy ................................................................................................. 51 15.8.1.1 Definitions ......................................................................................................... 53 15.8.1.2 Distribution and Awareness of Policy ............................................................. 53 15.8.1.3 Record Keeping and Reporting ...................................................................... 54 15.8.2 Part 2: The Process: Reporting & Resolving a Grievance ................................. 54 15.8.2.1 Grievances About Academic Matters ............................................................. 54 15.8.2.2 Concerns About a Unit Grade ......................................................................... 54 15.8.2.3 Concerns About Other Academic Matters ..................................................... 58 15.8.2.4 Grievances About Non-Academic Matters .................................................... 62 15.8.2.5 External Dispute Resolution ............................................................................ 65 15.8.3 Part 3: The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency ....................... 65 15.8.4 Part 4: Contact and Administration Details ....................................................... 65 15.8.5 Part 5: Principles of Natural Justice .................................................................... 66 15.9 Other MAC Policies ................................................................................................ 68 15.10 Other ACT Policies ............................................................................................... 68

4

1. Welcome Dear Students, If this is your first unit of study welcome to Mary Andrews College. If you are returning this year, then we are very pleased to welcome you back. The faculty and staff at Mary Andrews College want to support you in every way we can. We pray for you and seek to provide the best learning environment that we can. We are conscious that what you are doing here is not like any secular course. God is taking you as a person on a journey.

A journey of discovery about Him and His word. A journey of discovery about yourself and the challenges of maturity and a journey of discovery about how God will use you and the gifts that He has given to you to build His church. I want to encourage you to take seriously the opportunities for growth and development not only in your studies but in your Christian life. Simple things like taking responsibility for your fulfilment of study requirements, being aware of those around you and getting your self-worth from your relationship with Jesus, not how well you do in a course (there is nothing wrong in celebrating achievements but I know that my greatest growth actually came from failures). See our website www.mac.edu.au for information not included in this handbook: about our college in more detail, our staff and faculty, teaching centres, current fees, fee assistance and FEE-HELP. Please don’t hesitate to ask for help and encouragement and enjoy all that God has for you through Mary Andrews College this year. As many of you know, I will be retiring in March and my last ‘official duty’ will be the graduation. It has been an unbelievable privilege to have been the Principal at MAC for the last 12 years and on faculty for 25 years. There has been great joy in seeing how students have grown and flourished as they have engaged with God’s Word. I know that hundreds of women (and a significant number of men) are serving Christ in ways they never would have dreamed of before. It has been wonderful to see how students have supported and encouraged one another over many years and indeed beyond their college years. The other joy has been to work with an amazing faculty and staff, people who are passionate about serving Jesus and equipping others. They constantly give of their all to see students grow.

Rev. Jackie Stoneman Retiring Principal

5

I will be sad to not have the same contact with everything that is happening at MAC, however, I know it is the right time to hand over the baton to someone else. I am thrilled that the Rev. Dr Katy Smith has agreed to come as the new Principal of MAC. She will be commissioned at the graduation. I pray that under her leadership God will continue to shape the College and all who are involved with the ministry here. Please pray for Katy, myself, faculty, staff and students as we journey with God through the changes this year. Thank you all for being prepared to study at MAC and may God bless you richly as you do so. Rev. Jackie Stoneman January 2020 Welcoming our new Principal from March 2020, Rev. Dr. Katy Smith.

6

2. Contact Details Mary Andrews College Level 1 St Andrew’s House 464-480 Kent Street Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 1300 590 531 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mac.edu.au Faculty and Staff Principal and Academic Dean

Rev. Jackie Stoneman [email protected]

Registrar

Sarah Barry [email protected]

Registration Officer

Anna McCarthy [email protected]

Office Assistant

Lauren Miller

Librarians

Kim Robinson [email protected]

Barbara Van Waart [email protected]

MAC Lecturers

Viv Cheung [email protected]

Rev. Dr. Keith Condie [email protected]

Dr. Louise Gosbell [email protected]

Jill McGilvray [email protected]

7

Rev. Marge Mills [email protected]

Rev. Di Morgan [email protected]

Karen Ray [email protected]

Rev. Jill Williams [email protected]

Our main city campus is a hub of activity as the campus is shared with our parent organisation, Anglican Deaconess Ministries. While you are on campus, you might bump into any one of our ADM staff, our ADM 2020 fellows who are working on various projects being co-funded by ADM, and many others who use our space for meetings or study purposes. For more about ADM projects, fellowships and more, check out www.deaconessministries.org.au.

3. Our Campuses 3.1 City Campus Mary Andrews College Level 1, St Andrew’s House 464 - 480 Kent Street Sydney Phone: 1300 590 531 Email: [email protected] St Andrew’s House is located in the city behind St Andrew’s Cathedral and near the Sydney Town Hall and above Town Hall train station. St Andrew’s House can also be entered from the corner of Kent and Bathurst Streets.

8

3.2 Emu Plains Campus The Emu Plains campus is located at St Paul’s Anglican Church Emu Plains. Classes at Emu Plains only run on Mondays. Emu Plains St Paul’s Anglican Church Short Street (via Mundy Street) Emu Plains

3.3 Dapto Campus The Dapto campus is located at Dapto Anglican Church Ministry Centre. Dapto Anglican Church Lot 100, Moombara Street Dapto

4. About MAC Mary Andrews College is a Bible college which is committed to equipping women to serve Christ. We offer unique and accessible lay training for women. Matthew 28:19-20 says: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” In the light of this, Mary Andrews College:

• Provides opportunities to be equipped for Christian ministry and care through courses, conferences, and events;

9

• Encourages women to develop their gifts to build up Christ’s church and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world;

• Is a prayerful environment where women can grow in confidence in Christ;

• Offers opportunities to develop in maturity through relationships with other Christians.

As an evangelical Anglican College, Mary Andrews College holds to the fundamental truths of the Christian faith, including:

• The divine inspiration and infallibility of Holy Scripture as originally given, and its supreme authority in all matters of faith and conduct;

• The unity of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit in the Godhead;

• The universal sinfulness and guilt of humanity since the fall, rendering men and women subject to God’s wrath and condemnation;

• The conception of Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit and his birth by the virgin Mary;

• Redemption from the guilt, penalty and power of sin only though the sacrificial death – as our representative and substitute – of Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God;

• The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead; • The necessity of the work of the Holy Spirit to make the death of Jesus effective

in the individual sinner, granting him or her repentance towards God, and faith in Jesus Christ;

• The indwelling and work of the Holy Spirit in the believer; • The expectation of the personal return of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Mary Andrews College warmly welcomes Christians from other denominations to study with us.

4.1 Our Story Equipping women to serve Christ through unique, flexible lay training. In 1885, the Sydney Anglican Diocesan Synod passed “a resolution in favour of deaconess work.”1 The first Australian ordination of an overseas-trained deaconess was in Sydney in 1886. In 1891, the Rev. Mervyn Archdall and his wife Martha became 1 Deaconess House, The Vision Unfolding: Deaconess Institution 1891-1991 (Newtown: Deaconess House, 1991).

Students at Deaconess House 1949-1951

10

the founders of the Deaconess Institution ministry in Australia, which was modelled on similar work in Germany and England. On 17 August 1891, the deaconess training school ‘Bethany’ opened in Balmain. Mrs Archdall began teaching at the college and her husband sacrificed one-quarter of his income to support the running of Bethany in order to train up Christian women for ministry. The deaconesses who trained at the college began work in parishes – visiting people in their homes, visiting and nursing the sick, teaching at Sunday Schools and Scripture in schools and conducting evangelistic meetings, among other activities. The needs of the expanding work resulted in the purchase and consecration of 28 Carillon Avenue,

Newtown (Deaconess House) on 6 December 1916 which became the headquarters of the Deaconess Institution (now Anglican Deaconess Ministries). In the 1970s, female students began to enrol in the Bachelor of Theology offered by Moore Theological College (MTC), next door to Deaconess House. Deaconess House began a ministry training program for women enrolled at MTC, to address the special pastoral needs of female students. A variety of other programs were also begun, including ministering to the university students living at Deaconess House, part-time Bible courses for lay women in Sydney, an annual women’s conference, and diploma courses. In 1989, the clerical role of deacon was opened up to women and, as a result, the last deaconesses to be ordained in Sydney occurred in 1991. In 1997, Deaconess House changed its name to MAC in recognition of the outstanding life-long work of Deaconess Mary Andrews. MAC moved from Newtown to Stanmore at the end of 2007, focusing on teaching the Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas in Theology and Ministry. In December 2009 MAC moved again. This latest move from Stanmore to St Andrew’s House in the Sydney CBD now sees the College well located in modern premises for our main teaching centre, library and staff offices. MAC is unique as the only Bible college in Australia founded to equip women for ministry, a mission begun in 1891.

Mary Andrews 1915-1996

11

4.2 Our Courses Mary Andrews College offers the following Australian College of Theology (ACT) courses:

• Diploma of Christian Studies AQF Level 5 • Diploma of Theology AQF Level 5 • Diploma of Ministry AQF Level 5 • Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry AQF Level 5 • Advanced Diploma of Theology AQF Level 6 • Advanced Diploma of Ministry AQF Level 6 • Certificate in Theology N/A

4.3 Our Relationship with Anglican Deaconess Ministries MAC is a ministry of Anglican Deaconess Ministries. The vision of ADM is to see women, from generation to generation, flourishing in Kingdom work. For 127 years, ADM’s mission has been to raise up women with theological formation for practical and public engagement. To learn more, see www.adm.org.au.

4.4 Australian College of Theology The Australian College of Theology (ACT) was established in 1891 by the General Synod of the Anglican Church in Australia. The Australian College of Theology is a Higher Education Provider as defined by the Higher Education Support Act (2003). Like universities, it has government approval to accredit its own courses in the field of Religious Studies. The Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses have been accredited by the Australian College of Theology until the end of 2021. While the Certificate in Theology is not recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), it is highly regarded by many churches and potential employers. The ACT is a national Higher Education Provider and operates through 17 independent colleges as a consortium. These colleges are approved by the ACT’s Board of Directors to deliver ACT courses on its behalf and are termed affiliated colleges of the ACT. Mary Andrews College is one of these affiliated colleges. For more information on the ACT, see their website: www.actheology.edu.au.

12

4.5 MAC Academic Board MAC has an Academic Board comprised of the MAC Principal and Academic Dean, Registrar, Registration Officer, and MAC lecturers. Decisions concerning courses, units, and assessments are made by our Academic Board in line with ACT regulations. Students are able to interact with the Academic Board by writing to the Registrar who will present any questions or concerns to the Academic Board.

5. Student Life

5.1 On Campus The city campus of MAC is located in the offices of our parent organisation, Anglican Deaconess Ministries. Not only is the campus right in the heart of the CBD and easy to access by public transport, but it is a beautiful space to study, enjoy your classes, and meet an array of different people. When classes are being held, or other events are on at MAC and ADM, the doors are open to the campus. However, at quieter times, the front door might be closed but you can gain access by pressing the doorbell and someone will come to let you in. You are welcome to visit the college campus anytime during business hours so you can find a quiet place to study or use the library’s resources.

5.1.1 Toilets Toilets are available near the lifts outside the main doors of the city campus. You will need to borrow a toilet pass from the Reception desk to access the bathrooms.

5.1.2 Accessible (Disabled) Toilets An accessible toilet (disabled toilet) is also at the city campus. Please ensure this toilet remains available for people with disabilities and accessibility issues. As an accessible bathroom is not built for high traffic, please avoid using this toilet even if the other toilets are all full just in case someone with a disability requires it. The accessible toilet area also has a baby change table.

13

5.1.3 Morning Tea during Classes – Tea and Coffee Facilities Whether you are attending a three-hour lecture or a whole day intensive, your lecturer will give you the opportunity to have breaks during class. During the break time, we encourage you to make the most of our kitchen space and make yourself a free cup of tea or coffee or enjoy some complimentary cheese and biscuits. Gluten-free options are available.

5.1.4 WiFi Password If you’d like to check your emails or access our website during your class break or post in social media about how great your classes are at MAC, please feel free to access our free WiFi. WiFi Username: adm-guest WiFi Password: 123ADMguest

5.2 College Library The college library is available for students to access during MAC office hours. Our librarians are part-time and are not always on site, however, you can still borrow, return, or renew books any time you are on campus. If you need to reborrow a book but cannot make it onto campus, please contact the librarian via email to arrange the reborrowing for you. You can contact our librarian Kim Robinson at [email protected]. You can borrow up to 5 items for up to 2 weeks. You can renew items once for an additional 2 weeks so long as the items have not been placed on hold by another student. It is not possible to borrow any additional items from the library if you have any overdue items.

5.2.1 How to Borrow a Book from the Library To borrow a book from the Mary Andrews College library, follow the instructions below.

1. Click on the ‘Loans’ button on the main screen. 2. In the ‘Member / Bar Code’ box type your first and last names without a space

(e.g. marysmith) and hit enter. Your name should appear under the box. 3. Scan the MAC barcode of the book you wish to borrow with the scanner.

Continue to scan each book separately.

14

4. To log out, click on the ‘house’ icon in the menu on the left-hand side of the screen when you have finished. This should return the screen to the main menu.

5.2.2 How to Return a Book to the Library To return a book to the Mary Andrews College library, follow the instructions below:

1. Click on the ‘Returns’ button on the main screen. 2. Scan the MAC barcode of the book(s) you wish to return with the scanner.

(Should a message appear regarding the book being on request, simply click ‘ok’).

3. Place the returned books into the slot in the trolley AFTER you have scanned them.

5.2.3 How to Use the Library Catalogue (On Campus & From Home) You are able to search the MAC library catalogue through the Mary Andrews College website. In order to access the catalogue, simply follow the instructions below:

1. Go to our website www.mac.edu.au

2. Click on ‘Resources’ under the MAC logo and then click on ‘Library.’ 3. Enter either the book title, author or subject you wish to search for in the first

box. 4. Enter the category (title / author / subject) using the drop-down menu in the

second box. 5. A list of books will appear. For more information on the book, click on its title. 6. Under the column ‘holding information’ you will find the call number (location

on the shelf) for that book in the MAC library. To LOG IN, go to ‘Member login’ on the left side of the library catalogue screen on the MAC website. Your username is your first and last names without a space and your password for 2020 is 01012020 (which you can change after you log in).

5.2.4 Photocopying Photocopying in the MAC library works on an honour system. There is a box at the photocopier to pay for your photocopies. Copies are 10 cents per page. If you require change, please see Reception. Please remember to be aware of the strict rules regarding copyright of published material. This means when you are photocopying a book, you can only photocopy up to a maximum of 10% OR one chapter of any published book or one article in a journal.

5.3 Student Orientation Each year, MAC holds a Student Orientation Day for new students to ensure you know your way around and you have all the information you need to commence your study.

15

For new students in Semester 1 2020, the Orientation Day will be held on Monday 3rd February, 2020, 10am-12pm. 5.4 Student Card Student cards are available for all MAC students from the MAC office upon request. Full-time students are able to apply to the government for discounted public transport (concession Opal card). To find out more information or for eligible students to apply online, go to www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-transport-concession-entitlement-card-tertiary-or-tafe-student. All students can still use their Student Card to receive student discounts at Koorong. This is helpful if you wish to purchase any books for the units which you are studying at MAC.

5.5 Other Student Resources

5.5.1 Endnote Endnote is a reference management program that helps you with your citations and bibliographies for essays. Although it is most effective when you are using a lot of different books and sources, some students find it helpful to use for general use. As a student of the ACT, you are entitled to get Endnote for free. For more about Endnote, you can go to www.endnote.com. To get Endnote for free, follow the guidelines on the ACT website at www.actheology.edu.au/endnote/.

5.5.2 Logos Bible Software Logos is a comprehensive Bible software program that gives you access to different Bible translations, commentaries, and the original languages of the Bible. Logos is available in wide-range of packages from a beginner’s version to a comprehensive package with over 7,000 resources! Whichever version you are interested in, students of ACT-affiliated colleges are able to access Logos at 20% off the retail price. For more information, go to https://www.actheology.edu.au/student-resources/. At the time of purchase, Logos will ask you to verify your college affiliation. There is also a free version, Logos 8 Academic Basic, which can be accessed at: https://www.logos.com/academic-basic.

16

5.6 Important Dates for 2020 3rd February Orientation Day, 10am-12pm 4th-5th February ‘Return to Learn’ program, 10am-3pm (Bookings Essential.

Cost $40) 10th February Semester 1 Starts 4th March Study Skills Workshop, 10am-1pm 27th March MAC 2020 Graduation, 7:30-9:30pm St Andrew’s Cathedral 10th-26th April Mid-Semester Break 10th April Good Friday 12th April Easter Monday 27th April Semester 1 resumes 8th June Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday 3rd July Last day of Semester 1 4th-19th July Semester Break 20th July Semester 2 Starts 26th Sep.-11th October Mid-Semester Break 12th October Semester 2 resumes 27th November Last day of Semester 2

17

6. Diploma Courses 6.1 Introduction to the Diploma & Advanced Diploma Courses Mary Andrews College offers the following ACT diploma courses:

• Diploma of Christian Studies • Diploma of Theology • Diploma of Ministry • Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry • Advanced Diploma of Theology • Advanced Diploma of Ministry

The diplomas provide a strong foundation in the Bible, together with an understanding of theology and practical ministry experience. These courses are aimed at equipping students with biblical and ministry skills. The information in this section has been taken from the ACT Undergraduate Handbook. The ACT diplomas aim to introduce you to Christian theology as it relates to various ministries. They seek to combine the development of your ministry skills with theological reflection and the continuing formation of your Christian life. Completing a diploma will take you to a level that would be sufficient for you to begin ministry in the area of your major study. For example, you would be equipped for well-informed participation in the life of the church and, if you so choose, as a part of a church ministry team with ministry responsibilities in one or more areas of pastoral practice.

6.1.1 How much time will it take to complete a diploma? The diplomas can be studied:

• Part-time (as little as one unit per semester) • Full-time (48 credit points (cps) per semester)

A student studying full-time can complete a diploma in one year. Students studying part-time must complete the diploma units within time limit allocated to their particular diploma (see table on page 17). This would require a minimum of 1 unit per semester or 2 units per year. If you are unable to complete at least 2 units within a year, please speak to the Registrar to discuss applying for a suspension of your study for a specific semester. This would require an explanation of the reasons for applying an extension based on circumstances beyond the student’s control. Students cannot take more than 60 credit points (cps) in any one semester.

18

Course Number of credit points required to complete

course*

Minimum course

duration

Maximum course

duration Diploma of Christian Studies 96 cps 1 year 6 years

Diploma of Theology 96 cps 1 year 5½ years

Diploma of Ministry 96 cps 1 year 5½ years

Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry

144 cps 1½ years 8½ years

Advanced Diploma of Theology

144 cps (incl. 24 cps at AQF Level 6)

1½ years 8 years

Advanced Diploma of Ministry

144 cps (incl. 24 cps at AQF Level 6)

1½ years 8 years

* See Section 6.2 for how many units this equates to for each course type.

6.1.2 How difficult are these courses academically? We welcome a range of studens at MAC, from those who have not studied anywhere for a long time to those with prior tertiary studies to those who have never completed any tertiary study. Choosing to study a diploma or an advanced diploma offers the opportunity to undertake study at a level which will be challenging, but not as demanding as a full degree course. It is, therefore, academically accessible to most students. In Australia, tertiary study is ranked in order of difficulty from AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework) Level 1 to AQF Level 10 (as seen in table below).

AQF Level Qualification Level 1 Certificate I Level 2 Certificate II Level 3 Certificate III Level 4 Certificate IV Level 5 Diploma Level 6 Advanced Diploma, Associate

Degree Level 7 Bachelor Degree Level 8 Bachelor Honours Degree,

Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma

Level 9 Masters Degree Level 10 Doctoral Degree

19

The Diploma courses are AQF Level 5. This means the study is more challenging than certificate level but not as difficult as degree level. The Advanced Diploma of Theology and Advanced Diploma of Ministry require the completion of 144 credit points, of which 24 credit points need to be completed at degree level (AQF Level 6 or higher). The degree level units (AQF Level 6 or higher) in the advanced diplomas are assessed at a higher level than diploma (AQF Level 5) level units. At present, MAC does not offer any units at AQF Level 6 or higher. Students wishing to complete an advanced diploma will need to complete their AQF Level 6 or 7 units at another ACT-affiliated college. 6.1.3 Admission Requirements To enrol in a diploma with the ACT, applicants must have completed year 12 with an ATAR of 65 or above, OR successfully completed a qualification at AQF Level 5 or above, OR demonstrate suitability through an appropriate test, essay, or interview. Students from a non-English-speaking background must have scored 6.5 overall in the IELTS test with a minimum of 6.5 in each sub-test (within the last two years) or have ten years of English in-country experience. IELTS is the International English Language Testing System which measures the language proficiency potential for students from a non-English-speaking background. For more information on this, you can go to www.ielts.com.au

6.2 Course structure In your course, you can specialise in either the area of theology or in pastoral and ministry units. Our range of core units and electives meet the course requirements for either the theology or ministry course categories. Students studying at MAC may also choose to undertake diploma (AQF level 5) units at other ACT affiliated colleges. A list of these colleges is available on the ACT website. All units available through ACT colleges are categorized into three departments with three or four unit fields within each department:

20

Departments and Unit Fields:

Bible and Language Christian Thought and History Ministry and Practice

Biblical Languages (BB) Theology (TH) Evangelism and Missions

(EM)

Old Testament (OT) Church History (CH) Pastoral and Church-Focused Ministry (PC)

New Testament (NT) Philosophy and Ethics (PE) Developmental Ministry

(DM)

Biblical Languages (LA)

6.2.1 Diploma of Christian Studies (DIPCS20) The Diploma of Christian Studies will introduce you to the study Christian understanding and practice at a foundational level. The Diploma of Christian Studies may be completed in a minimum of one year full-time study or the equivalent part-time up to a maximum of six years. Students enrolled in the Diploma of Christian Studies need to complete 96 credit points (10-12 units). Each unit is worth 8 or 12 credit points (cps).

Diploma of Christian Studies A total of at least 24 cps (up to 3 units) from:

CH / TH / PE / BB / OT / NT / LA: Including at least 8 cps (1 unit) from BB / OT / NT / LA And including at least 8 cps (1 unit) from CH / TH / PE

At least 12 cps from PC / DM /EM

Electives: At least 56 cps (up to 7 units) of elective units

Total of 96 cps

6.2.2 Diploma of Theology (DIPTH20) The Diploma of Theology will introduce you to the study of theology as the basis for Christian ministry at a foundational level. The Diploma of Theology may be completed in a minimum of one year full-time study or the equivalent part-time to a maximum of 5½ years. Students enrolled in the Diploma of Theology need to complete need to complete 96 credit points (10-11 units). Each unit is worth 8 or 12 credit points (cps).

21

Diploma of Theology

Co

re u

nits

Old Testament (OT): OT003-512 (12 cps)

New Testament (NT): NT003-512 (12 cps)

Christian Thought and History (TH / PE / CH): At least 8 cps (1 unit)

Primary Course Discipline (LA / BB / NT / OT / CH / TH / PE): 24 cps (up to 3 units)

Ele

ctiv

es


Total of 96 cps

6.2.3 Diploma of Ministry (DIPMIN20) The Diploma of Theology will introduce you to the study of theology as the basis for Christian ministry at a foundational level. The Diploma of Theology may be completed in a minimum of one year full-time study or the equivalent part-time, up to a maximum of 5.5 years. Students enrolled in the Diploma of Theology need to complete 96 credit points (10-11 units). Each unit is worth 8 or 12 credit points (cps).

Diploma of Ministry

Co

re u

nits




Primary Course Discipline (PC / EM / DM): 24 cps (up to 3 units)

Elec

tives


Total of 96 cps

22

6.2.4 Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry (DIPTHMIN20) The combined Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry will introduce you to the sources and content of the Christian story and message, and provides training focused on application and practice of this story and message in the contemporary world. The combined Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry may be completed in a minimum of 1.5 years full-time study or the equivalent part-time, up to a maximum of 8½ years. Students enrolled in the combined Diploma of Theology/Diploma of Ministry need to complete 144 credit points (15-17 units). Each unit is worth 8 or 12 credit points (cps).

Diploma of Theology / Diploma of Ministry

Co

re u

nio

n




Primary Course Discipline: 24 cps (up to 3 units) from PC / EM / DM

24 cps (up to 3 units) from BB / LA / OT / NT / CH / TH / PE

Elec

tives

At least 60 cps from electives from any unit field

Total of 144 cps

6.2.5 Advanced Diploma of Ministry (ADVDIPM20) and Advanced Diploma of Theology (ADVIPTH20) Both the Advanced Diploma of Ministry and the Advanced Diploma of Theology introduce you to the sources and content of the Christian story and message, and provide training which emphasises application and practice of this story and message in the contemporary world at a higher level than the diploma courses. The Advanced Diploma of Ministry focuses on Ministry and Practice while the Advanced Diploma of Theology focuses on the areas of Christian Thought and History as well as Bible and Languages. Either of the advanced diplomas may be completed in a minimum of 1.5 years of full-time study or the equivalent part-time, up to a maximum of 8 years. Advanced diploma students need to complete 144 credit points (14-16 units). Each unit is worth 8 or 12 credit points (cps). 24 credit points must be completed at AQF Level 6 or higher. AQF Level 6 units are not offered at MAC so will need to be completed at another ACT-affiliated college.

23

Advanced Diploma of Ministry Advanced Diploma of Theology

Co

re u

nits



Christian Thought and History (TH / PE / CH): 24 cps (At least 2 units)

Primary Course Discipline: 48 cps (at least 3 units) from PC / EM / DM (including at least 12 cps at AQF

Level 6 or higher)

Primary Course Discipline: 48 cps (at least 3 units) from LA / BB / NT / OT / CH / TH / PE (including at

least 12 cps at AQF Level 6 or higher)

Ele

ctiv

es

At least 48 cps from electives from any unit field

Total of 144 cps* Total of 144 cps*

* including at least 24 cps at AQF level 6 or higher.

6.3 Units offered by Mary Andrews College in 2020 The AQF Level 5 units that are offered by MAC in 2020 are listed below. For a complete list of units available in the diploma and advanced diploma courses, see the ACT website: www.actheology.edu.au/our-units/. A unit code with the suffix 512 (e.g., BB001-512) indicates it is an AQF Level 5 unit and worth 12 credit points.

6.3.1 Bible and Languages Biblical Studies (BB) BB001-512 Bible Overview Old Testament (OT) OT003-512 Old Testament Overview OT049-508 Daniel & Ezra New Testament (NT) NT003-512 New Testament Overview NT007-508 Romans

6.3.2 Christian Thought and History Theology (TH) TH021-508 Holy Spirit, Grace and Hope TH040-512 Theology Overview

24

Church History (CH) CH040-512 Rise of Christianity: Acts to the Reformation Philosophy and Ethics (PE) PE010-512 Christian Worldview

6.3.3 Ministry and Practice Pastoral and Church-Focused Ministry (PC) PC013-508 Pastoral Care PC014-508 Practical Pastoral Care PC016-508 Pastoral Care for People with Mental Illness PC104-508 Understanding Grief PC112-508 Practical Discipleship & Mentoring Developmental Ministry (DM) DM034-508 Disability and God’s People

6.4 Do I need to do units in a particular order? There is no strict order in which units are to be taken. However, some units are linked in content to another unit. For example, you should note the following:

• It is advisable that Old Testament Overview (OT003-512) be done before, or in the same year as, an Old Testament exegesis unit (e.g., OT049-508). Likewise, it is advisable that New Testament Overview (NT003-512) be done before, or in the same year as, a New Testament exegesis unit (e.g., NT007-508).

• MAC considers Pastoral Care (PC013-508) to be a pre-requisite for Practical

Pastoral Care (PC014-508). Therefore, Pastoral Care (PC013-508) is to be completed before Practical Pastoral Care (PC014-508) is started. It is also advisable for both of these units to be completed before Pastoral Evangelism (EM066-508) is attempted.

25

7. Certificate Courses In addition to our diploma courses, MAC also offers the ACT’s Certificate in Theology course.

7.1 Certificate in Theology (CertTheol) The six-unit Certificate in Theology is intended to further the education of adults in relation to Christian faith and life. It will give you a general foundation of biblical knowledge and a strong basis for developing practical ministry skills. The aim of this course is to stimulate the interest of alert and enquiring minds. What is required is not so much academic scholarship but a desire to develop your understanding of Christian theology and its implication for contemporary life. This course consists of three core units plus three elective units. This course is assessed at a lower level than the diploma and advanced diploma courses. The Certificate units MAC are offering in 2020 are: Core units

• Old Testament (OT) • New Testament (NT) • Christian Belief (CB)

Elective units

• Pastoral Care (IPC) • Pastoral Care for People with Mental Illness (PCMI) • Pastoral Evangelism (PE) • Practical Pastoral Care (IAPC)

There is no strict order in which units are to be taken. However, some units are linked in content to another unit or are of a more difficult nature. For example, you should note the following: MAC considers Pastoral Care (IPC) to be a pre-requisite for Practical Pastoral Care (IAPC). Therefore, Pastoral Care (IPC) is to be completed before Practical Pastoral Care (IAPC) is started. It is also advisable for both of these units to be completed before Pastoral Evangelism (PE) is attempted.

26

7.2 What previous education is required? Certificate students are normally admitted upon satisfactory completion of Year 10 in an Australian school system (or equivalent) or to such other persons approved by the ACT. However, consideration is also given to an applicant’s practical experience, maturity, and motivation, and the likelihood of satisfactory completion of the academic requirements of the course. All students must be able to communicate adequately in English.

7.3 Graduating levels Students with an overall average of 80% or above are awarded a Pass with Distinction; those with an overall average of 65%-79% a Pass with Merit; those with 50%-64% in all units a Pass.

8. MAC Pastoral Care Course Mary Andrews College offers an internal Pastoral Care Course consisting of two Certificate level units. This course can be completed in a minimum of one year. After you have completed both units, you will qualify to receive the MAC Pastoral Care Course.

8.1 What does this course consist of? The two Certificate units in this course are:

• Pastoral Care (IPC) • Practical Pastoral Care (IAPC)

The Pastoral Care (IPC) unit must be completed before the Practical Pastoral Care (IAPC) unit is started. Completion of a full 6 unit Certificate in Theology course is optional. If students wish to go on to complete the Certificate in Theology, these 2 units can be transferred over, leaving four units to complete. For further information on the Certificate in Theology, see Section 7.

8.3 Who is this course for? This course is designed to help you to learn more about pastoral care and how to use it in life and ministry. It is ideal for those already involved in caring for others in some way. It aims to provide you with a biblical foundation and develop practical skills in caring for people pastorally both in ministry and life.

27

9. Attendance Only (Auditing) Some students choose to attend MAC lectures without having to complete the assignments. This is called “auditing,” i.e., attendance only. You are free to audit any unit(s). If you are auditing units, you do not enrol with the ACT. If you decide to withdraw from studying at a diploma or certificate level but wish to continue to audit a unit, you should contact the MAC Registrar at [email protected].

28

10. Student Services and Support

We are so glad you have chosen to study with us and we would love to make your time with us as fruitful as possible. In order to best support you during your time with us, MAC provides a range of student services and support which you can access at any time during your course. If you require assistance with unit selection and course planning, academic support, study skills, pastoral care, disability support, or anything else that might help you to make the most of your study experience at MAC, please contact with people listed below.

10.1 Enrolment Support, Course Planning, & Unit Selection If you require any assistance with respect to your enrolment with MAC or the ACT, need advice on which units to select or making a variation to your enrolment, you can contact either the Registrar or Registration Officer. Registrar: Sarah Barry (full-time) Phone: 1300 590 531 Email: [email protected] Registration Officer: Anna McCarthy (Mon, Thurs, Fri) Phone: 1300 591 531 Email: [email protected]

10.2 Academic Support If you require any academic assistance during your time at MAC, for example, help with writing assignments or developing study skills, there are a few options available to you. Your best starting point is always your lecturer. Every lecturer at MAC takes their role seriously and wishes to support you as best they can. If you want to discuss any of your assignments with your lecturer, for example, getting guidance for an upcoming assignment or additional feedback on a previous assignment, you should contact them. You can do this in person before or after class, or you can contact them using their email address. The lecturer’s email addresses are all listed in the front of this handbook and will also be given to you on the Unit Outline given to you in the first week of class for each of the units you are studying. In terms of essay writing and study skills, every year MAC runs essay writing and study

29

skills workshops to help students hone their academic skills. The first of these workshops for 2020 will be held at MAC’s city campus on Thursday 5th March, 10am-1pm. Keep an eye out in your email inbox and at college for further information on future sessions. In addition to the essay writing workshops, MAC also has a comprehensive Assignment Handbook with tips for research and writing essays, instructions on how to reference and write a bibliography, as well as general study tips. You can download this from the MAC website under the Resources tab. If you would like to discuss any of these aspects with a member of MAC staff, you can contact your lecturer, the academic dean ([email protected]) or the college principal ([email protected]) or call 1300 590 531.

10.3 Library Support If you require any assistance with using the MAC library, you can see the library section in this handbook (Section 5.2) or one of our librarians would be happy to help you. If they are unavailable, please see the Registrar or Registration Officer.

10.4 Pastoral Support If you would like to discuss any pastoral concerns with a member of MAC staff, your unit lecturers are a great starting point, especially if you are studying one of our pastoral units. You are also able to contact the college Principal to arrange a confidential appointment. You can email at the college Principal at [email protected] or call on 1300 590 531.

10.5 Disability Support According to the Disability Standards for Education, Australian education providers are required to make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure the inclusion of students with disabilities. These adjustments are to ensure that students with disabilities are able to participate in study on the same basis as students without disabilities. Education providers are also required to work are eliminating harassment and victimisation on the basis of disability.2 In order for us to best support students with disabilities, learning difficulties and/or chronic health conditions, it is helpful for you disclose this information on your ACT and MAC enrolment form. It is also helpful to discuss this with a member of MAC staff to ensure we do all we can to support your individual needs. You can choose to discuss this privately with your individual lecturers, the administrative staff, or the college Principal. You can also contact MAC lecturer Dr. Louise Gosbell whose ministry training

2 Commonwealth of Australia. (2006). Disability Standards for Education 2005 plus Guidance Notes. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.

30

and focus in the area of disability support. You can contact Louise at [email protected]. If you feel you would require assistance with exiting the building in the event of an emergency (e.g., for students who are wheelchair users or have other mobility impairments, etc.), it would be helpful to complete a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP). To complete this form, see the Registrar or Registration Officer, email them at [email protected] or call them on 1300 591 531.

10.6 Financial Support If you have any concerns about your financial situation while you are studying at MAC, you can make an appointment to meet with the MAC Principal or Registrar (contact [email protected] or call 1300 591 531 to make an appointment). Some full-time students may be eligible for Centrelink payments such as Austudy or Abstudy. For more information on Centrelink payments available to students, see https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink. When you are studying at tertiary level in Australia, some students may qualify to apply for a FEE-HELP loan to pay all or part of your college fees. A FEE-HELP loan does not cover accommodation, laptops, or text books. For further information on eligibility criteria for FEE-HELP see https://www.studyassist.gov.au/help-loans/fee-help or contact the MAC Registrar or Registration Officer in person, via email ([email protected]), or call 1300 591 531. See also Section 5.3 for more information on transport concessions for eligible full-time students.

10.7 On Campus Safety We work to ensure our campuses are safe spaces for all staff and students both physically and emotionally. If you have any concerns about any safety issues, please contact a MAC member of staff immediately. The women’s and men’s toilets in the foyer of our city premises are kept locked for your safety. You will need to get an electronic swipe pass hanging on the hook near Reception in order to access the toilets. It is also helpful to familiarise yourself with the following emergency procedures. In an emergency, call 000 for Police, Fire or Ambulance. In the event of a medical emergency, terrorism, fire, major storm damage, earthquake,

31

flood, major accident, bomb threat, intruder, or any other situation deemed to be an emergency, the Mary Andrews College teacher will be your liaison person with the First Aid Officer or Safety Warden for the group. The Australian Standard 3745-2002 Section 2.1.2 states that “Once an emergency is declared, the powers of Wardens and deputy Wardens shall override all normal non-emergency management procedures. Floor or Area Wardens and their deputies shall have the authority to marshal all staff and any visitor/s to their floor/area. The purpose of these powers is to ensure that during an emergency situation, life safety takes precedent over asset protection and production matters.”

Roles of teachers in an emergency • All occupants will exit the lecture room immediately in an orderly and calm

manner, taking only your handbag, to the nearest or designated evacuation site. • The teacher may check toilet and kitchen areas to remove any person(s) and will

contact the appropriate emergency services (when relevant). • The teacher will endeavour to account for the members of their class. • In the event of a fire, if it is safe to do so, close all doors on exit.

Roles of students in an emergency • On the evacuation signal being sounded, all occupants will immediately exit the

building via the fire stairs in an orderly and calm manner. The lifts are not to be used for evacuation purposes. Anyone who requires assistance to evacuate during an emergency is to notify the teacher or the Fire Warden as soon as possible. If you feel you would require assistance with exiting the building in the event of an emergency (e.g., for students who are wheelchair users or have other mobility impairments, etc.), it would be helpful to complete a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP). To complete this form, see the Registrar or Registration Officer, email them at [email protected] or call them on 1300 591 531.

• Move quickly and safely. Follow all directions from emergency services officers, or your teacher.

• Please follow any instructions from the building Fire Wardens (identifiable by wearing a red safety hat).

• Report any person not accounted for to your teacher or the Fire Warden. • Do not re-enter the building unless advised to do so by the Chief Warden.

Marshalling area (City campus) Primary assembly area: at the front of St Andrew’s House, in the square area between the Cathedral and the Town Hall. Secondary assembly area: Proceed west along Bathurst Street, past the corner of Kent Street down to Darling Park (at Darling Harbour).

32

Medical Centre The closest medical centre to Mary Andrews College (City campus) is MediCentral, located across the road in Bathurst St, on the first floor of Regent Place Shopping Centre. Phone: (02) 8378 6666 https://www.taslyhealthpac.com/

11. Academic Regulations 11.1 Language qualifications for non-English speaking background students Domestic students (i.e. Australian citizens and permanent residents) from non-English-speaking backgrounds who

(a) have an assessable qualification that was undertaken solely in English in one of a set of prescribed countries, or

(b) to study Diploma level (AQF Level 5) units, have experienced English in an English-speaking country for at least five years, or

(c) to study Degree level (AQF Level 7) units, have been resident in Australia with English being the language spoken at home and at work for ten or more years are not required to provide proof of English language proficiency for admission to an ACT course.

All other students must provide proof of English language proficiency for admission to an ACT course. Such proof will normally be by provision of the results of an IELTS test (Academic Version) completed within the last two years before starting your course. For admission to an ACT course at Diploma or Advanced Diploma level, the minimum IELTS result required is 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in each subtest.

11.2 Student Commitments If you are planning to do your study for credit towards a Diploma or Advanced Diploma award, you will need to:

• attend all classes • complete all assessments for a unit

11.2.1 Attendance The ACT’s policy on attendance is that students must be present in class for a minimum of 80% of face-to-face lectures. If a student misses more than 20% of the course without

33

receiving an excused absence, he/she will not be able to pass the unit. In order to avoid failure on the grounds of attendance, all students should aim to be present for all classes in a semester. If you are unable to attend a class for any reason, please notify your lecturer as soon as possible before the class. If the absence is because of illness, a family emergency, or bereavement, you can make a request to the Academic Dean for an excused absence so that your absence will not be counted against your attendance for that unit. If you are getting close to missing more than 20% of the course content, you will receive a notification from the MAC office to advise you of the risk of failure on the grounds of absence. However, it is the responsibility of the individual student to ensure he/she has followed the correct procedures in order to receive an excused absence. In order to request an excused absence, please email the Academic Dean at [email protected] with an explanation of the absence and provide any relevant documentation.

11.2.2 Assignments Assignment questions will normally be made available to you in the first class of each unit. You must attempt and submit all assessment items set for your unit. All pieces of assessment for a unit must be completed and submitted in order to pass each unit. You do not necessarily need to pass every individual assignment, as long as you pass the unit overall. In all units, 50% overall is needed to record a passing grade. Marks awarded by MAC may be statistically moderated by the ACT. This means that moderators employed by the ACT may read over assignments submitted by MAC students in order to ensure consistent academic standards across all of its affiliated colleges. Please note that continuing to take a FEE-HELP loan is tied to continuing to maintain a pass rate of more than 50% of commenced units. For more information on MAC assignments, see the separate MAC Assignment Handbook.

34

12. Enrolment 12.1 Enrolment with the Australian College of Theology When you enrolled for your units with MAC, you were also enrolled into the ACT (whose courses and units MAC delivers). If you need to make a change to your enrolment, for example, adding or withdrawing from a unit, you must complete the correct paperwork so we can also notify the ACT of these changes (see information following).

12.1.1 Variation of Enrolment and Withdrawals After you have enrolled in your units at MAC, you may vary your enrolment by adding, substituting, or withdrawing from units. To vary your enrolment, you should use the relevant ‘Variation of Enrolment’ form provided on the MAC website at www.mac.edu.au/resources/student-resources/. Once completed, return it to the Registrar in the office or email it to [email protected] along with any payment required (see information below). After the Census Date, no units may be added. A set of critical dates relate to these actions. The dates are specific to each unit. The 2020 dates are also listed on pages 37-38. The approved addition or substitution of a unit after the Administration Date but before the Census Date will attract a Variation of Enrolment fee of $150 per unit for the addition or substitution of a Diploma unit, or $40 per unit for a Certificate unit. There is no Variation of Enrolment fee for withdrawing from a unit before the Census Date. If you wish to withdraw from a unit, this can also be done with the ‘Variation of Enrolment’ form before the unit’s Census Date. After the Census Date, and after the Withdrawal Date, withdrawal from a unit will normally attract a ‘Failure to Withdraw’ grade (FW) would which remain on your permanent record of study (transcript). If you are enrolled in a unit but fail to submit any of the due work but do not formally withdraw in time, you will incur an academic penalty of ‘Failure to Withdraw’ (FW) grade. In that case all FEE-HELP and/or up-front payment liabilities remain. In some circumstances, students can apply for a refund of fees or re-crediting of FEE-HELP and a ‘Compassionate Withdrawal’ (CW). You can discuss the possibility of requesting a CW with the Registrar. Should you consider that “special circumstances” prevailed at the time of withdrawal from a unit after the Census Date, you may request refunding of any up-front payments/fees or request re-crediting of your FEE-HELP balance in relation to the unit by writing to the Australian College of Theology. For more information about FEE-HELP re-crediting, see Section 12.2.1.2 below “Re-crediting FEE-HELP balance” or speak to the MAC Registrar.

35

Please note that continuing to take a FEE-HELP loan is tied to continuing to maintain a pass rate of more than 50% of commenced units. Here you can find definitions for the key terms related to variations to enrolment followed by a chart with the relevant dates for 2020. Administration Date – the date in the period of presentation of a unit after which payment of the Variation of Enrolment Fee is required up until the Census Date for addition or substitution of a unit for ACT credit or for withdrawing from the unit. For semester-length units, the Administration Date is normally 5pm (college local time) on the last day (normally Friday) of the second teaching week of semester. For intensive units, the Administration Date is normally 5pm (college local time) on the second day of classes in the unit or as noted in the tables on pages 37-38. Census Date – the date against which enrolled load in a unit is tallied. For semester-length units, the Census Date is normally 31 March or 31 August. For all units, including those taught in intensive mode, the Census Date must be no less than 20% of the period from commencement of the unit to the final date for completion of assessment tasks. Requests to be actioned against a Census Date must be lodged by 5pm (college local time) on that date.

Withdrawal Date – the date after the Census Date of a unit and before which a student must withdraw from the unit so as not to incur academic penalty. For semester-length units, the Withdrawal Date shall normally be the Friday at the end of the second full teaching week after the Census Date. For intensive units, the Withdrawal Date is approximately 60% of the period from commencement of the unit to the final date for completion of assessment tasks. Requests to be actioned against the Withdrawal Date must be lodged by 5pm (college local time) on that date. For a full list of dates related to each unit running at MAC in 2020, see the tables below on pages 37-38.

36

Sem

este

r tim

elin

e –

impo

rtan

t dat

es if

mak

ing

chan

ges

to y

our e

nrol

men

t Pl

ease

use

this

cha

rt in

con

junc

tion

with

the

spec

ific

date

s lis

ted

for y

our u

nit/s

on

the

follo

win

g pa

ges.

If

you

with

draw

from

a

unit

here

: •

No

varia

tion

of

enro

lmen

t fee

app

lies

• U

nit d

elet

ed fr

om

reco

rd

• N

o ac

adem

ic p

enal

ty

• Fu

ll re

fund

of a

ny u

p-fro

nt p

aym

ents

•

No

FEE-

HEL

P lia

bilit

y

If yo

u w

ithdr

aw fr

om a

uni

t he

re:

• N

o va

riatio

n of

enr

olm

ent

fee

appl

ies

• N

o ac

adem

ic p

enal

ty

• Fu

ll re

fund

of a

ny u

p-fro

nt

paym

ents

•

No

FEE-

HEL

P lia

bilit

y

If yo

u w

ithdr

aw fr

om a

uni

t he

re:

• N

o va

riatio

n of

enr

olm

ent

fee

appl

ies

• N

o ac

adem

ic p

enal

ty (u

nit

grad

ed W

- With

draw

n)

• N

o re

fund

of a

ny u

p-fro

nt

paym

ents

* •

FEE-

HEL

P lia

bilit

y in

curre

d*

If yo

u w

ithdr

aw fr

om a

uni

t he

re:

• N

o va

riatio

n of

en

rolm

ent f

ee a

pplie

s •

Acad

emic

pen

alty

(uni

t gr

aded

FW

- Fai

lure

to

With

draw

) •

No

refu

nd o

f any

up-

front

pay

men

ts*

• FE

E-H

ELP

liabi

lity

incu

rred*

If yo

u ad

d or

sub

stitu

te a

un

it he

re:

• N

o va

riatio

n of

en

rolm

ent f

ee a

pplie

s •

Up-

front

pay

men

t ap

plie

s an

d/or

FEE

-H

ELP

liabi

lity

incu

rred

If yo

u ad

d or

sub

stitu

te a

uni

t he

re:

• Va

riatio

n of

enr

olm

ent f

ee

appl

ies

($15

0 pe

r D

iplo

ma

unit

OR

$40

per

C

ertif

icat

e un

it) +

writ

ten

agre

emen

t of u

nit l

ectu

rer

requ

ired

• U

p-fro

nt p

aym

ent a

pplie

s an

d/or

FEE

-HEL

P lia

bilit

y in

curre

d

No

units

may

be

adde

d or

sub

stitu

ted

afte

r the

Cen

sus

Dat

e

*

If a

stud

ent

cons

ider

s ‘s

peci

al c

ircum

stan

ces’

pre

vaile

d at

the

tim

e of

w

ithdr

awal

fro

m t

he u

nit,

the

stud

ent

may

req

uest

re-

cred

iting

of

thei

r FE

E-H

ELP

bal

ance

and

/ or

ref

undi

ng o

f any

upf

ront

pay

men

t(s)

mad

e in

re

latio

n to

the

unit.

Star

t D

ate

Adm

inis

tratio

n D

ate

Cen

sus

Dat

e W

ithdr

awal

D

ate

End

Dat

e

Withdrawing Adding or Substituting

37

12.1.1.1 Diploma dates 2020 Unit code

Unit name Location Start date Admin.

date Census

date Withdraw

al date End date

Semester 1 (Diploma units) BB001-

512 Bible Overview City 10/2/20 21/2/20 31/3/20 1/5/20 26/6/20

NT007-508

Romans City 12/2/20 28/2/20 31/3/20 1/5/20 26/6/20

TH021-508

Holy Spirit, Grace, & Hope

City 14/2/20 28/2/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20

CH040-512

Rise of Christianity: Acts to the

Reformation City 17/2/20 6/3/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20

PE010-512

Christian Worldview

Dapto 11/2/20 28/2/20 31/3/20 1/5/20 26/6/20

PC013-508

Pastoral Care City 21/2/20 20/3/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20

PC104-508

Understanding Grief

Emu Plains

10/2/20 28/2/20 31/3/20 1/5/20 26/6/20

PC112-508

Practical Discipleship and

Mentoring City 11/2/20 10/3/20 31/3/20 1/5/20 26/6/20

DM034-508

Disability & God’s People

City 18/2/20 6/3/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20

Unit code


date Census

date Withdraw

al date End date

Semester 2 (Diploma units) OT003

-512 Old Testament

Overview City 21/7/20 31/7/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

OT049-508

Daniel and Ezra City 27/7/20 14/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

NT003-512

New Testament Overview

Emu Plains

20/7/20 7/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

NT003-512

New Testament Overview

City 24/7/20 7/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

TH040-512

Theology Overview City 22/7/20 31/7/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

PE010-512

Christian Worldview

City 20/7/20 31/7/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

PC013-508

Pastoral Care City 28/7/20 25/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

PC014-508

Practical Pastoral Care

City 31/7/20 14/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

PC016-508

Pastoral Care for Those with Mental

Illness Dapto 21/7/20 18/8/20 31/8/20 9/10/20 27/11/20

38

12.1.1.2 Certificate dates 2020

Unit code


date Census

date Withdrawal

date End date

Semester 1 (Certificate units) OT Old Testament City 20/2/20 12/3/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20 IPC Pastoral Care City 13/2/20 5/3/20 31/3/20 8/5/20 26/6/20

NT New Testament

(Across semesters 1 & 2)

City 21/5/20 11/6/20 19/6/20 7/8/20 30/9/20

IAPC Practical Pastoral

Care (Across semesters 1 & 2)

City 14/5/20 4/6/20 19/6/20 7/8/20 30/9/20

Semester 2 (Certificate units) CB Christian Belief City 13/8/20 10/9/20 25/9/20 16/10/20 27/11/20

PCMI Pastoral Care with

People with Mental Illness

City 6/8/20 20/8/20 31/8/20 16/10/20 27/11/20

PE Pastoral

Evangelism City 27/8/20 10/9/20 25/9/20 16/10/20 27/11/20

39

12.2.1 Re-crediting of FEE-HELP balance

12.2.1.1 Census dates and FEE-HELP debt If a student who has requested FEE-HELP assistance withdraws from a unit of study on or before the census date for that unit of study, the student will not incur a FEE-HELP debt for that unit of study. If a student who has requested FEE-HELP assistance withdraws from a unit of study after the census date for that unit of study, the student will incur a FEE-HELP debt for that unit of study. Census dates for semester-length units are 31 March (Semester 1) and 31 August (Semester 2). The census date for full year units is 31 August. The dates for intensive mode units or non-standard units are set individually and students should see the list of dates on pages 37-38 of this handbook.

12.2.1.2 Re-crediting a student’s FEE-HELP balance The student may apply after the census date to have their FEE-HELP balance re-credited if the student has been unable to complete the requirements of a unit of study and the student believes that this was due to special circumstances. Where a request to re-credit a person’s FEE-HELP balance is granted, a student’s FEE-HELP debit is removed and the amount of FEE-HELP paid to the ACT on behalf of the student will be refunded. A person can apply to the ACT to have their FEE-HELP balance re-credited if he or she withdraws from his or her studies after the census date and/or the person has not completed the requirements for the unit of study. The person must apply in writing within 12 months of the withdrawal date or, if the student has not withdrawn, within 12 months of the end of the period of study in which the unit of study was or was to be undertaken. The ACT can exercise the discretion to waive this requirement if it is satisfied that the application could not be made within the time limit. The ACT’s FEE-HELP Re-Crediting Officer will consider the student’s application within 28 days of receiving the student’s written application. The ACT will re-credit a student’s FEE-HELP balance if it is satisfied that special circumstances apply to the person that:

• are beyond the person’s control; • do not make their full impact on the person until on, or after, the census date;

and • make it impracticable for the person to complete the requirements for the unit

during the period in which the person undertook, or was to undertake, the unit.

40

The ACT will be satisfied that the person’s circumstances are beyond the person’s control if a situation occurs which a reasonable person would consider is not due to the person’s action or inaction, either direct or indirect, and for which the person is not responsible. The situation must be unusual, uncommon or abnormal. The ACT will be satisfied that a person’s circumstances did not make their full impact until on or after the census date for the unit of study if the person’s circumstances occur:

• before the census date, but worsen after that day; or • before the census date, but the full effect or magnitude does not become

apparent until on or after that day; or • on or after the census date.

Special circumstances that would make it impracticable for the person to complete the requirements for the unit of study would include:

• medical circumstances; or • family circumstances; or • personal circumstances; or • employment related circumstances; or • course of study related circumstances.

Each application will be examined and determined on its merits. The FEE-HELP Re-crediting Officer will consider a person’s claims, together with independent supporting documentary evidence that substantiates these claims. The FEE-HELP Re-crediting Officer will notify the person of the decision and the reasons for making the decision. The Officer will advise the applicant of their rights for a review of the decision if the applicant is unsatisfied with the outcome. If the decision is made to re-credit the FEE-HELP balance, the ACT will notify the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), and will repay to the Commonwealth any FEE-HELP assistance received from it on the person’s behalf. DEEWR will inform the Australian Taxation Office that the debt has been removed.

12.2.1.3 Review of the original decision Where a student is not satisfied with the decision made by the FEE-HELP Re-crediting Officer, they may apply in writing for a review of the decision. The Review Officer, appointed by the Board of Directors, is the Dean of the ACT.

41

The time limit for applying for a review of the decision is 28 days from the person receiving notice of the decision. The person must state the reasons why he or she is applying for a review. The Review Officer will notify the applicant of his decision and the reasons for making the decision. The Review Officer’s available options are to:

• confirm the decision; or • vary the decision; or • set the decision aside and substitute a new decision.

The Review Officer will advise the applicant of his or her right to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for a review of the Reviewer’s decision if the applicant is unsatisfied with the outcome and will provide the applicant with contact details and address of the nearest Administrative Appeals Tribunal registry. The Review Officer must acknowledge receipt of an application for a review of a decision in writing and will inform the applicant that, if the Reviewer has not advised the applicant of a decision within 45 days of receiving the application for review, the Reviewer is taken to have confirmed the original decision. Where a student is not satisfied with the reviewed decision made by the Review Officer, they may apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for a further review of the decision not to re-credit a person’s FEE- HELP balance. The student may supply additional information to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal that he or she did not previously supply to the ACT (including the ACT’s Review Officer).

12.2.1.4 Contact Persons The current FEE-HELP Re-crediting Officer is the Director of Academic Services of the Australian College of Theology. The contact details are: Australian College of Theology Level 10, 257 Clarence Street Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: (02) 9262-7890 Fax: (02) 9262-7290 Email: [email protected] The Board of Directors of the ACT has appointed the Dean of the ACT as the Review Officer of decisions made by the Director of Academic Services. The contact details are the same as above.

42

13. Credit for Prior Learning Have you already done any previous theological study? If so, you may be eligible to receive credit from other diplomas and degrees associated with the ACT. You may also apply to receive credit for previous non-ACT study in particular units. After consultation with the MAC Registrar, application for credit for prior learning can be made to the ACT on the relevant “Application for Credit Transfer” form via the MAC Registrar. There is no fee involved in applying for this. However, you should be aware that the ACT applies rigorous standards to the granting of credit for prior learning. Comparisons are made between the length of course, the learning outcomes and the assessment procedures. As there is a reduction over time of the relevance of previous study or prior learning, the time the study was completed does have a bearing on what kind of credit might be given by the ACT. In addition, study which was completed many years earlier may not be adequately remembered or a student’s understanding of a topic may be lost or inaccurate. For these reasons, if your previous study was completed more than ten years before you start your current ACT course, it is less likely you will be granted credit for prior learning. If you have any questions about applying for credit for prior learning, you can contact the MAC Registrar at [email protected].

43

14. Receiving Your Results Results are released during the month following the end of the semester (i.e. during mid-July for Semester 1 units and during mid-December for Semester 2 or full year units). The ACT no longer mails out printed copies of academic results sheets each semester. Students can check their results online, using the instructions below. If you need a printed copy of your academic record, please contact the ACT office and they will provide you with an uncertified copy at no cost. When you have completed your Diploma or Advanced Diploma, the ACT will still mail you a final certified transcript.

14.1 How do I access my results online? The ACT has provided the following instructions for how students can access their results online using the ACT’s online Theological Academic Management System (TAMS). All Australian College of Theology students can access their results and personal details by logging in to TAMS. To log in to TAMS, go to the following website http://act.edu.net.au/ and enter your user name and password. Your user name is your ACT student number (in full). Your password is your date of birth and ID in the following format: dd/mm + last three digits of ID. For example, student 200912345 born on July 1 has a password of 01/07345. Once you have logged in, it is highly recommended that you immediately go to “Edit Login Details” and change your password. The password must be at least five characters in length. You can then access your contact details and final grades for all of your units. You can also email yourself a results summary which includes the results for all units. There may be some features which do not work for you as not all colleges use all features. If you have any problems gaining access or using the website, please do not hesitate to contact the ACT office for help on (02) 9262-7890.

14.2 Explanation of grades and symbols The ACT has provided the following explanation of grades and symbols which may appear on student results transcripts.

44

Grade / symbol Meaning Percentile GPA score HD High Distinction 85%+ 4 D Distinction 75%+ 3 C Credit 65%+ 2 P+ Pass Plus 58%+ 1.5 P Pass 50%+ 1 F Fail (2008 onwards only) 0-49% 0

Symbols used at the end of unit codes: i Intensive unit D Distance unit sc Directed study contact CH Chinese language K Korean language Other symbols: S Satisfactory, ungraded pass I Incomplete CW Compassionate Withdrawal FW Failure to Withdraw: student has not officially withdrawn from the unit

and has failed to complete one or more of the compulsory assessment requirements for the unit

DE Medical or compassionate deferred assessment granted AEG ad eundem gradum (cross credit from another award or institution; or

from another ACT award for which there is no equivalent unit) X Result withheld, student should contact their sponsoring college Z Fail (pre-2008 only) ZW Fail to withdraw (pre-2008 only)

14.3 Explanation of GPA A student’s grade point average (GPA) is calculated by multiplying the grade point for each unit by the GPA score for that grade. The sum of these is then divided by the total number of credit points accumulated for the award. Grades included in the calculation of the GPA are HD, D, C, P+, P, F, and FW. S and AEG grades are counted in the number of credit points needed to graduate but are not included in GPA calculations. All other grades are not counted in GPA calculations.

45

15. Assignments You must attempt and submit all c items set for your unit. All assignments for a unit must be attempted and submitted in order to pass each unit. You do not necessarily need to pass every individual assignment, as long as you pass the unit overall. In all units, 50% overall is needed to record a passing grade. Marks awarded by MAC may be statistically moderated by the ACT. This means that moderators employed by the ACT may read over assignments submitted by MAC students in order to ensure consistent academic standards across all of its affiliated colleges.

15.1 Assignment word limits It is important that you pay close attention to the word limit for each given assignment. You should aim to have your word count as close as possible to the required word limit. All words in the body of your essay are counted, but those in the synopsis (if required), footnotes and bibliography are not be included. Please note that assignments that are more than 10% over the required word limit will attract a penalty of 10% of the total possible marks for that assignment. The MAC Assignment Handbook provides more information on assignments and should be consulted for each assignment.

15.2 Late Submission Under the ACT’s Late Penalties Policy, there are penalties for the submission of late assignments (unless an application for extension has been granted). If you submit an assessment past its due date, the assessment marks will be reduced at the rate of 3% of the total possible marks for the assessment item per calendar day, up to 14 days after the assessment’s due date. After 14 days past the assessment due date, a mark of zero will be awarded for the assessment upon submission of the completed assessment. Students must complete all assessments in order to pass a unit. If a student has not submitted an assessment by the end date of the unit and has not applied for an extension, the assessment will be deemed as a non-attempt, and consequently the student will receive a ‘fail’ grade for the entire unit.

15.3 Extensions The granting of an extension to a unit assessment item will only be granted in the case of special circumstances, and in proportion with the period of time and the impact that

46

the special circumstances have had. The Academic Dean may grant an extension if she is satisfied that special circumstances apply to the student that are:

• Unforseen and/or unexpected; • Beyond the student’s control; and • make it impracticable for the student to complete the assessment(s) during the

period in which the student was to undertake the assessment(s). The Academic Dean will be satisfied that the student’s circumstances are beyond the student’s control if a situation occurs which a reasonable person would consider is not due to the student’s action or inaction, either directly or indirectly, and for which the student is not responsible. The situation must be unusual, uncommon, or out of the ordinary. Special circumstances that would make it impracticable for the student to complete the assessment instrument(s) could include issues beyond the student’s control in relation to:

(a) medical circumstances; or (b) family circumstances; or (c) personal circumstances; or (d) employment related circumstances; or (e) course of study related circumstances.

All applications for extensions on assessments must be in writing and be received by the Academic Dean ([email protected]) BEFORE the due date of the assessment. Only in very unusual cases will the time limit for requesting extensions be waived. Extensions of assessments may only be granted if the assessment has not yet been attempted and submitted. Each application will be examined and determined on its merits. The Academic Dean will consider a student’s claims, together with independent supporting documentary evidence that substantiates these claims. All applications made on medical grounds will normally require a doctor’s certificate that covers the period in question. Applications, together with all supporting documentation, will be held in the student’s file. From time to time the ACT office may conduct an audit of the application of this policy. If requested by the Dean or the ACT Director of Academic Services, this documentation can be made available.

47

Assessments for which extensions have been granted must be completed within the period of extension granted, which may be no later than the final date of the examination period of the semester in which the unit has been delivered for semester-length units. If further time is required, the student must apply for a Deferred Assessment (see Section 15.5),

for which the deadline must be set by the college in accordance with the circumstances affecting the student. However, a Deferred Assessment may only be granted up to the end of the first week of August for first semester units, and end of the first week of February for second semester enrolments. Reasonable alternative dates may be set by a college for units taught in intensive mode. PLEASE NOTE: Heavy employment or study workload, church involvement, pre-planned holidays during college term, and/or poor time management are not grounds for granting an extension.

15.4 Remarking If an assignment is awarded a ‘fail’ grade by a lecturer, it will automatically be remarked by a second marker (e.g., another MAC lecturer or the Academic Dean). The higher mark will be the one awarded. If you pass an assignment but feel that a re-mark is justified, then you may request one. The request should be made in writing and, together with the assignment, should be given to the Academic Dean within one week of the assignment having been returned.

15.5 Deferred Assessment Deferred assessments (DE) will only be granted in the case of special circumstances that are:

• beyond the student’s control; and • make it impractical for the student to complete the assessment(s) during the

period in which the student undertook, or was to undertake, the unit. Circumstances are beyond the student’s control if a situation occurs which a reasonable person would consider is not due to the student’s action or inaction, either directly or

48

indirectly, and for which the student is not responsible. The situation must be unusual, uncommon, or out of the ordinary. Deferred assessments may only be granted if the assessment item has not been attempted:

(ii) in cases of illness subject to the submission of a satisfactory medical certificate;

(iii) on compassionate grounds subject to endorsement by the student’s college;

(iv) at the discretion of the Australian College of Theology’s Director of Academic Services.

All applications for medical or compassionate deferred assessments must be in writing (together with supporting documents) and should be received by the Academic Dean no later than 30 June (for units held in Semester 1) or 30 November (for units held in Semester 2). Any applications made on medical grounds must include a doctor’s certificate that covers the period in question. Deferred assessments must be completed no later than the first week of August for Semester 1 enrolments and no later than the first week of February for Semester 2 enrolments.

49

15.6 Academic Misconduct Policy In line with tertiary institutions throughout Australia, the ACT regards academic misconduct as a serious matter. ACT-approved colleges are responsible for rigorously pursuing the highest possible standards of academic honesty and integrity. Academic misconduct may encompass the following actions:

(v) submitting work for an assessment knowing it to be the work of another person;

(vi) failing to acknowledge the source of material in an assessment, including project or thesis or online material, in any ACT program (i.e. plagiarism);

(vii) Submitting an assignment or part of an assignment that has already been submitted for another unit;

(viii) Footnoting a source but not including quotation marks around direct quotes in any submitted assignment.

Students are expected to acknowledge the source of their ideas and expressions used in their written work. To provide adequate documentation is not only an indication of academic honesty but also a courtesy enabling the marker to consult sources with ease. Deliberate failure to do so may constitute plagiarism, which is subject to a charge of academic misconduct. Plagiarism is understood to be the presentation of another person’s words or thoughts either as one’s own or without appropriate acknowledgement. Students are required to acknowledge by the use of footnotes the origin of extracts, quotes and paraphrases contained in their work. Quoted material shall be identified by relevant conventions. Except in the case of ACT-approved study and assessment schemes, students ought not to assist other students in the writing of individual assessments, such as providing written material to be copied. Material for assessment in one unit of study may not be submitted for assessment in any other unit of the award. In the case of inadvertent academic dishonesty resulting from misunderstanding of academic conventions rather than deliberate deception, the marker shall deduct marks from the assessment and counsel the student concerning the academic conventions upheld by the ACT. Willful academic misconduct, including plagiarism, may result in the following penalties:

• the awarding of a fail grade for the whole unit of which the assessment is a part, • the awarding of 0% for the assessment or thesis or project with or without the

opportunity to redeem it,

50

• the student’s exclusion from the award in which he or she is enrolled for a period not exceeding two years,

• exclusion from any award of the ACT, or • another outcome appropriate to the case but with an impact less serious than

exclusion from enrolment in any award of the ACT. Notwithstanding the prescriptions otherwise stated in this policy, since plagiarism and cheating are both serious academic offences the following penalties are ACT standard for plagiarism and cheating in coursework awards. First offence: Students will be subject to academic counselling, with the maximum penalty being to fail the item with no marks awarded. Where deemed appropriate, the minimum penalty available will be that students may be granted an opportunity to resubmit the assessment with a maximum of 50% for the assessment. Second offence: Fail unit, with no remedial opportunity. Third or major offence: Exclusion from any award of the ACT, or exclusion from the award for up to two years, or other outcome appropriate to the case but with an impact less serious than exclusion. In the case of severe plagiarism and/or cheating, a student may be subject to a separate disciplinary process approved by the Academic Board of the ACT. Please note that plagiarism is a ‘term that describes the unacknowledged use of someone’s work. This includes material or ideas from any (published or unpublished) sources, whether print, web-based (even if freely available) or audio visual. Using the words or ideas of others without referencing your source would be construed as plagiarism and is a very serious academic offence. Students who have knowingly divulged, or caused to be divulged, the content of an exam to other students who are yet to complete the exam, will be dealt with by separate disciplinary processes approved by the Academic Board of the Australian College of Theology. Students who have intentionally and knowingly received information relating to the content or nature of an exam in an enrolled unit, except that which was commonly released by the lecturer/s as part of the unit of study, will be dealt with by separate disciplinary processes approved by the Academic Board of the

51

Australian College of Theology. Colleges are required to report to the Australian College of Theology’s Director of Academic Services all offences (first, second and third offences as above) with respect to plagiarism and cheating for recording in TAMS. Such information shall be available to academic registrars of affiliated colleges by means of a note on the student’s record on TAMS to any affiliated college that a student is either enrolled with or intends to enrol with.

15.7 Appeals For domestic students enrolled in a coursework unit, any appeal against an outcome will be dealt with in accordance with the Australian College of Theology’s ‘Grievance Resolution Policy for Domestic Students’, which is contained in Section 15.8 of this handbook.

15.8 Grievance Resolution Policy for Domestic Students The ACT has a policy and a process for dealing with student grievances (also called ‘complaints’). The policy ensures that students have access to fair and just avenues to deal with any grievances, and that they can follow those avenues without fear of reprisal. The policy applies to all colleges affiliated to the ACT. Where possible, grievances are handled by the college involved, as well as by the ACT office if necessary. If a grievance is not resolved in this way, it is referred to the Council of Private Higher Education for independent external resolution. Any recommendations from that council must be implemented within 25 days. The policy and its accompanying process (that is, the actions to be taken for reporting and resolving a grievance) are set out below in five sections, plus an appendix containing a diagram of the process. Part 1: The policy Part 2: The process: Reporting and resolving a grievance Part 3: The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Part 4: Contact and administration details Part 5: Principles of natural justice Appendix: Diagram of the process

15.8.1 Part 1: The Policy The ACT is committed to ensuring that students who have a concern about any aspect of our higher education operations have ready access to fair, just and effective grievance processes. Specifically, this means:

• A student may report a grievance about any aspect of the ACT’s higher

52

education operations, including operations provided on its behalf by its affiliated colleges and other entities.

• The student may do this without fear of reprisal. • The grievance may be about an academic or a non-academic matter. • There is a comprehensive process for handling and resolving grievances, which

includes review by an independent third party if the process cannot resolve the dispute.

If an affiliated college or other entity acting on behalf of the ACT does not comply with this policy, the Board of Directors of the ACT (‘the ACT Board’) will take disciplinary action as it sees fit, with the maximum penalty being dis-affiliation and exclusion from the ACT. Our policy and its accompanying process are based on the following principles: Principles underpinning the policy:

1. Actions will be undertaken promptly, and deadlines for responses will be specified at each stage of the process.

2. The process will be as simple as possible and easily accessible to students. 3. The process will not victimise or discriminate against any student or respondent. 4. Reasons and full explanations will be given for decisions and actions taken. 5. Records of the handling of a grievance will be kept for at least 5 years and

treated as confidential, with access available to involved parties as appropriate. 6. Components of the process will be at no cost to the student, apart from

travelling expenses. A fee may apply when a review is formally requested in relation to a ‘passed’ grade of either an assessment or a unit.

7. All staff involved in a grievance or appeal have a duty to observe the principles of natural justice.

8. A student’s enrolment will be maintained while the appeal process is ongoing. 9. Students may seek resolution of a grievance under this policy regardless of

where the college involved is located, where the student lives, and the mode in which the student studies.

10. The student reporting the grievance may withdraw it at any stage in the process. If the grievance is withdrawn, the matter will be considered closed.

11. If the appeal results in a decision that supports the student, the ACT will immediately implement that decision and take any corrective and preventative action required, and will advise the student of the outcome.

This policy does not take away the right of any student to pursue other legal remedies, or take action under Australia’s consumer protection laws in the case of financial dispute.

53

15.8.1.1 Definitions Student: All domestic students of the ACT. They may be prospective, enrolled or former students. Grievance: A statement of concern made by a student which the student has reported to an affiliate college or to the ACT office, and which requires action or a response under this policy. A grievance can also be called a ‘complaint’, or a ‘dispute’. What is not a grievance? General feedback and comment about administration, academic programs and services is not treated as a grievance unless action or a response is required under this policy. Academic matter: An action, inaction or decision by a member of the academic staff that affects the student’s academic assessment or progress. Non-academic matter: Administrative or other matters (for example, matters related to fees, withdrawals, expulsion, allegations of bullying or harassment, etc) and other action, inaction or decisions that students may consider are interfering with the progress of their studies or with the granting of an award. Natural justice: A term used in government and administrative decision-making, meaning the duty to act fairly in a dispute – that is, to act without bias and to ensure a fair hearing for all parties. It can also be called ‘procedural fairness’. The underlying assumption is that some legal principles are self-evident, or ‘natural’.

15.8.1.2 Distribution and Awareness of the Policy Access to the policy: The ACT is required to make this policy clearly accessible to all current and prospective students on the ACT website and in student handbooks. Affiliated colleges are required to make this policy accessible to all current and prospective students. Distribution of the policy: Affiliated colleges must provide students with access to this policy on enrolment or within 7 days of starting an award course. In addition, continuing students must be reminded of this policy at the beginning of each subsequent year of their enrolment. Student awareness: Students must make themselves aware of this policy before they enrol in a course or pay any fees, whichever occurs first, and within 7 days of starting an award course.

54

15.8.1.3 Record-Keeping and Reporting Affiliated colleges and the ACT office must:

• keep written records of all formal grievances, as well as the steps taken and decisions reached

• report all formal grievances and decisions reached in their annual report to the ACT Board of Directors.

15.8.2 Part 2: The Process: Reporting and resolving a grievance The process to follow for reporting and resolving a grievance consists of several steps. The grievance may be resolved at Step 1 (informal resolution); if not, it is escalated to Step 2, and so on. Each step provides a fair and just avenue to deal with the grievance, and students are free to take as many of the steps as they believe appropriate, with no fear of reprisal. This section is set out in three parts: 1. Grievances about academic matters 1.1 Concerns about a final grade awarded in a unit 1.2 Concerns about other academic matters 2. Grievances about non-academic matters 3. External dispute resolution The process is also illustrated graphically at the end of this document.

15.8.2.1 Grievances about Academic Matters In this policy, an ‘academic matter’ means the action, inaction, or a decision of a member of the academic staff that affects the student’s academic assessment or progress. Examples of academic matters are final grades for units; matters concerning student admission or progression; curriculum and awards; marks for intra-semester assessment tasks (e.g. essays). Students may lodge grievances without fear of reprisal, and the appeals process provides for review by an appropriate independent third party if internal processes do not resolve a grievance.

15.8.2.2 Concerns about a Unit Grade If a student wishes to complain about the grade awarded in an enrolled unit, they must take the following steps.

55

Step 1: Informal resolution with the Registrar Student’s action

• Within 25 days of the results being released, discuss the issue informally with the Registrar of your college of enrolment.

Registrar’s action

• Respond to the issue promptly, giving a full explanation of the reasons the grade was awarded.

• If the student’s concerns are not resolved, explain the next step, as set out below.

• Give the student access to this policy and instruct them to read it. Advice to students If your concerns are not resolved by the Registrar, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may contact the Academic Dean of your college of enrolment. This may be done on an informal or a formal basis. Note 1: If you choose to approach the Academic Dean informally, this does not prevent you making a formal appeal later if necessary. Note 2: A fee might be charged for an appeal where you have been awarded a ‘passing’ grade in the unit. Step 2: Appeal to the Academic Dean INFORMAL COMPLAINT Student’s action

• Contact the Academic Dean to discuss your concern in person. • You must do this within 15 days of the outcome of your discussion with the

Registrar. Academic Dean’s action

• Respond to the student’s concern promptly, giving a full explanation of the reasons for the academic decision, action or inaction.

FORMAL COMPLAINT Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Academic Dean.

• You must do this within 15 days of the outcome of your discussion with the Registrar.

• The normal grounds for a formal appeal are one or more of the following:

56

(i) the lecturer did not provide a unit outline as required (ii) the assessment requirements in the unit outline were varied in an

unreasonable way (iii) you believe that the examiners’ judgement was not applied

objectively because of prejudice against you (iv) you believe there has been a clerical error in the calculation of the

grade (v) you believe that due regard has not been given to the evidence of

Illness or misadventure if submitted by the specified date (vi) you believe you have been disadvantaged in some way due to the

circumstances surrounding your unit’s examination or other assessment.

Note: A fee might be charged for appeals where you have been awarded a ‘passing’ grade in the unit. Academic Dean’s action Note: If the Academic Dean was involved in the original decision, the college Principal must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.

• Acknowledge the grievance in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. This could involve:

(i) bringing the student and the relevant lecturer together to discuss the

matter (ii) having the contested assessment marked by another lecturer in the

same college.

• Advise the student of your decision in writing, including:

(i) setting out your reasons (ii) advising that if the student does not agree with the decision, they

have the right of formal appeal to the Dean of the ACT (iii) enclosing a copy of this policy and instructing the student to read it.

Advice to students If your concerns of an informal complaint are not resolved by the Academic Dean of your college, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may lodge a formal complaint to the Academic Dean under this section of the policy. See Step 2 above below for how to do this.

57

If your concerns of a formal complaint are not resolved by the Academic Dean of your college, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may contact the Dean of the ACT. See Step 3 below for how to do this. Note: A fee might be charged for an appeal where you have been awarded a ‘passing’ grade in the unit. Step 3: Appeal to the Dean of the ACT Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Dean of the ACT.

• You must do this within 15 days of receiving the Academic Dean’s written response.

Note: A fee might be charged for appeals where you have been awarded a ‘passing’ grade in the unit. See part 4 of this document for contact details for the Dean of the ACT. Dean of the ACT’s action Note: If the Dean of the ACT was involved in the original decision that has become the matter in dispute, the Chair of the ACT Board must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.

• Acknowledge the grievance in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • Advise the student of your decision in writing, including:

(i) setting out the reasons the final grade was awarded (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they

have the right of formal appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee (iii) enclosing a copy of this policy and instructing the student to read it.

Advice to students If your concerns are not resolved by the Dean of the ACT, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may approach the Academic Appeals Committee. See Step 4 below for how to do this. Step 4: Appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your complaint

58

and the grounds for its appeal. • Send it to the ACT’s Director of Academic Services (for the Academic Appeals

Committee) within 15 days of receiving the ACT Dean’s written response. Note: The membership of the Academic Appeals Committee is decided on a case- by-case basis (explained in the Committees of the Academic Board Policy, available at www.actheology.edu.au). Therefore, you should send your complaint through the ACT’s Director of Academic Services. See part 4 of this section for contact details for the Director of Academic Services. Academic Appeals Committee’s Action

• Acknowledge the formal appeal in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • Advise the student of your decision in writing, including:

(i) setting out the reasons the final grade was awarded (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they

have the right of formal appeal to an independent external agency (iii) enclosing a copy of this policy and instructing the student to read it.

Advice to students If you remain dissatisfied with the outcome of this appeal, you can make a final appeal free of charge to the Council of Private Higher Education (COPHE), which is an independent third party. Please see Section 15.8.2.5 on ‘External dispute resolution’ for how to proceed with this step.

15.8.2.3 Concerns About Other Academic Matters In this policy, ‘other academic matters’ means matters relating to student admission or progression, the curriculum and awards in a course of study, and marks for intra- semester assessments. Step 1: Informal resolution with the lecturer Student’s action

• Discuss your concern informally with the relevant lecturer at your college of enrolment.

• If the concern is about the result of an intra-semester assessment, ask that the assessment be reviewed by the lecturer of the unit of study.

• You must do this within 25 days of the academic decision.

59

Lecturer’s action • Respond to and deal with the matter promptly, giving a full explanation of the

reasons for the action, inaction or academic decision. • If the student’s concerns are not resolved, explain the next step, as set out

below. • Give the student a copy of this policy and instruct them to read it.

Advice to students If your concerns are not resolved by the lecturer, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may contact the Academic Dean of your college of enrolment. This may be done on an informal or a formal basis. See Step 2 below for how to do this. Note 1: If you choose to approach the Academic Dean informally, this does not prevent you making a formal appeal later if necessary. Note 2: There might be a fee for a formal appeal. Step 2: Appeal to the Academic Dean INFORMAL COMPLAINT Student’s action

• Contact the Academic Dean to discuss your concern in person. • You must do this within 15 days of the outcome of your discussion with the

lecturer. Academic Dean’s action

• Respond to the student’s concern promptly, giving a full explanation of the reasons for the academic decision, action or inaction.

FORMAL COMPLAINT Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your complaint and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Academic Dean.

• You must do this within 15 days of the outcome of your discussion with the lecturer.

Academic Dean’s action Note: If the Academic Dean was involved in the original decision, the college Principal must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.

• Acknowledge the grievance in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • If the grievance relates to the mark for an intra-semester assessment, arrange

60

for the assessment to be marked by another lecturer in the same college.

• Advise the student of your decision in writing, including: (i) setting out your reasons (ii) advising that if the student does not agree with the decision, they


Advice to students If your concerns of an informal complaint are not resolved by the Academic Dean of your college, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may lodge a formal complaint to the Academic Dean under this section of the policy. See Step 2 above below for how to do this. If your concerns of a formal complaint are not resolved by the Academic Dean of your college, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may contact the Dean of the ACT. See Step 3 below for how to do this. Step 3: Appeal to the Dean of the ACT Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your complaint and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Dean of the ACT.


See part 4 of this section for contact details for the Dean of the ACT. Note for students If your complaint relates to the mark for an intra-semester assessment, the Dean may appoint an independent assessor who will re-mark the assessment script. A fee may apply for these appeals. Dean of the ACT’s action Note: If the Dean of the ACT was involved in the original decision that has become the matter in dispute, the Chair of the ACT Board must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.

• Acknowledge the grievance in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • If the grievance relates to the mark for an intra-semester assessment, consider

having the assessment re-marked by another lecturer in a different college. • Advise the student of your decision in writing, including:

61

(i) setting out your reasons (ii) if the grievance relates to the mark for an intra-semester assessment,

advising that your decision is final (iii) on other academic matters, advising the student that if they do not

agree with the decision, they have the right of formal appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee

(iv) enclosing a copy of this policy and instructing the student to read it. Advice to students If your concerns are not resolved by the Dean of the ACT, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may approach the Academic Appeals Committee. See Step 4 below for how to do this. Step 4: Appeal to the Academic Appeals Committee Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal.

• Send it to the ACT’s Director of Academic Services for the attention of the Academic Appeals Committee.

• You must do this within 15 days of receiving the Dean of the ACT’s written response.

Note: The membership of the Academic Appeals Committee is decided on a case- by-case basis (explained in the Committees of the Academic Board Policy, available at www.actheology.edu.au). Therefore, you should send your complaint through the ACT’s Director of Academic Services. See part 4 of this document for contact details for the Director of Academic Services Academic Appeals Committee’s action

• Acknowledge the formal grievance in writing within 5 days. • Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • Advise the student of the Committee’s decision in writing, including:

(i) setting out their reasons (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they


62

Advice to students If you remain dissatisfied with the outcome of this appeal, you can make a final appeal free of charge to the Council of Private Higher Education (COPHE), which is an independent third party. Please see Section 15.8.2.5 on ‘External dispute resolution’ for how to proceed with this step.

15.8.2.4 Grievances About Non-Academic Matters In this policy, ‘non-academic matters’ means various administrative and other matters related to fees, withdrawals, expulsion, allegations of bullying or harassment, etc, and any other action, inaction or decision that students may consider are interfering with the progress of their studies or with the granting of an award. Students may lodge grievances without fear of reprisal, and the appeals process provides for review by an independent third party if internal processes do not resolve a grievance. Step 1: Informal resolution with the Registrar Student’s action

• Discuss your concern informally with the Registrar of your college of enrolment. • You must do this within 25 days of the decision, action or inaction.

Registrar’s action

• Notify the student promptly of any action taken or any decision made in relation to the grievance.

• If the student’s concerns are not resolved, explain that they may take the matter further, as set out in Step 2a and Step 2b below.

• Give the student a copy of this policy and instruct them to read it. Advice to students If your concerns are not resolved, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may proceed as follows:

• If the matter relates to the college, contact the Principal (Step 2a). • If the matter relates to ACT policy or regulations, contact the ACT Director

of Academic Services (Step 2b).

63

Step 2a: Appeal to the Principal Guidance for students Take this step (Step 2a) if your grievance relates to the college you are enrolled in. Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Principal of your college.


Principal’s action Note: If the Principal was involved in making the original decision, action or inaction that has become the matter in dispute, the Chair of the college council (or equivalent) must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.


(i) setting out your reasons (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they


Step 2b: Appeal to the ACT’s Director of Academic Services Guidance for students Take this step (Step 2b) if your grievance relates to ACT policy or regulations. Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the ACT’s Director of Academic Services.


Director of Academic Services’ action Note: If the Director of Academic Services was involved in making the original decision, action or inaction that has become the matter in dispute, the Dean of the ACT must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.

• Acknowledge the grievance in writing within 5 days.

64

• Try to resolve the grievance within 15 days. • Advise the student of your decision in writing, including:

(i) setting out your reasons (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they


See part 4 of this document for contact details for the Director of Academic Services. Step 3: Appeal to the Dean of the ACT Guidance for students If your concerns are not resolved by the Principal or the Director of Academic Services, as applicable, or if you believe the process has not been followed, you may contact the Dean of the ACT. This may only be done on a formal basis, as follows: Student’s action

• Put your grievance in writing, explaining clearly the nature of your concern and the grounds for its appeal, and send it to the Dean of the ACT.


See part 4 of this document for contact details for the Dean of the ACT. Dean of the ACT’s action Note: If the Dean of the ACT was involved in the original decision that has become the matter in dispute, the Chair of the ACT Board must appoint another person of appropriate rank and expertise to review the matter.


(i) setting out the reasons for the decision (ii) advising the student that if they do not agree with the decision, they


Advice to students If you remain dissatisfied with the outcome of this appeal, you can make a final appeal free of charge to the Council of Private Higher Education (COPHE), which is an independent third party.

65

Please see Section 15.8.2.5 on ‘External dispute resolution’ for how to proceed with this step. Note for Colleges If an affiliated college is dissatisfied with the ACT Dean’s decision, they should refer to the Affiliated College Appeal Policy.

15.8.2.5 External Dispute Resolution Students who remain dissatisfied with the outcome of any appeal, except those related to a mark for an intra-semester assessment, may make a final written appeal – free of charge – to the Council of Private Higher Education (COPHE). Affiliate colleges and the ACT office may also make representations to COPHE regarding the matter. COPHE is an independent third party, and its decisions are final and binding on all parties. See part 4 of this document for contact details for the Council of Private Higher Education.

15.8.3 Part 3: The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency If a student has a complaint about the ACT’s actions, they may raise concerns with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) regarding the ACT’s registration as an education and course provider. TEQSA does not deal with students’ academic or non-academic grievances. Those grievances are dealt with under this policy. See part 4 of this document for contact details for TEQSA.

15.8.4 Part 4: Contact and Administration Details Dean of the ACT Dr. Graeme Chatfield Australian College of Theology (Acting Dean of the ACT) Level 10, 257 Clarence Street Sydney NSW 2000 Ph: 02 9262 7890 [email protected] ACT Director of Academic Services Mr. Simon Davies Director of Academic Services Australian College of Theology Level 10, 257 Clarence Street Sydney NSW 2000 Ph: 02 9262 7890 [email protected]

66

Tertiary Education Quality and TEQSA Standards Agency (TEQSA) GPO Box 1672 MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Ph: 1300 739 585 www.teqsa.edu.au [email protected]

COPHE Mr. Adrian McComb Executive Officer Council of Private Higher Education Suite 59, 47 Neridah Street Chatswood NSW 2167

Ph: 02 8021 0841

15.8.5 Part 5: Principles of natural justice All staff involved in resolving a grievance have a duty to observe the principles of natural justice (or ‘procedural fairness’). In summary, they encompass the following elements:

1. The right of the student to a fair hearing. 2. The right to an independent, unbiased decision-maker. 3. A final decision that is based solely on the relevant evidence with all submissions considered.

67

15.8.6 Appendix: Diagram of the process

68

15.9 Other Mary Andrews College policies Some other Mary Andrews College policies can be read on our website.

15.10 Other Australian College of Theology policies A summary of the ACT policies can be found in the Australian College of Theology Student Policy Handbook, a current copy of which can be downloaded from our website: https://www.mac.edu.au/about/australian-college-of-theology/ Full copies of ACT policies not included in this handbook can be found on the ACT website:www.actheology.edu.au

Student handbook 2020 FINAL 1.0 - mac.edu.au · See our website for information not included in...

Documents

Transcript of Student handbook 2020 FINAL 1.0 - mac.edu.au · See our website for information not included in...