ONLINE STUDENT HANDBOOK
MISSION STATEMENT
Blue Mountain College is a Christian institution of higher learning that assists students in developing intellectual integrity, academic excellence, civility, and character
ACCREDITATION
Blue Mountain Christian University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Blue Mountain Christian University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Blue Mountain Christian University is accredited or approved by the following:
- Mississippi Commission on College Accreditation
- Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning
- Commission on Teacher and Administrator Licensure and Certification and Development
- Mississippi Department of Education
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Blue Mountain Christian University does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, or ethnic group in the education programs and activities which it operates according to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Public Law 92-318. Nor does the University discriminate against qualified handicapped persons, according to the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Public Law 93-112. This policy extends to both employment and admission to the University. Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 “religious organizations” and “religious educational institutions” are exempt from religious discrimination provisions. Blue Mountain Christian University is both a “religious organization” and a “religious educational institution.”
The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies:
Provost/Vice President
P. O. Box 160, Blue Mountain, MS 38610
(662)685-4771, Ext. 136
senzor@bmc.edu
BMCU Online Campus
Learn the BMCU story. Check out the STUDENT section of our website. Get connected with BMCU. Access to all information related to distance learning is found on the BMCU web site at https://bmc.edu.
Once you’ve decided BMCU is right for you, go ahead and apply online. As you review costs and financial aid, remember we’re here to help.
Transfer and international students, we have plenty of resources for you as well. Whether you are a student, parent, counselor, or teacher, feel free to call us with any questions you may have at 800.235.0136.
Admissions Requirements
The Blue Mountain Christian University Admissions and Academic Standards Committee admits students based on the applicant's high school or college record and ACT or SAT scores. The Committee seeks to select students who are committed to scholarship, servant leadership, and service in church and community and who would contribute to the life of a Christian college community.
As a private educational institution, however, Blue Mountain Christian University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant whose academic preparation, character, or personal conduct is determined to be inconsistent with the purposes and objectives of the University.
The purpose of the admission process is to identify applicants who are likely to succeed academically at Blue Mountain Christian University and at the same time contribute positively to the campus community.
General Admissions Policy
The Blue Mountain Christian University Admissions and Academic Standards Committee monitors the implementation of admissions policy and procedures. The Vice President for Enrollment Services makes decisions regarding admission based upon these policies and procedures.
Admission to Blue Mountain Christian University is based on the high school or university record, and ACT or SAT scores. Students given provisional admission will have three weeks to submit all required documents to finalize and complete the admission requirements. Failure to complete the admissions process will result in being withdrawn from classes.
All applicants to Blue Mountain Christian University must complete an application for admission which may be submitted as early as the junior year. Any applicant not in continuous enrollment at BMCU must submit an application for readmission to the University.
An application for admission will be voided if the applicant does not properly disclose information or if the applicant misrepresents information relevant to institutions previously attended.
Policies concerning course registration, withdrawal, satisfactory progress, grading and other academic matters apply to online programs.
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Blue Mountain Christian University respects the integrity and maturity of each one of its students. Rules and regulations are adopted to facilitate group living and are not intended to inhibit individual growth and development. As students bring to the University certain expectations concerning college life, the University expects of its students a level of conduct in keeping the Christian mission of the Institution. Certain activities, therefore, are considered undesirable and are not in keeping with the atmosphere of a Christian educational environment. Included are disorderly conduct, possession and/or use of firearms, possession and/or use of alcohol, possession and/or use of illegal drugs, use of tobacco, gambling, cursing, and other conduct not in keeping with the standards and principles of Blue Mountain Christian University. All policies regarding student life may be found in the “Student Life” section on the BMCU Website.
Blue Mountain Christian University seeks three sources of authority, in light of the University mission, for the behavioral expectations it places on students:
Scripture: What does the Bible have to say about behavioral expectations?
Legal authority: Local, State, and Federal laws
Baptist Life and Christian Heritage: The life-style issues, roots, and values of evangelical Christians who find their authority in God’s Word and have stressed the need for a personal, redemptive faith in Jesus Christ.
The behavioral standards of Blue Mountain Christian University are based on these three sources. As is the case with all communities, reasonable expectations (rules and regulations) are identified which contribute to the common good of the community. Being a contributing member of a community requires that selfish individualism must give way to what is best for a caring, just, and orderly community. As a community, we continue to be committed to the Christian values on which Blue Mountain Christian University was founded.
Academic Honesty and Integrity
Policy 2.29:
Students enrolled in distance education courses are subject to the same University policies and procedures applicable to students attending courses on campus. Academic standards regarding cheating, plagiarism, and appropriate behavior will be clearly communicated to students in distance learning courses and programs. Distance Education courses may require use of a secure lockdown browser to ensure academic honesty and integrity. In addition, all online courses are required to have the final examination video proctored online.
Policy 2.19 Academic Honesty and Integrity
The Mission of Blue Mountain Christian University makes it clear that the University exists to contribute to the growth and development of human beings who understand their lives in terms of Christian responsibility and service. Each professor must take precautions to protect the honest student by making every effort to assure conditions of honesty for all course requirements, including examinations and outside assignments. This does not, however, diminish in any way the student’s ultimate responsibility for observing the principles of academic integrity in all aspects of their conduct. In keeping with the high ideals reflected in its mission, Blue Mountain Christian University expects its students to be scrupulously honest. The University’s commitment to honesty and fairness in academics is given expression in this policy.
1. Definition of Terms
A. Cheating
1) Cheating on examinations shall include (but not be limited to): (a) taking answers from another student’s paper or allowing answers to be taken from one’s own paper during an examination or quiz; (b) the use of notes or any other aid not specifically allowed or approved by the instructor; (c) unauthorized access to an un-administered examination or quiz; (d) collaboration on take-home examinations unless specifically approved by the instructor.
2) Cheating on course assignments shall include (but not be limited to): (a) receiving editorial assistance beyond that expressly allowed by the instructor; (b) collaborating with another person in the preparation of any assignment offered for credit when such collaboration is prohibited by the instructor; (c) submitting the same work for credit in more than one course, regardless of whether or not such submission occurs within the same term. An exception may be granted if the student receives written permission in advance from his/her instructor(s).
B. Plagiarism
No student shall submit as his or her own work any term paper, research paper or other academic assignment of original work that in any part is not in fact his/her own work. Knowingly using the ideas of another person and offering them as one’s own original ideas is prohibited by this policy to the same extent as knowingly using the words of another writer and offering them as one’s own original writing.
Numerous opportunities exist for inappropriate copying and use of copyrighted material from cyberspace including materials that extend into other media including audio, video, graphics files, etc. Therefore, the University expects the use of these materials in a way that is consistent with academic integrity in documenting sources and in obtaining permission to use such materials.
Plagiarism is a threat to academic integrity because of the expansion of the Internet. Any time a student downloads content from electronic documents, there is a risk of plagiarism. Because of the importance of academic integrity, Blue Mountain Christian University has subscribed to an internet-based plagiarism detection service. Instructors are encouraged to submit papers to the scrutiny of the plagiarism detection service in order to assist them in guaranteeing academic integrity.
C. Other Academic Misconduct
Other academic misconduct shall include (but not be limited to):
1) Unauthorized access to and/or the alteration of school records, including but not limited to, transcripts, grade books, class rolls, and grade reports. This prohibition extends to all such records of the University, including those which are stored and maintained electronically;
2) Submitting any assignment for credit which is based in part or in total on data which is either fabricated or manufactured;
3) Misrepresenting one’s self for the purpose of taking an examination for another student or allowing such misrepresentation to occur;
4) The forgery, alteration, and/or misuse of University documents, including student identification cards with intent to defraud, deceive, or mislead; and
5) Providing false or misleading information to avoid penalties for unexcused excessive absences in any class or to obtain permission to drop a course without penalty after the established drop date.
2. Implementation of the Policy
Faculty will inform students of behavior appropriate for maintenance of the Blue Mountain Christian University Honesty and Integrity Policy as it pertains to their particular courses and disciplines as indicated in the procedures for this policy.
If a student who is alleged to have cheated, plagiarized, or been involved with other academic misconduct admits to the charge, the faculty member involved shall apply the appropriate penalty and prepare a report on the incident which the student will be asked to read and sign. The faculty member will send the report to his/her department chair who then transmits the report to the Provost. The Provost will determine if additional reporting is needed. In the case of other University personnel suspecting a student of academic misconduct, reporting should be made directly to the Provost who then reports to the appropriate individuals.
3. Appeals Within the Policy
Students accused of violating the Blue Mountain Christian University Academic Honesty and Integrity Policy or who claim the final grade that they received in a course was determined unfairly may appeal. Students may withdraw their appeal at any time. The appeals process is outlined in the procedures to this policy.
The Principle of Honor
I will at all times develop and uphold high standards of honesty in thought, speech, and behavior.
The Principle of Self-Control:
I will at all times control my personal desires in harmony with the social good of all, considering the interest of others to be of equal value with my own.
The Principle of Conformity:
I will at all times work in accordance with the expectations consistent with biblical values and the traditions of Blue Mountain Christian University.
The Principle of Good Citizenship:
I will at all times cooperate with the rules and policies of the University.
The Honor System is one of many ways students learn to live the disciplined life of a Christian.
Blue Mountain Christian University is exciting and challenging–but it is not for everyone.
Honor Code
In addition to the academic program, personal honor and integrity are developed and emphasized at Blue Mountain Christian University. The ultimate goals in student development are intellectual integrity, academic excellence, social consciousness, and Christian character.
Learning to live with others is an important part of a student’s education at Blue Mountain Christian University. The University realizes the importance of students accepting responsibility for their actions and development. To assist in this process, the University has adopted an honor system based on the belief in the individual honor and trustworthiness of every student. To make clear just what is expected of each member of the student body, a formal statement of the obligation has been set forth in the honor code. The object of every provision of the honor code is to promote worthy individual conduct and to maintain a satisfactory system of government.
Besides the obligation of each student to keep the regulations and to report his/her own violations, she/he must use his/her influence with the other members of the student body for their development as good citizens. Thus the code is an expression of the Christian spirit.
Each student is expected to accept responsibility to protect the honor system from actions and attitudes which may weaken it. The exercise of this responsibility involves an obligation for fellow students’ relations to the University life. The unchanging obligation is to prevent the occurrence of detrimental actions and attitudes.
Complaints
For all complaints regarding distance education refer to Policy 4.15: Student Complaints and to the Procedures to that Policy, available on BMC Online at Complaints. After a student has exhausted all available complaint procedures established by Blue Mountain Christian University, the University accepts Mississippi Commission on College Accreditation (MCCA) oversight in resolving complaints from students taking distance education courses/programs under the auspices of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA).
The complaint form is available on the BMCU website under
Consumer Information.
Information Technology Services
Services provided by ITS include the following:
- Canvas
- BMCSpace
- Wireless Internet
- e2Campus Security Alerts
- Technology by location
- Technology discounts
Technical Requirements
Students enrolled in online courses and programs must agree to abide by the Procedures to Policy 2.22: Acceptable Use of Technology.
Students should satisfy the technical proficiencies required for the online course. If the online course has a required real-time interactive component, students must have access to a computer and the internet at the time(s) required and must participate in real-time interactions at the time(s) indicated in the syllabus.
Students must have access to personal computers other than those owned by the University. These personal computers must have a web cam, which is necessary for video proctoring. Please see below for information regarding Proctorio video proctoring.
Registered students are given a BMCU email account which stays active as long as a student is enrolled at the institution. Online students and professors are required to use their BMCU email accounts throughout coursework, not personal accounts. All correspondence regarding online instruction will be emailed to the student’s BMCU email account.
Student System Login Information
Locating your Student ID Number
Your Student ID# is located on your class schedule, in the top right-hand corner.
Your one stop shop for single sign-on access to all your BMCU applications including email, Canvas, student portal, and many others! Login with your email address, first and last name with no spaces @bmc.edu. Your password will begin with the letters “Bmc” followed by your entire Student ID#. (See example below.)
Username: johnsmith@bmc.edu
Password: BmcA123456 (Please note capitalization.)
Campus Wifi
To connect to the BMCU student wifi, please join “BMC Student Wifi” and log in with your username and student ID. (See example above.)
Student Printing
BMCU utilizes a system called PaperCut for all printing tasks. At the beginning of each semester, students are credited with $10 for printing purposes. Student print access is available at Guyton Library, Coward-Martin (education building), and in the Teaching & Learning Center in Lowrey Administration building. Students can monitor their print history and balance through the app on accessBMC, and reload their account as necessary through the Business Office.
Contact Information for IT Support
If you have any issues or problems with campus technology services, please report your problem by reaching out to our staff members by calling or emailing directly; or create a support ticket at www.bmc.edu/support or at your accessBMC portal. Listed below is the contact information for IT Support Staff.
For University-owned computers and other hardware/software issues
For General Helpdesk Questions
For Canvas and general helpdesk questions
Director of Information Technology Services
Proctorio Online Test Proctoring
Blue Mountain Christian University utilizes Proctorio Online services for proctoring final exams in all courses. There are specific system requirements for this service, and all online students must have the technology required.
Minimum System Requirements for Proctorio
(April 2023)
Operating system
- Windows XP – Windows 10
- Mac OS X 10.8 (Mountain Lion) – 10.11 (El Capitan)
Web Browser
- Google Chrome v39 or later
- Mozilla Firefox v34 or later
- Internet Explorer v8 or later
- Microsoft Edge
- Apple Safari v6 or later
Internet connection
- 3 Mbps or better for upload and download
Hardware
- 2GB or more of RAM
- Microphone and speakers
- Webcam
PROCTORIO Best Practices for Students
1. Always use the Chrome web browser when taking a Proctorio-enabled exam.
2. Make sure you have the Proctorio Chrome extension installed.
3. Make sure your computer has a working webcam & microphone.
4. When you are on your course page in Canvas, you can access 24/7 live chat for any questions that you have. To access live chat, click on the gray shield icon in the top right-hand corner of your Chrome browser
5. Additional methods to contact support:
a. Phone:
i. Local Phone Number: (480) 428-4089
ii. Toll Free Phone Number: (866) 948-9248
b. Email: support@proctorio.com
6. Access the help and support center through the Proctorio Chrome extension where you can find articles on problems that may be experienced and general information
7. No need to schedule exams. Simply go into Canvas and take the exam that your instructor has provided to you
8. Data Security - Only your institution has access to your exam attempt, not Proctorio nor anyone else
9. Find a quiet, comfortable location to take your exam
10. Take the Proctorio practice quiz your instructor has provided you to prepare for actual exams
Student Services for Distance Learning
In addition to the information provided below, services for online students may be accessed through the online campus found on the BMCU Website and at on this webpage. Contact information is listed for each office as well as library information. In addition, students have access to the Student Complaint Information on this Web page.
Guyton Library
Guyton Library provides appropriate material for a broad liberal arts education within a Christian setting. The collection is one of the more significant intellectual resources of the University and is enhanced by guidelines of constant, systematic, and intelligent acquisition.
The library maintains hours appropriate to the needs of the University. The Guyton Library webpage (Guyton Library) provides access to electronic resources and includes links to Atriuum (Guyton Library's on-line public access catalog), ten databases from EBSCOhost Web, FACTS.COM, Gale Literary Index, and Worldcast.
Online users should access the user guides and tutorials available on the library web page. There are also links in each course in Canvas.
Teaching and Learning Center (TLC)
The Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) is a free service to students who wish to improve their grades by enhancing their study skills and using their time wisely. In the TLC, students have access to thirty computers (including 10 MAC’s) and are given individualized attention by faculty and student tutors. Several programs are available including sessions on time management, stress management, and plagiarism. In addition, there are tutorials for math and science, research documentation, and help for non-native speakers of English. Various tutorial workshops are offered throughout the year including topics such as test-taking skills and taking essay exams.
Online students may contact the Director for the Center by calling 662-685-4771, extension 167, or via email: dteague@bmc.edu. The Director can give guidance regarding online resources or can set up an appointment time that accommodates the student’s schedule.
Academic Advising
Upon enrollment, each degree-seeking student is assigned an academic advisor by Blue Mountain Christian University. The advisor for students enrolled in online programs is the program coordinator for the degree which the student is seeking. The student is encouraged to consult with the advisor periodically during each semester. The advisor is responsible for planning the class schedule, providing up-to-date information regarding careers, referring students to the proper source for assistance, and for providing encouragement for students.
Regulations for meeting the requirements for a degree, including courses, majors, and residency requirements, have been established by Blue Mountain Christian University. Advisors, faculty, and department chairs will help a student meet these requirements. The final responsibility for meeting degree requirements, however, rests with the student, who needs to monitor carefully his/her progress toward a degree.
Online Program Coordinators
Business Administration—Dr. LeeAnne Price (lprice@bmc.edu)
Christian Ministry—Dr. Thomas Magers (tmagers@bmc.edu)
Nursing (RN to BSN)—Dr. Tammie McCoy (tmccoy@bmc.edu)
Psychology—Dr. Emily Derrick (ederrick@bmc.edu)
Education—Dr. Stephanie Clausel (scluasel@bmc.edu).
Career Services
Career Services strives to meet the needs of our students in making educated choices about their futures. In keeping with the University’s mission, our purpose is to be a dynamic contributor for the complete educational experience for our students. Our goal is to foster constructive partnerships and opportunities among students, alumni, and potential employers as well as planning and implementing career objectives. We want all our students to be confident in meeting their post graduate vocational goals. The Director of Student Services and Career Success is Robert Fleming (rfleming@bmc.edu).
Disability Services
If a student has a disability that qualifies under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and requires accommodations, he/she should contact the Office of the Provost for information on appropriate policies and procedures. Disabilities covered by ADA may include learning, psychiatric, physical disabilities, or chronic health disorders. Students can contact the Office of the Provost if they are not certain whether a medical condition/disability qualifies.
Address:
Blue Mountain College
Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
P.O. Box 160
Blue Mountain, MS 38610
Telephone: (662) 685-4771, Ext. 136
Fax: (662) 685-4776
Email: senzor@bmc.edu
Textbooks
Links to eBook adoptions are posted in Canvas when the course begins. Charges for these links are posted to each student’s account as a Course Material Fee (CMF). Questions about charges should be directed to Pam Pharr (ppharr@bmc.edu). If you have trouble accessing your textbook, contact either Nancy Byrd (nbyrd@bmc.edu) or Jan Brownlee (jbrownlee@bmc.edu).
Finances
Financial Aid
Financial assistance is available for degree-seeking, eligible students enrolled in online courses. Students must meet federal eligibility requirements and be enrolled for a minimum of six credit hours. For more information, students should contact the Office of Financial Aid.
Tuition and Fees for Students Enrolled in Online-only Courses
Online-only students, including those enrolled in online programs, will be assessed a combined charge of tuition and registration fee per semester hour. In addition, all students in online courses will be charged a course fee for video proctoring of the final examination.
For current undergraduate costs, click on Undergraduate Tuition/Fees. For Graduate Program costs, click on Graduate Tuition/Fees.
Click on financial aid for detailed information regarding tuition assistance. The Office of Financial Aid is ready to assist you to answer questions and offer support as you consider your financial aid options. Our dedicated team will walk you through each step of the financial aid process as you navigate your college experience and invest in your future. We are committed to providing quality financial aid services while maintaining equality and accountability. Blue Mountain Christian University is committed to assisting students with meeting their educational goals. The Office of Financial Aid provides services to help students and parents in locating and understanding the resources available for obtaining financial assistance for educational expenses. The Office of Financial Aid is diligent in assisting students with the application process for financial aid.
Payment of Student Accounts
Payment is due at registration. A deferred payment plan is available through the Business Office, but arrangements must be made prior to enrollment.
NOTE: All bills for tuition and fees of every kind must be paid in full to the Business Office before the student’s official transcript can be released or a diploma can be awarded. In the event that a student’s account is not paid by the end of the academic session, interest may be charged on the unpaid balance at the current rate of interest. Grades will not be accessible until satisfactory arrangements have been made in the Business Office.
If you anticipate a problem in complying with the payment plan, contact the Business Office (662-685-4771, ext. 133 or via email (ppharr@bmc.edu) to schedule a time to discuss your situation with personnel there. The University desires to work with students in managing their student accounts.
Class Attendance
Blue Mountain Christian University requires class attendance for online courses. According to Policy 2.10, students who miss 12.5% of the time will receive an automatic “F” in the course. Each online professor will include an attendance requirement in the syllabus. Since most online courses meet eight weeks, one week of non-attendance, which is 12.5% of the time in the course, will result in an automatic “F.” Seventy-five percent of the assignments for the week must be completed within the week to receive full attendance.
Confidentiality of Student Records
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)
Under this law, students in post-secondary education have the right to inspect and review their school records, as defined by law. Other than for “Directory Information,” Blue Mountain Christian University will release information only with the student’s written consent and will use “Directory Information” in the best interest of students.
