Missouri Baptist University is open to academically and morally qualified graduates of accredited secondary schools and students transferring from accredited colleges regardless of national origin, race, religious beliefs, gender, age, or qualified disability. Special criteria have been established to receive applications from students who have been home-schooled, have completed their GED® or HiSET®, or have graduated from a non-accredited high school. Special arrangements may also be made for students still in high school for dual enrollment.
Missouri Baptist University seeks applications from persons who have shown capacity for scholarship, initiative, a prevailing attitude of maturity, and who are motivated by ideals of service.
All prospective undergraduate students must file appropriate documents for admission with the Director of Admissions.
Necessary forms may be obtained from:
Director of Admissions
Missouri Baptist University
One College Park Drive
St. Louis, MO 63141-868698
Internet: www.mobap.edu
All undergraduate students who are (a) seeking to enroll in classes at Missouri Baptist University for the first time or (b) returning to Missouri Baptist University after having been absent the preceding semester (excluding Winterim or Summer Terms) must apply for admission under one of the following categories:
- Degree-Seeking Status
- Non-Degree-Seeking Status
- Provisional Status
Continuing students are those pursuing uninterrupted study at Missouri Baptist University after having been accepted for unconditional admission. An application for admission is not required for continuing students. Continuing students are not required to attend Winterim or Summer Terms to be classified as continuing.
First-time undergraduate students applying to Missouri Baptist University must have complete files and must have received official acceptance to the university prior to official enrollment in classes.
Procedures for Undergraduate Admission
Admission Procedures for Undergraduate Degree-Seeking Status
- First-Semester Freshmen
For regular admission to Missouri Baptist University, a first-semester freshman must be a graduate of an accredited high school, or equivalent, with a minimum of 24 units of credit including:
- English/Language Arts - 4 units
- Social Studies - 3 units
- Mathematics - 3 units
- Science - 3 units
- Fine Arts - 1 unit
- Additional Coursework - 3 units *
- Electives - 7 units **
*Missouri public high school students are required by the State Board of Education to complete units in practical arts (1), physical education (1), health education (1/2), and personal finance (1/2).
**All students should complete at least 3 elective units total in foreign language and/or other courses within high school core content areas defined below. Two units of a single foreign language are strongly recommended.
For each high school core content area, descriptions follow that provide illustrations of coursework acceptable and unacceptable for the high school core curriculum.
English/Language Arts
- English/language arts coursework (4 units) emphasizes college preparatory composition, research skills, analysis of literature, and other content of comparable or greater rigor. Speech and debate courses may be included.
- Coursework not acceptable for the high school core curriculum emphasizes student publications, broadcast media, or theater.
Social Studies
- Social studies coursework (3 units) emphasizes American history, Missouri government and Missouri history as required by state statute, geography/world civilizations, and other content of comparable or greater rigor.
- Coursework not acceptable for the high school core curriculum emphasizes family/human development or consumer education.
Mathematics
- Mathematics coursework (3 units) emphasizes college preparatory algebra and other content of comparable or greater rigor. Students who complete algebra prior to the freshman year would be expected to complete 3 additional units in grades 9-12.
- Coursework not acceptable for the high school core curriculum emphasizes pre-algebra, computer math/ programming, consumer/basic math, or business math/ accounting.
Science
- Science coursework (3 units) emphasizes college preparatory biology, chemistry, and other content of comparable or greater rigor. Science coursework should include at least one laboratory course.
- Coursework not acceptable for the high school core curriculum emphasizes general or consumer science.
Fine Arts
- Fine arts coursework (1 unit) emphasizes visual arts, instrumental or vocal music, dance, theater, or other content of comparable or greater rigor. Critical analysis, theory, or “appreciation” courses may be included.
- Coursework not acceptable for the high school core curriculum emphasizes speech, debate, or broadcast media.
First-time freshmen must submit or arrange:
- Application for admission.
- Official high school transcript with seal, received only by mail from the high school office (hand carried transcripts or transcripts mailed by the student will not be accepted as OFFICIAL). MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to recordsoffice@mobap.edu.Sixth and seventh semester high school transcripts will be accepted for admission consideration pending receipt of a final (eighth semester) transcript immediately following graduation. The final transcript must reflect senior year credits, cumulative grade point average of at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, final rank in the upper 50 percent of the graduating class, and date of graduation.
NOTE: Students not ranking in the upper half of their class may be admitted on a probationary basis.
Students may submit a GED® or HiSET® score in lieu of high school transcripts. Home-schooled students must submit a transcript outlining completion of required secondary level coursework as outlined above.
- American College Testing Program (ACT) and/or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) examination score(s). A minimum score of 20 is required on the ACT and/or a minimum score of 1030 on the SAT. MBU’s ACT code is 2323 and SAT code is 2258.
NOTE: Students not achieving the minimum score for regular admission may be admitted on a probationary basis.
- Ensure that the recommendation form is completed and returned (this form is included in the application for admission).
- Missouri Baptist University requires that proof of health insurance and immunization record for resident students be filed in the Residence Life Office. The record should include measles/mumps/rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis B, and a tuberculosis test. This may also include any Federal mandated vaccine. The meningococcal (meningitis) and varicella (chicken pox) vaccines are strongly recommended for students living in the residence halls, but are not required. Resident students electing not to receive the meningitis vaccination will be required to sign a waiver. It is also recommended that non-residents complete this file.
- Any other specific health needs should be included in case of an emergency. It is recommended that non-resident students also complete this file.
Students may request that appropriate health records, including immunization records, be sent from their high school records office to Missouri Baptist University.
- A completed and returned housing contract (RESIDENT STUDENTS ONLY) with a housing deposit. A room will not be reserved without receipt of the housing contract and deposit.
- A campus visit with your Admissions Counselor.
- Students who have taken courses for college credit while in high school (dual enrollment) must submit official transcripts, sent by mail from the college at which the credit was earned, prior to the beginning of their first semester in order to avoid repeating any classes. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to recordsoffice@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted. Students who have taken the Advanced Placement (AP) examination for college credit must also submit their scores at the time application is made in order to receive credit and to avoid repeating any classes for which credit may have been earned. (See catalog section on Advanced Standing.)
- A deposit of $200.00 will be required upon acceptance. For fall enrollment, the $200.00 deposit is non-refundable after May 1 prior to the semester of enrollment. For spring enrollment, the $200 is non-refundable after December 1 prior to the semester of enrollment.
- Undergraduate Transfer Students
A maximum of 70 hours of credit from a community college or other two-year school is acceptable in transfer with exceptions as stipulated under current articulation agreements. See the catalog section on Advanced Standing for more information.
A student under suspension from another institution is not eligible for admission to Missouri Baptist University.
A transfer student must submit or arrange:
- Application for admission.
- Official transcripts from ALL colleges, universities, and post-secondary schools. Failure to disclose ALL previously attended schools may be deemed as falsification of information on the application and may make the student ineligible for admission or subject to separation from the university if disclosed after enrollment at MBU.
An applicant is never permitted to disregard his/her record of any previous enrollment at another postsecondary institution.
Students applying for federal financial aid including grants and loans must also submit an official high school transcript, GED®, or HiSET®.
Students must submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationall accredited college, universary, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Admissions Office will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to recordsoffice@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted.
If the student is currently enrolled at another college, a preliminary transcript must be sent for admission consideration. A final transcript must be submitted immediately upon completion of the coursework.
A student must have earned/completed 12 or more hours of non-remedial and/or non-development coursework with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, indicating satisfactory progress toward a degree. Students not meeting this standard will be required to meet Freshman entrance requirements.
If less than twelve credit hours of college work are being transferred, the student is required to submit an official copy of his/her high school transcript. The final high school transcript must reflect senior year credits, cumulative grade point average, final class rank, and date of graduation.
- Students seeking to receive credit by examination (CLEP, DSST, AP, etc.) must submit score reports at the time application is made. Original score reports are required for the awarding of credit. (See catalog section on Advanced Standing.)
- American College Testing Program (ACT) and/or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) examination scores are required of transfer students for admission to certain academic programs, such as Teacher Education.
- Ensure that the recommendation form is completed and returned (this form is included in the application for admission).
- Missouri Baptist University requires that proof of health insurance and immunization record for resident students be filed in the Residence Life Office. The record should include measles/mumps/rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis B, and a tuberculosis test. This may also include any Federal mandated vaccine. The meningococcal (meningitis) and varicella (chicken pox) vaccines are strongly recommended for students living in the residence halls, but are not required. Resident students electing not to receive the meningitis vaccination will be required to sign a waiver. It is also recommended that non-residents complete this file.
- A completed and returned housing contract (RESIDENT STUDENTS ONLY) with a housing deposit. A room will not be reserved without receipt of the housing contract and deposit.
- A campus visit with your Admissions Counselor.
- A transfer student with junior standing (at least 60 credit hours or above) must file a graduation application with the Director of Records during the first semester of enrollment at Missouri Baptist University as notice of intent to graduate and complete a graduation check appointment with the Director of Records. Transfer of credit is evaluated on an individual course basis, except as indicated for students transferring under current articulation agreements.
- Readmit Students
Undergraduate readmit students are students returning to Missouri Baptist University after having been absent the preceding semester (excluding Winterim or Summer Terms).
Readmit students must submit:
- Application for admission.
- Official transcripts from ALL colleges, universities, and post-secondary schools attended since the last semester of enrollment at Missouri Baptist University. If the student is currently enrolled at another college, a preliminary transcript must be sent for readmission consideration. A final transcript must be submitted immediately upon completion of the coursework. Students must submit official transcripts mailed directly from each regionally or nationall accredited college, universary, or other post-secondary institution attended. This includes original transcripts for any course accepted as transfer credit on another institution’s transcript. Only transcripts mailed directly to Missouri Baptist University Admissions Office will be accepted as official copies. MBU also accepts electronic transcripts from the following services: Parchment, E-Script, and National Clearing House. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to recordsoffice@mobap.edu. Hand carried transcripts, faxed transcripts, and transcripts “Issued to Student” will not be accepted.
- Missouri Baptist University requires that proof of health insurance and immunization record for resident students be filed in the Residence Life Office. The record should include measles/mumps/rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, polio, hepatitis B, and a tuberculosis test. This may also include any Federal mandated vaccine. The meningococcal (meningitis) and varicella (chicken pox) vaccines are strongly recommended for students living in the residence halls, but are not required. Resident Students electing not to receive the meningitis vaccination will be required to sign a waiver. It is also recommended that non-residents complete this file.
Students may request that appropriate health records, including immunization records, be sent from their high school records office to Missouri Baptist University.
4. A completed and returned housing contract (RESIDENT STUDENTS ONLY) with a housing deposit. A room will not be reserved without receipt of the housing contract and deposit.
5. A written petition to the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs requesting permission to enroll if the student’s last enrollment at MBU reflects an “academic suspension” status.
Admission Procedures for Undergraduate Non-Degree Seeking Status*
Undergraduate students who have elected not to pursue a degree, or who are not presently eligible to seek a degree, may apply for admission to Missouri Baptist University by submitting the following information as applies to their particular circumstance:
- Visiting students, who are currently attending another institution, and are taking classes at Missouri Baptist University to transfer back to their institution, must submit:
- A non-degree seeking application.
- A letter of good standing from the institution at which they are pursuing a degree. This statement must be on file within two weeks after the beginning of classes or the student may be administratively withdrawn from Missouri Baptist University.
- Students who will be relocating before they can complete a degree, or adult students who wish to register for classes and have no interest in pursuing a degree, must submit:
- A non-degree seeking application.
- High School Dual Enrollment on Campus:
- Complete and submit an application for admission.
- An up-to-date transcript showing courses completed in the home school or Christian high school curriculum and listing grades for those courses.
- ACT/SAT composite score (although this is not a requirement for admission, it does help with course placement).
- Students must arrange a campus visit with the Office of Admissions. Call 314-392-2290 to register for classes.
Students who have been admitted on a non-degree seeking basis and who wish to change to a degree seeking status must submit all documents required as previously outlined, including a degree seeking application.
NOTE: Financial aid may be available on a limited basis to non-degree seeking students. Please see the catalog section on Financial Support or contact the Student Financial Services Office.
*Although official transcripts are not required for admission, a transcript (official or unofficial) may be needed to document that prerequisites have been met before registering for certain courses.
Admission Procedures for Undergraduate Probationary Admission
Undergraduate students who do not meet admission requirements may be admitted on a probationary basis. These students may be freshmen or transfers. Students admitted under this provision must submit all documents required for regular admission. In addition, they must submit a letter to the Admissions Committee requesting probationary admission.
Students admitted on probation will be limited to 12 credit hours per semester, with the exception of those taking a laboratory science, enrolled in Collegiate Seminar, or participating in varsity athletics, who may be allowed to enroll for up to 13 credit hours. Students on probationary admission are required to show academic progress by achieving a minimum of a 2.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale by the end of their first semester. Students who achieve a 2.0 or better will have their academic status changed to good standing. Students who fail to achieve a 2.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale will be placed on academic probation. See catalog section on Academic Probation and Suspension .
Admission Procedures for Undergraduate International Students
A SEVIS Form I-20 will not be issued until a prospective international student has submitted all required documents, the Admissions Committee has reviewed the file, and official acceptance has been achieved. The following documents must be submitted for admission consideration:
- Fully complete and signed Application for Admission.
- All transcripts, academic records, diplomas, exams, etc… required for graduation from your secondary school sent directly to MBU by the school, examination body or other specified entity. All documents must be mailed, scanned or faxed documents will not be accepted for admission. Required documents will be specifically required depending on the student’s country of origin. All records must be sent in native language and English. If the school cannot provide an English translation the student must provide a certified English translation. All translations must be literal, word for word translations. All documents will be evaluated by ISS based on a standard 4.0 scale. A 2.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale is required for admission.
Exceptions: Education USA verification will also be accepted as official in countries where additional transcripts are not released by the school. Copies of the original must be front and back, clearly legible, color copies.
Sixth and seventh semester high school transcripts will be accepted for admission consideration pending receipt of final (eighth semester/or final semester) transcript immediately following graduation.
- Evidence of English proficiency. This is determined by one of the following tests. Official, original results are required. Copies of test results cannot be used for admission.
| IELTS |
6.5* |
| PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic) |
58* |
| TOEFL- Internet-based (MBU code: 2717) |
80* |
| TOEFL-Computer based (MBU code: 2717) |
213* |
| TOEFL- Paper-based (MBU code: 2717) |
550* |
| ELS (English for Academic Purposes) |
Completed Level 112 |
| SAT (MBU code 2258) |
430 writing/450 critical reading* |
| ACT (MBU code 2323) |
19 reading score/20 English/Writing* |
*Minimum Score
Note: Students from the following countries who have completed high school or secondary school are not required to prove English Proficiency: Australia, Belize, Canada (except Quebec), the Fiji Islands, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Uganda, United Kingdom, Zimbabwe and English speaking countries in the Caribbean upon approval by the Director of International Student Services.
An English Proficiency Exam may be waived at the discretion of the Director of International Student Services if a student has completed at least 24 university level credit hours at another U.S. college or university with the minimum GPA of a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. ESL/ELS/EIEP classes or any other remedial courses, even if taken in a university setting, will not be accepted toward the English Proficiency waiver. A waiver cannot be considered until official transcripts are submitted.
ELS Level 112 may be used as proof of English Proficiency. A copy of the completion certificate is needed for admission.
Students who attended a High School in the U.S. may be waived from the English Proficiency requirement if they have completed at least two years in the U.S. and have a minimum of a 2.0 CGPA.
- Official, original results from American College Testing Program (ACT) and/or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). MBU’s ACT code is 2323. MBU’s SAT code is 2258. SAT and/ or ACT scores are not required for acceptance to MBU as an international applicant. However, they are used when evaluating scholarship eligibility.
A minimum SAT Critical Reading score of 450 and Writing score of 430 OR an ACT English/Writing score of 18 or above and Reading Score of 19 or above may be used in place of the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE to prove English proficiency.
- One letter of recommendation. Original may be sent by applicant, or reference may email scanned form or letter directly to ISS.
- Signed and dated Financial Estimate Worksheet.
- Proof of financial ability to support himself/herself while attending MBU. This proof must be in the form of:
- An original bank statement, savings account statement, or bank letter in English no more than two months old showing the current balance at the time of print. If bank statements are in a language other than English a certified translation must accompany the financial document.
- An affidavit of support from a sponsor defining the exact amount of available funds designated to the student, guaranteeing support of student at the specified amount throughout course of study at MBU, and the period of time for which support is pledged. This requirement is waived if the student is providing proof of his/her own personal funds in sufficient amounts to cover all expenses in the bank statement as outlined in (a); AND
- The complete name, physical address, phone number and email address of the student’s financial sponsor.
- Transcripts from all foreign universities must be submitted to one of three foreign credential evaluation agencies:
AACRAO Foreign Credential Services
International Education Services
One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite #520
Washington, D.C. 20036-1135
Tel: 202/293-9161 Fax: 202/872-8857
oies@aacrao.org
http://www.aacrao.org
Educational Credential Evaluators**
PO Box 514070
Milwaukee WI 53203-3470, USA
Tel: 414/289-3400 Fax: 414/289-3411
eval@ece.org
http://www.ece.org
World Education Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 5087
Bowling Green Station
New York, NY 10274-5087, USA
Tel: 212/966-6311 Fax: 212/739-6120
info@wes.org
http://www.wes.org
** Students seeking teaching certification should NOT use ECE, Inc. This agency is not approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. For DESE approved evaluation agencies, see the Education section of the catalog.
The results from the evaluation must be mailed to Missouri Baptist University. Unless an applicant selects an express processing and delivery method, this process typically takes 21 to 35 days.
There is a fee for this evaluation. Students may obtain an application for evaluation of transcripts by contacting any of the services listed above or through the Missouri Baptist University Office of International Student Services, (314) 744- 5301. Copies of transcripts, the application, and the fee must be submitted to the above address. If required, this request must be made immediately after application for admission to Missouri Baptist University so that results will be received in time for registration.
Upon receipt of the evaluation of foreign transcripts, Missouri Baptist University will determine whether credits may be applied toward a degree. If it is determined that the student has earned less than 12 hours of academic credit in comparison to the American college and university system, the student will be required to meet the admissions criteria for a First-time International Freshman.
Students must adhere to the above procedures in order to receive credit for previous college work.
- International Student Health Insurance Plan: By university policy, all F-1 international students are required to have health insurance, and students are automatically enrolled in the International Student Health Plan when they enroll in classes at MBU. Regardless of the number of credit hours being taken, enrolled international students must participate in the International Student Health Plan.
If a student arrives with sufficient coverage provided through a parent’s policy, through his/her home country’s government or through a spouse who is living or working in the U.S., the student may request a waiver of the university’s health insurance policy. The student must complete a Waiver Request form and submit it along with proof of insurance coverage (valid insurance card and complete coverage information in English) to the Office of International Student Services when the student first arrives on campus. This information must be submitted by the end of the first week of classes or the student’s account will be automatically billed for health insurance. Completion of the waiver is NOT a guarantee of waiver’s approval.
The student health policy year is from the first day of Fall term classes through the day before the following Fall term begins. Benefits include prescription drug discounts, outpatient and inpatient care up to policy limits, free visits to any TakeCare clinics, and many other things.
The plan can be viewed online at www.lewermark.com. Once at www.lewermark.com, click on “International” in the middle of the page, then click on “LewerMark Co-Pay Plans” and review the information presented in the middle column (“LM100C LewerMark 100 Copay”). There are some items that are NOT covered by the policy and ALL STUDENTS are strongly encouraged to READ THE ENTIRE POLICY. For exclusions of the plan, click on “Plan Exclusions” at the bottom of the page. The link to the complete policy for MBU international students is http://www.lewermark.com/mobap.
For additional questions, please contact The Lewer Agency of Kansas City at 800-821-7710 or the Office of International Student Services at 314-744-5301.
- A $200 admissions deposit. This deposit is required upon acceptance and must be paid before enrollment and before the New Student Packet, which includes the I-20, can be sent. It will be applied to first semester tuition and fees. If the student chooses to attend another institution after paying the deposit, the amount may be refunded minus an administrative withdrawal fee. The fee is refundable before May 1st for Fall applicants and before October 1st for Spring applicants depending upon the form of payment.
- For students outside the U.S., copies of the following items are not required for admissions but before the new student packet can be sent: copy of the passport biographical page(s).
For students within the U.S., copies of the following items are not required for admissions but before the new student packet can be sent: passport, copy of visa or USCIS approval notice, I-94 and I-20.
Enrollment Procedures for Undergraduate International Students
- Per immigration law, international students in F-1 or J-1 status must be enrolled a minimum of 12 credit hours (undergraduate) and 6 credit hours (graduate) in the Fall and Spring semesters to maintain their visa status. Immigration allows less than full-time enrollment in certain circumstances, such as final semester of study or documented medical illness. For a full listing of reasons, please contact the Office of International Student Services. If the student will not be enrolled full-time, he or she must receive permission from International Services prior to registering for less than a full course load or prior to dropping below a full course load.
- Only three (3) credit hours of distance learning (online) courses may be counted towards the minimum full-time enrollment requirement. If a student is registered for more than the minimum enrollment requirements, then that student may enroll in more than three credit hours of distance learning. For example, an undergraduate student enrolled in fifteen (15) total credit hours may take up to six (6) credit hours of online courses.
- Students in their final semester of study may not enroll in only online course(s). This prohibition includes the summer semester if summer is the student’s final semester.
- Per immigration law, F-1 students must attend the college/ university and campus listed on their current I-20 (immigration document). Most F-1 students will have immigration documents that list the Main (West County) campus as the campus of attendance. Only MEA and Ed.S. students will be admitted to complete their degree programs at a Regional Learning Center.
- Only five MBU Regional Learning Centers have been approved by the Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor program to have international students. These are MBU-Troy/Wentzville, MBU at Jefferson College, MBU in Arnold, and MBU in Union. International students must have prior approval from the Office of International Students to take courses at these locations.
- International students in other visa or immigration statuses are not subject to the same restrictions as F-1 and J-1 students. International students who are subject to the above requirements will have an alert in CAMS under the FERPA Warning section as International.
General Information for All Undergraduate Applicants
Notification of Acceptance
The file of an applicant is presented to the Admissions Committee for review upon receipt of all required documents. Upon approval by the Committee, a formal notice of acceptance will be mailed to the student. A deposit of $200.00 will be required upon acceptance for first-time freshmen. The $200.00 deposit is nonrefundable after the May 1 prior to the semester of enrollment.
Suspension from Other Institutions
Students under suspension from another institution are not eligible for admission to Missouri Baptist University.
Suspension from MBU
Students applying for readmission who show an “academic suspension” status from their previous enrollment at MBU must petition the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs in writing for permission to enroll.
Financial Assistance
NOTE: Financial aid may be available on a limited basis to non-degree seeking students. Please see the section on Financial Support or contact the Student Financial Services Office.
Falsification of Information
Any student failing to provide complete and accurate information on all documents, including Resident Life documents, submitted for admission consideration, or in an attempt to qualify for institutional or federal aid, may be declared ineligible for admission. Falsification on admission or financial aid documents may result in separation from the university if discovered after enrollment at MBU.
Policy for Applicants and Students with Criminal Backgrounds
Applicants and students must disclose criminal convictions and adjudications, as well as pending criminal charges, on their application for admission. Those who disclose this information will be given the opportunity to provide a written narrative that should include the approximate date of each incident, explain the circumstances, and reflect on what the applicant or student has learned from the experience, and why the applicant should be admitted to the University.
Applicants and students disclosing criminal convictions and adjudications or pending criminal charges on their applications for admission will be subject to a criminal background check conducted by the University’s Public Safety department. After receiving the results of the background check, the University will contact the applicant or student and give them opportunity to provide the written narrative described above. The student or applicant should provide this narrative directly to the Chairman of the Admissions Review Committee. The Admissions Review Committee will review all relevant information regarding the application and make an admissions decision. The University will notify the applicant or student of the admissions decision. The Committee’s decision is final.
Failure to provide accurate and complete information during the admissions process will subject the applicant or student to discipline and sanctions, up to, and potentially including, immediate dismissal from the University. The University will not provide tuition or fee refunds to students who do not, in the University’s sole judgment, accurately and completely disclose the required information during the admissions process.
Applicants and students should also be aware that those who are pursuing degrees leading to application for professional licensure or certification, and/or who will be participating in clinical placements, internships, or practica through their University program may be required to submit to a criminal background check, finger printing, or drug screening by their host facility or accrediting body. In such situations, students may be responsible for obtaining and paying for the background check or other screening process and for delivering required documentation to the facility. It will be up to the host facility to determine whether a student will be allowed to work at that facility. Students should further be aware that a criminal record may jeopardize licensure by the State certification body. Students may consult the certification body corresponding to their intended occupation for more details. Successful completion of a program of study at the University does not guarantee licensure, certification, or employment.
Denial of Admission
Missouri Baptist University reserves the right to restrict or deny admission to any person otherwise eligible for reasons determined to be in the best interest of the institution by the officers thereof. The University also reserves the right to revoke an offer of admission to any student with a documented disability for which the University is not able to provide reasonable accommodation. These reserved rights shall be administered in a manner strictly consistent with state and federal non-discrimination laws.
Advanced Standing
- The following regulations apply in evaluating the work of students who are transferring from other institutions:
- All college level courses taken at a regionally accredited four year college or university, and carrying a passing grade, are acceptable in transfer. A maximum of 70 hours of credit for courses with passing grades from a regionally accredited two-year college is acceptable in transfer with exceptions as stipulated under current articulation agreements. It is understood that every student must satisfy all general education, degree, major, and graduation requirements at Missouri Baptist University, which may result in graduating with more than 128 hours.
- All credits, including general education and Bible courses, from Bible colleges accredited by the American Association of Bible Colleges, which is the accrediting agency for Bible colleges recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), are evaluated on an individual course basis in keeping with whether or not the course would be appropriate to apply toward a liberal arts program at Missouri Baptist University. The University will accept up to six courses of Southern Baptist Seminary Extension credit, which may be applied toward a major in Religion, the general education program or degree requirements.
- Students may have other previous learning experiences, such as corporate or military training, evaluated for credit. Official transcripts and other documentation of previous study should be submitted to the Admissions Office at the time of application. Credit will be evaluated on an individual basis for degree applicability at Missouri Baptist University based on credit recommendations and guidelines established by the American Council on Education (ACE). Credit may be applied only once and cannot duplicate credit previously or subsequently earned.
- Coursework completed at colleges/universities or other postsecondary institutions, which are not regionally accredited, but which are accredited by a body recognized by CHEA, may be evaluated on an individual basis in keeping with whether or not the course would be appropriate to apply toward a liberal arts program at Missouri Baptist University.
The University only recognizes institutions accredited by the current edition of Accredited Institutions of Postsecondary Education published by the CHEA and the American Council on Education.
- Credit from unaccredited colleges/universities or other postsecondary institutions will be evaluated for acceptance as follows:
- On the basis of a written articulation agreement having been established between the school in question and Missouri Baptist University; or
- Using Transfer Credit Practices of Educational Institutions published by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), which specifies the manner in which each college’s credit is received by institutions within the same state.
Students should understand that acceptance of such courses by Missouri Baptist University does not guarantee or even imply that they will be accepted by other institutions which the student might attend in the future. The policies of institutions regarding acceptance of unaccredited transfer work vary widely.
Students may receive credit for unaccredited courses not accepted based on the above criteria through credit by examination, through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), DSSTs, or through college developed and administered Challenge Tests. All hours received through credit by examination are subject to the restrictions imposed by current academic policies as stated below.
- Professional education courses cannot be transferred from four year colleges or universities which do not have state approved teacher education programs. Professional education courses will be accepted from two year colleges only if the courses are state approved.
- Transfer credit from foreign institutions must be forwarded to an outside agency for evaluation and credit recommendations. Students should contact the Office of International Student Services concerning procedures.
- In accordance with guidelines established by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education (CBHE) of the State of Missouri regarding articulation and the transfer of credit, most recently revised in October 2005, Missouri Baptist University grants junior standing to students transferring to the University with an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree (earned after October 1987) or an Associate of Arts in Teaching (A.A.T.) degree from Missouri and Illinois institutions which are in compliance with CBHE general education requirements. This signifies that the lower division general education requirements for a degree at Missouri Baptist University have been satisfied by completion of the A.A. or A.A.T. degree. Students transferring without an A.A. or A.A.T. degree, or with an Associate of Arts degree which does not meet the above stipulations, are not automatically granted junior standing, and may be required to take additional general education courses. A student transferring to Missouri Baptist University from a Missouri or Illinois institution who has not completed an A.A. or A.A.T. degree, but who have completed the 42-credit hour General Education curriculum block prescribed by CBHE, shall be deemed to have completed all General Education requirements of Missouri Baptist University. All students must complete all major and specific degree program requirements beyond the general education requirements (see the sections on General Education Requirements and Degree Requirements for additional information).
- Missouri Baptist University accepts Core 42 from Missouri institutions to complete the general education requirements, as well as MOTR numbered courses as a one-to-one equivalence when the entire Core 42 is not completed.
- Advanced standing on the basis of examination:
- Credit is granted to students who have taken College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or DSST tests and have scores at or above the American Council on Education (ACE) mean score. Credit is granted only for those areas that apply to the curriculum being pursued at Missouri Baptist University. CLEP and DSST examinations may be taken for either of two purposes:
- For waiver of requirements. (In this case, the course will not apply toward graduation except, if the course is a graduation requirement, that requirement will be removed. A grade of WV (Waiver) will be assigned and the course will appear on the transcript, but not as earned hours.)
- For University credit, the following stipulations will apply:
- A student enrolled at Missouri Baptist University must seek guidance from the Records Office before attempting to earn credit by CLEP or DSST.
- If a student chooses to receive credit for the CLEP or DSST exam, the per semester hour cost is listed in the Semester Expenses section of this catalog.
- A grade of CR (Credit) will be assigned in accordance with the uniform standards recommended by ACE. No credit will be awarded for any score below the recommended minimum.
- There will be no CLEP or DSST exam accepted for ENGL 123 - English Composition II .
- For a current list of course equivalencies for CLEP or DSST exams, contact the Director of Records.
The Academic Success Center of Missouri Baptist University is a testing site for DSST. While CLEP scores are accepted for credit at MBU, the University is not a testing site for CLEP. Information on DSST exams can be obtained through http://www.getcollegecredit.com. Information on CLEP exams can be obtained through http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/clep/about.html.
- Credit is granted to students who have taken Excelsior College Examinations and have scores at or above the passing score recommended by the American Council of Education (ACE). Credit is granted only for those areas that apply to the curriculum being pursued at Missouri Baptist University.
- Students who successfully complete college level courses while in high school may be eligible for advanced standing through the Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations from College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) administered by the Educational Testing Service of Princeton, New Jersey. Credit will be granted in the appropriate academic discipline for scores of 3, 4, or 5. However, there will be no AP exam credit awarded for ENGL 123 - English Composition II . The results of these tests should be sent to the Admissions Office at the time of application. For a current list of course equivalencies and credit awarded for AP exams, contact the Director of Records.
- Students enrolled in an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program while in high school or secondary school may be eligible to receive credit through International Baccalaureate Examinations. Credit will be granted in the appropriate academic discipline for scores of 5 or better for Standard Level (SL) Examinations or scores of 4 or better on Higher Level (HL) Examinations. However, there will be no IB exam credit awarded for ENGL 123 - English Composition II . Official examination results should be sent directly to the University from International Baccalaureate at the time of application. For a current list of course equivalencies and credit awarded for IB Examinations, contact the Records Office.
- Advanced standing on the basis of ACT/SAT scores: An ACT score of 28 or higher on the English section of the test (including both Usage/Mechanics and Rhetorical Skills) will be accepted for credit as ENGL 113 English Composition I. (A comparable score on the Verbal section of the SAT will also be accepted for credit as ENGL 113.) An ACT/SAT score at the 95th percentile or better on the Mathematics section of the test (including Pre-Algebra/ Elementary Algebra, Algebra/Coordinate Geometry, and Plane Geometry/Trigonometry) will be accepted for credit as MATH 155 Precalculus. If a student chooses to receive credit, a grade of CR will be awarded (i.e. no letter grade is assigned). Cost is listed in the current Course Schedule. If the student chooses to waive the requirement but not receive credit, the course will appear on the transcript with a grade of WV (Waiver).
- Challenge Tests developed by Missouri Baptist University faculty are available in a number of subject areas. They are designed to validate knowledge acquired through work or other non-traditional learning experiences. These are administered by individual faculty members.
Evaluation of Challenge Tests will result in either credit awarded or no credit (i.e., no letter grade is assigned). To receive credit, a minimum score of 70% or C is required. No credit will be awarded for any score below the recommended minimum. A credit-by examination fee, in addition to a test administration fee, is assessed in order to receive academic credit for a challenge test on the transcript. Students seeking to demonstrate competency in computer literacy, who have achieved a passing score on the Challenge Test, may opt for a waiver of the requirement, in which case the course will appear on the transcript with a grade of WV (Waiver), no credit will be awarded, and only the test administration fee will be assessed. The approval of the Division Chair is required before a Challenge Test for credit or waiver is transcripted. All students must pay the test administration fee whether or not credit is awarded. These fees are listed in the current Course Schedule.
- Since credits earned via examination do not represent enrolled hours, they are considered non-term and are not covered by financial aid, either institutional or federal. As non-term hours, challenge tests are listed separately from any standard term on the transcript. They are included in the calculation of earned hours, but may not be included in determining academic honors for the Fall or Spring semesters. Hours earned on the basis of credit by examination may not be applied toward the residency requirements for graduation from Missouri Baptist University.
- There will be no challenge test permitted for ENGL 123 - English Composition II .
- Portfolio assessment of prior learning is available to adult students, defined as individuals who have been out of high school at least five years and in the workplace, or whose education has otherwise been interrupted, before enrolling at MBU in any degree program. Only non-traditional students with extensive prior learning experiences will be eligible to apply for credit through portfolio.
The Academic Affairs Office, working with the division chairs/deans, oversees portfolio assessment of prior learning. Evaluation of portfolios will result in either credit awarded or no credit (i.e., no letter grade is assigned). Any credit awarded will be designated as credit for prior learning on the student’s transcript. There is an evaluation fee based on the number of credit hours for which the student is petitioning. A transcription fee is assessed for the transcription of credit awarded through portfolio assessment. Current fees are listed in the University Fees and Financial Information section of this catalog. Students earning credit for prior learning through portfolio will be required to meet the 24 credit hour residency requirement before the credit will be transcripted.
- A combined maximum of 45 credit hours may be accepted toward a degree program at Missouri Baptist University by examination (including CLEP, DSST, AP, IB, ACT/SAT, and Challenge Tests), by portfolio assessment of prior learning, by correspondence work, and/or by extension work that has been taken at an accredited college or university. No single source may account for more than 30 of the 45 credit hours. Advanced standing at Missouri Baptist University from these four sources is judged for appropriateness by the Senior VicePresident for Academic Affairs on an individual basis. Hours earned on the basis of credit by examination or by portfolioassessment of prior learning may not be applied toward the residency requirements for graduation at Missouri Baptist University.
- Missouri Baptist University accepts in transfer college credit earned through high school dual enrollment programs such as Saint Louis University’s 1-8-1-8. The University does not limit the number of dual credit courses or credit hours accepted. Courses are evaluated on a course-by-course basis for equivalency with courses in the Missouri Baptist University curriculum.
Credit earned through MBU’s EXCEL program (dual credit), MBU Achieve, EXCEL Online, or home school on campus (dual enrollment), is considered as regular earned hours and does not need to be evaluated for transfer.
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