2011-2012
Catalog of Policies and Procedures

The American Institute for Christian Education In affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program Presents (ICE and VIEN)
(WWW.25WEEKDEGREE.ORG) Apply now

2011-2012
Academic Policies and Procedures
THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND VISION INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION NETWORK PROVIDE BACHEALORIC, MASTERS LEVEL AND DOCTORAL DEGREES. ALL GRADUATE AND POST-GRADUATE DEGREES ARE EARNED THROUGH VISION INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION NETWORK, INC. AND THE VISION INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY SYSTEM. THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION IS THE FACILITATING EDUCATIONAL HOST.

TERMS OF CATALOG USE:
This catalog is effective for the 2011-2012 academic years. The information in this catalog accurately represents The American Institute for Christian Education and Vision International Education Network at the time of publication and reserves the right to make changes in policies, procedures, faculty, curriculum, and costs.
Bachelor of Ministry Degree:
Bachelor of Ministry Degree is a 120 hour degree. The core Major of the degree is earned in 25 weeks. Classes only meet one time per peek on Saturdays. All other course work is home based. Each and every week the student will complete a single course in the advancement to a Bachelors degree.

Our Accreditation and Authorization
Vision International College, Australia

Vision International College of Australia, a member institution of the Vision International Education Network, is accredited by (Vocational Education and Training Accrediting Board) in New South Wales, Australia, and authorized to issue awards up to the Advanced Diploma level. VETAB is a government recognized educational accrediting body in Australia, Canada, and all of the Commonwealth nations.
NSW Vocational Education & Training Accreditation Board
Level 14, 1 Oxford Street Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Locked Bag 21 Darlinghurst NSW 1300
Phone: (02) 9244 5335
Fax: (02) 9244 5344

Association for Biblical Higher Education Affiliate Membership:
Vision International University is an Affiliate member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), which is an accreditor approved by both the United States Department of Education (USDE), and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Affiliate Institutions are not accredited by the ABHE. Acceptance as an Affiliate institution with the ABHEis not equivalent to accreditation and does not guarantee that Vision International University will someday be accredited, but it does indicate that Vision International University has met an initial standard for ABHE recognition.
The Association of Biblical Higher Education:
5575 S. Semoran Blvd., Suite 26
Orlando, FL 32822-1781
Voice: 407.207.0808
FAX: 407.207.0840
Site: www.ABHE.org
Email: info@ABHE.org

Licenses, Credentials, and Transfer of Credit:

Vision International University degree programs are not designed to meet any particular local, state, or national licensing or credentialing laws in any particular nation, but do meet the requirements established by many private, independent professional associations. Various regionally or nationally accredited colleges and seminaries throughout the USA may accept transfer students, credits, and degrees from educational institutions such as Vision. Transfer of credit is always at the discretion of the receiving institution.

Authorization:
Since 1990, Vision International University has maintained authorization to grant degrees by religious exemption in the State of California. In 2005, Vision International University submitted its application for State Approval by the California Bureau for Private Post-Secondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE) to be recognized as a degree-granting institution. The Bureau regulates approximately 3,000 schools serving an estimated 400,000 students in California. The Bureau establishes educational and operational standards to serve as regulations for instructional quality, fiscal and administrative responsibility, and institutional stability for private post-secondary schools.

In April 2007, Vision International University received an approval to operate from the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE) through December 31, 2011.
Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE)
400 R Street Suite 5000
Sacramento, CA 95814
Tel: (916) 445-3428 Fax: (916) 323-6571
Vision International University also has authorization to grant degrees by exemption in the States of Florida and Louisiana.

Acceptance of Vision International University degrees in the United States
Degrees issued by Vision International University are approved by the State of California Bureau for Private Post-Secondary and Vocational Education (BPPVE). Not all states accept unaccredited degrees approved by another state. The following states have legislation that may prohibit or limit the use of Vision International University degrees in certain contexts. Degrees earned at Vision International University are designed for religious purposes only. Under no circumstance should a Vision International University degree be used to gain public employment or promotion outside of California, either with a government agency or a public school system.
Prospective students and inquirers are encouraged to contact the following state degree authorization authorities for a clear explanation of the acceptance and restriction of a Vision International University degree in each particular state:
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board
2718 Gateway Avenue
Suite 303
Bismarck, ND 58503-0585
(701) 328-9641 - Phone
(701) 328-9647 - Fax
espbinfo@nd.gov

Oregon Office of Degree Authorization
1500 Valley River Drive
Suite 100
Eugene, OR 97401
(541) 687-7452
http://www.osac.state.or.us/oda

New Jersey Commission on Higher Education
PO Box 542
Trenton, NJ 08625-0542
(609)-292-4310
http://www.state.nj.us/highereducation/

Indiana Commission on Proprietary Education
302 W Washington Street, Room E201
Indianapolis, IN 46204
(317)-232-1320
http://www.in.gov/cope/

Florida Department of Education
Office of the Commissioner
Turlington Building, Suite 1514
325 West Gaines Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
(850) 245-0505
http://www.fldoe.org

Memberships:
Vision International University/Vision International Education Network is an institutional member of the California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools (CAPPS).
California Association of Private Postsecondary Schools
400 Capitol Mall, Suite 1560
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-447-5500 or 888-92-CAPPS (CA only)
Fax: 916-440-8970
Email: info@cappsonline.org
Vision International University/Vision International Education Network is a member of The Apostolic Council for Educational Accountability (ACEA).
The Apostolic Council for Educational Accountability
P.O. Box 63060
Colorado Springs, CO 80962
Tel: 719-262-9922
Fax:719-262-9920
Email: acea@wagnerleadership.org

International Recognition:
Because Vision International University extends its programs internationally, an attempt is continuously made to achieve recognition in various regions of the world. "Approval" in these cases does not imply accreditation.
Bahamas Approval:
The Vision International University program has been approved by the Ministry of Education of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas through the Bachelors degree.
Ministry of Education of the Bahamas
P.O. Box N-3913/4
Island of New Providence, Bahamas
Phone: (242) 322-8140 / 9
Fax: (242)322-8491

Nigerian Approval:
The Vision International University program has been approved as an institution of higher education by the Federal Ministry of Education of Nigeria.
Federal Ministry of Education, Nigeria
Federal Secretariat, Phase 2 (3rd Floor)
Shehu Shagari Way, Abuja
Tel 09-5232800

Accreditation:

Vision International University is not accredited by any agency which is approved by either the United States Department of Education (USDE), or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

Notice of Non-discriminatory Policy as to Students
The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University, admits students of any race, color, sex, nationality and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The Network does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin in the administration of any of its policies or programs.

ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES: (printable application)
ADMISSION PROCESS:
Apply online only; complete and return by e-mail

• Pay application fee (Non-refundable application fee.)The Student may apply by check, money order, or credit card.
• Next, complete Application for Admission and Scholarship Review form
• The Application will not submit without ALL information completed on the form.
• The Student is automatically enrolled into the scholarship program.

If mailing payment please mail to:
American Institute for Christian Education
P.O. Box 2222
Alief, Texas 77411

 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:
Students must possess the following educational background:
Bachelor Degree Program in Christian Counseling
Students must:

• Possess a high school or equivalent diploma.
• Provide transcripts of all high school and/or undergraduate work with a grade point average of at least 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Submit an Application for Admission
• All Students are provisionally accepted and may begin classes as long as the transcripts are received before the end of the first 8 classes. Students must request transcripts from former educational institutions to be mailed directly. Contact Us
• The admissions department will process your application and admission material and determination will be made regarding your admission.

Masters Degree Program in Christian Counseling
Students must:

• Possess a bachelor's degree (or its foreign equivalent) from an accredited college or university, or equivalent.
• Provide transcripts of all high school and/or undergraduate work with a grade point average of at least 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Provide transcripts of any graduate courses, showing a grade of B or higher (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent from an accredited institution. (See "Transfer of Credits.")
• Submit an Application for Admission.
• Provide a professional resume.

Recognized Colleges and Universities:
For purposes of admission and transfer to ICE and VIEN, a "recognized college or university" includes schools approved by a U.S. state, or accredited by an accrediting body that is approved either by CHEA or the U.S. Department of Education. Institutions outside the United States must meet comparable standards.

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS,
VISION INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION NETWORK
On an Undergraduate level we offer the following programs:
Bachelor of Ministry Degree 120 credits

The Bachelor of Ministry Degree - Major in Christian Counseling programs formulate a theological basis for ministry calling and vocation. They promote communications through preaching, writing, and other media to effectively apply Biblical truths. The Bachelor Degree programs include studies in guiding and counseling others in times of need and personal crisis, so that others might hear and respond to the voice of God.

• Offering a Bible-based program with an emphasis on dynamic leadership.
• A learning environment integrated with the local church.
• Providing quality educational opportunities at or below competitive costs.
• Intern opportunities to use new knowledge and skills while learning.
• Special emphases for inner city and counseling ministries.
• Individual programs of study can be designed for ministers.

The curriculum of The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, attempts to maintain a non-dogmatic perspective, allowing students to study a wide variety of theological issues to formulate their own beliefs in an academic context. The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, maintains a strong emphasis on church planting, community service, and Christian character development.

We affirm the following: (Mission Statement)

• That the Bible is the Word of God, given and preserved for all generations. We believe it is accurate in all that it ultimately affirms, and is the authoritative standard by which we determine beliefs and conduct.
• That God exists as three persons: The Father, Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord, who offers saving grace to all, and the Holy Spirit who empowers men and women for service, and sanctifies them for God's purpose.
• That nothing can replace the importance of the local church, which is the body of Christ on earth, in the program of God.
• That entrance into the church is through the "new birth", which is brought about by genuine repentance of sin, confession of faith in Christ as Savior, and surrender to him as Lord.
• That membership in the church is signified by joyful participation in its worship, fellowship, sacraments, witness, and by acceptance of its discipline.
• That the presence and use of the charismata is essential in the local church and in Christian ministry.
• That the Victorious Christian life is built upon a proper understanding and exercise of the spiritual authority conveyed to the believer by the gift of righteousness.
• In the resurrection of the dead at Christ's return, in the certainty of God's judgment, and in the inescapable result of that judgment as foretold in the scriptures for the just and the unjust.

The goal must be not just to impart knowledge, but rather to teach principles of sound interpretation, showing people how to do their own research, and how to apply truth to life. A final goal is the ultimate activation of men and women into effective Christian service, in any environment to which he or she may be called to minister.

Academic Integrity and Spiritual Fervor:

The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, believe that balance is a key word in describing the persons who make up the faculty of Vision. First, there is a balance between age and youth, between enthusiasm and experience. There is also a balance in academic ability and spiritual fervor, between the quality of scholarship and a warm heart, intellectual competence and in practical wisdom.

The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, has brought together a fine group of faculty and personnel who strive for excellence in their respective areas of instruction and are well able to take on the awesome responsibility of educating and training men and women for God's service. Most members appointed to the faculty of The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, have a terminal degree in their field of instruction along with years of practical and professional experience related to their teaching field. All faculty members are also expected to be of high moral character and personal integrity, and firmly committed to the Vision International Education Network Mission Statement.
The Vision International Education Network faculty is diverse in theological and philosophical persuasion, and support and practice debate, discussion, and the promotion of academic freedom.

 

ACADEMIC INFORMATION:

Protection of Privacy

In accordance with the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, as amended, ICE and VIEN will not release personally identifiable information about students, apart from public information, to third parties without the student's consent. Public information includes: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major fields of study, dates of attendance, degrees and honors received, and the most recent and previous educational institutions attended.
In addition, students have the right to review records pertaining to themselves in their capacity as students; students have the right to seek correction of their student records through a request to amend the records; and, students may request in writing that any or all personally identifiable information from their records not be regarded as public information.

 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973-Section 504:

The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, is in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and does not discriminate against qualified handicapped persons in any of its policies, procedures, or practices in the admission, access and treatment in the school programs and activities. The site where the online learning center is hosted complies with compact privacy policy and the e-commerce is secure.

Records Retention Policy:

Custodian of Academic Records:
Director of Student Services
Office where records will be kept:
1115 D Street
Ramona, CA 92065
Phone: 760.789.4700

Students' records are filed in individual folders and stored in fireproof steel cabinets in both paper and electronic media. These include:

• Written records and transcripts used in the Admissions decision. Student Profile: Name, gender, address, and an identification number;
• Copies of all contracts of indebtedness and documents relating to financial aid. Date of first enrollment and date of graduation (or withdrawal, if applicable);
• Admission-related documents including the number of transfer credits;
• All course numbers and course titles in which each student is (was) enrolled and his or her grades and academic progress;
• Student Transcript;
• Copies of necessary student work product;
• Credits awarded for master's degree thesis, if applicable;
• Enrollment status (full-time, part-time, or leave, on probation/suspension, or dismissal);
• Financial records;
• Type of degree and date granted;
• Any other documents deemed important or required by the regulatory agencies.

Records are secured and accessible only by the Academic Dean, the Director of Administration. Student records will be retained for a period of 50 years. Records are converted to Electronic Document Imaging format and stored on CD-ROM/DVD-ROM for no more than 10 years.

STUDENT RIGHTS:
While matriculated as a full-time or part-time student at The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, students shall have the following rights:

• To cancel their enrollment and receive a full refund of the tuition and fees paid (less non-refundable application fee), if notice of cancellation is given prior to the deadline stated in the school catalog. (Refund policy)
• To receive quality instruction provided by the faculty meeting the educational and experiential requirements mandated by the state regulatory agency and as described in the Network's publications, within a climate that is conducive to thinking and learning, that is distinguished by courtesy, respect, and consideration for the dignity of students and their rights as persons.
• To withdraw at any time and receive a refund for the part of the course not taken in compliance with the applicable state laws and regulations concerning tuition and fees refund.
• To obtain factual information concerning The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program's educational programs.
• To receive advising from The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program faculty or other qualsified personnel regarding students' academic, financial or placement concerns.
• To inspect students' educational records from The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, during the designated hours and, if errors are detected, demand correction thereof.
• A right to due process in any proceeding involving the possibility of substantial sanctions on their rights as students. This includes the right to be heard, a right of notification of charges brought against them, and the right to ask for a hearing by impartial persons if not satisfied with disciplinary action taken. Grievance policies and processes are described below in this document.
• To be given reasonable notice of course requirements, criteria, and methods of evaluation, and that these evaluations be given without prejudice or favoritism.
• To be free from illegal discrimination and from harassment, including sexual harassment. (The Network prohibits prejudicial treatment or discrimination due to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, or disability.)
• Subject to the rules and regulations of the Network, the State of California, and of the United States, students have a right to confidentiality of their personally identifiable information and records, and to the confidentiality of other information including student's personal history, evaluation documents, and disability information.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT:

Attendance
At The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, students are expected to attend all the classes for the subject(s) in which they are enrolled. Unexcused absence from more than 1 of 25 classes for a subject will result in forfeiture of all credits for that subject. An exception to the 70% rule may be made if the absences are due to acceptable reasons and if the student is able to satisfy the requirements for that subject (e.g., by completing additional assignments and/or field work). Granting or refusing this privilege will be at the faculty mentor's discretion.
At The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program, Student Services will counsel students who are failing to maintain satisfactory attendance, and an attempt will be made to solve the problem. Continued unsatisfactory attendance will be sufficient grounds for dismissal. Re-admission may be permitted if the student can show the Dean that the problem has been overcome.

Worship:

Each student is expected to be active in a worshipping community. It is through church life that issues of character change are to be faced and practical learning is to occur. Each student should maintain a journal of his or her church experience and Christian service.

Assignments:

Various assignments will be given to students, depending on the course in which the student is enrolled. Assignments may take the form of essays, questions to be answered, multiple-choice tests, field work, local church activities, etc. These will be delineated by the course syllabi and faculty mentor relationship.
Some assignments may be mandatory. Failure to complete satisfactorily any of those assignments may forfeit all credits for that particular subject. Other assignments may be optional, or may affect only a stated percentage of the grade. A response will be mailed or e-mailed to the student upon receipt of all assignments within 3-5 business days.

Personal or Financial Difficulties:

If a student comes into personal or financial difficulty, or if a problem develops concerning policies, procedures or other aspects of the Network, the student should consult with his/her faculty mentor immediately. Problems should not be allowed to grow until they become insurmountable. The faculty mentor should be consulted, especially if the student is contemplating leaving the Network. The Network staff is ready and anxious to do everything possible to insure that students succeed in their preparation for the ministry.

Differences:

Students are not expected to agree with everything that will be taught within the various courses. Students are, however, expected to treat the views of the faculty members and fellow students with respect. If a disagreement arises about something that is being taught, the student should listen as openly as possible, giving due attention to anything that the Holy Spirit may be saying.
The student should not expect the Holy Spirit to speak to everyone in the same way, or lead everyone in the same direction. The Holy Spirit has a multifaceted plan to suit the extraordinary diversity that exists in the Church. There is much that one can learn from others.
In assignments, the student will be free to express his or her own views, but at other times will be required to show an understanding of alternate view points and be able to express that differing opinion, even if it conflicts with the student's personal beliefs. It is important for the student to follow the instructions at all times in the preparation of assignments.

Visiting:

All students are welcome to visit our International Headquarters offices, with proper notice. We would be honored to meet and dialogue with you as you travel on your educational journey.

Questions:

All The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program students are encouraged to ask questions. Common courtesy dictates that a student should put his or her questions in writing to submit to the faculty mentor. Usually, the faculty mentor's response will need to be accepted (even if the response is in conflict with the student's stand). Though continuing dialogue is a part of the educational program, the student is encouraged to utilize the faculty mentor as a senior mentor assisting the student to develop fuller understanding, knowledge and wisdom.

Student Handbook:

The American Institute for Christian Education, in affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program Student Handbook outlines the special and unique relationship between the student, local mentor, and Network administration. It is valuable reading because it offers guidance on how to succeed in distance learning, and other tips, policies, and suggestions that smooth and strengthen participation in the program. This handbook is made available upon receipt of the application for admission to the Network or one of its institutions.

Agreement with the Student Policy and Statement of Beliefs:
Each student will be required to sign a statement of agreement on the application form indicating that they have read the section of the catalog entitled "Student Code of Conduct," the statement of beliefs, and that the student is in full agreement.

 

Transcripts:

Transcripts are only issued by the academic office located in Ramona, California. No Resource Center is allowed to issue transcripts. Transcripts are issued at a charge of $10.00. Official transcripts are only issued directly to other institutions upon request. Transcripts will not be issued for a student who has failed to meet all of his financial obligations. It normally takes 4-6 weeks to process a transcript. All requests must be made in writing using the transcript request form and accompanied with the transcript fee.

Incomplete Grades:

Students are expected to complete all course work, as specified by the faculty mentor, in a timely manner.

Course Papers:

Unless specified otherwise, all course papers must be typewritten and in conformity to the standards in Research Writing Made Easy by Dr. Stan DeKoven. It is available from www.visionpublishingservices.com or from your Resource Center Director.

Academic Probation:

After completion of the first 12 credit hours of the bachelors' degree program the student must have a 2.00 cumulative GPA. Any student who falls below the cumulative grade-point average of 2.0 will be placed on academic probation. When a student begins to perform at the minimum or higher grade-point average, he/she will be taken off of academic probation. Graduate students must maintain a grade-point average of 3.0.

THE GRADING SYSTEM:

It is important to all The American Institute for Christian Education In affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University Program faculty members that academic grades are applied with fairness and consistency. Several methods are used to achieve that goal. It begins with careful effort to provide clear instructions about the nature of each task so that students have no confusion about the expectations. Of course, if something does not seem clear, students need only to contact the instructor of that course.  Assignments such as essays and other written reports are graded by use of the Network's Official Scoring Rubric (see the Student Handbook or Curriculum Development Handbook). This reduces the subjective element to a minimum. Objective examinations are scored automatically, which ensures fair, equal, and accurate grading for all students. Papers are graded and filed within 5 to 7 days of receipt, and the grade is promptly sent to the student.
Students may appeal a grade. The procedure, described under "Student Rights and Grievances" elsewhere in the catalog, is designed to treat all students with respect and fairness under all circumstances.
The grading system is based upon a 4.0 scale. The scale, shown in the table below, is the same for all courses, undergraduate and graduate.

A 4.0 grading system is in effect:			Grading Scale
(per credit hour)
A	Superior	4 grade points	94.5-100 = A
B	Good	3 grade points	91.5-94 = A-
C	Average	2 grade points	88.5-91 = B+
D	Poor	1 grade point	85.5-88 = B
F	Failure	0 grade points	82.5-85 = B-
I	Incomplete	0 grade points	79.5-82 = C+
V	Audit	0 grade points	76.5-79 = C
WP	Withdrawn passing	0 grade points	73.5-76 = C-
WF	Withdrawn failing	0 grade points	70.5-73 = D
			Below 70.5 = F

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:

To qualify for graduation with a Bachelor of Ministry, the student must successfully fulfill all of the following requirements:

• Complete each undergraduate course requirement, including courses transferred in as part of the degree completion program;
• Maintain an overall GPA of "C" (2.0) or better;
• Earn a minimum of one quarter of the hours in the program at Vision International Education Network;
• Pay all university accounts in full;
• Complete all Student Ministry Practicum (Community Service) obligations;
• Apply for graduation in the Registrar's Office at least 90 days prior to the date desired to graduate; and
• Receive approval from the faculty and administration.

To qualify for graduation with Masters or Doctoral Degree the student must successfully fulfill all of the following requirements:

• Complete all graduate course requirements
• Maintain an overall GPA of "B" (3.0) or better;
• Earn a minimum of one quarter of the hours in the program at Vision International Education Network;
• Pay all accounts in full;
• Apply for graduation in the Registrar's office at least 90 days prior to the date desired to graduate; and
• Receive approval from the faculty and administration.

 

Attendance/Drop Out/Leave of Absence:
For correspondence courses there is not an attendance policy. For the seminars, students are required to attend all sessions, unless prior approval is granted by the Academic Dean. See the Student Code of Conduct.

Drop Out:
Students who do not intend to complete their degree program are required to complete a withdrawal form and submit it to the Academic Dean.

Leave of Absence:
Students who are not able to maintain minimum normal progress toward a degree (two courses per year undergraduate, one course per year graduate), are required to request a leave of absence from the Dean. A leave of absence is normally valid for one year; however it may be extended for a second year at the discretion of the Dean.
Termination:
The Network has the right to terminate a student's enrollment on the following grounds:

• Failing grades in more than 25% of assignments
• Financial delinquency
• Conduct that is inconsistent with the philosophy and goals of the University

Every effort will be made to resolve the problem before termination of a student's enrollment takes effect.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION:
All tuition and fees are stratified according to the national economy. See your World Zone or Regional Director for a listing of current fees.
All fees and tuition subject to change.

Enrollment Agreement:
Students are required to enter into an Enrollment Agreement with VIEN upon entrance into the first class. The agreement is a contract signed by the student and a school official that gives information on costs, rights to cancel, and the refund policy.

STUDENT RIGHTS & GRIEVANCES:
Scope and Purpose:

Introduction
Students have the right to appeal decisions that affect them. Vision International Education Network seeks to establish policies and implement practices that minimize the need for any person to report any type of grievance. However, recognizing that it is not possible to establish or administrate policies and procedures that serve all students in ways they perceive as equitable, these policies and processes are established.

Objectives
1. The student shall be treated respectfully throughout all grievance processes.
2. The matter shall be resolved as quickly as possible, at the most accessible administrative level, with minimal disruption to educational progress, and without negative consequences for any party.
3. The filing of a grievance should not, by itself, delay fulfillment of a VIEN student's academic goals or bias VIEN against that student.
4. The processes shall lead to an outcome that is fair to all parties.
5. The outcome shall be within the mission of the Institution and without dilution of its educational standards, and not diminish the student's educational experience.

Processes for Resolution:

General Guidelines
1. Recognizing that the root of many grievances is lack of information, upon considering filing a grievance the student is urged to immediately review relevant requirements and expectations by consulting the catalog and the course syllabus.
2. When voice communication with a faculty member or VIEN employee is available, it should be used first. Voice communication may be used within the process of Informal or Formal Resolution but only written communication shall be considered binding.
3. Time is of the essence. All complaints must be filed within 30 calendar days after the incident being grieved occurred. A response to the complaint must be filed within 15 working days.  Time lines may be adjusted if there are compelling reasons for delay.

Informal Resolution
1. The student initiates written communication with the faculty member or VIEN employee. This is to include:
a. A clear description of the perceived irregularity or injustice.
b. The basis by which that judgment is made.
c. A proposed resolution.
2. The VIEN party responds.
3. If the student is not satisfied with the response, the student may request review of the pertinent communication by the VIEN party's immediate administrative overseer, with ruling by that person.
4. A grievance involving a faculty member's judgment in assigning a grade based on academic performance issue may be resolved only through the informal resolution procedures.

Formal Resolution
1. Formal resolution is not implemented without evidence that the informal resolution process has been implemented.
2. If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of Informal Resolution, the student may, on matters other than academic performance, file a written complaint to the Institution's grievance officer. This complaint should be as succinct as possible and in this form:
a. A cover letter identifying the complainant, the VIEN party, the incident, the rule (policy or established practice) claimed to be violated, and a brief statement of the redress sought.
b. Copies of the relevant prior correspondence.
3. The grievance officer shall review the submitted evidence
4. If the grievance officer communicates orally with the VIEN party they shall both take notes and exchange those notes within 24 hours of the conversation. Should there be discrepancies between these notes, such shall be resolved within the subsequent 24 hours.
5. The grievance officer shall consult with other institutional personnel as may contribute to fulfillment of the objectives stated above.
6. The grievance officer replies to the complainant with a ruling.

Appeal to the Grievance Review Panel
Should the ruling from Formal Grievance not satisfy the complainant, an appeal may be submitted to the Grievance Review Panel, consisting of three or more persons appointed by the President and to include the grievance officer, a faculty member, and an administrator. They shall respond to the complainant in writing within 15 working days, and that ruling shall be considered final.

 

 

 

 

Copyright © 2011 The American Institute for Christian Education In affiliation with Vision International Education Network and the Vision International University.