2023-2024 Catalog
1
Table of Contents
Kuyper College Profile 4
Mission Statement 4
Vision 4
Core Values 4
Statement of Faith 4
Our Heritage 5
Philosophy of Education 5
Zondervan Library 6
Accreditation and Authorization 6
Academic Calendar 8
UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES 10
Admissions 10
Admission Requirements 10
Admission Process 10
Admission Policies 13
Financial Matters 14
College Costs 14
Financial Aid 15
Kuyper College Scholarships 19
Kuyper College Grants 20
Financial Policies 21
Kuyper College Academic Policies 22
Catalog Requirements 22
Academic Office Policies 23
Class Policies 27
Credit Alternatives 29
Independent Study Policies 30
CCCU Acadeum Online Courses 31
Out-of-State and International Internships 31
Student Success 31
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 33
Policy for Complaints 33
Kuyper College Academic Programs 35
Bachelor Degrees Curriculum 36
BUSINESS LEADERSHIP 37
Business Leadership Major Program Requirements 38
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES 40
Interdisciplinary Studies Major Program Requirements 41
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MINISTRY LEADERSHIP 47
Ministry Leadership Major Program Requirements 49
SOCIAL WORK (BSW) 51
Social Work Major Program Requirements 53
Social Work Suggested Four-Year Sequence 54
Bachelor of Social Work (Dual Degree - Davenport) 56
Social Work (Davenport) Suggested Four-Year Sequence 57
TEACHER EDUCATION 58
Elementary Education 59
Secondary Education 60
Minors 61
Biblical Greek 61
Christian Community Development 61
Criminal Justice 62
Social Media & Marketing 62
Sports Management 63
Youth Ministry 63
Associate Degrees 64
Associate of Arts 64
Business Leadership Emphasis 65
Certificate of Christian Foundations 66
Course Descriptions 67
GRADUATE STUDIES 82
Master of Ministry 82
Graduate Course Descriptions 83
Admissions 86
Admission Requirements 86
Admission Process 86
Academic Policies and Procedures 88
Education Procedures 88
Academic Load 89
Course Schedule Changes 89
Student Records 90
Financial Matters 92
Educational Costs 92
Financial Policies 92
Financial Aid 92
Student Services 93
Orientation and Academic Advising 93
Zondervan Library Services 93
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Career Services 93
Services for Students with Disabilities 94
Kuyper College Leadership Team 95
Kuyper College Faculty 95
Kuyper College Board of Trustees 98
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Kuyper College Profile
Mission Statement
As a community of biblical higher education, Kuyper College forms lifelong learners for purposeful lives of work and
service to God and neighbor.
Core Values
Primacy of Scripture: We uphold the Bible as the Word of God which guides our teaching, philosophy, lifestyle, and
response to our learning, work, and service.
Biblical Worldview: We educate within a framework of a biblical worldview which assumes that God exists and has
created all things and the revelation of God given in Scripture is true, trustworthy, and authoritative, thus shaping our
beliefs about and interactions with the world.
Reformed Faith Tradition: We understand and apply our faith and worldview according to the teachings of the Bible
as summarized in the Heidelberg Catechism, the Canons of Dort, the Belgic Confession, and the Westminster Standards.
Educational Excellence: We provide quality, comprehensive learning experience in and out of the classroom, as we
fulfill our end goal of education to live faithfully for Jesus Christ in God’s good world.
Holistic Development: We strive to form lifelong learners who are academically, spiritually, socially, and morally
discerning, just, and merciful leaders in church and society.
Caring Community: We actively work toward a campus environment, denominationally and ethnically diverse in
nature, where mentoring, mutual care, accountability, and encouragement are characteristic of students, faculty, and
staff.
Statement of Faith
God
We believe that God is one being—infinitely just, wise, good, loving, holy, and existing eternally in three persons: Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit. He is the sovereign creator of the universe and, by his providence, sustains and rules all that he
has made.
Scripture
We believe that the Old and New Testaments are the inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God, our final authority
in matters of doctrine and practice.
Humanity
We believe that God created people in his image, but they fell into sin through the disobedience of Adam and Eve. As
a result of the fall, all people are born sinful and in need of salvation.
Jesus Christ
We believe that Jesus Christ is fully divine and fully human and that he saves his people from their sins by his life, death,
and resurrection.
The Holy Spirit
We believe that the Holy Spirit regenerates sinners, indwells believers, and enables them to live godly lives and use the
spiritual gifts he gives them.
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Salvation
We believe that sinners are justified by grace through faith on the basis of the finished work of Christ (his death and
resurrection) and persevere in this life by the power of God.
The Church
We believe that God is calling people from the whole human race to believe in his Son, Jesus Christ, and to enjoy the
protection of God and fellowship with each other in communities of faith until Jesus returns.
The Future
We believe that Christ is ruling now over the church and the world through his Word and Spirit. He will return to judge
the living and the dead and renew the whole creation.
*The complete Kuyper College Doctrinal Statement is available on the Kuyper College website.
Our Heritage
For over 80 years, Kuyper College has been educating Christian leaders for professional careers and ministry through
the integration of a high quality academic curriculum and a biblical worldview. Originally founded as Reformed Bible
Institute (RBI) in 1939, the school offered a three-year curriculum that provided a practical, focused, and expedient
track into foreign and domestic missions.
In 1970, after a redesign of curriculum and programs, the Department of Education of the State of Michigan gave RBI
the right to confer a four-year bachelor’s degree, so RBI changed its name to Reformed Bible College (RBC). RBC
students began to gain entrance into seminary and graduate studies programs and to work with churches and
organizations in roles that required a four-year degree.
The decision, and subsequent approval in 1995, to pursue accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
further strengthened the College’s academic purpose, and the College now maintains dual accreditation with the HLC
and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). In 1997, the State of Michigan granted RBC approval to
offer a Bachelor of Science degree. In 2006, the College changed its name to Kuyper College.
The College offers a variety of academic programs and unique hands-on internship opportunities. Students graduate
with a robust foundation in Bible and theology as well as a professional major so they can fulfill their callings within
every square inch of the church and the world.
In 2021, Kuyper College was designated as a federally-recognized Work College by the U. S. Department of Education.
Kuyper’s innovative educational work program, KuyperWorks, integrates work, learning, and service in the classroom
as well as in the workplace. Kuyper College is committed to helping students develop holistically as we pursue our
mission.
Philosophy of Education
Learning is rooted in love. We believe that the root of learning is love of God and neighbor, not simply the desire for
good grades, achievement, or mere accumulation of knowledge. As we come to understand God’s love for us, expressed
most fully in Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit empowers us to love and serve him in return and to love others with the same
love that Jesus showed us. As people who have encountered the living God, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices to
God and neighbor in clear, practical actions. Loving our neighbor well means acquiring knowledge, skills, and attitudes
that allow us to communicate God’s love in a variety of ways, both in words and in deeds. The programs, courses, and
other learning opportunities at Kuyper College equip students with the skills needed in their chosen fields so they may
show God’s love as they live, work, and minister.
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Learning is holistic. Many people separate “academic learning” from everyday life. Kuyper believes that all of life
involves learning. What we do in the classroom serves and strengthens students’ ability to serve beyond the classroom.
Similarly, we encourage students to bring their real-life experience into the class to enhance the learning that takes place
in that environment.
This holistic approach to learning affects our view of how and where learning happens. Learning happens in a variety
of co-curricular activities and events: in chapel; in times of worship, preaching, prayer, and praise; in formal and informal
conversations among students, staff, and faculty; as students volunteer, work, travel, go on field trips, and engage in
practicums and/or internships; and in the classroom and while completing assignments. Readings, exams, papers, and
projects work together to enable students to learn. This big-picture approach to learning cultivates students who are
lifelong learners and therefore always open to how they can grow in their effective service to Christ’s church and world.
Learning happens in community. Learning is not an individual endeavor but a communal one. The call to love God,
to pursue truth, and to do justice cannot endure apart from a community that sees the beauty of God, delights in the
truth of God, and tastes the goodness of God. Professors do not merely dispense knowledge, but have a love for their
students and approach their subject matter and learning with joy. This love and joy plays a key role in helping students
desire to learn and grow. Further, the Kuyper community functions as an academic, social, and spiritual community,
encouraging each other in the process of learning. This community, oriented around worship and love of God, is vital
to acquiring the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to serve Christ’s church and world.
The end goal of education is living faithfully for Jesus Christ. A Kuyper College education requires students to examine
and critically reflect on the world around them so they are ready to engage with its diverse ideas, individuals, groups,
and cultures. Rooted in Scripture and a biblical worldview, a Kuyper education shapes our character and lives so we can
fulfill our specific God-given callings.
Zondervan Library
The mission of Zondervan Library is to support the academic objectives, programs, and curriculum of Kuyper College
by providing appropriate resources and services.
The Zondervan Library is centrally located in the Academic Building and provides access to print and electronic formats
of books, journals, and audiovisual materials. To access, log in to e-Resources with a Kuyper College email address. The
Library provides knowledgeable reference services as well as access to computers, a copy/print station, and individual
and group study spaces.
Although the primary constituency of the Zondervan Library is the students, faculty, and staff of Kuyper College, the
facilities and resources are also available to the public. The Zondervan Library provides free access to other collections
through partner libraries, Cornerstone University/Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Puritan Reformed
Theological Seminary, Michigan libraries through MelCat, and U.S. libraries through interlibrary loan.
Accreditation and Authorization
The Department of Licensure and Regulatory Affairs of the State of Michigan approves and regulates Kuyper College,
and authorizes it to offer Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Associate degrees, as well as diploma and certification programs.
Federal law authorizes Kuyper to enroll non-immigrant alien students, and the U.S. government qualifies Kuyper as an
institution for training veterans.
Kuyper College is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) and by the Higher Learning
Commission (HLC). In 1964, Kuyper College became an accredited member of ABHE, and in 1995, Kuyper College
received accreditation from HLC. With this accreditation, students who complete courses at Kuyper College are able to
transfer credits to many other colleges and universities.
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Kuyper College is federally recognized as a Work College. In 2020, the Department of Education officially designated
Kuyper College as a Work College. A federal work college is an institution that engages students in the purposeful
integration of work, learning, and service.
The Council on Social Work Education has accredited the Kuyper College Social Work Program. Since 2003, students
have been able to earn an accredited B.S.W. degree from Kuyper College.
Documents that verify these accreditations and authorizations are on file in Kuyper College’s Academic Office and
Business Office. Individuals may request permission to view these documents from either office or access the current
status information by following the links available on the Accreditation section of the Kuyper College website.
Memberships
Kuyper College is a member of the North American Council for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP) and
has endorsed their “Statement of Principles of Good Practice.”
Kuyper College also holds affiliate membership with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU),
National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), and the Work Colleges Consortium.
The contact information for the accrediting agencies includes the following:
Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604
www.hlcommission.org
Ph: (800) 621-7440
Fax: (312) 263-7462
Association for Biblical Higher Education
5850 T.G. Lee Boulevard, Suite 130
Orlando, FL 32822 -1781
www.abhe.org
Ph: (407) 207-0808
Fax: (407) 207-0840
Council on Social Work Education
1701 Duke Street, Suite 200
Alexandria, VA 22314-3457
www.cswe.org
Ph: (703) 519-2067
Fax: (703) 683-8493
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Academic Calendar 2023-2024
FALL 2023 SEMESTER
August
29-31
Tuesday-Thursday
New Student Orientation
September
4
Monday
Labor Day
5
Tuesday
Classes Begin & Opening Convocation
14
Thursday
Last day to Add/Drop classes with 100% refund
18
Monday
Count Day
October
13
Friday
Last day to withdraw from classes with a passing grade
16-17
Monday-Tuesday
No Classes - Fall Break
25
Wednesday
Spring 2024 Course Registration Opens
November
22-24
Wednesday - Friday
No Classes - Thanksgiving Break
27
Monday
Classes Resume
December
7
Thursday
Global Awareness & Advocacy
15
Friday
FA-23 Classes End
16
Saturday
Semester Break Begins
19
Tuesday
Final Grades Due for Fall Semester
SPRING 2024 SEMESTER
January
8
Monday
Classes Begin
15
Monday
College Closed - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
16
Tuesday
Last day to add/drop classes with 100% refund
18
Thursday
Count Day
February
6
Tuesday
Last day to withdraw from classes with a passing grade
26
Monday
Spring Break
March
4
Monday
Classes Resume
20
Wednesday
Fall 2024 Course Registration Opens
29
Friday at Noon
Easter Break
9
April
1
Monday
Classes Resume
4
Thursday
Student Scholar Day
10
Wednesday
Honors Convocation
11
Thursday
Student Scholar Day
25
Thursday
SP-24 Classes End
26
Friday
Kuyper College Commencement
30
Tuesday
Final Grades Due
SUMMER 2024 SEMESTER
April
30
Tuesday
SU-24A Begins
May
7-8
Tues./Wednesday
Institutional Assessment Days
16-17
Thurs./Friday
Curricular Assessment Days
June
21
Friday
SU-24A Concludes
25
Tuesday
SU-24B Begins
Aug
16
Friday
SU-24B Concludes
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UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES
Admissions
Admission Requirements
Christian Character
Students applying for admission to Kuyper College should support our commitments to high Christian ideals and strong
academic, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical development, shaped by Scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit. In
recognition of this, all students acknowledge the following when submitting an application for admission:
I understand that a biblical, Reformed theological perspective is core to the mission of Kuyper College. I have
read the Statement of Faith, and I agree to not engage in any activity that distracts from it.
I acknowledge that my participation in the community of students, staff, and faculty and our care for each other
as brothers and sisters in Christ requires me to sign and abide by the guidelines listed in the Student Handbook.
Academic Criteria
The minimum academic requirements for regular admission include a high school GPA of 2.50 (63% or above in Canada).
For the 2023-24 academic year, Kuyper is test-optional; if you choose to complete entry exams, please send your scores.
Transfer students must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher. Applicants who are out of school and who do not
have a high school diploma must obtain the equivalent by passing the GED test in the US. Kuyper reserves the right to
change admission requirements at any time.
Admission Process
Application Process
Kuyper College considers completed application files on a rolling basis, and we do not require an application fee. We
will notify applicants of an admission decision soon after we receive all documents.
We cannot grant admission after the second week of a semester. Listed below is the information required for a
completed file:
Enrollment Deposit
Kuyper College requires an enrollment deposit for all first-year, transfer, international, and readmitted students. The
deposit serves as a confirmation of the student’s plans to attend Kuyper and applies to a student’s account upon
enrollment. Enrollment deposits are not refundable after May 1. (If an international student’s visa application is denied,
we permit a refund with the SEVIS fee deducted.)
Enrollment Deposit Amounts:
U.S. first-year students $200
Canadian first-year students $200
Transfer students $200
International students $2,000
Readmitted students $200
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U.S. and Canadian Students
(Including those living abroad)
● Admission application
● Official high school transcript (Homeschooled students should list courses taken with grades earned.)
● Official transcripts from colleges previously attended
● Official test scores from ACT, SAT, or CLT (waived if an applicant is over the age of 21, has earned 24 credit
hours of transferable college credit, or is a Canadian with cumulative marks of 75% or higher)
International Students
(Students without U.S. or Canadian citizenship or U.S. permanent residency)
● International Admission Application (apply.kuyper.edu), due October 1
● Pay International Application fee of $25
● Profile of Educational Background
● Official Secondary School Record sent through an NACES member clearinghouse
● Official Transcripts from all universities previously attended
● Academic Recommendation
● Official Test Scores from TOEFL, IELTS, ACT, SAT, or CLT (Please see Test Guidelines below.)
● Copy of Passport or National Identification Card
● Statement of Finances Form with Supporting Documents
● Applicants for the International Ambassador Program must also submit a Pastor’s Recommendation and a
Support Letter from church denomination (Optional)
● International Ambassador Scholarship, deadline February 1
Test Guidelines for International Applicants
Kuyper College requires the ACT, SAT, or CLT for international applicants who are in any of the following situations:
● Applicants who will have graduated from a high school in the US
● Applicants who will have graduated from an international school that follows a U.S. high school curriculum
● Applicants who will have graduated from an international school where English is the primary language of
instruction
● Applicants who will be transferring from another U.S. college or university where they have earned less than
one year of credit (30 credits)
● Applicants who are Canadian citizens with cumulative marks of less than 75%
English Proficiency Requirements
International applicants who do not meet one of the criteria listed above must submit official scores from the Test of
English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or other
documentation of English language proficiency (such as the SAT or ACT). For information on the TOEFL or IELTS,
please see www.toefl.org or www.ielts.org (Minimum scores required for regular admission: Internet-based TOEFL: 79,
IELTS: 6.0).
In addition to the testing standards listed above, Kuyper may also judge an applicant’s proficiency in English on the
basis of the amount of formal classroom instruction in English, grades in English course work, experience in the use of
English as a medium of instruction in secondary education, quality of the written essays on the application, and other
relevant factors.
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Visa Procedures for International and Canadian Students
International students must have a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20) to apply for their student visa and attend college in
the US. (Canadian students do not need to apply for a visa, but must have a signed I-20 to be admitted to the US.)
International and Canadian students will receive an application for the I-20 following their admission and payment of
their enrollment deposit. Upon receipt of the completed I-20 application, we will process official documents. Students
must return completed I-20 applications to Kuyper by June 1.
International Ambassador Scholarships
Through the vision and generosity of donors to Kuyper College, we offer the Ambassador Scholarship to selected
international students for whom education and training in ministry may not be available in their home countries. The
amount of this scholarship can cover a significant portion of the student’s direct education costs, and we base it on a
careful review of the student’s application and Statement of Finances. Students who receive this scholarship will still be
expected to contribute toward the cost of their education.
The Ambassador Scholarship is awarded to students who plan to return to their home country and serve after the
completion of their studies.
The selection of new recipients is made by the Financial Aid Office. Selection is based on the student’s completed
admissions file and the Statement of Finances.
Recipients of the Ambassador Scholarship must be enrolled in one of the following non-collaborative programs:
business leadership, interdisciplinary studies, ministry leadership, youth ministry, social work, a certificate or associate
degree program. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).
Admission with Special Provision
The Admissions Committee will review applicants who do not meet the minimum academic requirements for regular
admission. Upon review, students may gain admission with special provision. Students with special provision status
must meet with the Student Success coordinator during their first semester at Kuyper, will receive additional assistance
in their transition to college through the Student Success Office, and will enroll in 12 or fewer credit hours of study.
Denial of Admission
The Admissions Committee reserves the right to deny any applicant admission to Kuyper College for any reason deemed
appropriate by the committee. If the committee denies students based on concerns about their academic readiness, they
may choose to complete twelve concurrent transferable credits at a community college. Upon satisfactory completion
of this requirement, students are welcome to reapply to Kuyper College.
Dual Enrollment
The dual enrollment program at Kuyper College allows qualified high school students to take college classes for credit.
Students enroll at a reduced tuition rate. To participate in this program, a student must meet the following criteria:
● Have current standing as a High School junior or senior
● Hold a minimum current GPA of 3.0 and/or 1030 SAT, 20 ACT score, or 60 CLT score
● Receive written permission from High School Counselor or Principal (waived if homeschooled)
● Complete the Part-Time Student Application (registration fee waived)
● Provide official high school transcript and/or SAT/ACT scores or a homeschool transcript
● Meet with a Kuyper Admissions Counselor
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Admission Policies
Readmission
Students who have previously attended Kuyper College and are seeking readmission must submit the Readmission
Application form and, if applicable, provide official transcripts from all other colleges attended for the Admissions
Committee to review.
Transfer Students
During the admission process, the Admissions Committee can accept a transfer student without a submitted high
school transcript if their college transcript shows more than 15 credit hours completed and a minimum cumulative
GPA of 2.0. The student must provide an official high school transcript prior to matriculation.
Nondiscriminatory Policy
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 “prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or
activities by recipients of federal financial assistance.” Kuyper College’s designated Title IX Coordinator is the Human
Resources Director.
Kuyper College does not discriminate in admission, scholarships, housing, or in any other way on the basis of sex, race,
color, national or ethnic origin, or disability. Follow the grievance policy for inquiries and appeals regarding compliance
in these areas.
Kuyper College supports the Americans with Disabilities Act and wishes to offer all students the assistance they need
to be successful. The Dean of Students and Work is available to assist students. If students have concerns, they should
contact the Dean of Students and Work at 616-988-3654 or [email protected]. If the dean does not offer the
assistance students need, students may follow the grievance policy.
Admission of Veterans
Veterans of U.S. military service members may enroll in Kuyper College under Public Law 550 and receive benefits
under the G.I. Bill for which they are eligible. Veterans must file an Application for Education Benefits, Form 222-
11990, with Kuyper before or at the time of registration. If the veteran desires advance payment (a check issued before
registration), Kuyper College must receive the request six weeks before registration.
Criminal History Policy
Kuyper College will only consider admitting applicants convicted of a felony and/or who have spent five or more years
in prison only after they have been out of prison for two or more years. We will consider applicants who have been
adjudicated or convicted of a misdemeanor and/or have spent less than five years in prison for admission to Kuyper
College only after they have been out of prison for one year or more. All applicants involved in adjudication or with a
criminal history must disclose this on the application and send criminal records to Kuyper College, after which the
Admissions Committee will review them.
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Financial Matters
College Costs for 2023-2024
Tuition and Room & Board charges are due on or before the first day of classes each semester unless an approved payment plan
has been arranged.
COST SUMMARY (full-time enrollment on campus) Semester Year
Tuition (12-17 credits/semester) $13,195 $26,390
Room & Board (15 meals/week) $4,940 $9,880
Total $18,135 $36,270
UNDERGRADUATE TUITION* Semester
Full-time (12-17 credits) $13,195
Part-time (1-11 credits) $1,100/credit
Overload (over 17 credits) $700/credit
Summer Courses $450/credit
Audit $450/credit
Dual Enrollment $190/credit
Personal Enrichment $225/class
ROOM & BOARD Semester Year
Unlimited*** meals/week $4,940 $9,880
10 meals/week $4,850 $9,700
5 meals/week (Juniors/Seniors only) $3,775 $7,550
DEPOSITS
Enrollment (New Undergraduate Students) $200
GRADUATE TUITION
Master of Ministry $450/credit
MISCELLANEOUS
Late Payment Fee $35
Returned Check Fee (plus exchange fee) $45
Payment Plan Set-Up Fee $35
Cornerstone & Davenport Collaborative Fees**
Tuition is due on or before the first day of classes. This does not include Lab Fees for courses with a travel component. Students
may elect a deferred payment plan before the first day of class.
*Includes Tuition charges but not Lab Fees for courses with a travel component.
**Students enrolled in collaborative programs may have additional fees. Please consult the collaborative institution for questions
pertaining to these fees.
***The “Unlimited meals” option includes one meal per service.
Please note: To determine indirect college costs, the State of Michigan recommends that students allocate $800 for
books/supplies and approximately $972 for travel expenses.
Also note: Kuyper College reserves the right to change these costs. Some variation may occur depending on course selection,
number of credits, housing, and meal plan selection.
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Financial Aid
Kuyper College provides financial assistance to qualified students through scholarships, grants, loans, and student
employment opportunities. We award scholarships on the basis of academic performance and involvement in Christian
service. Financial need is the main criterion used in determining the amount of aid given through grants and loans. The
financial aid staff works closely with students and their families to access all available resources. All students have the
right to request details regarding federal, state, and private scholarships and other financial aid policies, as well as
information on campus security and the names and titles of contact personnel.
Application Procedure
Any student wishing to be considered for financial aid at Kuyper College must be enrolled for at least six credit hours
in a degree-seeking program. A student must reapply each year to receive financial aid.
● U.S. students (and those with eligible noncitizen status) must complete the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid (FAFSA). The form is online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
● Canadian students must complete the Canadian Financial Aid Application.
● International students must complete the Statement of Finances forms.
Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
Kuyper College has a satisfactory academic progress policy that follows guidelines set forth in the Federal Student Aid
Handbook. It is as follows:
Cumulative Credit
Hours Attempted
Minimum Cumulative
GPA for Continuation
Minimum Cumulative
GPA for Good Standing
Minimum Percentage of
Successful Completion
1-15
1.0
1.5
65%
16-30
1.3
1.6
65%
31-45
1.45
1.75
70%
46-60
1.6
1.9
70%
61-75
1.75
2.0
75%
76-89
1.9
2.0
75%
90+
2.0
2.0
80%
In addition, a student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to receive endowed, family, and/or corporate scholarships
awarded by Kuyper College.
The percentage of completion is set up so a student will complete 100% of the required work in the maximum 150%
timeframe (120/180 hours). Kuyper College allows a lower percentage in the first year and then requires a student to
complete an increasing percentage in the following year. This schedule allows students to complete their degree in the
150% timeframe. Students become ineligible when Kuyper determines that they cannot complete their program within
150% of its length. The student must complete 67% of the overall credits attempted to meet this requirement.
When calculating a transfer student’s timeframe, we include all credits that Kuyper College has accepted as part of the
student’s program. Students who choose to attempt a second degree will be allowed a timeframe prorated for the
amount of credits needed for that degree. Students who complete their degree requirements for a specific program but
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continue to take classes cannot receive additional aid unless there is a change of program/degree.
For financial aid purposes, when students do not finish a course that has a withdrawal or an incomplete status by the
required date, the course counts as part of the total attempted credits and will affect the student’s completion percentage.
Kuyper College does not offer remedial coursework, so that part of the Federal regulation does not apply. Since a repeat
course receives financial aid, those hours count.
Kuyper College calculates satisfactory academic progress at the end of each semester. Students who do not meet the
requirements are put on financial aid warning for one semester. At the end of the warning semester, a student who does
not meet satisfactory academic progress cannot receive financial aid until the student reobtains satisfactory academic
progress. This policy is in effect for all students attending Kuyper College. Should a student who had not been receiving
financial aid decide to apply, satisfactory academic progress requirements are retroactive and cover those semesters for
which the student did not receive aid.
The federal government realizes that some special circumstances arise in which students need to appeal dismissal from
financial aid. Extreme illness of the student, illness in the student’s family, or death of a family member are examples of
instances where the government allows an appeal. Other circumstances are left up to Kuyper to decide.
Kuyper College handles Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals in the following manner:
● Students receive a letter from Kuyper College’s Financial Aid Office letting them know that they have not
maintained satisfactory academic progress and will not be eligible the following semester for financial aid. The
letter includes the option of appeal and gives a deadline when students must submit the appeal, and that
documentation must be with the appeal.
● A committee comprised of the Director of Financial Aid, faculty members, and others as needed will review
the appeal.
● Students will receive a letter from the Financial Aid Office letting them know if the committee accepted or
denied the appeal. If denied, students must pay for subsequent classes on their own, without financial aid, until
they have obtained the required GPA and completion rate.
● If accepted, students must meet with a Student Success Program representative and may have a limit placed on
the number of credits they can take during the appeal semester. They may also have a minimum GPA
requirement.
● Students who leave Kuyper College and return after taking classes at another college can request that those
classes factor into determining their ability to receive aid upon return.
Title IV Policy Returns
The federal government awards Title IV federal financial aid funds under the assumption that students will remain in
the classroom for the entire period (semester) for which they received funds. If financial-aid recipients withdraw from
school after beginning attendance, Kuyper must determine the amount of Title IV grant or loan assistance earned by
students. If the amount disbursed to students is greater than the amount students earned, then students must return the
unearned funds to the federal government. If the amount disbursed to students is less than the amount they earned and
they are otherwise eligible for the aid, they are eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement of the earned aid that
they did not receive.
The Federal Return to Title IV funds calculation (R2T4) determines financial aid refunds. Schools must determine the
amount of aid that students have earned using their last date of attendance. Up through 60% of the payment period,
Kuyper uses a pro-rata schedule to determine the amount of federal student funds that students earned. After that point,
students qualify as having earned 100% of their federal financial aid.
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Return of Unearned Title IV Funds
Students must return unearned funds to the federal government within 45 days of the determined date that the student
withdrew.
Students must return federal funds in the following order:
∙ Unsubsidized (other than parent loans) Federal Direct Loans
∙ Subsidized Federal Direct Loans
∙ Federal Direct PLUS Loans
∙ Federal Pell Grants
∙ Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant
∙ Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
∙ Federal TEACH Grant
Non-federal funds are returned according to their program policy.
Determining a Withdrawal Date
Official Withdrawal: We use the date on the official withdrawal form processed by the Registrar’s Office or, if known,
the last date that the student attended the class.
Unofficial Withdrawals: We use the last date an instructor can determine a student was in class by either attendance or
completed assignments.
Post-Withdrawal Disbursement
Students who withdraw after the 60% point have no unearned funds. We must still calculate whether a student is eligible
for a post-withdrawal disbursement. A post-withdrawal disbursement occurs when a student withdraws before the Title
IV aid is disbursed. The disbursement must go out within 30 days of the determined date that the student withdrew.
Federal Financial Aid
Kuyper College has approval to participate in Title IV federal student aid programs. Students must meet several eligibility
requirements to be considered for federal funding:
∙ Demonstrate financial need according to federal methodology
∙ Have a high school diploma or GED
∙ Be enrolled in a degree-seeking or eligible certificate program
∙ Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
∙ Maintain satisfactory academic progress
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant available to students who qualify by completing the FAFSA.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
The SEOG is a need-based grant available to students who qualify based upon eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant.
Federal Direct Stafford Loans
Federal Direct Stafford loans are available to all students who complete the FAFSA. The Federal Direct Stafford loan
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has two categories: subsidized and unsubsidized. With a subsidized loan, the government pays the interest while the
student is in college. With an unsubsidized loan, the student is responsible for interest while in college. Payments for
Federal Direct Stafford loans begin six months after the student drops below six credit hours or after graduation.
Stafford Loan limits are as follows:
Freshmen: $5,500
Sophomores: $6,500
Juniors/Seniors: $7,500
Independent freshmen and sophomores may qualify for an additional $4,000 in unsubsidized loans. Juniors and seniors
may qualify for an additional $5,000 in unsubsidized loans.
Federal Direct PLUS Loans
Parents may borrow under the Federal Direct PLUS Loan program on behalf of their dependent student. Eligibility for
Direct PLUS Loans for parents depends upon creditworthiness. The maximum loan amount is the cost of attendance
minus any other financial aid received.
Federal Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant
(TEACH)
TEACH Grants are available to qualifying teacher education majors who agree to serve in a high-need field at an
elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency serving students from low-income families and for
at least four complete academic years within eight years of completing (or ceasing attendance in) their studies. The
program is limited in its availability of majors at Kuyper. TEACH Grant funds convert automatically to a federal direct
unsubsidized student loan if you do not meet these service obligations. Interest will be your responsibility beginning
with the initial disbursement payment to you on your behalf.
State Financial Aid
The State of Michigan makes assistance available to its residents. Amounts and types of aid vary yearly based on the
state’s availability of funds.
Michigan Achievement Scholarship (MAS)
The MAS is available to students who graduated during the 2023 school year or later. It is based on a student's Estimated
Family Contribution (EFC) and their budget. There is a minimum and a “last” award given in this program.
Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG)
The MTG is a need-based award given to students who qualify by completing the FAFSA.
Tuition Incentive Program (TIP)
The State of Michigan awards TIP to qualifying students—those adopted or on Medicaid—and provides them with a
letter confirming eligibility. Kuyper participates in TIP Phase II.
Student Employment
Federal Work-Study Program
Funds for the Federal Work-Study Program come from the federal government, which awards students federal work-
study funds based on their financial need as determined by their completed FAFSA. Students must be U.S. citizens or
eligible noncitizens to receive these funds.
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Federal Community Service Work-Study Program
This program is a partnership between the federal government and Kuyper College based upon financial need according
to a student’s FAFSA. This program pays eligible students to volunteer in community organizations, and positions are
primarily off-campus. Students must be U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens.
KuyperWorks Work-Study Program
KuyperWorks is an innovative program that integrates the learning from college workplace environments with
academics to make a student ready for today’s careers. The program’s purpose is to contribute to the education of the
whole person by facilitating institutionally significant opportunities for students to grow in character, work ethic,
problem solving, critical thinking, responsibility, time management, leadership, and essential areas of professional
competency while at the same time making a quality college education more affordable and accessible.
Equal Opportunity
Kuyper College commits itself to ensuring equal opportunity with respect to both education and employment and does
not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, gender, or disability. Kuyper College complies
with Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1973, and other applicable
statutes.
Kuyper College Scholarships
Kuyper Academic Scholarships
Kuyper automatically awards Academic Scholarships to eligible new students soon after the decision to admit them. We
base our selection on information collected through the admission process; no further application is necessary. Students
must receive an offer for regular admission (without any academic provisions) to be eligible for these scholarships.
These merit-based scholarships are renewable for up to four years providing that students maintain the required GPA.
Scholarship levels and renewal criteria are available on the Kuyper College website.
Multicultural Scholarship
Kuyper College gives Multicultural Scholarships ranging from $500 to $5,000 annually as part of our efforts to develop
a campus that celebrates cultural diversity. To qualify, students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. We expect recipients
of the Multicultural Scholarship to use their talents at Kuyper College by participating in student leadership and by
striving to develop their academic, spiritual, and social leadership skills.
Christian Ministry Scholarship
We offer several Christian Ministry Scholarships each year to incoming dependent students who demonstrate financial
need and whose family’s primary source of income comes from a parent’s involvement in a full-time Christian non-
profit organization.
Dig “Uncover Your Future” Scholarship
This is a one-time $2,000 scholarship to attend Kuyper College awarded to any new student who has completed the Dig
program through Calvin Theological Seminary. Kuyper College’s vision and purpose is to “equip students with a biblical,
Reformed worldview to effectively serve Christ’s church and his world,” so those who attend Dig are the type of
students who thrive at Kuyper College. This scholarship is yet another way to connect with and serve Dig participants
as they explore and prepare for their future as students at Kuyper.
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Transfer Scholarships
Transfer Scholarships are awarded to students who transfer to Kuyper College and attend full time (minimum 12 credit
hours per semester).
Sibling Scholarship
Kuyper awards the Siblings Scholarships to siblings of students who are concurrently enrolled full-time, in good
academic standing, and considered dependents according to the FAFSA.
Alumni Scholarships
We award Alumni Scholarships to dependents of a Kuyper College alumnus(a) who are enrolled full-time and remain
in good academic standing.
Kuyper College Endowed Scholarships
Kuyper College is extremely grateful to the many generous donors who have thoughtfully endowed almost 100
scholarships based upon a variety of conditions, including financial need, career interest, and academic achievement.
Kuyper’s Financial Aid Office awards these scholarships based upon these criteria, along with completion of the
FAFSA, a required GPA of 2.0 or higher, and other measures designated by donors. Students desiring additional
information should contact the Financial Aid Office.
International Ambassador Scholarship
Kuyper’s International Ambassador Scholarship offers qualified young men and women outside the US and Canada
education and training in ministry not available in their own country. The Ambassador Scholarship is awarded to students
who plan to return to their home country to serve after the completion of their studies. The Ambassador Scholarship can
meet a significant portion of an international student’s direct educational costs, based upon the need (reflected on the
Statement of Finances form). Recipients of the Ambassador Scholarship must be enrolled in a Kuyper-provided (non-
collaborative) program such as Business Leadership, Interdisciplinary Studies, Ministry Leadership, Social Work, or an
associate degree or certificate program. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
Kuyper College Grants
Church Matching Grant
A student’s church may donate any amount in the student’s name and Kuyper College will match up to $500 per year.
Every Square Inch Award
Students who demonstrate financial need based on the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
and who are enrolled full time are eligible for the Every Square Inch Award.
Kuyper College Canadian Aid
Every Kuyper College student from Canada who completes the Kuyper College Canadian Financial Aid Application
(CFAA) receives the Canadian Grant-in-Aid. Canadian Need-Based Grants are available to Canadian students who
complete the Kuyper College CFAA and demonstrate financial need (awarded on a rolling basis). Canadian students
attending Kuyper College are also eligible for loans through the Canadian Student Loan program.
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Financial Policies
Prompt Payment
Tuition and Room & Board charges are due on or before the first day of classes each semester unless students arrange
an approved payment plan before the semester start date. Students may set up their payment plan in Populi by semester
under the Financial>Term tab.
Students who have not met their financial obligations at Kuyper College, including the payment of library and parking
fines, will not be able to register for classes the following semester(s) or have their transcripts released until they have
paid their accounts. Kuyper policy does not permit any continuing or readmitted students with an unpaid account to
enroll in courses until they pay such an account in full or the Business Office accepts a satisfactory payment plan and
the Academic Office grants approval.
Refund Policies
The Business Office will make tuition credit, if applicable, upon receipt of a withdrawal notice signed by the Registrar.
The date of withdrawal will determine tuition credit. Refunds that involve federal or state grants will be subject to federal
or state policy in effect at the time of withdrawal prior to and independent of any refunds made by Kuyper College to
the student. Whenever a student becomes eligible for a refund of any type, we will always issue the refund by check.
Any student who is suspended or dismissed from Kuyper College is not entitled to any refunds.
Room & Board Refunds
Students who desire to withdraw from the college for personal reasons during the semester will receive a prorated
refund to their account of unused Room & Board charges, less a $200 breach-of-contract fee. The Dean of Students
can clarify these arrangements and details.
Tuition Credit Refund
Any student who desires to withdraw from one or more courses must follow the process as outlined in the Academic
Office Policies section of the Catalog. Students receiving Financial Aid should contact the Financial Aid Office to find
out how withdrawing could affect their financial aid package.
The credit refunded to a student’s account follows the following schedule based on approval of the withdrawal:
FA-23 7-Week Courses Current Year Date Range
Percent Refunded
First two weeks
Session A
Sept 5 - Sept 19
100%
Session B
Sept. 5- Sept 19
After two weeks
After Sep 19, 2023
0%
After Sep 19, 2023
SP-24 7-Week Courses Current Year Date Range
Percent Refunded
First two weeks
Session A
Jan 8- 22, 2024
100%
Session B
Jan 8- 22, 2024
After two weeks
After Jan 22, 2024
0%
After Jan 22, 2024
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Kuyper College Academic Policies
Catalog Requirements
The Kuyper College Catalog provides students with the information necessary for them to pursue and complete the
academic requirements for their chosen academic program. Students must complete the requirements of the academic
program as stated in the catalog current to the time of their enrollment or readmission. However, any changes instituted
by academic administration or faculty decision become effective immediately unless otherwise stated; these may differ
from the catalog current to the time of a student’s entrance.
Class Sessions
Kuyper College offers residential, hybrid, and online courses. Residential and hybrid class times begin at 8:30 a.m.
Monday through Friday and meet once, twice, or three times per week. Evening classes typically begin at 6:00 p.m.
and may be residential, hybrid, or online. Most courses that are fully online do not have an assigned meeting time.
Semesters
The Academic Year commences with the Fall Semester beginning around Labor Day in September, the Spring
Semester begins after New Year’s Day in January, and two Summer Sessions run for eight weeks each from May to
August. The current Academic Calendar and Course Schedules are available in the academics section of Sakai.
Course Load Status
A full-time course load at Kuyper College consists of 12 or more credit hours of academic work per semester. Students
taking more than 17 credit hours in a semester will incur an additional tuition fee for the additional credit hours. Students
who take 9-11 credits classify as three-quarters-time students. Students who take 6-8 credits classify as half-time students.
Students who take fewer than 6 credits classify as less-than-half-time students.
Audit and Personal Enrichment Status
Audit
Current full-time students may audit one course each semester at no additional charge.
Personal Enrichment
Kuyper invites individuals from the community to take courses for personal enrichment for the amount listed on the
Cost Sheet. The spouse of a full-time student may take one personal enrichment course per semester at no charge.
Personal enrichment students attend classes but complete no assignments and receive no credit for the course. Students
taking courses on a credit or audit basis are not eligible to take courses on a personal enrichment basis during Fall or
Spring Semesters.
Classification of Students
● Freshman - Students who have completed fewer than 30 credit hours
● Sophomore - Students who have completed between 30 and 59 hours of college credit
● Junior - Students who have completed between 60 and 89 hours of college credit
● Senior - Students who have completed 90 or more hours of college credit
Academic Advising
Students are ultimately responsible for monitoring their own progress toward graduation and ensuring that they meet
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all academic requirements. All students have an academic advisor to assist them in meeting their academic requirements.
Students meet with their advisors to select course schedules each semester, prepare a route-to-graduation plan, discern
professional direction, and discuss dropping or adding courses. The academic advisor can also help direct students to
other campus-wide resources as well, such as the Student Success Program and emotional health counseling.
Graduation Requirements
Students who satisfactorily complete all academic requirements for the bachelor’s degree qualify for the degree. Students
who satisfactorily complete a two-year curriculum with a 2.0 GPA may apply to receive an associate degree. Only the
Registrar can approve the substitution of courses.
Kuyper College will confer a degree to a student upon successful completion of the following measures:
● Overall Program GPA of at least 2.0
● Bible & Theology Major (if applicable) GPA of at least 2.0
● Major-specific GPA of 2.5
● Program and Internship requirements (where applicable)
● Completion of respective Degree Audit form
● Exit Interview
Commencement Participation
Students who wish to participate in graduation ceremonies must submit their Intent to Graduate form to the
Academic Office in advance. Students who do not turn in this form by the posted deadline cannot walk at the
Commencement ceremony.
Occasionally, a student will get to graduation and still have outstanding credits remaining due to course offering
conflicts or other extenuating circumstances. Students may participate in Commencement with 6 outstanding
remaining credits only with prior written approval of the Academic Office.
Academic Assessment
Kuyper College continually aims to improve student learning and the student experience. We assess our student learning
around five overarching Student Learning Outcomes that correlate with the Bible & Theology, Arts & Sciences, and
Program outcomes. The faculty have identified key competencies that students can demonstrate through signature
assignments to identify whether students are achieving the desired outcomes. For those interested in Kuyper’s plan for
improving student learning, each of the Program Assessment Plan Curriculum Maps are accessible in the Academics
section of the internal website.
Academic Office Policies
Adding and Dropping Courses
If students need to decide whether to add a course or drop a course, they should first consult with their advisors. A
course or courses dropped by students during the first seven calendar days after registration will not appear on their
academic record. Courses withdrawn by the end of the second week after classes begin will appear on students’ academic
records as “W.” Students must fill out a form and have it signed by the course instructor.
Courses dropped more than two weeks after classes begin result in an F grade, except for unusual circumstances such
as serious injury or illness. If students experience extenuating circumstances and wish to petition for a “W” instead of
an “F,” they must submit a written request to the Registrar that presents the case for the change. The Registrar may
consult with the instructor of the course, the Academic Dean, and/or the Academic Affairs Committee to make the
decision whether to grant the request.
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Withdrawing from Kuyper College
If a student decides to withdraw entirely from Kuyper, he or she must consult with the academic advisor and
complete the online Exit Interview form available in the Academics section of the internal website. The Academic
Office will notify other offices. Depending on when the student withdraws, he or she may be eligible for a refund. See
the Refund Policies in the Financial Matters section of this catalog.
Students who discontinue Kuyper after enrolling but wish to return may apply for readmission. Students must complete
the requirements of the academic program as stated in the catalog that is current at the time of their readmission. See
the readmissions requirements in the Admissions section of this Catalog.
Grading Policies
Distributed Grade Checkpoints
We designed the Grade Checkpoint System to identify and monitor students who are struggling academically at various
points in the semester. Faculty members are responsible to keep grades current in the Learning Management System so
that students are aware of their standing in classes at any time. The Student Success Program also monitors student
grades and will contact students receiving an unsatisfactory grade and provide the opportunity for academic assistance.
Especially after two weeks and four weeks of the semester, students can expect the Student Success Program to view
grades and offer assistance. Student transcripts only record the final grades; the checkpoint grades only assist students
and the Student Success Office in monitoring their academic performance. Official grade reports will be available via
the Student Management System portal at the end of each session and each semester.
Grade Point Average Calculation
Kuyper College calculates a student’s GPA by adding the numerical values associated with the letter grade multiplied by
the credits per course, then dividing the sum total by the number of attempted credits taken.
Kuyper College bases student GPAs on the following scale:
A
4.00
Distinguished
A-
3.67
Excellent
B+
3.33
Superior
B
3.00
Very Good
B-
2.67
Good
C+
2.33
Fair
C
2.00
Acceptable
C-
1.67
Below Adequate
D
1.00
Minimal Achievement
D-
0.67
Very Minimal Achievement
F
0.00
Failure - Inadequate
Additional Grading Codes include:
AU Audit
CR Credit
IP Incomplete
R Repeat
W Withdrawal
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Incomplete Grade Code
Students can receive a grade of Incomplete (IP) on rare occasions when they have work for a course that takes longer
than the semester allows, used primarily for extended internships in which a student’s internship hours must go longer
than the length of the semester. Faculty may grant an IP when a student experiences prolonged illness or hospitalization
during a semester. For the Academic Office to record an IP at the end of a semester, the professor must complete the
Incomplete Grade Request Form and receive approval by the Registrar. An IP grade code does not factor into the GPA
on a student’s transcript. Students should complete coursework for a fall semester class no later than April 1 of that
academic year, and students should complete course work for a spring semester and/or summer session class no later
than August 30 of that academic year. If the coursework remains incomplete by these deadlines, the student’s final grade
will be an F.
Repeating Courses
Students may repeat a Kuyper College course in which they received a grade point of 1.0 or lower, but they must take
the exact course again. When students complete the repeated course, the original grade changes, showing an R (repeat)
grade code. The higher grade counts toward the semester and cumulative GPA.
Dean’s List and Academic Achievement Cords
At the end of each fall and spring semester, the Dean’s List is published based on the following requirements:
1. A student must earn a 3.5 GPA for that semester and have a 3.2 cumulative GPA.
2. A student must be enrolled as a full-time student (12 or more credit hours).
3. A student must complete all courses by the end of the semester when the faculty reports grades. An incomplete
grade code will remove a student’s eligibility for the Dean’s List.
Kuyper College also recognizes the academic achievements of graduating students by awarding Academic Achievement
Cords, which students receive at Honors Convocation and wear at Commencement. The cord colors correspond to
students’ cumulative GPA:
Gold: 3.90 - 4.00 Summa Cum Laude
Silver: 3.70 - 3.89 Magna Cum Laude
Red: 3.50 - 3.69 Cum Laude
We determine students’ eligibility for Academic Achievement Cords at the end of the fall semester, prior to graduation.
We calculate the GPA based on work completed through Kuyper College programs only. The final transcript will record
honors achieved at the time of degree conferral.
Official Transcripts
Kuyper College partners with Parchment, a digital credential service. Students may request the release of an official
transcript through Parchment on the Kuyper College website by paying the associated $14 fee (additional fees may apply
for international orders). Students have the option to send their transcripts electronically, by mail, or both. If the student
has a past-due account, the account will be on hold, and the system will not release the transcript until the account is
paid in full. Transcript requests will automatically cancel after 30 days if students do not resolve the business hold. There
is no refund for the canceled request. Currently enrolled students may request unofficial transcripts at no charge.
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Kuyper College requires that its degree-seeking students attain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA for the awarding of the
B.S., B.S.W., and A.A. degrees. Students must also make reasonable academic progress to receive financial aid, which
includes maintaining a 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students who do not fulfill the minimal criteria will move into Academic
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Probation and will be in jeopardy of losing financial aid if academic performance does not improve. For more
information, consult the explanation of Satisfactory Academic Progress in the Financial Aid section earlier in this
catalog.
Students placed on probation may only take up to 12 credit hours per semester (plus physical education) and will have
restrictions on the amount they may participate in extracurricular activities.
Based on how far they are in their program, Kuyper will dismiss or place on academic probation students whose
cumulative GPA indicates that they are in jeopardy of not meeting graduation requirements (see the Dismissal Probation
Chart below). Students whose cumulative GPA is below the corresponding minimum cumulative GPA will be
dismissed. Students whose current semester and/or cumulative GPA is above the minimum GPA requirement but
below the cumulative GPA requirement for good standing will be placed on academic probation.
Cumulative Credits
Attempted*
Cumulative GPA
for Dismissal
Semester or Cumulative
GPA for Probation
1-16
≤ 1.00
≤ 1.5
17-30
≤ 1.30
≤ 1.6
31-45
≤ 1.45
≤ 1.75
46-60
≤ 1.6
≤ 1.9
61-75
≤ 1.75
< 2.0
76-90
≤ 1.9
< 2.0
91+
< 2.0
< 2.0
The Academic Office will send a letter to inform students of dismissal from Kuyper if it is for academic reasons. The
faculty advisor will also receive a copy of the letter. Students dismissed for academic reasons have the opportunity to
appeal their dismissal by submitting an electronic letter to the Academic Dean, detailing acknowledgement of the reasons
for dismissal, a plan for improvement, and the importance of attending Kuyper College. The Academic Affairs
Committee will review this letter. Should they sustain an appeal, the student will be on academic probation and will have
to meet with Student Success before the beginning of the next semester to compose and sign an individualized academic
contract. This contract may include, but not be limited to, the following:
● Increase cumulative GPA to minimum requirements for good standing
● Attend weekly meetings with Student Success Coaches
● Attend weekly meetings with Student Success staff with honest self-reporting
● Have 100% class attendance unless excused by Student Success staff
● Complete and submit all assignments on time
● Attend all assigned study groups
● Meet other stipulations as deemed necessary
Student Success staff will review student progress, at a minimum, at the various checkpoints throughout the semester.
Failure to fulfill any part of the individualized academic contract may be cause for immediate Administrative Withdrawal
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from Kuyper by the Registrar. Students who are withdrawn in this manner will be liable and must repay Kuyper for any
financial aid funds that have to be returned to the federal or state government and any outstanding student account
balances. Students who successfully meet the conditions of the individualized academic contract, and the semester and
cumulative GPA requirements, will return to regular academic standing.
Sanctions for Prohibited Conduct
A student may be placed on disciplinary probation for misconduct, including the following: theft, unlawful entry to
campus facilities, sexual misconduct, acts of violence, damage to property, and violation of civil statutes and public
guidelines, and for disregarding of established rules and regulations of Kuyper College (see the Student Handbook).
Students who violate College standards will need to meet with the Dean of Students and Work regarding their conduct.
Such students may receive a warning about continuing the activity, be placed on personal probation, be placed under
disciplinary probation, or be dismissed from Kuyper.
Disciplinary probation involves exclusion from certain extracurricular activities (student government or yearbook staff)
and may include restriction to the campus or suspension from classes for a stated period of time. When placed on
disciplinary probation, the student will receive written notification of the action, and the Academic Office will document
the decision.
Kuyper College reserves the right to dismiss any student when, in its judgment, the general welfare of the campus
community seems to require such an action. The Discipline Committee in consultation with the Dean of Students and
Work handles disciplinary probation and dismissal. A student has the right to appeal as described in the Student
Handbook.
Readmission after Dismissal
A student dismissed from Kuyper College for academic or behavioral reasons may apply for readmission after one
semester. These students must also include a written explanation of their plan to improve their academic success. The
Admissions Committee will determine eligibility for readmission, which depends on the individual’s ability to
demonstrate general aptitude for college work as well as improvement in overall attitude and basic goals as noted in the
readmission application.
Class Policies
Attendance Policy
Students must attend classes regularly. Class attendance is necessary for the educational process to be fully effective
because students gain significant materials, insights, perspectives, and opinions from class sessions.
Professors establish their own attendance policies, outlined in each course syllabus. Whenever a student does not attend
class, the professor will take appropriate action in accordance with the stated attendance policy. However, the Academic
Office may withdraw any student who does not attend 40% or more of their class meetings from the course. We will
bill and grade the withdrawal in accordance with other policies. Students who miss classes because of an extended illness
or an emergency should notify the Academic Office of the situation. Students should consult with their professors to
determine what coursework they missed during the absence.
Students who anticipate an absence due to official co-curricular or military participation should consult with the
professor in advance and, if possible, complete any scheduled work in advance of the absence. Faculty or others in
charge of a co-curricular activity should provide the Academic Office with a list of students participating prior to any
activity that would remove students from classes.
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Test and Examination Policies
Students must take tests and examinations at the scheduled time. If a student misses a test for a valid reason, a faculty
member may allow the student to make up the test the next day or have the student take a make-up test on the last
afternoon before final exams begin. If a student misses a test and lacks a valid reason for doing so, the faculty member
may refuse to allow the student to take a make-up test and give the student a grade of “0” for the test.
Students must take final examinations as scheduled. However, if a student has three examinations scheduled in one day,
the student may contact the instructor to reschedule one of the examinations. Examinations may not be postponed
unless there are extenuating factors; in such cases, the Registrar and individual faculty member must grant permission
to reschedule the exam.
Standards for Written Work
Students must carefully and thoughtfully prepare written work. Students must follow the basic standards for written
work established in the Written & Digital Rhetoric course. Students should take care to acknowledge and document
ideas and information, whether quoted or paraphrased, from other sources by using the Modern Language Association
(MLA) parenthetical documentation format unless the instructor has given other formatting instructions. Papers that
do not meet these standards will receive lower grades, will remain ungraded until proper documentation is in place, or
will not be accepted. Issues of plagiarism are below.
Academic Honesty
Kuyper College places a high value on academic honesty and student integrity. Academic dishonesty offenses include,
but are not limited to, the following: plagiarism, which includes failure to cite sources of outside information used in
completing assignments; submitting a paper the student has not personally written; the exchange of test or exam
information with another student; cheating on an examination; assisting a student or receiving help in any capacity with
an examination; turning in a paper or assignments used for credit in another class, even if completed by the same
student; or any other attempt to deceptively receive an unearned grade, including the use of artificial intelligence. All
instances of academic dishonesty will require prompt disciplinary action by Kuyper College.
If instructors find evidence of academic dishonesty, they will assign the grade of “F” for that assignment or exam and
inform the Academic Dean by filling out the Academic Dishonesty Form that will be available on file by the Academic
Office that a student has committed an act of academic dishonesty. The student will receive a copy of this form via
email from the Office of the Dean dated with the day the student received the form. Other penalties may apply,
depending on the offense:
● First offense: automatic failure of the assignment
● Second offense: automatic failure of the course and academic probation for the coming semester
● Third offense: automatic failure of the course and automatic dismissal from Kuyper College
Appeal Procedure: If a student believes that he or she has not committed an act of academic dishonesty and this is a
first-offense incident, he or she may send a written appeal to the Academic Dean. If this is a second- or third-offense
incident, a student may appeal in writing to the Academic Dean, asking that the Academic Affairs and Appeals
Committee convenes to hear the student plead his or her case. The decision of this committee is final. If a student
decides to appeal in writing, the appeal should be in letter format and dated. The student has five business (class) days
from the time he or she receives a copy of the Academic Dishonesty Form to submit an appeal.
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Veterans’ Administration Benefits
The Academic Office of Kuyper College certifies students for veterans’ benefits. The State Approving Agency has
imposed the following requirements on Kuyper College for students to receive veterans’ benefits:
● Students are responsible for reporting the last date of attendance for any course or courses from which they
withdraw or stop attending. If students fail to notify the Registrar that they are withdrawing from one or more
courses, the institution will notify the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs that the last date of attendance in
each case was the first day of class.
● When Kuyper College accepts veteran students as transfer students and certifies them for veterans’ benefits,
Kuyper will give written notification to the students of the credit granted for previous training received
elsewhere. Students will be able to see how that training reduces the number of credits necessary to complete
the program of study in which they are enrolled. Kuyper will also notify the U.S. Department of Veterans’
Affairs of the credit granted and the reduction in training time.
Consistent with the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018, Kuyper will not impose any penalty, including the
assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or require that a Chapter
31 or Chapter 33 beneficiary borrow additional funds to cover the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial
obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement of a payment by the VA.
Credit Alternatives
Transfer Credits
Applicants who submit a transcript of courses completed at an accredited college will receive advanced standing or
credit, provided that these courses are comparable to courses offered at Kuyper College or fit into Kuyper College’s
academic program; the grades received for the courses are C (2.0) or better; and the student held good standing at the
previous college. Kuyper College may accept up to 75 transfer credits for courses that meet Kuyper’s requirements.
Kuyper College will accept transfer credit from the following types of institutions:
1. All regionally-accredited institutions
2. All ABHE-accredited institutions
3. Non-accredited institutions if either the student or the institution supplies to the Academic Office copies of
letters from at least three other accredited institutions verifying the acceptability of the non-accredited
institution’s credit hours
We allow a maximum of 30 credits obtained through transfer of non-classroom-based credit for a bachelor’s degree at
Kuyper College. We may apply a maximum of 30 credits from all sources and a maximum of 15 credits of non-classroom
based credit to an associate’s degree. We may apply a maximum of 12 credits from all sources to a Certificate. A
maximum of 3 credits may count toward a minor.
A student may only receive transfer credit for up to half of their Bible & Theology course requirements and must take
TH344 and at least one of the doctrine courses (TH241 or TH242) at Kuyper College.
Community College Transfer Credit
For students who have not attained an Associate’s degree, we cannot accept more than 60 credit hours for work in
accredited community colleges. Courses from a two-year institution cannot transfer as a 300-level or greater course.
Upon a review of the transcript by the Registrar, students who have graduated with an Associate’s degree from an
accredited and acceptable community college will be eligible to participate in one of Kuyper’s modified major programs
that reflects they have met all the Arts & Sciences Core requirements, enabling them to complete their Bachelor’s degree
with only 60 to 66 credits remaining.
Kuyper College is a participating Michigan Transfer Agreement Institution.
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Current Students
Current Kuyper College students who desire to take a course at another college and transfer it to Kuyper College must
receive approval from the Registrar and their academic advisor, and they must receive a grade of C or better in the
course they desire to transfer. Students should complete all their courses through Kuyper College during their final two
semesters unless their academic advisor recommends a course and the Registrar approves it. Students requesting the
transfer of Social Work credits should also consult the Social Work Program director and the Social Work Program
Handbook.
Transfer credits from another institution may not replace an earlier Kuyper College grade.
Articulation Agreements
Kuyper College has established articulation agreements with the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC),
Montcalm Community College (MCC), Bridge Street Ministries (BSM), and Kent Career Technical Center (KCTC)
for students to receive transfer credit for the work they previously completed. Students who have completed one of
the programs run by Youth With A Mission (YWAM) may also receive transfer credit. For more information about
course transfer, please contact the Academic Office.
College Credit by Examination
The following tests are available to Kuyper College students to attain credit by examination:
Advanced Placement Program (AP) – The College Board organization offers this program. Generally, students who
receive a grade of three or higher receive credit.
International Baccalaureate (IB) students who receive a grade of five or higher on higher-level classes that relate to
the curriculum of Kuyper College will receive credit. Subsidiary-level classes, however, will not receive credit.
College Level Examination Program (CLEP) – Kuyper College will generally grant credit for subject area
examinations based on guidelines as established by the College Board. A score of 50 or higher on a CLEP exam
will satisfy transfer credit to applicable courses. Where possible, we equate the CLEP subject examinations to
existing Kuyper College courses, and examinations can fulfill several general college requirements. Details about
the CLEP exams are available from the Academic Office.
Independent Study Policies
Independent study courses are an exception to the normal course offerings at Kuyper College. We decide whether to
grant students an independent study based on the following rationale: 1) limited course offerings available for the
student, 2) academic scheduling needs of the students, and 3) retention of college tuition funds. A student will not be
granted an independent study course based on personal preference in regards to instructor choice or scheduling
convenience.
A student applying for an independent study course should first consult the instructor of the course. The instructor has
the prerogative to consider such a request or deny the request at the outset. After speaking to the instructor, the student
should contact the Registrar to discuss the necessity and viability of the independent study. Next, the student must fill
out the Independent Study Request Forms at least two weeks prior to the start of classes. To ensure educational
excellence consistent with other Kuyper College courses, the instructor of the independent study course will provide
the student with a well-developed course syllabus and will schedule 30-60 minutes of weekly face-to-face time with the
student throughout the semester. The student will be responsible to meet all course expectations as stated in the syllabus.
Each independent study course has a surcharge of $50 per credit.
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CCCU Acadeum Online Courses
Kuyper College participates in Acadeum. As a Home Institution, Kuyper students are able to take approved online
courses at other CCCU institutions. Students can take courses if a student needs one or more of the following:
1. An Arts and Science Course we cannot offer on a regular basis (e.g., Biology, American Government, Finance,
History, Math, Economics)
2. A course that satisfies prerequisites that are out-of-sequence
3. A course that will assist them in graduating on schedule, approved in consultation with the student’s academic
advisor
4. Specific courses a student may need due to a scheduling conflict with other required courses and with the
approval of the Registrar
Out-of-State and International Internships
Kuyper students have the opportunity to study in other locations in the US or in many countries abroad. These
opportunities offer students the chance to gain college credit, explore another country, and experience a different
culture. Students return home with a broader understanding of God and their place in His world. These experiences
also strengthen the student’s intercultural skills, which many employers and ministries greatly desire. Kuyper’s affiliation
with the Council of Christian College and Universities (CCCU) opens up a wealth of study abroad programs through
the Best Semester program.
Students can apply financial aid to any of the off-campus programs with which Kuyper has a partnership, and the classes
in the program, if approved by the Registrar, can apply to a degree at Kuyper. Because Kuyper College grants credit,
payment for tuition and fees will go through Kuyper College. The student will never pay less than the current Kuyper
College cost for full-time tuition and room and board (unlimited meal plan). Any additional costs will be billed to the
student’s account. Students in the collaborative Davenport program are not eligible for institutional aid from Kuyper
College.
Students must meet the eligibility requirements and follow the application process to participate in one of these
programs. Students should begin working with their academic advisor far in advance to carefully plan for their
internship. We will approve a limited number of students for participation in these international or out-of-state
internship programs each semester.
For a complete description of the policy and process to follow and the most up-to-date list of all the programs, please
visit the Student Resources page on the internal website.
Student Success
The Student Success Program (SSP) serves all students by employing peer tutors, arranging for study partners, coaching
students in time management and study skills, providing alternative testing and assistive technology, and counseling
students with academic needs. The SSP also coaches students individually in academically related areas, advocates for
students with professors, and provides resources for testing and evaluation of learning disabilities and learning
differences. The goal of the SSP is for all students to become confident learners.
For Kuyper to provide accommodations to a student with a learning disability, the SSP must have current and
comprehensive documentation on file. If the student is not already in possession of this documentation, they should
contact their former school to obtain the proper forms. This documentation typically describes the criteria and testing
given, including aptitude; academic achievement in reading, math, oral and written language; information processing;
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recommendations for appropriate accommodations, treatment, medication, auxiliary aids; and credentials of the
diagnosing professional. New students who have not undergone prior testing for learning disabilities/differences and/or
ADHD are welcome to come to the SSP to discuss options. The SSP can refer students to physicians in the area who
will perform a complete battery of learning evaluations.
The Kuyper campus is barrier free. Students with disabilities that may hinder them in classroom and academic activities
should contact the Coordinator of Student Success in the SSP. Students whose disabilities affect their mobility or limit
participation in social activities should contact the Student Development Office. Specific services we offer for students
with disabilities include the following:
Alternative Testing Arrangements
Kuyper College has adopted the “time-and-a-half or two-times” rule for students who require extended time on tests.
Depending on the professor’s wishes and the student’s ability, we will administer a test with the regular allotted time,
plus half of that time; or twice the allotted time. Kuyper College reserves the authority to place all students who require
testing accommodations in the same section.
Audio Books
The Learning Ally is the chief provider of accessible and effective educational solutions to enable personal achievement
when access and reading are barriers to learning. The SSP can assist with registering for these services and will take
responsibility for ordering audio textbooks.
Note-Taking
Students with documented learning disabilities can contact the SSP for help obtaining notes for a particular course. The
SSP coordinates the gathering of notes and printed lecture outlines for students. Often, another student in the same
section will photocopy his or her lecture notes and distribute them to students who need them.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Kuyper College seeks to accommodate and embrace students who may have physical or learning disabilities. Kuyper
College will make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities in compliance with section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Kuyper College will not alter standards or change essential elements of courses or programs. To gain access to these
accommodations and services, students should contact the coordinator of Student Success before the beginning of the
term and provide complete and current documentation of their learning disability. Kuyper College’s goal is for students
to become confident learners and achieve maturity and independence.
The Academic Office monitors students’ academic progression through an early alert and grade checkpoints. If a student
is struggling in several courses, the SSP will contact him or her to offer assistance. However, it is Kuyper College’s
policy that Kuyper does not make initial contact with parents. Parents are free to contact the SSP with questions, but
the SSP can only discuss a student if he or she has signed a FERPA release form for that purpose. Kuyper College
strongly encourages parents to communicate with their children about their grades and academic progress throughout
the semester.
Counseling
As part of the commitment Kuyper College has to helping students thrive in all areas of life, Kuyper offers counseling
services at no cost to students through a partnership with 3rd Chair, a local counseling center specializing in working
with young adults.. Students are able to meet with a counselor for individual counseling, couple counseling, group
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counseling, crisis management, and/or training and education workshops. Students make use of counseling services for
a variety of reasons. Some are looking for help adjusting to college life, while others want to learn how to be more
effective in developing and maintaining friendships. Still others use the counseling services as they struggle with
emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, or unresolved childhood trauma. Students may also utilize the counseling
services because they desire to discuss their beliefs or current life situations. Whatever the reason, these services exist
so that students can make the most of their time at Kuyper College. No-cost services may be limited to 10 sessions,
depending on availability. To make an appointment, students should speak with a counselor directly or email the
counseling center.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 protects the privacy of student records. FERPA
provides for the right of the student to inspect and review educational records, to seek to amend those records, and to
limit disclosure of information from the records. FERPA protects currently enrolled or formerly enrolled students,
regardless of their age or status in regard to parental dependency.
With certain exceptions, a student has rights of access to those records that are directly related to him or her and that
Kuyper College maintains. “Educational records” include any records in the possession of an employee, which are
sharable with or accessible to another Kuyper individual. These records may be handwritten or in the form of print,
magnetic tape, film, or other media. These records would include transcripts or other records obtained from a school
in which a student was previously enrolled.
Kuyper College releases official transcripts only when requested in writing by the student through Parchment. Kuyper
College may disclose information about a student without violating FERPA through “directory information.” This
generally includes a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of
attendance, degrees and awards received, and other similar information. A student may restrict the release of his or her
directory information by making a request in writing to the Registrar. In certain other situations, student consent is not
required to disclose educational information. Exceptions include the following:
1. To school officials who have “legitimate educational interests”
2. To federal, state, and local authorities involving an audit or evaluation of compliance with educational programs
3. In connection with financial aid, including Veterans’ benefits
4. To organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of educational institutions
5. To accrediting organizations
6. To parents of a dependent student (as defined by Internal Revenue Code)
7. To parents of a student under 21 years of age regarding violation of any law or institutional policy governing
the use of alcohol or a controlled substance
8. To comply with a judicial order or subpoena
9. In a health or safety emergency
10. Releasing directory information
11. Releasing the results of a disciplinary hearing to an alleged victim of a crime of violence
We will always handle requests to disclose educational information with caution and approach them on a case-by-case
basis. To obtain information protected by FERPA a student may request information by completing the Student Access
to Educational Records form. Students who believe that their educational records contain information that is inaccurate
or misleading, or is otherwise in violation of their privacy, should contact the Academic Office for proper procedures.
Policy for Complaints
Students who have a legitimate complaint regarding some aspect of the activity of Kuyper should bring the complaint
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to the supervisor responsible for the area.
Students who have grievances related to course grades, classroom decorum, or other course- and program-related issues
should address their concerns first with the instructor of the course and/or program director. If the students are not
satisfied with the resolution, they may address their concerns to the Academic Dean within 15 business days of the
incident. The Academic Office will respond to any grievance within 10 business days. If the matter remains unresolved,
the Academic Dean will bring the matter to the Academic Affairs Committee.
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Kuyper College Academic Programs
Degrees and Majors
Kuyper College offers three undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Science degree, the Bachelor of Social Work degree,
and the Associate of Arts degree. The Certificate of Christian Foundations is also available for students interested in a
one-year program.
Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science degree may choose from four majors: Business Leadership, Interdisciplinary
Studies, Ministry Leadership, and Teacher Education. Within the Interdisciplinary Studies program, students may also
choose a major that uses up to three courses in collaboration with Cornerstone University. Students pursuing the
Bachelor of Social Work major in Social Work. Every student may customize their own program by selecting from one
of Kuyper’s minors.
Student Learning Outcomes
As Kuyper College equips thoughtful Christian leaders for service, students need to attain a level of proficiency in the
following curricular student learning outcomes:
1. Formulate, articulate, and apply a biblical, Reformed worldview
1.1 Synthesize content and basic themes of the Bible
1.2 Explain basic biblical concepts from a Reformed perspective
1.3 Apply biblical principles to intellectual, ethical, spiritual, and social issues
2. Examine and critically engage the development and diversity of ideas, individuals, groups, and cultures
2.1 Understand the importance of diversity of human life and culture
2.2 Communicate the gospel to diverse persons and groups
2.3 Demonstrate awareness of the variety of social, economic, religious, and cultural factors that affect current
local and global issues
3. Communicate effectively using a variety of media
3.1 Write effectively using the conventions of academic English and appropriate rhetorical development
3.2 Prepare and deliver clear and substantive oral presentations
3.3 Synthesize well-crafted format and substantive content to transmit messages through visual and audio
media and technologies
4. Demonstrate information literacy skills that are foundational to lifelong learning
4.1 Identify when research is needed
4.2 Locate quality information by applying appropriate evaluation methods
4.3 Use information ethically and responsibly
4.4 Develop credible messages supported by research
4.5 Integrate information across disciplinary boundaries to solve problems and think creatively about issues
5. Demonstrate effective skills in their chosen field of service
5.1 Identify gifts and strengths
5.2 Employ gifts and strengths as a professional or volunteer
5.3 Demonstrate the professional skills of the chosen vocation
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Bachelor Degrees Curriculum
The curriculum of the Bachelor degree programs provide for the development of foundational skills, information,
values, and attitudes necessary to assist students’ intellectual and spiritual growth for effective Christian leadership in
the church and the world.
The Bachelor degree consists of four main components, which have a minimum total requirement of 120 credits.
Bible & Theology
Arts & Sciences
Major
Minor / Electives
21-30 credits
33 credits
36-48 credits
15-24 credits
Bible & Theology: Every student must attain at least 21 credits in this area. Some programs require 30 credits of Bible
& Theology courses and a 2.5 minimum GPA in Bible & Theology courses, which amounts to a second major. Students
whose program does not have this requirement may still choose to obtain the “Double Major” by taking three additional
courses to meet the Bible & Theology major requirements for credits and GPA.
These courses in biblical studies, theological studies, and spiritual formation enable students to understand the Bible,
develop their theological perspective, and mature in their Christian life. While teaching from a Reformed perspective,
the professors respect and engage with other Christian viewpoints.
Upon completion of the Bible & Theology core, students will be able to
1. Synthesize the content of the Bible and the biblical narrative.
2. Correctly employ the basic principles and tools of biblical interpretation.
3. Synthesize the Reformed theological themes of redemptive history.
4. Develop an understanding and practice of spiritual disciplines that contribute to Christian formation.
5. Apply a Reformed worldview to contemporary issues and alternative worldviews.
Arts & Sciences: Every student must attain at least 33 credits in courses that introduce students to a variety of general
or liberal arts subjects. These courses assist students in gaining an understanding of the world and the thought patterns
that affect the world and aids them in developing ways to address people and issues in contemporary culture with a
sensitivity toward people from other cultures.
Upon completion of the Arts & Sciences courses, students will
1. Better understand their roles as image-bearers under God’s sovereign rule and within his created world.
2. Develop qualitative and quantitative analytical skills and demonstrate their application.
3. Be able to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
4. Develop a foundation for a life of learning, social engagement, and personal improvement.
For students to attain these outcomes and for Kuyper College to assess these outcomes, certain courses will not
receive transfer credit from other institutions or examinations in most cases. These include VO 101 Kuyper Seminar,
CO 203 Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab, CO/MI 323 Intercultural Communication, and SW 334 Human Diversity.
Certain majors also have specific requirements regarding particular Arts & Sciences courses. Please consult your
program below and your faculty advisor or the Registrar regarding these requirements.
37
BUSINESS LEADERSHIP
Program Faculty
Marc Andreas, M.B.A., Associate Professor and Program Director of Business Leadership
Daniel Barnett, J.D., Instructor of Business Law
Denise Fase, M.S., Instructor of Business
Eric Hoogstra, Ph.D., Instructor of Finance and Accounting
Donna Larner, D.B.A., Instructor of Accounting
Attah Obande, M.B.A., Instructor of Business Leadership
Karla Velis-Brito, B.S., Instructor of Business Leadership
Program Overview
The purpose of the Business Leadership program is to integrate good theology with good business theory to prepare
globally competent business leaders to fulfill their calling. During their time of study, students will gain competencies
that will prepare them for a variety of organizational settings where skills in business, leadership, and organizational
planning are vital. We equip graduates to be successful both within existing corporate structures and as entrepreneurs
and business professionals in the marketplace.
The term “business leadership” is intentional, as we recognize that leadership in the organizations where our graduates
will serve goes beyond traditional organizational management or business administration. The curriculum is not just
marketing, nor finance, nor accounting, nor international business. It is broader, more general. It satisfies all of the basic
competencies of a business degree, but with the added foci of theological and biblical grounding and global awareness.
Graduates from this program are qualified to pursue further graduate studies in an M.B.A. and other business-related
programs.
Program Graduation Requirements
To be eligible to graduate with a Business Leadership major, the student must
○ Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
○ Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 in all Business Leadership courses.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students graduating from the Business Leadership Program at Kuyper College will demonstrate
1. Servant Leadership: Value the personal, interpersonal, and organizational benefits of practicing servant
leadership.
2. Business Literacy: Demonstrate business literacy in their analysis, construction, and communication of business
information and financial statements.
3. Strategic Thinking: Appraise market trends, both internally and externally, to build a stronger organization.
4. Innovation: Develop skills in business innovation to create enduring value in people’s lives.
5. Ethical Soundness: Integrate their Christian faith with their professional practices.
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Bible & Theology Core
21
Arts & Sciences Core
33
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
BI/TH —
Bible or Theology Elective
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
SW 334
Human Diversity*
3
VO 101
Kuyper Seminar*
1
VO 102
College Success
1
Business Leadership Major
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Minor
15
BU 152
Intro. to Business & Leadership**
3
Students may select any minor, which consists of
five (5) courses, to supplement their major and
customize their program. Minors include the
following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
BU 220
Business Economics
3
BU 252
Marketing & Sales
3
BU 299
Accounting I
3
BU 300
Accounting II
3
BU 311
Entrepreneurship
3
BU 360
Finance
3
BU 412
Business Law & Ethics
3
BU 430
Non-Profit Management
3
BU 450
Internship & Seminar
3
BU 472
Strategy Management
3
BU 499
Capstone**
3
MI 357
Business as Mission**
3
General Electives
12
Total Requirements: 120 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
** These courses have been identified as Interdisciplinary Bible-related courses as defined by the ABHE.
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Business Leadership Major: 2+2 For students with an Associates Degree
Bible & Theology Core
21
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
BI/TH —
Bible or Theology Elective
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
Arts & Sciences Core fulfilled by AA
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
Business Leadership Major
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BU 152
Intro. to Business & Leadership**
3
BU 220
Business Economics
3
BU 252
Marketing & Sales
3
BU 299
Accounting I
3
BU 300
Accounting II
3
BU 311
Entrepreneurship
3
BU 360
Finance
3
BU 412
Business Law & Ethics
3
BU 430
Non-Profit Management
3
BU 450
Internship & Seminar
3
BU 472
Strategy Management
3
BU 499
Capstone**
3
MI 357
Business as Mission**
3
MA/PS340
Social Science Statistics
3
Total: 63 credits
** These courses classify as Interdisciplinary Bible-related courses as defined by the ABHE.
40
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
Program Faculty:
Andrew Zwart, M.Ed., Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies Program Director
Justin Burdine, Ph.D., Instructor of Biology
Kyle DeBoer, M.S.Ed., Instructor of Mathematics
Steve DeGroot, Ph.D., Instructor of Psychology
Andrea Fryling, Ph.D., Instructor of English & Communication
Eunice Hong, Ph.D. Instructor of Intercultural Studies
Jeffrey Jacobs, Ph.D., Instructor of Social Science Statistics
Randall Pederson, Ph.D., Instructor of Philosophy
Emily Perton, M.A., Instructor of Student Success
Sheri Rogers, M.A., Instructor of American Government
John Sparks, M.S., Instructor of Physical Education
Joel Wilkinson, M.S.W., Instructor of Sociology
Rod Wortley, M.A., Instructor of Composition
Program Overview:
Intended for students who wish to pursue more than one area of study while gaining a solid core of Bible and theology,
the Interdisciplinary Studies program provides an avenue for students to design a personalized field of inquiry. An
Interdisciplinary Studies major draws from multiple academic fields to provide students with a Christian college
experience that will equip them for their vocational objectives. Students work with an advisor to create an independent
educational plan that addresses their unique interests and goals.
Interdisciplinary Studies students have two options to fulfill the 45 credits required for this major:
1. Design a customized major that lies outside the boundaries of traditional majors from the Kuyper curriculum. At
least fifteen credits must be upper-level junior or senior courses taken at Kuyper College. These courses may not
overlap with the core requirements of the bachelor’s degree.
2. Select one of the tailored majors that utilizes courses in collaboration with Cornerstone University
(Communications and Psychology). Students selecting this option must go through the application and admission
process of the applicable college, typically at the end of their second semester, since many of their courses will be
taken there.
With either option, students take an introductory course, a capstone, and an internship at Kuyper College to achieve
the intended outcomes of their program.
Program Graduation Requirements:
To be eligible to graduate with an Interdisciplinary major, the student must
○ Have and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
○ Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 in their Bible & Theology major.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Interdisciplinary Studies program, students will
1. Develop skills of self-direction as they articulate their vocational goal and design their own program curriculum.
2. Develop the ability to synthesize knowledge from a number of different disciplines and apply this
interdisciplinary approach to a particular question/issue in their vocational field.
3. Assess their own learning and growth in their vocational field of study and apply this to their chosen
question/issue related to this field.
4. Become more familiar with the practice of their vocational field and conduct primary research in that area.
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Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) Major Program Requirements
Bible & Theology Major
30
Arts & Sciences Core
33
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA ___
Math course
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
PH 232
Introduction to Philosophy
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
SW 334
Human Diversity
3
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar*
College Success**
1
1
Interdisciplinary Studies Major
42
General Electives
15
ID 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
Students may select an additional minor, which
consists of four (4) courses, or may allow five (5)
courses of their choosing to fill general electives.
Minors include the following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
ID 448
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
Concentrations (as outlined by the student)
36
Total Requirements: 120 credits
*Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
**VO 102 is not required for transfer students. See Registrar for options.
42
Interdisciplinary Studies Major: 2+2 For students with an Associates Degree
Bible & Theology Major
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
A&S Core fulfilled by AA
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
Interdisciplinary Studies Major
30
ID 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
ID 448
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
Concentrations (as outlined by the student)
24
Total Kuyper College Requirements: 60 credits
No transfer courses may be used for the Kuyper courses above, including the minor courses, while utilizing the 2+2 agreement.
*Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
43
Communication Studies Focus Requirements, IDS (Cornerstone Collaboration)
Bible & Theology Major
30
Arts & Sciences Core
33
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 421
Islamics
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
SW 334
Human Diversity*
3
VO 101
Kuyper Seminar*
1
VO 102
College Success
1
Communication Studies Focus
42
Minor or General Electives
15
BU 240
Social Media Management
3
Students may select any minor, which consists of five
(5) courses, or may use any 12 credits to fulfill
general elective requirements. Minors include the
following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
General Electives 3
BU 252
Marketing and Sales
3
CO 230
Communicating in the Age of
Social Media
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication
3
CO 306
Linguistics
3
CO 325
Interpersonal & Group
Communication
3
COM 315
Communication Theory (CU)**
3
COM 326
Organizational Communication
(CU)**
3
CO 360
Creative Writing
3
CO 395
Communication Research Methods
3
COM 433
Nonverbal Communication (CU)**
3
IDS 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
IDS 108
Service Foundations
0
ID 447
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
ML 413
Advanced Teaching and
Communication Skills for Ministry
3
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
Total Requirements: 120 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
** Courses subject to change based on Cornerstone University’s Catalog offerings.
44
Communication Studies Focus, IDS: 2+2 (Cornerstone Collaboration, For students with an Associates Degree)
Bible & Theology Major
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
A&S Core fulfilled by AA
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
Oral Rhetoric*
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
Communication Studies Focus
33
BU 240
Social Media Management
3
BU 252
Marketing and Sales
3
CO 230
Communicating in the Age of
Social Media
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication
3
CO 306
Linguistics
3
CO 325
Interpersonal & Group
Communication
3
COM 315
Communication Theory (CU)**
3
COM 326
Organizational Communication
(CU)**
3
CO 360
Creative Writing
3
CO 395
Communication Research Methods
3
COM 433
Nonverbal Communication (CU)**
3
IDS 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
ID 447
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
IDS 108
Service Foundations
0
ML 413
Advanced Teaching and
Communication Skills for Ministry
3
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
Total Kuyper College Requirements: 63 credits
If students use transfer courses for the major courses, other courses may be required; see your advisor and the Registrar for details.
*An Oral Rhetoric class must be part of the AA or the student should take Oral Rhetoric at Kuyper.
** Courses subject to change based on Cornerstone University’s Catalog offerings.
45
Psychology Focus Requirements, IDS (Cornerstone Collaboration)
Bible & Theology Major
30
Arts & Sciences Core
34
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
BIO 161
Human Biology (CU)**
4
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
SW 334
Human Diversity*
3
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar*
College Success
1
1
Psychology Focus
39
Minor
15
ID 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
Students may select any minor, which consists of
five (5) courses, or may use any 12 credits to fulfill
general elective requirements. Minors include the
following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
ID 447
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
IDS 108
Service Foundations
0
PS 111
General Psychology
3
PS/YM 460
Abnormal Psychology
3
ED/PS 336
Developmental Psychology
3
SO 361
Introduction to Counseling Skills
3
FAM 211
Relationships(CU)**
3
FAM 451
Marriage & Family Counseling(CU)**
3
PSY 322
Theories of Personality(CU)**
3
PSY 422
Systems of Psychology(CU)**
3
PSY 441
Physiological Psychology(CU)**
3
PSY 453
Integrated Stats/Research I(CU)**
3
PSY 454
Integrated Stats/Research II(CU)**
3
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
General Electives
6
Total Requirements: 121 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
** Courses subject to change based on Cornerstone University’s Catalog offerings.
46
Psychology Focus, IDS: 2+2 (Cornerstone Collaboration) For students with an Associates Degree
Bible & Theology Major
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
A&S Core fulfilled by AA
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
Human Biology*
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
Psychology Focus
33
ID 301
Intro. to Interdisciplinary Studies
1
.
ID 447
Interdisciplinary Capstone Research
2
IDS 108
Service Foundations
0
PS 111
General Psychology
3
PS/YM 460
Abnormal Psychology
3
ED/PS 336
Developmental Psychology
3
SO 361
Introduction to Counseling Skills
3
FAM 211
Relationships(CU)**
3
FAM 451
Marriage & Family Counseling(CU)**
3
PSY 322
Theories of Personality(CU)**
3
PSY 422
Systems of Psychology(CU)**
3
PSY 441
Physiological Psychology(CU)**
3
PSY 453
Integrated Stats/Research I(CU)**
3
PSY 454
Integrated Stats/Research II(CU)**
3
VO 450
Professional Internship
3
Total Kuyper College Requirements: 63 credits
If students use transfer courses for the major courses, other courses may be required; see your advisor and the Registrar for details.
*A human biology course must be part of the AA degree or that course may be required to begin Cornerstone courses.
** Courses subject to change based on Cornerstone University’s Catalog offerings.
47
MINISTRY LEADERSHIP
Program Faculty
Richelle White, Ph.D., Professor of Youth Ministry, Director of Practicum & Internships, and Ministry Leadership
Program Director
Tim Howerzyl, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Theological Studies and Graduate Program Director
Dan Kroeze, Ph.D., Professor of Biblical Studies
Joyce Borger, M.Div., Instructor of Theology of Worship
Anthony Bradley, Ph.D., Research Professor of Interdisciplinary & Theological Studies
Lisa Hoogeboom, D.Min., Instructor of Biblical Greek
Kim Nguyen, Ph.D., Instructor of Biblical & Theological Studies
Christopher Schoon, Th.D., Instructor of Ministry Leadership & Administration
Hendrika Schoon, Ed.D., Instructor of Ministry Leadership & Administration
Eric Strattan, M.A., Instructor of Biblical & Theological Studies
Brian Telzerow, D.Min., Instructor of Youth Ministry
Program Overview
Ministry Leadership is an integrated program that provides a strong set of skills and competencies for numerous areas
of ministry, preparing students to successfully meet the demands of today’s expanding and changing ministry
environments. Throughout the program, classroom learning combines with real-life ministry experience, including
practicum experiences and a supervised internship. This program aims to enable students to faithfully utilize their gifts
and strengths, whether they serve in the local church, youth ministry, global missions, intercultural settings, or
parachurch organizations.
The flexibility of the program offers students the opportunity to discern their specific calling through the major courses,
and have the option to select a minor in one of these areas: Biblical Greek, Social Media and Marketing, or Youth
Ministry. These provide a flexible focus for students to deepen and expand their study in areas that fit their vocational
goals. Graduates from this program qualify to pursue seminary or graduate studies in M.Div., M.T.S., M.Min., and other
master’s-level ministry- or theology-related programs.
Program Graduation Requirements:
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 in both the Bible & Theology
major and the Ministry Leadership major to remain in good standing.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the Ministry Leadership program, students will be able to
1. Understand the nature and scope of God’s global mission and our faithful participation.
2. Serve others in and through the church by using God’s given gifts and strengths.
3. Communicate scripture and theological truths effectively in a variety of ministry settings.
4. Demonstrate leadership skills to equip, disciple, and care for others.
48
Advanced Standing Opportunities for Master’s Programs
Kuyper College has established agreements with Calvin Theological Seminary (CTS) and Cornerstone Theological
Seminary (GRTS). Students may attain advanced standing in two ways: passing the corresponding advanced-
placement exam or receiving credit for demonstrating sufficient quality of work in the Kuyper course. Each seminary
also offers courses that a qualified undergraduate student may take and receive credit toward their Bachelor’s degree at
Kuyper College. Students pursuing this option must meet the entrance requirements of the respective seminary and
observe their Student Handbook guidelines.
Kuyper College Course(s)
Calvin Theological Seminary Equivalent
BI 111 Old Testament Survey
BI 112 New Testament Survey
716 Bible Survey (Exam)
TH 334 World Religions or TH 421 Islamics
718 Christian Engagement with World Religions (Exam)
TH 361 History of Christianity
304 The Church in Historical Context I OR
305 The Church in Historical Context II (Exam)
TH 344 Principles & Practices of Reformed
Worldview
TH 458 Creeds and Confessions
303 Christian Theology in Reformed Confessions (Exam)
GR 501 Intro to New Testament Greek I
GR 502 Intro to New Testament Greek II
GR 503 New Testament Greek Exegesis
GR 504 New Testament Greek
Hermeneutics
302 Greek Fundamentals I
410 Greek Fundamentals II
Kuyper College Course(s)
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary Equivalent
MI 121 Introduction to Missions
MIN-560 Global Impact: Biblical Theology of Mission
ML 210 Leadership & Admin.
MIN-510 Organizational Leadership
BI 307 Spiritual Formation
MIN-500 Spiritual Formation
TH 344 Principles & Practices of Reformed
Worldview
THE-572 Christian Worldview
GR 501 Intro to New Testament Greek I
GR 502 Intro to New Testament Greek II
GR 503 New Testament Greek Exegesis
GR 504 New Testament Greek Hermeneutics
BBL-510 Greek I
BBL-511 Greek II
BBL-672 New Testament Studies I: Intro. to Exegesis
General Elective
49
Ministry Leadership Major Program Requirements
Bible & Theology Core
30
Arts & Sciences Core
33
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
SW 334
Human Diversity*
3
VO 101
Kuyper Success*
1
VO 102
College Success
1
Ministry Leadership Major
36
Electives
21
MI 121
Intro to Missions
3
Students may use elective credits to fulfill any
minor, which consists of five (5) courses, or may
use any 12 credits to fulfill general elective
requirements. Minors include the following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
ML 200
Foundations for Ministry
3
ML 210
Leadership & Administration
3
ML 201
Practicum I
1
ML 202
Practicum II
1
ML 203
Practicum III
1
ML 336
Relational Ministry
3
ML 350
Introduction to Worship
3
ML 413
Advanced Teaching &
Communication Skills for Ministry
3
ML 450
Ministry Leadership Internship
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH 334
World Religions or TH 421 Islamics
3
TH 361
History of World Christianity
3
Total Requirements: 120 credits
*Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
50
Ministry Leadership Major: 2+2 For students with an Associates Degree
Bible & Theology Major
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
A&S Core fulfilled by AA
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
Ministry Leadership Major
36
MI 121
Intro to Missions
3
ML 200
Foundations for Ministry
3
ML 210
Leadership & Administration
3
ML 201
Practicum I
1
ML 202
Practicum II
1
ML 203
Practicum III
1
ML 336
Relational Ministry
3
ML 413
Advanced Teaching &
Communication Skills for Ministry
3
ML 450
Ministry Leadership Internship
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
TH 334
World Religions or TH 421 Islamics
3
TH 361
History of World Christianity
3
TH 450
History and Theology of Worship
3
Total Requirements: 66 credits
If students use transfer courses for the major courses, other courses may be required; see your advisor and the Registrar for details.
*Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
51
SOCIAL WORK (BSW)
Program Faculty
Jennifer Colin, L.M.S.W., Assistant Professor of Social Work and Social Work Program Director
Kelli Hoffman, L.M.S.W., Assistant Professor of Social Work and Director of Field Practicum
Richelle White, Ph.D., Professor of Human Diversity
Rachelle Rosario, M.S.W., Instructor of Social Work
Program Overview
The mission of Kuyper College’s baccalaureate Social Work Program is to equip students with the knowledge, values,
and skills for competent, ethical, and evidence-based generalist practice in order to advance social, environmental, racial,
and economic justice, acknowledging the dignity and worth of every person made in God’s image, and celebrating our
diverse, global society.
The goals of the social work program at Kuyper College are as follows:
1. To prepare students for generalist social work practice in entry-level positions with individuals, families, groups,
organizations, and communities.
2. To integrate a biblical, Reformed worldview with the knowledge, values, and skills of generalist social work
practice.
3. To foster student awareness around the impact of systemic privilege and oppression and to prepare students
to value and advocate for social and economic justice.
Students will develop generalist social work practice skills to work in public and private social-service systems and
international settings. The program strives to enable students to integrate their Christian worldview and social work
education into their professional practice.
Program Admission Requirements and Procedures
Students choosing social work as a major must complete a formal application to the Social Work Program. To be eligible
for admission and continuation in the program, students must:
• Apply by December 1 of their sophomore year
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2 and a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all social work courses.
• Have completed or currently be enrolled in
PS 111 Introduction to Psychology SW 222 Introduction to Social Work
SO 111 Introduction to Sociology SW 227 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
• Complete and submit an application for admission to the Social Work Program director.
• Submit letters of recommendation from a faculty member outside the Social Work Program, an employer or
volunteer coordinator (preferably related to the “helping” profession), and a pastor or adult friend.
• Interview with the social work faculty.
The Social Work Admissions Committee, upon review of an application, will make one of the following decisions:
• Accepted – Candidate meets all criteria
• Conditional acceptance – Candidate is accepted and met most criteria, but some areas still require completion
• Decision on hold – Candidate must meet criteria or conditions before committee will reconsider admission
• Not admitted – Deficiencies beyond foreseeable remediation prohibit admission
52
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to accomplish the following competencies:
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Competency 2: Advance Human and Social, Racial, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Competency 3: Engage in Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) Practice
Competency 4: Engage in Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 10: Understand and Integrate the Biblical Reformed Worldview
Life Experience Policy
The Kuyper College Social Work Program does not give academic credit for life or previous work experience, in whole
or in part, to satisfy any course requirement within the professional curriculum, including the field practicum.
International Social Work Experience
The Social Work Program provides opportunities for overseas social work experience in locations such as the
Dominican Republic, Uganda, and Ecuador. These experiences broaden students’ education in global awareness and
practice. For more information, contact the Social Work Program Director and see the information on Out-of-State
and International Internships in the catalog and the internal website.
53
Social Work Major Program Requirements
Bible & Theology Core
21
Arts & Sciences Core
39
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I**
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
BI/TH —
Bible or Theology Elective
3
GV 110
American Government
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview**
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
New Testament Elective
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
PS 111
General Psychology
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
SO 211
Intro. to Sociology
3
SW 334
Human Diversity*
3
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar*
College Success
1
1
Social Work Major
42
Minor
15
SW 222
Introduction to Social Work*
3
Students may select any minor, which consists of five
(5) courses, to supplement their major and customize
their program. Minors include the following:
Biblical Greek
Christian Community Development
Criminal Justice
Social Media & Marketing
Sports Management
Youth Ministry
See the list of Minors.
SW 227
Human Behavior / Social
Environment I*
3
SW 228
Human Behavior / Social
Environment II*
3
SW 320
(Generalist Practice I) Individuals
& Families
3
SW 340
Social Work Research
3
SW 364
(Generalist Practice II) Social Work
with Groups
3
SW 419
Social Welfare Policy Analysis
3
SW 424
(Generalist Practice III) SW with
Communities
3
SW 443
Social Work Field Practicum I
5
SW 445
Field Practicum Senior Seminar I
1
SW 446
Social Work Field Practicum II
5
SW 448
Field Practicum Senior Seminar II
1
SW 460
International Social Work
3
SW 480
Social Work Capstone*
3
General Electives
3
Total Requirements: 120 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
** These courses have been identified as Interdisciplinary Bible-related courses as defined by the ABHE. Normally, a student may not receive transfer credit for these courses.
54
Social Work Suggested Four-Year Sequence
FRESHMAN YEAR
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
BI 111 Old Testament Survey 3 credits
CO 103 Oral Rhetoric 3 credits
SW 222 Intro to Social Work 3 credits
BI 101 Biblical Interpretation 3 credits
VO 101 Kuyper Seminar 1 credit
VO 102 College Success 1 credit
BI 112 New Testament Survey 3 credits
PS 111 General Psychology 3 credits
MI 323 Intercultural Communication 3 credits
SO 211 Introduction to Sociology 3 credits
CO 203 Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab 4 credits
SOPHOMORE YEAR
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
TH 241 Christian Doctrine 1 3 credits
___ Elective 3 credits
SW 227 Human Behav. in Soc. Envir. I 3 credits
PE ___ Physical Education 2 +1 credits
SC 215 Human Biological Science 3 credits
TH/BI ___ Bible or Theology Elective 3 credits
CO ___ Literature Elective 3 credits
SW 228 Human Behav. in Soc. Envir. II 3 credits
PH 232 Introduction to Philosophy 3 credits
___ Elective 3 credits
JUNIOR YEAR
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
SW 460 International Social Work 3 credits
SW 334 Human Diversity 3 credits
SW 320 (Gen. Prac. I) Individ./Family 3 credits
___ Elective 3 credits
PS 340 Social Science Statistics 3 credits
BI 307 Spiritual Formation 3 credits
GV 110 American Government 3 credits
TH 334 Princ. & Prac. of Reform Wldvw. 3 credits
SW 364 (Gen. Prac. II) SW with Groups 3 credits
SW 340 Social Work Research 3 credits
SENIOR YEAR
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
SW 419 Social Welfare Policy Analysis 3 credits
SW 443 Field Practicum I (200 hours) 5 credits
SW 445 Field Prac. Sr. Seminar I 1 credit
___ Elective 3 credits
___ Elective 3 credits
SW 424 (Gen. Prac. III) SW/Communities 3 credits
SW 446 Field Practicum II (200 hours) 5 credits
SW 448 Field Prac. Sr. Seminar II 1 credit
SW 480 Social Work Capstone 3 credits
___ Elective 3 credits
55
Social Work Major 2+2 Prime
Bible & Theology Core
21
Arts & Sciences Core
15*
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
BI/TH __
Bible or Theology Elective
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
NT
New Testament Elective
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
Social Work Major
45
SW 222
Introduction to Social Work**
3
SW 227
Human Behavior / Social
Environment I**
3
SW 228
Human Behavior / Social
Environment II
3
SW 320
(Generalist Practice I) Individuals
& Families
3
SW 334
Human Diversity**
3
SW 340
Social Work Research
3
SW 364
(Generalist Practice II) Social Work
with Groups
3
SW 419
Social Welfare Policy Analysis
3
SW 424
(Generalist Practice III) SW with
Communities
3
These are required courses unless taken in the Associate’s
Degree the student has completed:*
SW 443
Social Work Field Practicum I
5
GV 110
American Government
3
SW 445
Field Practicum Senior Seminar I
1
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
SW 446
Social Work Field Practicum II
5
PS 111
General Psychology
3
SW 448
Field Practicum Senior Seminar II
1
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
SW 460
International Social Work
3
SO 211
Intro. to Sociology
3
SW 480
Social Work Capstone**
3
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
Total Requirements: 66* credits
*If a student has not met Arts and Sciences pre-requisite courses, the program may be longer than 66 credits.
** These courses have been identified as Interdisciplinary Bible-related courses as defined by the ABHE. Normally, a student may not
receive transfer credit for these courses.
56
Bachelor of Social Work (Dual Degree - Davenport)
Students who successfully complete this program will receive both a Bachelor of Social Work from Kuyper College and
a Bachelor of Applied Science from Davenport University. Students will complete Kuyper’s Social Work major and
Bible & Theology core while completing Integrative Professional Studies coursework at Davenport. Davenport
University consortium students must maintain an overall GPA of 2.2 on the 66 credits they complete at Kuyper.
Bible & Theology Core (Kuyper courses)
21
Arts & Sciences Core (Davenport courses)
58
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
ENGL 109
Composition
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
ENGL 110
Advanced Composition
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
ENGL 311
Professional Writing
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
COMM 120
Presentation Techniques
3
BI/TH —
Bible or Theology Elective
3
ACES 100
Achieving Career & Edu. Success
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
BUSN 210
Professional Ethics
3
TH 344
Prin. & Pract. Reformed Wrldvw.
3
HSAD 301
Cultural Issues in Health Care
3
Students in this program may earn a Bible & Theology Major
by taking the additional three required courses.
PSYC 303
Psychosocial Health Concerns
3
SOSC 201
Diversity in Society
3
Social Work Major (Kuyper Courses)
45
SOSC 301
Globalization and World Diversity
3
GV 110
American Government
3
MGMT 211
Management Foundations
3
SW 222
Introduction to Social Work**
3
MGMT 321
Organizational Behavior
3
SW 227
Human Behavior/Social Envir. I**
3
MATH 125
Intermediate Algebra
3
SW 228
Human Behavior/Social Envir. II
3
STAT 219
Introduction to Biostatistic
3
SW 320
(Gen. Practice I) Ind. & Families
3
OR STAT 220
Introduction to Statistics
SW 340
Social Work Research
3
PSYC 101
Introductory Psychology
3
SW 364
(Gen. Practice II) SW with Groups
3
SOCY 101
Introductory Sociology
3
SW 419
Social Welfare Policy Analysis
3
PSYC 201
Abnormal Psychology
3
SW 424
(Gen. Practice III) SW w/ Comms.
3
BIOL 120
Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology
4
SW 443
Social Work Field Practicum I
5
PSYC 127
Healthy Living
3
SW 445
Field Practicum Senior Seminar I
1
SW 446
Social Work Field Practicum II
5
SW 448
Field Practicum Senior Seminar II
1
SW 460
International Social Work
3
SW 480
Social Work Capstone**
3
Total Requirements: 124 credits
** These courses have been identified as Interdisciplinary Bible-related courses as defined by the ABHE. Normally, a student may not receive transfer credit for these courses.
Courses subject to change based on Davenport University’s course offerings.
57
Social Work (Davenport) Suggested Four-Year Sequence
Year 1
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Davenport
ACES 100 Achieving Career and Education Success 3
ENGL 109 Composition 3
MATH 120 College Mathematics 3
or 125
Kuyper
BI 101 Biblical Interpretation 3
SW 222 Introduction to Social Work 3
Davenport
ENGL 110 Advanced Composition 3
PSYC 101 Introductory Psychology 3
STAT 220 Statistics 3
or 219
Kuyper
BI 112 New Testament Survey 3
GV 110 American Government 3
Year 2
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Davenport
BIO 120 Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology 4
SOCY 101 Introduction to Sociology 3
COMM 120 Presentation Techniques 3
Kuyper
BI 111* Old Testament Survey 3
SW 227 Human Behavior/Social Environment I 3
SW 460 International Social Work 3
Davenport
MGMT 211 Management Foundations 3
PSYC 201 Abnormal Psychology 3
SOSC 201 Diversity in Society 3
Kuyper
SW228 Human Behavior/Social Environment II 3
BI/TH Bible/Theology elective 3
*BI 111 (Old Testament Survey) recommendation: Take online during SUMMER after Year 1
Year 3
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Davenport
MGMT 321 Organizational Behavior 3
PSYC 127 Healthy Living 3
Kuyper
SW 320 Individuals and Families 3
TH 241 Christian Doctrine I 3
BI 307 Spiritual Formation 3
Davenport
ENGL 311 Professional Writing 3
HSAD 301 Cultural Issues in Health Care 3
Kuyper
SW 340 Social Work Research 3
SW 364 Social Work with Groups 3
TH 344 Practices & Principles of a Reformed WV 3
Year 4
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Davenport
SOSC 301 Globalization and World Diversity 3
BUS 210 Professional Ethics 3
Kuyper
SW 419 Social Welfare Policy Analysis 3
SW 443 Field Practicum I (200 hours) 5
SW 445 Field Practicum Seminar 1
Davenport
PSYC 303 Psychosocial Health Concerns 3
Kuyper
SW 424 Social Work with Communities 3
SW 446 Field Practicum II (200 hours) 5
SW 448 Field Practicum Seminar II 1
SW 480 Social Work Capstone 3
Summary: 58 credits from Davenport University/66 credits from Kuyper College: 124 Total Credits
58
TEACHER EDUCATION
Kuyper College’s teacher education program, which offers both elementary and secondary education degrees, is a
collaborative program with Cornerstone University. This joint teacher education program is ideal for students who want
to teach and who also want to expand their understanding of God, His word, and His world. Cornerstone University
has a high-quality teacher education program and shares Kuyper College’s vision for Christian service.
The purpose of the program is to prepare students to serve as teachers in public or Christian schools. The program
prepares students by helping them to develop the knowledge, skills, and Christian character; to think critically; to work
toward making positive changes in themselves and their society; to function as servant leaders in their school and
community; and to bring glory to God.
Along with Cornerstone, we offer a carefully sequenced teacher education program that integrates the knowledge base
needed for teaching subject area content with the developmental skills necessary for effective instruction, enabling
students to achieve their goals. In five years, students receive a Bachelor of Science degree from Kuyper College, a
Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornerstone, and certification in elementary or secondary education. The Kuyper degree
has a major of interdisciplinary studies with a focus on elementary or secondary education. Together, the two colleges
provide a program that will educate students to be teachers and equip them for Christian service.
Students normally apply to Cornerstone University in their sophomore year and typically complete all their Kuyper
College requirements in the first three years while concurrently taking some courses at Cornerstone, then complete the
remaining requirements entirely at Cornerstone in their final two years. Students fulfill the education major and minor
program requirements according to Cornerstone University’s policies.
Because each program is unique, specific details and course requirements are available in the Registrar’s Office and
require the student to work in close consultation with their Kuyper College and Cornerstone University advisors to
successfully meet Program Requirements.
59
IDS Elementary Education Focus
Elementary Education students interested in Michigan Certification select from two options: the Planned Program
Option I or the Comprehensive Major Option II.
Bible & Theology Major
30
Arts & Sciences Core
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO ___
Literature Course
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
MA ___
Math Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science*
3
TH —
Theology Elective
3
SW 334
Human Diversity
3
TH 344
Principles & Practices of
Reformed Worldview
3
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar
College Success
1
1
*A Cornerstone University science course may be required depending on the student’s desired major and/or minor.
*Please see Cornerstone’s Academic Catalog for the most up-to-date version of their program requirements.
In addition to the Bible/Theology major and the Arts & Sciences Core above, elementary education students take
I. Elementary Required courses, 24 credits
II. Professional Education Courses, 29 credits
III. Option I (Planned Program) or Option II (Comprehensive Major)
A. Option I Planned Program (credit load information is available from the Cornerstone Teacher
Education Division)
1. Content Subject: Integrated Science, Language Arts Group, or Social Studies Group OR
2. Triple Minor Combination (K-3)
B. Option II Comprehensive Major Program, up to 56 credits.
60
IDS Secondary Education Focus
Bible & Theology Major
30
Arts & Sciences Core
24
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
MA ___
Math Course
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
BI —
Old Testament Elective
3
SC ___
Science Course
3
BI —
New Testament Elective
3
VO 101
Kuyper Seminar
1
TH —
Theology Elective
3
VO 102
College Success
1
TH 344
Prin. & Pract. of Reformed Wrldvw.
3
Secondary Education Major
30-51
Education Courses
38
Students select one of these majors:
Biology (34)
Communication Arts (33)
English (30)
History (30)
Integrated Comprehensive Science (51)
Integrated Science (43)
Learning Disabilities (34)
Mathematics (33)
Physical Education (36)
Social Studies (36)
EDU 230
Prin. and Phil. of Education (CU)
3
EDU 231
School Observation Practicum (CU)
1
EDU 251
Educational Psychology
3
EDU 262
Educational Technology (CU)
3
EDU 344
Content Area Literacy including
Learners With Special Needs & Field
Experience (CU)
3
EDU 363
Diverse Pop. & Diff. Instruct. (CU)
3
EDU 382
Teacher Assistant Practicum (CU)
2
EDU 430
Capstone Seminar: Dir. Teach.(CU)
2
Secondary Education Minor
18-27
_______
Major Method Course (CU)
3
Students select one of these minors:
Biology (27)
Chemistry (22)
Communication Arts (21)
English (18)
History (18)
Mathematics (24)
Physical Education (24)
Psychology (21)
TESOL (21)
_______
Minor Method Course (CU)
3
EDU 484
Directed Teaching Internship (CU)
12
61
Minors
Biblical Greek
This minor enables students to read the New Testament in Greek. The sequence introduces students to the foundational
vocabulary, grammar, and literary features used by the New Testament writers so that they can better understand,
interpret, and communicate the message of God’s Word for dealing with questions related to the nature of the Bible,
the history of the original-language text, and the various approaches used for translation. Students must have a 2.75
cumulative GPA and receive approval from the instructor to participate in these courses.
Biblical Greek
15
This minor consists of five (5) courses:
CO 306
Linguistics
3
GR 103
New Testament Greek I
3
GR 104
New Testament Greek II
3
GR 203
New Testament Greek Exegesis I
3
GR 204
New Testament Greek Exegesis II
3
Christian Community Development
With a Christian Community Development minor, students will learn the foundational concepts of community
development. They will be able to recognize systemic injustice while learning practices and policies that work towards
shalom from within a biblical framework. Students will learn how to research issues in community development and
convey best practices to a diverse audience, and they will gain collaboration skills by working with one another as well
as with a broad range of community partners. Moreover, learners will practice assessing communities and recognizing
the existing assets within these communities, empowering them to solve complex problems.
Christian Community Development Minor
18
Requires four (4) courses:
BU 170
Introduction to Christian Community Development
3
BU430
Nonprofit Management
3
SW222
SW424
Introduction to Social Work
Communities and Organizations
3
3
Any two (2) of the following:
MI357
Business as Mission
3
MI230
Urban Cultural Immersion
3
MI360
How Justice Rolls
3
SW350
The Faces of Addiction
3
62
Criminal Justice
A Criminal Justice minor provides students with an overview of the criminal justice system, including its three
components–law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. This course of study explores criminal law and procedure,
constitutional rights of defendants, and correctional theory and practice from viewpoints grounded in the social sciences.
This minor can be combined with any major.
Criminal Justice Minor
18
Requires four (4) courses:
Introduction to Criminal Justice
3
Criminology
3
Constitutional Law
Correctional Systems
3
3
Any two (2) of the following:
Criminal Justice Research Methods
Juvenile Justice
3
3
Human Behavior in the Social Envir.
3
Crime and the Media
3
The Faces of Addiction
Other Approved CJ Elective
3
3
Social Media & Marketing
This minor explores the latest digital communication opportunities in our society and equips students with the skills to
manage social media communication, create digital and print newsletters, manage websites, facilitate email marketing
campaigns, and communicate using other platforms. This minor will equip students with these skills and include an
opportunity to become certified in social media through a recognized industry leader.
* If this course is required for the student’s major, it cannot be used for the minor. Consult with your advisor and the Registrar.
Social Media & Marketing
15
Requires five (5) courses:
BU 240
Social Media Management
3
BU 252
BU 330
Marketing & Sales*
Global Business Environment
3
3
BU 353
Market Research
3
CO 230
Communication in the Age of Social Media
3
CO 325
Interpersonal & Group Communication
3
63
Sports Management
This minor enables students to gain an introduction into the sports industry to consider a range of potential careers.
Taught from a Christian perspective, this course will challenge students with business, leadership, and ethical
considerations related to high school, college, and professional sports. Students will be able to choose from a wide range
of classes and topics within the sports industry to gain knowledge and to consider their potential fit in a particular part
of the industry. This minor will equip students with knowledge and skills to help them attain an internship or future
employment in the sports industry.
Sports Management
15
Requires five (3) courses:
BU 180
Business of Sports
3
MI 357
Business as Mission*
3
SPM 105
Introduction to Sports Management**
3
Any two (2) of the following:
SOC 412
Sociology of Sport**
SPM 130
Sport Communication**
3
SPM 320
Organizational Leadership in Sport**
3
SPM 420
Sport Finance and Economics**
3
SPM 430
Recreation Management
3
SPM 445
International Sport Management**
3
*MI357 is required for Business Leadership majors and cannot be double-counted in a minor such as Sports Management.
**Class is offered through Acadeum at Lancaster Bible College.
Youth Ministry
The Youth Ministry minor specifically prepares students to engage the current youth culture with the gospel of Jesus
Christ through intentional relationships that embody truth and love. Students are able to pursue their passion and
purpose for ministry so they can effectively serve in a youth ministry context, such as traditional youth pastor roles,
parachurch ministries, community youth agencies, international training organizations, or missionary settings.
Youth Ministry
15
Requires five (5) courses:
ML 336
Relational Ministry*
3
ML 451
Ministry Leadership Internship II
3
Any two (3) of the following:
YM 310
Pastoral Care with Adolescents
3
YM 311
Youth Ministry in the Urban Setting
3
YM 411
Christian Camping & Retreats
3
YM 433
Contemporary Youth Culture
3
* These courses are also required in the Ministry Leadership major and can fulfill requirements for both the major and the minor.
64
Associate Degree
Associate of Arts
The purpose of this program is to provide a solid foundation in biblical studies and arts & sciences.
Program Outcomes:
Upon graduation, students will be able to
• Understand the biblical narrative and Christian scholarship.
• Utilize effective communication skills (oral, visual, and written).
• Develop a foundation for lifelong learning, social engagement, and personal improvement.
Bible & Theology Courses
18
Arts & Sciences Core
30
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 103
Oral Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
MA ___
Math Course
3
BI/TH___
Bible/Theology Elective
3
PE ___
Health & Fitness Courses
3
Ministry Leadership Courses
6
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
ML 110
Teaching the Bible
3
SW 334
Human Diversity* OR
3
ML 210
Leadership and Administration
3
PS 111
General Psychology
General Electives
6
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar*
College Success
1
1
Total Requirements: 60 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
65
Associate of Arts with Business Leadership Emphasis
Associates of Arts with Business Leadership Emphasis Outcomes:
Upon graduation, students in this program with a Business emphasis will be able to
∙ Understand the biblical narrative and Christian scholarship.
∙ Utilize effective communication skills (oral, visual, and written).
∙ Develop a foundation for a life of learning, social engagement, and personal improvement.
∙ Employ principles of business, including relating to constituents, economics, and accounting.
Bible & Theology Courses
12
Arts & Sciences Core
29
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
BI/TH —
Bible or Theology Elective
3
CO ___
CO 103
Literature Course
OR
Oral Rhetoric
3
Business Emphasis
21
BU 152
Intro. to Business & Leadership
3
BU 220
Business Economics
3
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication*
3
BU 299
Accounting I
3
HI/GV __
History or Government Course
3
Choose any four (4) of the following courses:
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
PE 112
Fitness for Life
2
BU 200
Leadership Theory
3
PH 232
Intro. to Philosophy
3
BU 252
Marketing & Sales
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
BU 240
Social Media Management
3
SW 334
PS 111
Human Diversity*
OR
General Psychology
3
BU 300
Accounting II
3
VO 101
VO 102
Kuyper Seminar*
College Success
1
1
BU 311
Entrepreneurship
3
BU 330
Global Business Environment
3
BU 430
Non-Profit Management
3
CO 230
Communication in the Age
of Social Media
3
MI 357
Business as Mission
3
Total Requirements: 62 credits
* Transfer courses are generally not accepted for these courses. See the Registrar for more details.
66
Certificate of Christian Foundations
In one year of study, students can enhance their career preparation or explore their calling by developing a foundation
of biblical and theological understanding and essential competencies for any field. The Certificate of Christian
Foundations validates student learning. For students who may pursue additional education at another college or
university, Kuyper’s accreditation with the HLC and the ABHE enables them to transfer these credits to many other
colleges and universities. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credits at Kuyper College to earn the Certificate.
Christian Foundations
30
Students select out of the following courses:
BI 101
Intro. to Biblical Interpretation
3
BI 111
Old Testament Survey
3
BI 112
New Testament Survey
3
TH 241
Christian Doctrine I
3
TH 242
Christian Doctrine II
3
BI 307
Spiritual Formation
3
CO 203
Written & Digital Rhetoric + Lab
4
CO/MI 323
Intercultural Communication
3
VO 101
Kuyper Seminar
1
VO 102
College Success
1
TH 361
History of World Christianity
3
MA/PS 340
Social Science Statistics
3
MI 121
Introduction to Missions
3
ML 110
Teaching the Bible
3
PH 232
Introduction to Philosophy
3
PS 111
General Psychology
3
SC 215
Human Biological Science
3
SW 334
Human Diversity
3
ML 200
Foundations for Ministry
3
Total Requirements: 30 credits
67
Course Descriptions
BI 101 Introduction to Biblical Interpretation 3 credit hours
This course explores the basic principles of biblical interpretation and provides students with the necessary tools for
reading, studying, and understanding the Bible and applying its teaching to ministry in today’s church and cultures.
This course is a prerequisite for any Bible elective course.
BI 111 Old Testament Survey 3 credit hours
This course provides a basic introduction to the Old Testament and emphasizes the historical background and content
of each Old Testament book. Students will learn how these books laid the foundation for God’s story of salvation
history, providing a basis for a biblical worldview. We will examine the impact of the Old Testament for today and
develop a biblically-informed theology that equips us for everyday living. This course is a prerequisite for an Old
Testament Bible elective course.
BI 112 New Testament Survey 3 credit hours
This course provides a basic introduction to the New Testament and emphasizes the historical background and content
of each New Testament book along with how these books contribute to God’s continuing story of salvation history,
providing a basis for a biblical worldview. We examine the impact of the New Testament for today and develop a
biblically-informed theology that equips us for everyday living. This course is normally a prerequisite for any New
Testament Bible elective course.
BI 307 Spiritual Formation 3 credit hours
This course introduces the biblical and theological principles of spiritual formation. We devote particular attention to
how individuals grow in deeper communion and intimacy with their triune God. Articulating and cultivating a biblically
balanced and healthy practice of spirituality for daily living will also receive emphasis.
BI 312 The Gospel of John (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course is an expository study of the Gospel of John. It explains the purposes and structure of the book and
discusses its major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological perspective. In this course, we also interpret
and apply its message to today’s church and culture.
BI 323 Israel Study Tour: Journey to the Land of the Text (OT or NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course is an intensive 14-day study in Israel integrated with field trips designed to introduce students to the
geography, history, and archaeology of Israel. Students will experience on-site lectures and tours of locations significant
for better understanding the biblical text and Christian history. The aim of this course is to give students a thorough
overview of the land of Israel as the setting from which the meaning of the Bible takes shape. It progresses from the
Old Testament people of Israel in the land to the life of Jesus in Galilee, and addresses matters of culture, geography,
theology, and history in a way that opens up new avenues for understanding the people of the Bible and their world.
This course also has important implications for understanding the environmental influence upon spirituality and
ministry in modern contexts. Nowhere on earth can the larger story of God be told more effectively than in the land of
the Bible. There, also, we can address the life of the heart as students worship and see the presence of God.
BI 328 Acts (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course is an expository study of the book of Acts. It explains the purposes and structure of the book and discusses
its major themes. The course focuses on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, the mission and message of the
early church, the work of the Holy Spirit, the inclusion of the Gentiles in the people of God, the life and organization
of the early church, and its value for today’s church.
68
BI 331 Pauline Epistles I (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course is an expository study of Paul’s epistles to the Thessalonians and Corinthians. It explores the biblical,
theological, practical, and spiritual insights of these epistles and seeks to interpret and apply these insights to today’s
church and culture.
BI 335 Pentateuch (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course studies the content, theology, and form of the first five books of the Old Testament. It explains the purposes
and structure of the books and discusses their major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological perspective,
applying these insights to today’s church and culture.
BI 342 Wisdom Literature (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course examines the wisdom literature in the Old Testament books of Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of
Solomon. We also examine the setting, development, and interpretation of the wisdom tradition, its impact on the New
Testament, and its relevance to the formulation of the biblical and Reformed worldview.
BI 344 Pauline Epistles II (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course interprets and applies Paul’s epistles to the Galatians and Romans. It explains the purposes and structure
of the books and discusses their major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological perspective. Fall.
BI 346 Gospels (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course explores and compares the characteristics and structure of each of the synoptic gospels, the unifying theme
of the kingdom of God, and the fundamental features of the life of Jesus.
BI 350 Special Topics/Issues/Bible (ML elective) 3 credit hours
These elective courses focus on advanced themes/topics about the Bible.
BI 360 The Psalms (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course examines the poetic qualities, historical context, theological themes, and literary types of selected psalms
with attention given to ways in which to incorporate these psalms into worship settings and apply the messages to
today’s context.
BI 447 Major Prophets (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course examines selected portions of the Old Testament’s major prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.
It explains the purposes and structure of the books and discusses their major themes from a historical, expositional, and
theological perspective, and we explore the impact of the prophets for today’s church and culture..
BI 448 Into and Out of the Land: The Narrative Books (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course is a survey and analysis of the historical books of the Old Testament: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, Kings,
Ezra, and Nehemiah. Beginning with the entry into Canaan of the nation of Israel under Joshua to the rebuilding of the
wall of Jerusalem under Nehemiah, we examine the history of God’s people. We give special attention to the faithfulness
of God working to prepare Israel for the coming of the Messiah and a mission to the world and to the meaning and
message the Church receives from these books today.
BI 449 Minor Prophets (OT elective) 3 credit hours
This course examines selected portions of the minor prophets in the Old Testament: Hosea through Malachi. It explains
the purposes and structure of the books and discusses their major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological
perspective. We will also explore the impact of the prophets for today’s church and culture.
69
BI 451 Hebrews (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course interprets and applies the book of Hebrews. It explains the purposes and structure of the book and discusses
its major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological perspective.
BI 452 Pauline Epistles III (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course interprets and applies the prison and pastoral epistles of Paul: Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians, I and II
Timothy, and Titus. It explains the purposes and structures of the books and discusses their major themes from a
historical, expositional, and theological perspective.
BI 453 General Epistles (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course interprets and applies the general epistles. It explains the purposes and structures of the books and discusses
their major themes from a historical, expositional, and theological perspective.
BI 454 Revelation (NT elective) 3 credit hours
This course interprets the New Testament apocalypse, Revelation, examining a variety of interpretations of the book.
It explains the purpose and structure of the book and discusses and applies its major themes from a historical,
expositional, and theological perspective for today’s church and culture.
BU 152 Introduction to Business and Leadership 3 credit hours
This introductory course covers all major aspects of business and provides a foundation for future courses in the
Business Leadership program. The course also includes theories of leadership and the Christ-centered leadership model,
an introduction to communication styles and skills essential to succeed in leadership roles within a business and/or
nonprofit ministry.
BU 170 Introduction to Leadership, Empowerment, and Community Development
The course will cover various topics designed to prepare students for a successful future beyond high school. Hope
Theory and goal setting will be the focus of the course. We will also explore personal development, psychology,
community capacity building, social justice and leadership that will increase self-awareness for students, helping them
to thoughtfully consider plans for the future.
BU 180 Business of Sports 3 credit hours
This course introduces students to the business side of sports as they the management and leadership necessary to run
a sports organization. Students will learn about the marketing, financial, human resources, strategic planning and other
aspects of running a sports organization at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels. Students will learn and
discuss a Biblical view of competition, leadership, and see how sports fits into a healthy and holistic life.
BU 200 Leadership Theory 3 credit hours
This course design exposes students in practical ways to leadership theory through an examination of historical
leadership theoretical perspectives and an examination of current leadership literature in a student’s chosen field.
BU 220 Business Economics 3 credit hours
This course covers microeconomic and macroeconomic concepts that affect both the national and international
economies. Topics of this course include determinants of Gross National Product, unemployment, inflation, and
economic growth. We will also consider monetary and fiscal policy, supply and demand, market pricing strategies, cost
determination, and profit maximization.
BU 230 Leadership in the National Parks 3 credit hours
This course enables students to learn and see Biblical themes of stewardship applied in the leadership of some of the
most recognized treasures of the US. Students will learn about and evaluate the leadership and management of financial,
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social, and environmental resources of several national parks. The course begins with 3-5 days of in-class learning
regarding the newest and best theories in leadership and business principles. The course then concludes with a 9-11 day
trip in May to visit 3-4 national parks around the US. Visits to national parks will include meeting, learning from, and
interviewing national park staff regarding the leadership and management challenges when running a national park.
BU 240 Social Media Management 3 credit hours
This course will provide students with an overview of the major concepts in starting and managing social media websites.
Students will study the most commonly used social media sites, evaluating how companies use marketing and
communication to achieve organizational objectives. Students will learn to analyze marketing strategies used by
businesses and nonprofits, including churches and ministries. Social media sites will include Facebook, Twitter,
YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, SnapChat, and possibly others. The final exam for the course is a Hootsuite
exam where students have an opportunity to become Social Media Certified.
BU 252 Marketing and Sales 3 credit hours
This course studies the analysis and strategic integration of theories of marketing and sales including advertising, public
relations, social media, consumer behavior, market segmentation, brand awareness and positioning, pricing, promotion,
channels, and new product development. We also cover sales strategies, techniques, role plays, group projects, and
presentations.
BU 299 Principles of Accounting I 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the basic principles of accounting and application of these principles in a business
context. Topics include the appropriate recording of business transactions, measurement of assets, liability, revenue,
expenses and owners’ equity, and development of corporate financial statements, with an emphasis on interpretation
and understanding the effects that various transactions have on these statements. We also highlight international
accounting concepts and ethics.
BU 300 Principles of Accounting II 3 credit hours
Building on BU 299, we develop the basics of financial accounting so students can understand and apply accounting
information to management uses. Topics include various costing methodologies, cost behavior, pricing, planning and
budgeting, performance measurement, control of organizational activities, and effective decision making.
BU 311 Entrepreneurship 3 credit hours
This course will look specifically at the success factors necessary for the starting and running of a business enterprise.
Topics for this course will include development of a business concept, external environmental scans, development of a
target market, product and pricing strategies, financial projections, business funding, and the development of a business
plan. This course will also look at strategic integration, ethical considerations, and international issues.
BU 330 Global Business Environment 3 credit hours
This course incorporates principles of leadership, economics, accounting, and marketing from a global perspective, with
emphasis on cultural intelligence (CQ), international, and ethical implications.
BU 360 Finance 3 credit hours
Combining accounting and economic skills, this course is an overview of financial management for business majors.
Students will explore the source and use of funds, time value of money, stock and bond valuation, capital budgeting,
cost of capital, securities markets, and international finance.
BU 390 Catalyst Leadership Experience 3 credit hours
This course is designed for Kuyper students interested in doing an in-depth study on leadership principles from a
Christian perspective from some of the nation's most prominent leadership experts. The course meets weekly for one
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hour throughout the semester and centers around attending the Catalyst Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, for a 4-day
trip in early October, joining thousands of pastors and church leaders. The conference is an opportunity to hear from
leading authors, pastors, professors, and experts in a wide range of leadership topics. Throughout the semester, students
will listen to Catalyst podcasts and read books by Catalyst speakers that will require papers and discussion on a wide
range of leadership topics.
BU 412 Business Law and Ethics 3 credit hours
Students will explore foundational knowledge of the structure of the legal system with an eye toward becoming ethical
business leaders. We will unpack and apply the basics of the legal environment of business: constitutional law, torts,
contracts, product liability, administrative law, and government regulation of business.
BU 430 Nonprofit Management 3 credit hours
This course will develop the various factors specific to the effective running of a not-for-profit organization. Course
topics include management issues, fundraising, fund accounting, reporting requirements, and donor management.
BU 450 Business Internship and Seminar 3 credit hours
The internship and seminar experience enables juniors and seniors to further enhance their overall educational
experience by transferring previous course learning into action. The internship requires a minimum of 120 hours of
work at an organization approved by the Program Director of the Business Leadership Department. A weekly 1-hour
seminar accompanies the internship experience to help students process and discuss the learning they apply in different
organizations.
BU 472 Strategy Management 3 credit hours
This course will explore the various areas necessary to develop and manage different types of strategies for an
organization. Students will study environmental scans, competitive analysis, SWOTs, creating, and sustaining
competitive advantage as they learn to apply these principles in an online business simulation.
BU 499 Capstone: Economy, Society, & Values 3 credit hours
This course provides a Biblical approach to business within the context of a comprehensive vision of social flourishing.
This involves the integration of skills, experiences, and concepts from previous coursework into a framework for
understanding and implementing a biblical form of leadership in a wide variety of professional settings. A view of work,
conceived of fundamentally as service to others, as a divine ordinance and how it interrelates with other institutions,
including family, church, and government, will promote an informed appreciation for the importance of business and
economic aspects of life.
CO 101 Narrative and Exposition 3 credit hours
A course that explores the techniques of thesis, organization, development, reasoning, and revision with emphasis on
essay writing, grammar, mechanics, and usage.
CO 103 Oral Rhetoric 3 credit hours
This course involves the study of basic principles in introductory public speaking, emphasizing thesis, speaking modes
and occasions, organization strategies, and audience considerations. We will discuss the ethics of speaking. Students will
practice their speaking, presentation, listening and evaluation skills, and appropriate use of visual aids.
CO 203 Written & Digital Rhetoric with Lab 4 credit hours
Students in this class will explore social issues to produce research-based academic papers and expand skills including
critical thinking, evaluation of sources, information literacy, and appropriate use of both primary and secondary research.
Emphasis will be placed on selecting and using appropriate rhetorical strategies and engagement in worldview analysis
of chosen topics.
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CO 210 Introduction to Literature 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to reading literature within various genres. Students learn to read various types of literature
to see what truths the literature reveals about ourselves and the people around us whom God has sent us to minister,
thus making us more empathetic messengers of the gospel in all areas of life. Special emphasis is on the fundamental
elements of literature, methods of understanding the meanings of the literature, and the role of imaginative literature
has on shaping and reflecting culture.
CO 242 Literature and Worldview 3 credit hours
During the Enlightenment, many thinkers sought to understand the world and the universe through reason and logic,
often rather than faith; in fact, many thinkers openly opposed the notion of faith. The primary goal of this course is to
expose students to the different worldviews that have surfaced since the Enlightenment and their opposition to or
reconciliation with a worldview defined by faith. These movements, such as Romanticism, Existentialism, Modernism,
and Postmodernism, have been both historical and artistic. By reading poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, as well as
analyzing art and film, this class will investigate the underlying assumptions and beliefs of each movement, how each
movement expresses its worldview through literature and art, and whether these movements are in any way compatible
with Christianity.
CO 306 Linguistics 3 credit hours
A study of the nature and function of language, this course will include study of the major areas of linguistics including
phonetics, morphology, phonology, syntax, and semantics. It also includes applications to language acquisition and
procedures for implementation of theory into practice in the ESL classroom.
CO 320 English Grammar 3 credit hours
The focus of this course is a review of the fundamentals of English grammar for the purpose of better understanding
of grammar as it relates to writing and to the teaching of English, language arts, and English as a Second Language.
Discussions will include the place of grammar in teaching, as well as how context influences grammar and how grammar
influences writing style.
CO 325 Interpersonal and Group Communication 3 credit hours
This course will focus on communication theories and concepts that affect our personal and professional relationships.
The first part of the class will explore and discuss topics such as perception, personal identity, listening, culture, verbal
and nonverbal messages, conflict and self-disclosure. Group and team communication, as well as some key features of
organizational communication, will also be studied.
CO 360 Creative Writing 3 credit hours
This course emphasizes the skill of writing as an art form, focusing on the genres of nonfiction, creative essays, fiction,
poetry (both free and formal verse), drama, and devotional writing.
CO/MI 222 Race and Ethnicity in Mainstream Movies 3 credit hours
Movies play a central role in how people understand race, racial categories, and ethnic cultural identities. In “Race and
Ethnicity in Mainstream Movies,” students will explore the ongoing dialogue about race and the movies by examining
Hollywood’s evolving portrayal of people of color. By incorporating a biblical worldview and theological analysis, they
will discern, critique, and evaluate racial and ethnic themes in mainstream movies. They will also investigate how
minority filmmakers present self-image as an alternative to mainstream views. Centered largely on viewings and
discussions of full-length feature films, this course is an introduction to understanding race in mainstream Hollywood.
CO/MI 323 Intercultural Communication 3 credit hours
This course develops skills in communication behavior necessary for building and maintaining relationships and
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communication across cultures. We examine the influence of perceptions, verbal and nonverbal styles, thinking modes,
symbols, and values on communication between individuals of different cultures and backgrounds.
ED 251 Educational Psychology 3 credit hours
This course examines principles of psychology as applied to the educational process. It includes characteristics of the
individual learner, the classroom, the instructor, methods and techniques, and assessment. The course content
contributes to a better understanding of both learning and developmental theories and provides insight on how to
integrate those theories into practice to make good decisions in the classroom.
ED/PS 336 Developmental Psychology 3 credit hours
This course is a study of the theories and research concerning lifespan development. We study the physical, emotional,
cognitive, social, moral, and spiritual aspects of human development across the lifespan. Discussions include issues
related to the relationship between Christian thought and the various developmental models. Prerequisite: PS 111 or
permission from instructor.
GV 110 American Government 3 credit hours
This course is a survey of American national politics. Topics include government functions, constitutional foundations,
and an understanding of the democratic process. This is a required course for all social work majors.
HI 250 Popular Music and American History 3 credit hours
Recent approaches to history have focused not only on important figures and events but also on a common experience
of history. In other words, history affects every one of us, and in turn, each one of us affects history. Considering this,
historians now spend more time researching and writing about voices that have been traditionally marginalized
throughout history. In this vein, the course will examine the history of the second half of the 20th century through the
lens of popular music. After all, the popular music of this time period was created and consumed by regular people,
people who held little power yet created cultural artifacts that would have enormous influence on American events and
culture.
ID 301 Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies 1 credit hour
This course helps prepare students for their major by introducing them to the language and issues within the field of
interdisciplinary studies. With this knowledge, students will then design their own learning outcomes and curriculum
plan for their major. In addition, during this course, students will begin a professional portfolio that they will work on
throughout their junior and senior years in the interdisciplinary program.
ID 447 Interdisciplinary Capstone Research 2 credit hours
As the capstone to the Interdisciplinary Studies Program, this course asks students to synthesize the knowledge and
skills they have attained throughout their tenure at Kuyper. Drawing from their portfolios, they will begin this course
by posing a research question related to their chosen field or vocation. Then, under close guidance and supervision,
they will conduct both secondary and primary research to produce a thesis that answers this question. Their final thesis
will become a vital part of their portfolio and will offer evidence to future employers that they are well acquainted with
the questions and debates within their chosen vocation.
MA/PS 340 Social Science Statistics 3 credit hours
An introduction to statistics as a liberal arts discipline, this course will not be primarily a “number-crunching” course,
though many statistical formulae will be presented in context. The emphasis of the course will be on developing an
understanding of the principles and concepts underlying the use of statistics in liberal arts and social science applications.
Topics of exploration include the formulation of questions and hypotheses, appropriate experimental design, sampling
methodology, data analysis, and the presentation of results using graphical summaries and proper statistical notation.
Students will also gain familiarity with the use of statistical software technologies.
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MI 121 Introduction to Missions 3 credit hours
This course explores the concept of misseo dei, i.e., the mission of God; provides the biblical foundation for mission;
follows the trajectory of missions throughout history; and helps students develop and practice valuable skills as they
join in the mission narrative.
MI 200 Ministering Interculturally 3 credit hours
With an emphasis on incarnational ministry, this course prepares students for living and ministering in cross-cultural
situations through an immersion experience in Guatemala. The course includes lectures, discussions, and visits with
people living and working cross-culturally who combine word and deed in their ministries. We will discuss cross-cultural
behavior, beliefs, and values, and the influence of history and politics on Guatemalan society and the church, in the
context of ministry.
MI 354 Fundamentals of Community Development 3 credit hours
This course is designed around the latest philosophies of community development. Students will be exposed to both
local and international development work and will learn the fundamental principles of community audit, appreciative
inquiry, asset-based community development, participatory rural appraisal (PRA), and the Vella principles. Non-
governmental organization (NGO) development practitioners will give a presentation. Students will demonstrate skills
for formulating, resourcing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating development projects. This course will often
meet off-campus at a community development site.
MI 357 Business as Mission 3 credits
This introductory course connects a biblical worldview and a kingdom perspective with the spiritual dynamics of
business as mission. In this course, students will integrate sound business practices with ministry objectives and apply
business principles to a mission context. This course will also prepare students to consider how they can become
involved in self-supported ministries, particularly in restricted countries. Topics considered are business acumen,
theological and ethical soundness, and initiative, and possible measurement is a sample business-as-missions project
proposal.
ML 200 Foundations for Ministry 3 credit hours
This course provides a balanced biblical, theological and practical perspective for Christian education in both the
church and parachurch setting. It is a guide to the foundations of ministry that equips students to meet needs of a
changing world.
ML 201, 202, 203 Ministry Leadership Practicum 1 credit hour each
The Ministry Leadership Practicum is intended to maximize each student’s potential and match each student’s gifts and
abilities with his or her interests. Students interested in specific ministry careers will receive guidance into the kinds of
service (whether church, para-church, non-profit, etc.) that can prepare them for their intended areas of vocational
ministry, thereby confirming their educational path.
ML 210 Leadership & Administration 3 credit hours
This course focuses on leadership theory and the process of administration of educational ministry in the local church:
organization, planning, innovation, delegating, decision making, recruitment, retention, supervision, and evaluation of
various contemporary leadership theories.
ML 335 Special Topics/Issues Ministry 3 credit hours
These are elective courses that focus on advanced topics/issues in ministry.
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ML 336 Relational Ministry 3 credit hours
This course will explore theological and practical foundations of relational ministry. Students will examine their own
theological commitments as well as curate a set of practices to enhance their relational caregiving.
ML 350 Introduction to Worship 3 credit hours
This course provides a framework for thinking together about vital and faithful Christian worship. It will examine
biblical and theological foundations of worship. Key elements in the practice will be explored including the Order of
Worship, the role of prayer and music as well as models of collaborative worship planning.
ML 413 Advanced Teaching and Communication Skills for Ministry 3 credit hours
Designed to train and equip students in advanced communication skills for ministry, this course equips students to
develop their teaching, preaching, and storytelling skills to share the Gospel with others. They will learn to listen, speak,
and communicate for change. Pre-requisite: CO 103.
ML 450 Ministry Leadership Internship 3 credit hours
Kuyper’s senior-level internship includes a 1-2 semester placement in a church, ministry, parachurch, or community
ministry. Students will experience connection within a context through building relationships, working on a team,
engaging with ministry participants, and completing administrative tasks. Ministry leaders will supervise and mentor
them and provide opportunities for them to lead, teach/preach, and develop ministry programming. In addition, they
will gather weekly with their peers to debrief and engage in discussion about ministry issues.
ML 451 Ministry Leadership Internship II 3 credit hours
For those required to do a second internship as part of a minor, the ministry leadership internship and seminar will
provide the student with continued hands-on experience to apply the learning principles, skills, and techniques from the
classroom, which gives students an opportunity to have practical learning experience in the field of ministry. Having
appropriate on-site supervision and oversight is essential, and thus the on-site internship supervisor should be viewed
as a mentor, teacher, and guide. Successful students will complete 120 hours at their internship placement.
MW 210 Principles of Biblical Worship 3 credit hours
This course provides an overview to understanding the biblical principles of worship. Scripture reveals many biblical
themes that guide Christians in understanding the nature of God and how we are to approach and respond to God’s
presence. A significant component of this course is the integration and practical application of biblical principles to
contemporary worship life.
PE 101 Golf 2 credit hours
This course will introduce the student to the rules of the game, proper etiquette when on the course, and some skills in
swinging a club to be able to participate in one of the most popular charitable event activities. Class time will involve
learning the rules and observing the basic element of the game as well as learning to physically swing the club through
the use of a simulator. The course will conclude with a trip to an actual course to put into practice the learning from the
classroom and simulator.
PE 103 Cardio Cross Training 1 credit hour
This course is a personal fitness course designed to provide the student with the knowledge necessary to maintain an
active lifestyle. The emphasis in this course will be fitness development and maintenance through various cardiovascular
modalities. This course also involves participation in conditioning activities, lectures, journals, discussions, and testing.
PE 112 Fitness for Life 2 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of wellness, emphasizing a lifelong commitment and Christian
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response to health and fitness. It emphasizes the importance of physical wellness through lab experiences.
PE 122 Weight Training 1 credit hour
This is a course designed to provide students with basic techniques and instruction in strength training and how it relates
to general health. Students will have the opportunity to develop a personalized strength training program.
PH 232 Introduction to Philosophy 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the nature, tasks, and skills of philosophy. Students will engage foundational
philosophical issues by critically examining readings by classic and contemporary philosophers. This course includes an
assessment of the value of philosophy for Christian life and ministry.
PS 111 General Psychology 3 credit hours
This course is a survey of psychology as an empirical and behavioral science with a consideration of some of its
underlying philosophical presuppositions in light of a Christian worldview. We will survey the topics of human
development, learning and memory, sensation and perception, basic neuroanatomy, personality, psychopathology, and
social psychology.
PS/YM 460 Abnormal Psychology 3 credit hours
This course is a survey of the full range of psychological disorders as presented in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders using a bio-psycho-social perspective. We will give critical consideration to the prevailing theories of
etiology, diagnostics, and treatment.
SC 215 Human Biological Science 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the principles and concepts of human biology and the history and philosophy of
biological thought for the general college student. We will study the nature of human biological science using such topics
as physiology, anatomy, genetics, development, ecology, and origins.
SO 211 Introduction to Sociology 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the discipline of sociology, the study of human interaction and social life. Specific areas
of knowledge include social research, culture, social deviance, social groups, social stratification, family and gender,
social inequalities, and social movements.
SO 361 Introduction to Counseling Skills 3 credit hours
This course introduces the principles and practice of the helping process with an emphasis on the development of
communication skills as well as interviewing and counseling techniques that contribute to effective problem solving.
Integration of professional ethics and a Christian framework toward counseling will be explored. Typically PS111 is a
prerequisite for this course.
SW 222 Introduction to Social Work 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to the social work profession, the social service delivery system, the generalist perspective
and the generalist model. Areas of examination include social work history, values, theory, policy, roles, ethics, career
opportunities, and social work’s contribution to social welfare institutions. An overview of the diverse populations
served and their services will be explored. Students will be challenged to examine their own values and aspirations with
respect to the profession. Students will have the opportunity to talk with social workers in the field and participate in
various learning activities. This course is required of all social work majors. Open to all students.
SW 227 and SW 228 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I and II 3 credit hours each
These two courses address how human behavior is influenced by and influences families, groups, organizations, and
communities. Behavior will be investigated in light of a generalist ecological perspective and look at the relationship
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among biological, social, psychological, cultural, and spiritual systems as they affect and are affected by human behavior.
The individual is seen as being a part of each of these systems simultaneously as they interact with each other. All social
work majors must take these courses, but they are open to all students. Students must complete SW 227 before taking
SW 228. Prerequisites: general education core.
SW 320 (Generalist Practice I) Individuals and Families 3 credit hours
This course is the first in a sequence of three generalist practice courses in the social work curriculum. SW 320 includes
the study of the generalist practice model for individuals and families and explores theory and stages involved in working
with clients. Students learn generalist interviewing practice skills related to engagement, bio-psycho-social-spiritual
assessment, professional values and ethics, data collection, developing social histories, problem solving, formulating
goals, evaluation, termination, and human diversity sensitivity. Prerequisites: admission into the BSW program, SW 228.
SW 334 Human Diversity 3 credit hours
What is Human Diversity? Why is it important? Why is cultural competence necessary? Students will explore these
questions within the context of North American social structures and intercultural dynamics. As they do so, they will
examine why cultural competence is essential to faithfully engage and explore issues of human diversity as well as
construct a biblical, Reformed worldview. This multidimensional course investigates the seven dimensions of diversity
and how they are impacted by discrimination, economic deprivation, and oppression. This course seeks to open
students’ minds to people, cultures, and opportunities so that they can become conscious of the beauty of human
diversity in God’s good world.
SW 340 Social Work Research 3 credit hours
This course is an orientation to the logic, methods, and practice evaluation of generalist social work scientific research.
Basic theory of research design and analysis and an introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods are
focus areas. Students will understand how research methods can be used to problem-solve and evaluate all levels of
generalist social work practice. Prerequisites: CO 203, MA/PS 340, PH 232, SW 320.
SW 364 (Generalist Practice II) Social Work with Groups 3 credit hours
This course is an introduction to generalist practice with treatment and task groups. We will examine generalist social
group-work history, stages, diversity, mutual aid, roles, values, communication, leadership, ethics, boundaries, theory,
norms, and interventions. Social work with groups will also look at the dynamics of resistance, evaluation, termination,
and a strengths orientation. Students practice group-work skills through simulations, role playing, and experiential
exercises. Prerequisite: admission into the BSW program, SW 320.
SW 401 Kenya: Ubuntu Life 3 credit hours
This course is offered during the Summer Session and gives students the opportunity to witness the love of Christ in
action through Ubuntu Life. Students would partner with Ubuntu to experience the many ways it joins with the
community in serving those around them. The goals of this course include students learning 1) the significance of a
holistic approach which addresses multiple dimensions of the individual, including physical, emotional, and educational
wellbeing, as well as the person-in-environment perspective; 2) the influence of community and how it fosters a sense
of empowerment among marginalized persons; 3) how collaboration with various stakeholders maximizes the impact
of interventions; 4) the importance of advocating for systemic changes, understanding policy framework, and utilizing
voices to bring about social justice; 5) the critical nature of cultural nuances, respecting different belief systems, and
tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
SW 419 Social Welfare Policy Analysis 3 credit hours
This course is an analysis and evaluation of social welfare policies and programs as responses to defined social problems
in their historical, political, and economic contexts. We evaluate policies from a generalist perspective and generalist
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model and introduce an overview of the history of social welfare. Students will explore the relationship between social
work values and the development of social welfare policies and the provision of social work programs. We address
themes of poverty, advocacy, civil rights, mental health, homelessness, racism, sexism, child welfare, political justice,
and economic justice. Prerequisites: SW 340, SW 364, history elective, and GV 110. This course is open to all students
with permission from the Registrar.
SW 424 (Generalist Practice III) Communities and Organizations 3 credit hours
This course is the study of generalist practice with communities and organizations. Students will learn how to mobilize
community resources for vulnerable populations and understand how advocacy and social planning impact
organizational functioning and change. Students will learn the political, economic, and social contexts of community
organization and what types of interventions bring about social change, and they will examine inter-organizational
relationships and community problem-solving models. Prerequisites: admission into the BSW program, SW 419.
SW 443 and SW 446 Social Work Field Practicum I and II 5 credit hours each
This is a two-semester (400 hours, two days a week) field-placement experience in a professional social work setting.
Students put into practice their generalist model, knowledge, skills, social work values, ethics, and a Reformed
worldview. MSW social work professionals in multiple agencies, churches, schools, hospitals, nursing homes,
community centers, and organizations in the West Michigan area will supervise students. Prerequisites: admission into
the BSW program, faculty approval. Students must take these courses concurrently with SW 445 and SW 448.
SW 445 & SW 448 Field Practicum Senior Seminar I and II 1 credit hour each
This capstone seminar takes place weekly to review and critically analyze students’ field practicum experiences.
Students’ integration of the generalist model, social work skills, knowledge, values, and concepts–along with their
Reformed worldview perspective learned in previous coursework–receive special attention as they practice in the
professional arena. Prerequisites: admission into the BSW program, general education core. Students must take
these courses concurrently with SW 443 & SW 446.
SW 460 International Social Work 3 credit hours
This course is an orientation to international social work from a generalist perspective. Students will learn about global
social issues such as human rights, international women’s issues, global interdependence, models of development, AIDS,
refugees and immigration, poverty, international social welfare policies, ethics, global strategies for change, child welfare,
and political, economic, and environmental injustices from a generalist perspective. Students will develop solutions from
a generalist model. Prerequisite: SW 419.
SW 480 Social Work Capstone 3 credit hours
The capstone course is an upper-division course in which students demonstrate and hone all the skills and knowledge
that they have learned in the major. This course ties together the key learning objectives and competencies that faculty
expect the student to have learned during the major. The capstone course offers students the opportunity to summarize,
evaluate, and integrate some or all of their college experience. This course will examine how professional identity, self-
reflection, ethics, social work practice methods, diversity awareness, assessment, commitment to social justice,
knowledge of theory and research methods, and related critical thinking skills fit together to inform quality social work
practice and leadership. Prerequisites: Admission into the program, SW 419.
TH 241 Christian Doctrine I 3 credit hours
This is an introductory course to the foundational teachings (“doctrines”) of the Christian faith. This course focuses
primarily on the central topics of studying theology (Prolegomena), the Triune God (Theology Proper), the Person and
Work of the Messiah (Christology), and Aspects of Salvation (Soteriology). Pre-requisites: BI 101, BI 111, and BI 112.
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TH 242 Christian Doctrine II 3 credit hours
This course is the second of two survey courses in the area of Christian doctrine. It concentrates on the biblical teachings
regarding creation (General Revelation), humanity (Anthropology), sin (Hamartiology), the church (Ecclesiology), and
the last things (Eschatology). Prerequisites: BI 101, BI 111, BI 112, and TH241.
TH 334 World Religions 3 credit hours
This is an introduction to the study of religion with specific attention to major world religions and their variants, and
the development of a Christian approach to their adherents. Field trips to visit a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple, a
Muslim mosque, a Sikh Gurdwara, and a Jewish synagogue are mandatory for all students. A lab fee of $30 is required.
TH 344 Principles and Practices of Reformed Worldview 3 credit hours
This course examines a biblical, Reformed worldview through the lens of John Calvin’s life and the tradition of his
theology. The course focuses on comparing and contrasting the Reformed worldview with various modern and
postmodern worldviews, and on gaining skills in utilizing a biblical, Reformed worldview to address the social and
ethical issues of contemporary culture. Prerequisite: TH241.
Theology Electives: TH 241 is a prerequisite for all theology electives.
TH 358 Christian Ethics 3 credit hours
This course examines the philosophical and theological foundations of a variety of ethical theories and practices with a
view toward gaining skills in ethical decision making from a Christian perspective. The course focuses on the ethical
perspectives found in the decalogue for developing a comprehensive model for Christian ethics.
TH 361 History of World Christianity 3 credit hours
This course includes a survey and study of the major persons, movements, events, ideas, and doctrines that have shaped
the Christian church from the first century to the present.
TH 420 Theology of the Holy Spirit 3 credit hours
This course explores key doctrines related to the person and work of the Holy Spirit utilizing the fields of biblical,
systematic, historical, and practical theology. In particular, it investigates the Spirit’s work in creation, revelation,
salvation, the church, and the future. Significant historical and contemporary issues in Pentecostal, Evangelical, and
Reformed traditions will also be areas of focus.
TH 421 Islamics 3 credit hours
This class helps students value the uniqueness of individuals and cultures, develop a God-like love for all people, and
gain skills in interacting with people who follow the Islamic tradition. This course explores the history, beliefs, practices,
and worldview of Muslims through readings (including the Qur’an), lectures, and face-to-face interaction with Muslims.
A lab fee for travel expenses to relevant sites is required.
TH 433 Christ and Culture 3 credit hours
How do Christians provide a theological account of our view of culture? How do we link the cultural mandate of
Genesis 1:26-31 with the Great Commission? How does humanity’s calling in creation connect to our calling in
redemption? How does the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ affect our understanding of culture? How do we
engage contemporary social, economic, and political issues in a way that is distinctively Christian and also contributes
to the common good? This course seeks to unpack these questions by providing a biblical and theological account of
human culture and utilize this framework to address contemporary concerns.
TH 434 Male and Female: Marriage, Family, Sexuality, and Ministry 3 credit hours
This course discusses marriage, family, and sexuality in theological and biblical perspective. The course discusses topics
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such as theology of the body, the purpose of marriage, a theology of the family, and a theological account of how human
sexuality fits within our understanding of marriage and the family. The course will also use the preceding topics as a
basis for addressing contemporary discussion about the roles of men and women in various ministries. Readings will
range from ancient to contemporary sources and will be from both scholarly and popular sources.
TH 450 History and Theology of Worship 3 credit hours
This course recognizes that application with understanding must begin with the awareness of theology and history.
Students will trace the development of Trinitarian Christian worship through history, with particular attention given to
one theological emphasis in each time period studied. Primarily focusing on Reformed worship values as developed
through history, this class will also examine the broader church movement in worship and its impact on ministry today.
TH 458 Creeds and Confessions 3 credit hours
This course contributes to the articulation of a biblical, Reformed worldview by studying the doctrinal themes of
Scripture as summarized in the Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds, Belgic Confession, Canons of Dort, and the
Heidelberg Catechism. We highlight the historical context of the documents and their relevance to today’s church and
culture.
VO 101 Kuyper Seminar 1 credit hour
An introduction to all students new to Kuyper, students consider what it means to be called to serve God in the
present moment and beyond in this class. To this end, students will reflect on the nature of calling, identify their areas
of both strength and growth, and study how a Reformed Worldview can aid them in turning their calling into action.
VO 102 College Success 1 credit hour
This course serves as an introduction for students new to college. In this class, students will continue to consider what
it means to be called by God to be a college student. Throughout this course, students will hear from a number of
different speakers on topics specifically relevant to first-time college students. These include mental health, self-care, a
fixed vs. growth mindset, digital hygiene, procrastination, and living in community.
VO 201 Professional Practicum 1 credit hour
This course consists of a practicum placement in a setting related to the student’s field of study and informed by their
vocational interests. It includes a 3-session seminar concurrent to the practicum experience. In the seminar, each
student is encouraged to consider and engage with ethical, pastoral, social, theological, leadership, etc. issues facing
professionals in their field of study, workplace readiness, and the integration of faith and work with classmates and
instructor. Through this practicum experience, the student should gain vocational and educational clarity.
VO 450 Professional Internship 3 credit hours
This course consists of an internship placement in a setting related to the student’s field of study in the Kuyper
College/Cornerstone University Collaborative, non-Education program. This course includes an embedded seminar
concurrent to the internship experience. In the seminar, each student is encouraged to consider ethical, social,
theological, etc. issues facing professionals in their field of study, workplace readiness, and the integration of faith and
work. Students must complete a specific number of hours in their internship placement.
YM 310 Pastoral Care with Adolescents 3 credit hours
Caring for adolescents is important and necessary. This course will equip and empower students as they explore and
practice methods of caring for adolescents. Learning about adolescent development, the role of identity, and factors
that affect identity formation will prepare them to come alongside young people and help them through the challenges
of adolescence. As caregivers, students will examine their pastoral role by considering the necessity of personal
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development, interpersonal skills, experiential learning, empathy, listening, and other skill-building exercises as they
become thoughtful, caring, and reflective caregivers.
YM 311 Youth Ministry in the Urban Setting 3 credit hours
What do people see when they visualize the “urban community”? This course will expose students to visions for
youth ministry in the urban context. As the students explore the term “urban,” they will focus on life in the inner city,
the youth who live with its challenges, and the opportunities to serve as Christ’s disciples in those settings. Urban
youth ministry is not one-size-fits-all, but a beautiful, creative, and transformative variety of approaches to live and
embody the Gospel with urban youth.
YM 433 Contemporary Youth Culture 3 credit hours
This course explores the complex dynamics of contemporary youth culture as it surfaces in a unique era of social and
philosophical change. Both larger cultural shifts and pop cultural trends will be critiqued theologically and engaged from
the standpoint of youth ministry and the church as a whole. Prerequisite: ML 200.
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Kuyper College Graduate Studies
MASTER OF MINISTRY
Program Faculty
Tim Howerzyl, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Theological Studies and Graduate Program Director
Richelle White, Ph.D., Professor of Youth Ministry and Ministry Leadership Program Director
Dan Kroeze, Ph.D., Professor of Biblical Studies
Program Overview
The Master of Ministry is a graduate program that integrates practice-oriented biblical, theological, and ministry-specific
courses to meet the needs of graduate students who are currently engaged, or intending future engagement, in various
ministry contexts. The curriculum of the Master of Ministry degree program seeks to advance a person’s skills in
effectively communicating scriptural and theological truths, enhance one’s leadership and discipleship skills at both the
organizational and interpersonal levels, and cultivate a sustainable ministry lifestyle.
The curriculum is a Blended Program utilizing hybrid and online courses that complete a 36-credit degree comprising 6
required 3-credit core courses, a 3-credit capstone course, and the choice of 5 3-credit specialty courses. The core and
capstone courses are all offered as hybrid courses. Some of the specialty courses are hybrid and some are fully online.
The implementation of an e-portfolio will facilitate the collection of student work developed across the curriculum. All
course offerings are 8 weeks in length.
Program Outcomes
Both throughout and upon completion of the Master of Ministry program, students will
1. communicate scripture and theological truths effectively in a variety of ministry settings.
2. develop habits of spiritual growth and an increased self-awareness of one’s ministry calling.
3. employ leadership skills on an organizational and interpersonal level in order to disciple and care for others.
Program Requirements
Core Courses (Hybrid)
18
Specialty Courses (Hybrid and
Online)
15
BI 511
Preaching and Teaching the Old Testament
3
Students select five (5) courses
BI 512
Preaching and Teaching the New
Testament
3
from the Specialty Courses offered.
BI 507
Discipleship & Spiritual Formation
3
See course descriptions below for
ML 521
Pastoral Counseling & Care
3
course selections.
TH 511
Contemporary Theological Issues
3
TH 521
Mission of the Church
3
Capstone (Hybrid)
3
ID 535 Capstone in Ministry
3
Total Requirements: 36 credits
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Graduate Course Descriptions
Core Courses
BI 507 Discipleship & Spiritual Formation 3 credit hours
This course focuses on the Christian leader as a person in a continual process of personal growth and as one who leads
others in Spirit-empowered transformation. Students will explore the Scriptural, historical, cultural, and developmental
aspects of spiritual formation with special attention given to cultivating an environment for individual and corporate
transformation. Participants will work to design a healthy process for deepening spiritual formation in their own local
contexts that is realistic, relevant, and responsive to God’s grace.
BI 511 Preaching and Teaching the Old Testament 3 credit hours
This course is devoted to the hermeneutical and homiletical problem of preaching from the Old Testament. This
course will examine the challenges, both hermeneutical and homiletical, of preaching Christ from the Old Testament.
Interpretation of Old Testament passages in their historical and cultural context, the bridging, and the task of
preaching Christ from these passages will receive special attention.
BI 512 Preaching and Teaching the New Testament 3 credit hours
This course addresses the students' understanding and use of the New Testament in their own faith development and
in their teaching, preaching, and service to God's world through the ministry of the church. Students will become better
acquainted with the themes of the biblical drama centered upon Jesus and the New Testament’s bearing on current
issues and ministry. Hermeneutics, theological vision, and cultural analysis, as well as sensitivity to the hearers, come
together to communicate the Good News about and from God for the life of the listening community.
ML 521 Pastoral Counseling and Care 3 credit hours
This course develops and enhances skills in pastoral presence, listening, and care. Students will learn the biblical and
theological foundations for care ministry and identify key principles and issues related to caregiving within the church.
Through self-study tools, students will grow in self-awareness to better care for the needs of others. This course aims
to be practical and flexible, with an emphasis on skill development and practice. It is suitable to varying levels of
experience and a variety of ministry contexts.
TH 511 Contemporary Theological Issues 3 credit hours
This course addresses contemporary theological issues with a view toward equipping church leaders to walk through
important and complex questions of theology and ministry. This course seeks to bridge the academy and the local
church and develop “pastor-theologians” who are theologically literate, pastorally astute, and pedagogically thoughtful.
TH 521 Mission of the Church 3 credit hours
This course articulates a theological vision of the church as people called to participate in God’s kingdom mission.
Understanding the biblical roots of the church’s mission, a coherent integration of the church’s worship, preaching,
teaching, and evangelism, and a clear sense of the church’s relation to the world will enhance this vision.
Specialty Courses
BI 521 Towards a Biblical Theology of Discipleship 3 credit hours
This course will explore the biblical and theological basis of discipleship and critique select understandings of
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discipleship used by the church in light of our post-Christian cultural context. This will include an examination of the
relationship between evangelism and discipleship to develop a holistic understanding of spiritual formation. Each
student will develop a workshop on the relationships between evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual formation for use
in ministry.
GR 501 Introduction to New Testament Greek I 3 credit hours
This course is a study of basic vocabulary and grammar of the Greek language of the New Testament for the purpose
of reading, understanding, and interpreting the Bible, using selections from the New Testament for all assignments
and tests. Students must have a cumulative of 2.75 GPA and receive instructor approval to begin Greek courses.
GR 502 Introduction to New Testament Greek II 3 credit hours
This course is a study of basic vocabulary and grammar of the Greek language of the New Testament for the purpose
of interpretation, using selections from the New Testament for all assignments and tests.
GR 503 New Testament Greek Exegesis 3 credit hours
This course focuses on translating selections of each of the 4 Gospels and applying exegetical principles that affect
reading, understanding, and interpreting the Bible.
GR 504 New Testament Greek Hermeneutics 3 credit hours
This course focuses on reading and applying exegetical principles to selections from New Testament epistles that
affect teaching and preaching God’s Word. It includes study of Pauline letter structure, an introduction to textual
criticism, an overview of Bible translation issues, and an interpretation project.
ID 502 Cultural Dynamics Influencing Ministry 3 credit hours
Cultural trends and debates impact churches in a variety of ways. This course will explore the impact of consumerism,
technocapitalism, postmodernism, economics, ethics, identity, sexuality, etc. on the church’s understanding of its place
and role in contemporary culture. The course will examine the select issues from a variety of perspectives in light of
Scripture and theology to offer a valid critique of the trends and assist the student in developing a culturally savvy and
accessible ministry.
ML 511 Financial Management in Ministry and Fundraising 3 credit hours
This course explores the principles of financial management at the personal and organizational levels as well as principles
of fundraising. The course provides an introduction to basic accounting practices, budgeting, and financial forecasting
so the students appreciate the connection between vision, mission, and financial matters. The student will examine the
challenges of managing one’s personal finances in light of biblical teaching on stewardship and tithing. The course will
also explore fundraising, including identifying, establishing, nurturing, asking, and following through with potential
donors. Students will analyze a ministry’s financial management, develop a personal financial plan, and a personal or
organizational fundraising plan.
ML 522 Church Outreach and Missions 3 credit hours
Students will examine the biblical and theological basis of mission and outreach and its practice in the life and ministry
of the local church. Through readings, lecture, and discussion, they will explore the relationship between evangelism,
discipleship, service, and social concerns in both the local and global context to develop a holistic understanding of
mission and outreach. Emphasis of the course assignments will be on the students’ own ministry contexts.
ML 535 Issue(s) in Ministry
An intense investigation of a ministry issue designed to foster reflective-practitioners. The issue under investigation will
shape the course strategy and the approach to said issue. At a minimum, it will include 300 pages of reading and an
applied project. With variation in topic, this course may be taken more than once. The Graduate Program Director must
approve the course.
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TH 525 Worship Theology in Practice 3 credit hours
This course will engage with the Calvin Institute for Christian Worship’s annual Symposium on Worship to explore
how theological convictions are represented in worship. Students will become familiar with a theological framework for
worship that is trinitarian, formative, and dialogic. We will observe how that framework is present throughout the
Symposium in order to gain insight into how students can integrate a theology of worship in their own ministry contexts.
Students will also consider the relationship between worship, evangelism, justice, and piety as we observe how these
themes are represented throughout the Symposium and in their ministry contexts.
ML 541 Leadership Strategies and Development 3 credit hours
This course surveys select leadership theories and strategies in light of the biblical and theological teaching on
leadership. We will examine how our cultural understanding of leadership informs the church’s understanding in this
area. Topics will include team building, conflict management, assessment, and feedback. Through select assessment
tools, readings, and reflection, students will assess their leadership skills, develop a philosophy of leadership position
paper, and create a professional development plan focused on leadership.
TH 531 Models of Ministry 3 credit hours
This course is an investigation of select ministry models employed by churches to understand themselves and inform
their ministry strategies. We will explore ministry models culturally, biblically, and theologically to appreciate their
respective contributions to one’s ministry strategy. Each student will prepare a critique of a church or parachurch’s
philosophy of ministry and present the findings as a case study.
PS 511 Human Development 3 credit hours
An intensive survey of theories of human development and investigation into the current findings of neurosciences,
neurobiology, and neuroeducation for understanding human development, the teaching-learning process, preaching,
pastoral care, and mental health.
TH 536 Christian Formation in the Age of Social Media 3 credit hours
This course explores the rise of a technologically-driven society and its impact on people’s spiritual lives. With a focus
on social networking, we will explore technology’s impact on people’s understanding of self, relationships, and
community as well as its implications for evangelism and discipleship. Each student will be challenged to develop
community digital citizen standards that can be used to equip others on civil discourse and behavior.
YM 531 Ministry to At-Risk Youth 3 credit hours
This course is designed to enable students to develop a strategy for working with at-risk youth. Students will engage at-
risk youth, develop strategies for engaging at-risk youth in ministry, equip congregations to care for a wide variety of
young people, and be familiar with the youth ministry literature in this area. Particular attention will be given to
developing a holistic Christian approach for effective mentoring and intervention, making it useful for those serving in
churches, parachurch ministries and within social service agencies. This course emphasizes incarnational presence, the
role of small-group Bible studies, and mentoring.
Capstone Course
ID 535 Capstone in Ministry 3 credit hours
This seminar provides students with the opportunity to assess their learning throughout the Master of Ministry program
and develop a professional development plan for their next seasons of ministry. Drawing on the artifacts in their e-
portfolio, students will identify the biblical and theological themes present in their work, critique their work, and discern
how they have matured in light of their findings and interactions with the other students and their colleagues in ministry.
Additional and Future Courses
Course offerings and titles may differ as ministry needs change and specific student outcomes are required by the
communities we are serving through this program.
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Admissions
Admission Requirements
Students applying for admission to Kuyper College should support our commitments to high Christian ideals and strong
academic, spiritual, emotional, social, and physical development that is shaped by Scripture, guided by the Holy Spirit,
and informed by Kuyper College’s Doctrinal Statement. Kuyper College is unable to accept International Students into
the Master of Ministry program at this time.
Academic Criteria
The applicant should have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university and a GPA of 2.75 or better
(or 3.00 during the senior year) on a 4.00 scale and be invested in a non-profit ministry context that can serve as a
learning community throughout the program.
Applicants invested in a non-profit ministry context with an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or
university with a GPA below 2.75 may apply for conditional admittance (probationary) to the program. The Graduate
Program Director may grant probationary status to applicants who provide evidence that they are able to academically
perform at the level expected.
Applicants from Unaccredited Colleges
Students who graduated from unaccredited colleges with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better and are invested in a non-
profit ministry context may receive conditional admission (see below). In addition to the required application material,
the student should provide evidence of the breadth and quality of their programs.
Applicants with Extensive Ministry Experience and Training
Applicants with extensive ministry experience and training who hold at least an Associate degree and/or a Professional
Certification(s) and are invested in non-profit ministry context are encouraged to contact the Graduate Program
Director (thowerzyl@kuyper.edu) to explore whether one’s prior learning satisfies the requirements for conditional
admittance into the program. Admission to the Master of Ministry program for applicants applying with extensive
ministry experience and training is at the discretion of the Graduate Program Director and the Master of Ministry
Program Coordinator.
Qualified Undergraduate Students
Kuyper College undergraduate students with a cumulative 3.65 GPA after completing 60 hours of coursework and who
are serving in a non-profit ministry, may apply for concurrent enrollment in the Master of Ministry program. Qualified
undergraduate students may use up to eighteen (18) graduate credit hours to satisfy their undergraduate course
requirements. Please contact the Graduate Program Director for more information and an application.
Admission Process
Prospective students must complete the online application for the Master of Ministry program on the Kuyper College
website, provide a professional reference from a previous or current ministry supervisor (the application will ask for
this person’s name and email address), submit with your application a 1-2 page essay describing your educational goals
and reasons for applying to the graduate program, and send official transcripts from all previously attended
institutions of higher learning directly to Kuyper College Admissions Office. Applications are considered on a rolling
basis: no enrollment deposit required.
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Categories of Acceptance
Unconditional Admission
Those who have met all admission requirements are accepted unconditionally.
Conditional Admission
Students who do not meet all admission requirements may be conditionally accepted and, upon meeting the
requirements stated, are granted unconditional status. Reasons for conditional admission include the following:
1. A student’s GPA is lower than the required 2.75 and therefore must complete nine credit hours of coursework
with a 2.75 or higher GPA to continue.
2. A student graduating from an unaccredited undergraduate institution must complete nine credit hours of
coursework with a 2.75 or higher GPA to continue.
3. A student’s admission file is incomplete. An omission of any required components for the admission process
(i.e. recommendation, official transcripts) classifies as an incomplete file.
Admission as a Guest Student or Continuing Education Student
Most students taking courses in the program will be working toward a degree; however, sometimes special admission
status is granted to students who have reason to take one or more courses but who do not desire the degree. Special
admissions students must provide an official transcript from the college/university or seminary from which they have
received a degree or where they are presently pursuing a graduate degree. Students admitted as special admission students
may complete no more than nine credit hours under this category. Examples of students granted special admission
follow:
1. A guest student who is accepted into another graduate program but who needs a course for transfer purposes.
2. A student who already holds an undergraduate or graduate degree but who wants to take a course or courses
for continuing education.
Qualified Undergraduate Student
This category is assigned to students taking courses for concurrent credit. (See the Requirements for Admission section
entitled “Qualified Undergraduate Students”).
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Academic Policies and Procedures
Education Procedures
Blended and Online learning refers to courses in which the student and faculty members are at a distance from each
other for part or a whole course.
1. Students accepted into the program should complete the Orientation Course in Sakai. They will receive
directions for accessing this course with their acceptance notification.
2. In consultation with the Graduate Program Director, students prepare a schedule for completion of their
programs.
3. Students register for courses online.
4. Once registered for a course, students will gain access to their course(s) in Sakai three weeks before the start
date.
5. Required and recommended course materials are available through several online vendors.
6. Students complete the course requirements as prescribed in each course syllabus.
7. Students communicate with faculty members and advisers in person or via voice or video calls and email as
needed. Office hours are provided to the students at the beginning of each course.
8. During the first half of their final semester, students must file the online Intent to Graduate Form.
9. Kuyper College awards degrees in late April or early May.
Academic Honesty Policy
Kuyper College students must exemplify high Christian ideals and strong academic, spiritual, emotional, social, and
physical development that are shaped by Scripture and guided by the Holy Spirit in all matters, including their academic
work. The Higher Education Opportunity Act requires confirmation that each distance learning student verifies their
identity and that the academic assignments completed are their own work. To ensure compliance with this requirement,
Kuyper College requires that each student sign an Academic Honesty Agreement for each course taken. By agreeing
with this document, you are giving us your electronic signature, certifying that all work you submit in your name,
completed solely by you.
Definition: Breach of this Academic Honesty Agreement includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism, cheating or assisting
a student on an examination, or any other attempt to deceptively receive an unearned grade. Each level and consequent
penalty is described below as quoted from the Kuyper College Catalog:
Plagiarism: Students commit plagiarism when they fail to cite sources of outside information used in completing
assignments or by submitting a paper written by someone other than the student.
For demonstrable plagiarism in a paper, students will receive a minimum penalty of "F" on that paper. The second
offense will result in failure of the course, and the student will be placed on academic probation for the coming semester.
The third offense will result in automatic failure of the course and dismissal from Kuyper College.
Cheating: Students are prohibited from sharing test or exam information with another student, assisting another
student, or receiving help in any capacity with an examination or attempting to deceptively receive an unearned grade.
For demonstrable cheating, students will receive a minimum penalty of "F" for the assignment. The second offense will
result in failure of the course, and the student will be placed on academic probation for the coming semester. The third
offense will result in automatic failure of the course and dismissal from Kuyper College.
Determination: Each faculty member determines the level and extent of plagiarism and/or cheating on an assignment.
After conferring with the Graduate Program Director, who notifies the Academic Dean, the professor determines and
enforces the consequence for the violation. Students may appeal a decision in writing to the Academic Dean within five
business (class) days after receiving a copy of the Academic Dishonesty Form.
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Testing
Each student is asked to supply the Graduate Program Office with the name of a proctor who will administer/supervise
tests when required. The proctor should not be a member of the student’s family and preferably should be an educator
or professional person. The proctor should verify in writing that he or she personally knows the student or has viewed
the student’s government-issued photo identification. The proctor will receive directions on supervising the test from
the Graduate Program Office, supervise them, and certify the student’s identity and integrity of the assessment for the
Graduate Program Office.
Academic Load
The 36-graduate-credit program can be completed in as little as two years if a student takes four courses each term.
For financial aid purposes, six graduate hours is considered full-time. Students may take no more than nine semester
hours during any semester in which they are on probation or not in good standing.
Grading Scale
A
100-94
4.0
Distinguished
A-
93-90
3.67
Excellent
B+
89-87
3.33
Superior
B
86-83
3.0
Very Good
B-
82-80
2.67
Good
C
79-70
2.0
Acceptable Achievement
D
69-60
1.0
Minimal Achievement
F
59 or below
0
Failure - Inadequate
Achievement
I
Incomplete
W
Withdrawal
Course Schedule Changes
Adding and Dropping Courses
The last day to add a course is seven days after the course has begun. A-session or AB-session courses may be
dropped within seven days of its start date without penalty: The course(s) will not appear on a student’s transcript.
Because Financial aid distributes funds only at the semester’s start, the seven-day drop period does not occur at the
start of B-session courses; students can drop B-session courses within the first seven days of the semester.
Withdrawing from a Course
If a student withdraws from a course more than seven days after the start date and but before completing 14 days, a
grade of “W” will be received. If a student withdraws after 14 days, the grade of “F” shall automatically be assigned,
except upon written authorization by the Graduate Program Director that completion of the course is unlikely due to
extenuating circumstances beyond the student’s control. In the event of such authorization, the student shall receive
the grade of “W.” (See “Refunds,” in the Financial Information section). The course will appear on a student’s
transcript without grade-point penalty.
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Incomplete Policy
An incomplete grade may be awarded to a student who has been prevented from completing the assignments in a course
due to extenuating circumstances beyond their control. In each case, the situation must be discussed with the professor
and Graduate Program Director, and an agreement for an incomplete approved before an incomplete is given. The “I”
must be removed within five weeks of the end of the course or a permanent grade of “F” will be negotiated with the
instructor and approved by the Graduate Program Director.
Continuing in the Program
Time Limit
Students must complete all degree requirements within seven calendar years from the time of enrollment in their first
class. Students admitted as a Qualified Undergraduate Student begin their seven-year time limit with the semester
following the completion of their undergraduate degree.
Minimum Grade Point Average
Students must maintain a 2.75 grade point average to remain in the program and to graduate.
Leave of Absence
Students must make continuous progress towards completing degree requirements during the seven-year time limit.
They should be enrolled in at least one class every term. Students may apply for a leave of absence from the graduate
work by filing a “Leave of Absence” form with the Graduate Program Director. They should file the form
immediately upon determining that they cannot take courses for two or more consecutive terms. A leave of absence
does not generally negate the seven-year time limit policy.
Repeating a Course
Any time after 12 hours of study that a student’s cumulative GPA falls below 2.75, the student is placed on academic
probation and may not continue, except to repeat courses already taken. No course may be repeated more than once.
The grade for the second course will be the final grade and will be used in any grade point computation. All grades will
be placed on the transcript with an indication that the course has been repeated. Veterans should consult the Registrar
or their V.A. representative regarding the latest regulation relative to repeating a course.
Admission to Candidacy
A student admitted into candidacy status has demonstrated the ability to successfully complete a graduate program at
Kuyper College. Students may apply at any time after completing all admission requirements and nine hours of graduate
coursework at Kuyper College with a 2.75 GPA or higher. Students should complete the “Admission to Candidacy”
form prior to the final semester preceding graduation.
Student Records
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 protects the privacy of student records. FERPA
provides for the right of the student to inspect and review educational records, to seek to amend those records, and to
limit disclosure of information from the records. FERPA protects currently enrolled or formerly enrolled students,
regardless of their age or status in regard to parental dependency.
With certain exceptions, a student has rights of access to those records that are directly related to him or her and that
Kuyper College maintains. “Educational records” include any records in the possession of an employee, which are
sharable with or accessible to another Kuyper individual. These records may be handwritten or in the form of print,
magnetic tape, film, or other media. These records would include transcripts or other records obtained from a school
in which a student was previously enrolled.
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Kuyper College releases official transcripts only when requested in writing by the student through Parchment. Kuyper
College may disclose information about a student without violating FERPA through “directory information.” This
generally includes a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of
attendance, degrees and awards received, and other similar information. A student may restrict the release of his or her
directory information by making a request in writing to the Registrar. In certain other situations, student consent is not
required to disclose educational information. Exceptions include the following:
1. To school officials who have “legitimate educational interests”
2. To federal, state, and local authorities involving an audit or evaluation of compliance with educational programs
3. In connection with financial aid, including Veterans’ benefits
4. To organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of educational institutions
5. To accrediting organizations
6. To parents of a dependent student (as defined by Internal Revenue Code)
7. To parents of a student under 21 years of age regarding violation of any law or institutional policy governing
the use of alcohol or a controlled substance
8. To comply with a judicial order or subpoena
9. In a health or safety emergency
10. Releasing directory information
11. Releasing the results of a disciplinary hearing to an alleged victim of a crime of violence
We will always handle requests to disclose educational information with caution and approach them on a case-by-case
basis. To obtain information protected by FERPA a student may request information by completing the Student Access
to Educational Records form. Students who believe that their educational records contain information that is inaccurate
or misleading, or is otherwise in violation of their privacy, should contact the Academic Office for proper procedures.
Official Grades and Transcripts
The Registrar’s Office maintains official grades. Official transcripts are released only when requested through Kuyper
College website: Kuyper College uses Parchment, an outside vendor, to provide electronic or mailed transcripts.
Transcripts will be withheld if the student has a past-due account with Kuyper College.
Transfer of Credits
Students may transfer up to nine hours into a graduate program from a regionally and/or ATS-accredited college,
university, or seminary. No course credit older than ten years will transfer to Kuyper. Courses transferred should be
very similar to those for which they are substituting.
Graduation Requirements
1. The student must complete 36 hours of graduate coursework.
2. The student must maintain a grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4.00 scale) to graduate.
3. The student must normally complete the program within seven years.
4. The student must complete the “Admission to Candidacy” form.
5. During the first-half of the final semester, students must complete the Intent to Graduate form.
6. Occasionally, a student will get to graduation and still have outstanding credits remaining due to course
offering conflicts or other extenuating circumstances. A student may participate in Commencement with 3
outstanding remaining credits only with prior written approval of the Academic Office.
Withdrawal from Kuyper College
All official withdrawals from Kuyper are made through the Graduate Program Director and the Registrar.
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Financial Matters
Educational Costs
Kuyper College makes a concerted effort to keep educational costs at a minimum. The total of the various charges is
far less than the actual cost to educate each student enrolled at Kuyper College. The remainder of the actual cost, over
and beyond what the student pays, is provided mainly through gifts from individuals, churches, and foundations. It is
important that each student realizes the commitment of both alumni and friends to the furthering of the work of the
Lord through the contributions made for his or her education. The trustees reserve the right to change the schedule
of tuition and fees at any time without notice.
Academic expenses include tuition, books and postage, a graduation fee, and reapplication fee, if applicable.
Financial Policies
Prompt Payment
Students must pay their accounts in full by the first day of classes for each session or establish an acceptable payment
plan directly through Populi. Students may make payments through Populi’s online payment system.
Students who have not met their financial obligations at Kuyper will not be able to enroll the following semester nor
have their transcripts released until they have paid their accounts in full, and if applicable, students are disenrolled for
any tuition freeze agreements.
Course Refund Policies
The Business Office will make payment, if applicable, upon receipt of a withdrawal notice signed by the Registrar.
Tuition credit will be determined on the basis of the date of withdrawal. Whenever a student becomes eligible for a
refund of any type, such refund will always be issued by check. Any student who is suspended or dismissed from Kuyper
College shall not be entitled to any refunds.
The refund schedule for academic courses is established by the Academic Office and may be found under Financial
Policies in the Undergraduate Studies section of the Handbook. The same withdrawal policies apply to graduate studies.
Financial Aid
Because financial aid is not as readily available to graduate students, Kuyper College has intentionally kept graduate
tuition and fee costs low. Federal Direct Loans are available to students.
The Federal Direct Loan Program is a low-interest loan funded, insured, and guaranteed by the federal government. To
qualify, graduate students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be enrolled in at
least six (6) credit hours. Qualifying graduate students can borrow up to the federal Cost of Attendance (COA), which
allows for tuition, books, personal expenses, and transportation.
Special programs such as Veteran’s Benefits, Social Security, and Vocational Rehabilitation are available to specifically
qualified full-time students. Contact the local office of the appropriate agency to investigate these resources.
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Student Services
Orientation and Academic Advising
An Online orientation course is available in Sakai. This is a self-paced course that students are expected to complete
prior to starting the Master of Ministry. The Office of Distance Learning plans and directs new student orientation to
the program. The Graduate Program Director and the Registrar advise students in course selection and provide ongoing
support as needed by telephone, video conferencing, and email.
The Information Technology Office provides a username and password to all students, which they will use for email
correspondence and to access the online learning management software, Sakai.
Students must purchase their own books through an online retailer.
Zondervan Library Services
The mission of Zondervan Library is to support the academic objectives, programs and curriculum of Kuyper College
by providing appropriate resources and services. In-person and online learning students may communicate with the
Library by email ([email protected]du), through the “Ask a Librarian” feature of Kuyper OneSearch, and by telephone
(616-988-3700). The library provides access to print and electronic formats of books and journals, and provides free
access to other collections through partner libraries, Cornerstone University/Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and
Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, Michigan libraries through MelCat, and U.S. libraries through interlibrary loan.
Access to the Zondervan Library catalog as well as other academic electronic resources, including many full-text
databases and ebooks, are available through the Library website and the College course management system, Sakai. The
Library Resources tab in Sakai also features Library information, resource guides, and access to Kuyper OneSearch and
all other e-resources. Students will need their Kuyper College username and password to access college resources.
The Zondervan Library will loan up to 12 items at one time from the circulating collection to off-campus students in
the US for a period of five weeks. Requests may be submitted by email. These items may be renewed once by phone,
email, or online if no holds have been placed on the item. The student is responsible for any return postage.
Students engaged in course-related research may also make interlibrary loan requests. Interlibrary loans often involve
waiting time. Therefore, off-campus students are encouraged to seek a library near their residence or workplace that will
provide interlibrary loan service. The library staff, upon request, will assist off-campus students in obtaining permission
to use a library in their local area and attempt to negotiate a reasonable cooperative agreement to extend library services
to Kuyper College students. Seminary and university libraries often provide guest privileges.
The Library cannot provide photocopies of required reading assignments; this practice could be construed as “the
related or concerted reproduction…of the same material,” which is not covered by Section 108(g) of the Copyright Act
of 1976. The library will provide copies of articles and/or selections from non-circulating material for independent
research purposes, subject to the provisions and restrictions of U.S. copyright laws.
Career Services
The mission of Kuyper College’s Career Services is to guide students and alumni through a life-planning process. This
process includes the development of professional skills, opportunity awareness, personalized assessment, and exposure
to out-of-classroom learning experiences. Our objective is to collaborate with Kuyper’s academic and non-academic
departments to equip students to integrate their faith and learning, making a positive impact for Christ and His
Kingdom. Available services include the following:
● Individual assistance for any part of your job search, including résumé and cover letter writing, networking, and
interviewing skills.
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● Career counseling and guidance through personality inventories such as StrengthsFinder and Myers-Briggs.
● Career development events.
To access Career Services, contact KuyperWorks, and you will be contacted to schedule an online meeting with our
career coach.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Kuyper College accepts students who meet its admission requirements without regard to disability. Some students with
disabilities can cope sufficiently to handle college-level work without additional help. Some can handle college work
with additional help, and some cannot handle college-level work with the reasonable help Kuyper College is able to
provide. Therefore, Kuyper collects information about student needs and reports on the accommodations available as
far in advance as possible.
Through the Student Success Program (SSP), Kuyper seeks to eliminate the barriers that students with disabilities
encounter and to work with them to achieve and maintain their autonomy. To request accommodations, students with
disabilities must submit either an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan stating services received in high
school or other educational institutions to the SSP. If neither of these documents is available, current documentation
from a physician or psychologist defining the student's disability is required. While Kuyper does not diagnose disabilities,
the SSP can refer the student to local examiners who can make a diagnosis at the student’s expense.
Typically, the Student Success staff communicates with the students with disabilities regarding the level of help they
need before they begin course work and what Kuyper can provide. Accommodations might include any of the following:
extended test time, oral administration of tests, testing in a separate room, regular meetings with a coach in Student
Success, audio recorded textbooks or electronic reader, and advanced copies of course materials.
The SSP notifies appropriate faculty members of the support needed by students with disabilities. The SSP can also
notify 3rd Chair, our on-campus Counseling providers, who can offer counseling sessions to help with adjustment to
higher education, if requested. Students who desire continuing accommodations must meet with the SSP before the
beginning of each term.
The quality and quantity of work required of students with disabilities is equal to that of other students. Students unable
to perform at a college level will be helped to identify ways to exercise their particular gifts that do not require a college
education.
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Kuyper College Leadership Team
Patricia Harris, President
B.A. (Calvin College, 1981), M.T.S. (Calvin Theological Seminary, 1992), Ed.D. (George Fox University, 2013)
Ken Capisciolto, Vice President for College Advancement
B.A. (Hope College, 1981), M.B.A. (Grand Valley State University, 1990)
Timothy J. Detwiler, Academic Dean, Administrative Faculty
B.A. (Cedarville University, 1977), M.A. (Temple University, 1982), Ph.D. (The Pennsylvania State University, 1991)
Curtis Essenburg, Dean of Students and Work
B.S. (Kuyper College, 2006), M.Ed. (Grand Valley State University, 2008)
Christine Mulka, Controller and Chief Financial Officer
B.A. (Aquinas College, 1993)
Kuyper College Faculty
Marc Andreas, Associate Professor of Business Leadership and Business Leadership Program Director
B.A. (University of Iowa, 1996), M.B.A. (University of Iowa, 2001)
Jennifer Colin, Assistant Professor of Social Work and Program Director
B.A. (Taylor University, 1996), M.S.W. (Grand Valley State University, 1998), M.Ed. (Grand Valley State University,
2012), M.E.D.L. (Central Michigan University, 2016)
Timothy J. Detwiler, Academic Dean, Administrative Faculty
B.A. (Cedarville University, 1977), M.A. (Temple University, 1982), Ph.D. (The Pennsylvania State University, 1991)
Andrea Fryling, Registrar, Administrative Faculty
A.A. (Grand Rapids Community College, 2006), B.A. (Grand Valley State University, 2008), M.A. (Northern Illinois
University, 2010), Ph.D. (Northern Illinois University, 2017)
Patricia Harris, President
B.A. (Calvin College, 1981), M.T.S. (Calvin Theological Seminary, 1992), Ed.D. (George Fox University, 2013)
Kelli Hoffman, Assistant Professor of Social Work and Field Practicum Director
B.S.W. (Kuyper College, 2007), M.S.W. (Dominican University, 2009)
Tim Howerzyl, Assistant Professor of Theological Studies and Graduate Program Director
B.A. (Calvin College, 1995), M.Div. (Calvin Theological Seminary, 1999), D.Min. (Fuller Theological Seminary, 2015)
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Daniel Kroeze, Professor of Biblical Studies
B.A. (Calvin College, 1982), M.Div. (Fuller Theological Seminary, 1986), M.A. (University of Wisconsin, 1992), Ph.D.
(University of Wisconsin, 2003)
Jamie Tiemeyer, Director of Library Services
B.Ed. (Cornerstone University, 2003), M.L.I.S. (Wayne State University, 2009)
Richelle B. White, Professor of Youth Ministry and Ministry Leadership Program Director
B.S. (Millersville University of Pennsylvania, 1991), M.S. (Coppin State College, 1995), M.Div. (Wesley Theological
Seminary, 2001), M.A. (Union Presbyterian Seminary, 2005), Ph.D. (Union Presbyterian Seminary, 2011)
Andrew Zwart, Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies and Interdisciplinary Studies Program Director
B.A. (Calvin College, 1998), M.Ed. (Calvin College, 2013)
Adjunct Faculty
Daniel Barnett, Instructor of Business Law
J.D., Michigan State University College of Law
Joyce Borger, Instructor of Theology of Worship
M.Div., Calvin Theological Seminary
Anthony Bradley, Research Professor of Interdisciplinary & Theological Studies
Ph.D., Westminster Theological Seminary
Justin Burdine, Instructor of Biology & Ecology
Ph.D., Bowling Green State University
Kyle DeBoer, Instructor of Mathematics
M.S.Ed., Samford University
Steven DeGroot, Instructor of Psychology
Ph.D., Indiana University/Walden University
Curt Essenburg, Instructor of Kuyper Seminar and College Success
M.Ed., Grand Valley State University
Denise Fase, Instructor of Business
M.S., Cornerstone University
Mike Gafa, Instructor of Bible & Theology
M.Min., Kuyper College
Eunice Hong, Instructor of Intercultural Studies
Ph.D., Biola University
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Lisa Hoogeboom, Instructor of Intercultural and Biblical Studies
D.Min., Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Eric Hoogstra, Instructor of Finance and Accounting
Ph.D., Capella University
Jeffrey Jacobs, Instructor of Social Science Statistics
Ph.D., University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Donna Larner, Instructor of Accounting
D.B.A., Anderson University Falls School of Business
Kim Nguyen, Instructor of Bible & Theology
Ph.D., University of Wisconsin
Attah Obande, Instructor of Business Leadership
M.B.A., Cornerstone University
Randall Pederson, Instructor of Philosophy
Ph.D., Leiden University, The Netherlands
Emily Perton, Instructor of Student Success
M.A., Western Michigan University
Sheri Rogers, Instructor of American Government
M.A., Western Michigan University
Rachelle Rosario, Instructor of Social Work
M.S.W., Western Michigan University
Christopher Schoon, Instructor of Ministry Leadership & Administration
Th.D., Wycliffe College
Hendrika Schoon, Instructor of Ministry Leadership & Administration
Ed.D., Bethel University
John Sparks, Instructor of Physical Education
M.S., Slippery Rock University
Eric Strattan, Instructor of Bible & Theology
M.A., Faith Baptist Theological Seminary
Brian Telzerow, Instructor of Youth Ministry
D.Min., Western Theological Seminary
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Karla Velis-Brito, Instructor of Business Leadership
B.S., Kuyper College
Joel Wilkinson, Instructor of Sociology
M.S.W., Grand Valley State University
Rod Wortley, Instructor of Composition
M.A., Western Michigan University
Kuyper College Board of Trustees
Dan Ackerman, Holland, MI
Gary Bekker, Grand Rapids, MI
Jason Bomers, Jenison, MI
Darrell Delaney, Grand Rapids, MI
Emma Duprey, Caledonia, MI
Eric Hoogstra, Zeeland, MI
Janice Koopman, Grand Rapids, MI
Renee Lee, Grand Rapids, MI
David Smies, Caledonia, MI
Nicole Smith, Wyoming, MI
