Academics
Policies
Policies & Student Handbook
Saint Mary Theological College maintains policies that support Orthodox spiritual discipline, academic integrity, and a respectful learning environment in fidelity to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.
Purpose
These policies exist to protect the spiritual and academic mission of the College and to ensure that students are formed in a disciplined, reverent, and faithful environment. Students are expected to uphold Orthodox Christian conduct, respect Church authority, and maintain academic honesty.
Note: This page provides an official summary for the website. Internal handbooks may contain additional operational details.
Core Student Policies
- Orthodox Conduct: Students must maintain reverence, modesty, humility, and respectful speech consistent with Orthodox life.
- Participation in Formation: Students are expected to participate in prayer, worship, and discipline appropriate to their program.
- Respect for Authority: Students must respect clergy oversight, instructors, and institutional governance.
- Academic Integrity: All student work must be honest and original unless properly cited.
- Peace and Unity: Students must avoid scandal, division, harassment, and disruptive behavior.
Code of Student Conduct
The College expects students to live and study as Orthodox Christians. The following are examples of conduct that may lead to correction or disciplinary action, depending on severity:
- Dishonesty, cheating, plagiarism, or falsifying records
- Disrespect toward clergy, instructors, staff, or fellow students
- Harassment, threats, violence, or hateful speech
- Persistent disruptive behavior that harms the learning or worship environment
- Conduct that publicly brings scandal upon the institution or the Church
- Serious violation of Orthodox moral conduct expectations
Disciplinary response is guided by pastoral wisdom, Orthodox principles of repentance, and the goal of correction and restoration.
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is required in all coursework, written assignments, exams, and online learning. Students must:
- Submit original work unless collaboration is explicitly permitted
- Cite sources when using quotations, ideas, or research
- Avoid plagiarism, copying, or unauthorized use of materials
- Follow instructor directions for exams and assessments
Violations may result in academic penalties, course failure, suspension, or dismissal depending on severity and repetition.
Attendance & Participation
Regular participation is expected. Courses may require attendance in person or online sessions, completion of readings, and submission of assignments on time. Students who fall behind should communicate promptly with instructors.
- Attend required sessions (in-person or online)
- Participate respectfully in discussions
- Submit assignments by deadlines
- Maintain communication with instructors
Online Student Expectations
Online students are expected to maintain Orthodox discipline and remain connected to parish life whenever possible. Students must also uphold respectful communication in all online platforms and follow course rules regarding participation and assessments.
Discipline and Resolution Process
The College prefers pastoral correction and guidance. When discipline is necessary, the process may include:
- Pastoral warning or correction
- Written notice (when appropriate)
- Meeting with leadership (clergy oversight and/or administration)
- Academic or behavioral probation
- Suspension or dismissal (for serious or repeated violations)
The goal of discipline is repentance, restoration, and protection of the community in peace and reverence.
Student Records & Confidentiality
The College maintains student records for enrollment, grades, and program completion. Records are handled responsibly and shared only as needed for legitimate institutional purposes, with appropriate discretion.
Questions or Concerns
If you have questions about policies, student conduct, or academic expectations, contact the College office.