1. Student Welcome Letter

Rev. Brian Hedges, President

Rev. Randy Foster, Dean

(816) 380-3033

www.hbfcass.org

2023-2024  STUDENT ORIENTATION

WELCOME FROM THE DEAN

2 Tim 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

 Welcome to Heartland Bible Institute. Your desire to be prepared in such a way to be a part of God’s great commission to teach others to observe that which the Lord Jesus Christ has commanded is very encouraging. We are not in the business of “Christian education.” Instead, we are going about the Lord’s business fulfilling the task of Biblical discipleship on the highest level. We desire to please our Lord and follow His instruction by creating believers who can be shepherds in our image as we follow Christ.

 This is a particular educational distinctive of Heartland Bible Institute. Your instructors are committed pastors and lay leaders who are fulfilling God’s expectation on their life. By learning from men such as these, you will be able to gain insight in the ministry that can only be found in a man who is a servant of God. You will gain more than knowledge or status as we invest our lives in you over the next year. What you are taught at HBI is far more relevant and far more important to living for Christ and walking in the Spirit than what is available at the typical Bible College or Seminary.

 As one of our students, you have the opportunity to use an up-to-date educational delivery system to get in touch with Christ and the Scriptures, and be challenged toward a global engagement with the gospel. It is through your servant heart that our mission statement becomes a reality.

 Heartland Bible Institute serves as an advanced equipping arm of like minded churches whose mission is to equip the saints of God with Word of God to accomplish the mission of God in the power of God. For this reason, Heartland Bible institute engages experienced pastoral leaders to equip men and women of the church to function as shepherds of God’s people through a structured and orderly curriculum centered in the Bible.

 The total impact of your learning and leadership will only be shown in eternity. Our goal is to equip you for all aspects of ministry so that some of what you learn is immediately used and some waits for the season when it will make the most impact.

 Thank you for your decision to start. Thank you for giving of yourself and your time. Thank you for the love you have for the Word of God and for lost souls and the passion you exercise in fulfilling the Great Commission.

On Behalf of Rev. Brian Hedges,

—Rev. Randy Foster

2. Faculty

President – Rev. Brian Hedges,

Pastor Heartland Baptist Fellowship

Academic Dean – Rev. Randy Foster,

Associate Pastor Heartland Baptist Fellowship

Academic Board

Brian Hedges

Randy Foster

Bob Hall

Steve Fleshman

Jeff Trude

Jeremy Bonnesen

Jason McGuire                        

Instructors

Brian Hedges, Senior Pastor

Randy Foster, Associate Pastor

Jason McGuire, Pastor

Jeremy Bonnesen, Pastor

Steve Fleshman, Life Issues Pastor

Jeff Trude, Pastor

Bob Hall, Pastor

 Administration/Program Instruction – Randy Foster

Registrar – Candice Friend

Teacher Assistant – Brianna Blowers

Resource Center – Heather Borntreger

IT – Randy Foster

3. Student General Polices

A degree from any school may open doors, but it qualifies you for nothing in God’s

eyes.  You have a ministry when God gives you a ministry and the pastors of your local church recognize it.  Our goal is not to communicate knowledge and facts to you; our goal is to impart life and give tools for a successful balanced life in ministry.  We will give everything we have as pastors to reproduce our walk with God in you.  The scriptures are our tool to do it and ministry is your lab to practice it.

3.1. Student Orientation

All new and returning students are required to attend the HBI Preparation Class and Student Orientation.  This time is used to cover policies and regulations, introduce faculty, handle registration of students, and provide an opportunity for prepayment of fees.  The class and orientation are mandatory. 

In the event a ministry obligation or providential hindrance would prevent attendance, a written request stating the reason for the absence needs to be submitted to the Registrar prior to the meeting.  An audio/video file will be provided to the student posted in the HBI website.  The student will be held accountable for all requirements and information presented at the meeting.

3.2. Options for failed course

Options for failing a course

In a course in which a failing grade has been received (including an I or F), a student may ask the professor to grant permission to take a reexamination or complete a reassignment of sufficient quality to raise the grade to a passing grade. Such work must be completed within six weeks after notification of the failing grade. If the grade is raised to a D or above, the student receives credit for the course. The professor must complete any grade change and return it to the Registrar.

Incompletes are at the discretion of the professor and are not considered a student right. During the period of incomplete status, grade points are delayed awaiting the grade. The I becomes an F if incomplete work is not completed within six weeks. An incomplete may also result in a lower final grade at the discretion of the professor and the final grade submitted should reflect this if desired.

Scholastic Probation

An Academic board comprised of the relevant Professors have the discretion to place a student on probation based on poor academic performance and/or academic violation of HBI policies, and/or relevant student improprieties. The terms and conditions of the probation will be documented in writing to the student.

Retake of Classes

A student can also choose to wait until the next time the course is offered and take the course again. Students must either retake failed courses or fulfill instructors expectation under “Options for failing a course” above.  This can be done at the next scheduled offering date or upon special request. Such a request must be made in writing to the registrar, signed by the student and pastor, and include a check for applicable fee. 

Retaking a course other than by waiting until the next scheduled offering will be by audio or video through the Heartland Bible website only.  Students will be given 8 or 16 weeks to complete the course and all class work depending on the normal length of time for the course.  Time period for completion of a retake will begin when written request and fee is received in the Heartland Bible Institute office.

3.3. objectives of HBI

3.4. Computer and internet access

Computer and Internet Access

Any currently enrolled student must have regular access to the internet in order to gain access to the online resources of HBI and the school website. These resources include forums for discussion of class topics, submission of assignments, tracking progress, and accessing audio and video files pertaining to the class the student is enrolled in. Access to the internet is also required for research required by individual course requirements. An active email address is also required.

Students are required to use word processing software such as Microsoft Word, Open Office, or any other software that will save files in a format compatible with Microsoft Word. Additionally, students may submit files use Adobe PDF format. All submissions will be scanned and stored in the student permanent electronic folder.

NO SUBMISSIONS OF LINKS TO ONLINE DOCUMENTS ARE ACCEPTABLE. SUBMIT THE ACTUAL DOCUMENT. (ie do not send a link to a google document)

Students are expected to maintain confidentiality of their login credentials as well as materials accessed on the website. Anyone abusing access or materials found on the website will be removed from HBI.

Web-Site

All course work, written submissions, tests, quizzes, audio or video files, and any other course specific materials are available at https://hbi-online.org. At the time of registration students are given access to the course syllabus, files, outlines, notes, PowerPoint files, additional suggested reading, and the like at the discretion of the professor (when available) at the specific course page at https://hbi-online.org. The material contained on the web-site is for currently enrolled students only and is not to be shared or distributed. Penalty for sharing files is dismissal from HBI.

CDs

CDs are not available; all audio or video files are to be obtained via https://hbi-online.org in the course listing. Audio and video files are the property of HBI and on loan to students. Loaning of audio or video files to anyone who is not the spouse of a student will be disciplined.

Materials

Notebooks will be distributed to each student at the beginning of each semester.  Each notebook is designed to hold one year of curriculum which will be handed out on a course by course basis.  Information on classes will include a syllabus detailing course study, additional reading material, and assignments with due dates.  A detailed list of any additional required materials is included in the course material.

3.5. Attendance Policy

Attendance

All absences must be documented in writing using the form found at the back of this notebook on online in the HBI online website and signed by the instructor or instructors of the missed classes then sent to the Registrar (additional forms can be found in the church office).  Ministry responsibilities, military reserve duty, and work-related time out of class should be taken into account as part of the absence policy.  Should more classes be affected, written approval should be requested through the registrar prior to time out of class.  It is the responsibility of each student to make-up missed class work. 

Snow closing / Class cancelation

HBI staff, students and faculty members can obtain information on the cancellation of classes, or the closing of offices due to the weather by calling (816) 380-3033.

Attendance

Attendance is not kept by the professors of individual classes. Each student is expected to mark themselves present for each class in the attendance book. No student should mark any other student present or absent. No student should mark themselves present for future classes even on the same day. The way in which attendance is determined or any penalties for absence (if any), is also at the discretion of the instructor.

3.6. Program Completion

Program Completion

All instructors as well as home church pastors are encouraged to act as academic advisors to provide students with any support or guidance they may need to help them throughout their time at HBI.  They can ensure that students with particular needs, personal difficulties or problems get the help needed to stay focused and on track to complete a program in a timely fashion and through the “dangers, toils and snares” Satan will throw at them.

3.7. Transfers and transripts

Transfers

Coursework successfully completed at another college, university, or educational institution that is documented on official transcripts, will be considered. Some requirements may be met by equivalent studies at another school. Such consideration may reduce the applicant's requirements for degree completion. A student transferring to Heartland Bible Institute may transfer class work for which he or she has received a grade of C or better, as long as the class work previously taken applies to the course of study offered by Heartland Bible Institute. The decision to accept or reject transfer of credit, and the methods of applying such credits will be the responsibility of the Dean of Students and will be final.

Transcripts

The school, in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, will not provide information unless the student and/or graduate submit a written release granting the dissemination of academic information. Transcripts of classes taken will then be released to a student or other institution at the student's written request. The first transcript is provided free and additional copies are $2.00.

3.8. Grades and GPA

Grades and Credit

Grading scale is as follows:

Calculating Grade Point Average

The measure of your academic progress is made by calculating a grade point average based on grades earned by the student.  Grades used in calculating the GPA are A, B, C, D, and F. Other grades such as W, P and I are not used in calculations.

To determine the number of hours used in the calculation first determine the total number of grade points earned. Each term hour with an A is 4 points; with a B is 3 points; with a C is 2 points; with a D is 1 point; and with an F is 0 points. For example, a one-hour course in which the student received an A would be worth 4 points; a three-hour course with a B would be worth 9 points (3 hours multiplied by 3 grade points for each hour of credit). Currently, all courses are worth 2 credits.

The average is determined by dividing the number of points earned each term by the number of credit hours attempted Look at the following schedule and grades:

The student has attempted 4 credit hours for the GPA.  The total number of points earned is 11. The 11 points is divided by the 4 hours for a GPA of 2.75 for the term.

Let's look at another example:

3 credit hours attempted this term, but, the course graded with a "W" (withdraw) is excluded for the calculation; the course graded with an F is included Leaving 3 credit hours and 5 grade points which are divided by the 3 hours for a 1.67 GPA.

Graded course work will be returned and a grade report will be issued at the end of the term. Transcripts will be issued yearly showing student’s status in relation to the four-year curriculum.   All grades become final six weeks after grades are published.  Appeals during six-week period should be addressed to the Registrar.

One hour of credit is granted for each class completed in a semester.  This is the equivalent of 1.2 credit hours on a normal fifteen week, fifty-minute period semester program excluding one week normally allowed for final exams.

3.9. Withdrawal, Auditing

Withdrawal

If at any time withdrawal becomes necessary, request for permission to withdraw must be submitted in writing to the registrar prior to leaving classes.  Failure to drop on request by the above guidelines may result in rejection of an application for re-admittance.  Examples for withdrawal: ceasing your ministry, termination of your membership, ceasing to qualify for entrance, extenuating health or family reasons, etc.

Auditing

Graduates of HBI, including extension graduates, can audit classes at the cost of materials and postage.  In special cases, as determined by discussion with and permission of the academic board individuals who have not completed Heartland Bible Institute may receive permission to audit specific classes at a cost of $35 per class plus postage. No credit is awarded to any audit student. If an audit student later enrolls, classes taken as audit will not count for credit and must be taken again.

All students requesting permission to audit classes must meet the same requirements as any student applying for admission into Heartland Bible Institute and be approved by the academic board.  Initial requests to audit or retake any class or group of classes should be made in writing and submitted to the Registrar.  Students will be contacted regarding further procedures based on the information included in the written request.

3.10. Eligibility

3.11. Student Integrity

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a central value at Heartland Bible Institute. It rests on two principles: first, that academic work is represented truthfully as to its source and its accuracy; and second, that academic results are obtained by fair and authorized means. Academic misconduct occurs when either of these principles are violated. Examples of student academic misconduct include giving or receiving unauthorized assistance on examinations or in the preparation of notebooks, themes, reports, or other assignments; knowingly misrepresenting the source of any academic work; changing grades without authorization; using institute approvals without authorization; forging signatures; falsifying research results; plagiarizing another’s work; violating Biblical principles, precepts and teachings, or otherwise acting dishonestly in research or in the classroom. Students who are found guilty of academic misconduct are subject to a range of disciplinary actions, including suspension or dismissal. Instructors also are expected to abide by the principles of Biblical integrity and may be removed for misconduct. It is the responsibility of each member of Heartland Bible Institute to understand and adhere to this principle of academic integrity.

Behavioral Integrity

Students are expected to conduct themselves at the highest levels of honesty, integrity, and blamelessness. This is true both in class, in their home as well as work and ministry life. The character of the student will be measured by the criteria defined in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Any student who violates one of these principles of behavior will be removed from HBI as a decision of the academic board.

3.12. Enrollent

All students will be required to submit an Application for Enrollment form prior to beginning classes for the first time and each consecutive semester until graduation.  Enrollment is not official until all financial obligations have been met and admission forms have been received and processed.  This includes unpaid fees from the previous year such as CD fees, library fees, and late fees.

Fees

Cost for each semester of study will be $120 and is payable at the time of registration. 

First time students are to pay a matriculation fee the first year of $25.

Part time students will pay $35 per 16 week course or $17.50 for 8 week courses.

 Audit students must pay the above class fees plus a $10 audit fee

Money turned in after the first week of classes is subject to a $10 late fee. 

No registration or payment of fees will be accepted after the third week of classes. 

No refunds are given for early withdrawal or incomplete classes. If payment is still pending after the third-class day the student will be dropped from the class and no credit will be given for work completed.

4. Courses and minimum knowledge

All students are expected to attend all classes and pass in order to master the knowledge for each subject listed. Evidence that a student does not have mastery of these topics may be removed from HBI

4.1. Course catalog

Heartland Bible Institute strives to present a well-balanced curriculum of subjects with the specific intention of preparing men and women to serve God in leadership roles including pastor and missionary. The courses listed give every student the essentials needed to minister

BC100           Personal Evangelism

This course explores evangelism. Principles of reaching people are essential for devising effective strategies in a world of changing culture. A focus on the practical experience needed in the methods of witnessing and sharing the gospel including opportunities for preparation, and exposure to people who will never come to your church.

BC110           Philosophy of Discipleship

This course focuses on the biblical philosophy of discipleship. These principles are essential for devising effective strategies in a world of changing culture. This course will help the student to understand how to use the discipleship lessons as a tool in thoroughly discipling an individual.

BC120           Biblical Counseling

This course will establish the only true and dependable counsel is that which is found in God and through His Word. Studies will equip the leader to deal with issues biblically, decisively, and with full accountability.

BS110           Manuscript Evidence

A study of the vindication of the authorized version of the English Bible against various modern translations. An evidential approach to textual criticism is presented providing a relevant defense of the King James Bible as the Word of God.

BS115           Hermeneutics or Principles of Bible Study                           

An introduction to the methods and techniques of Bible study including principles of study, types of studies, and the tools of study in order to develop in the student the ability to uncover the richness of the Word of God.

BS125           Life of Christ

A study of the earthly ministry of our Lord as revealed in a harmony of the four gospels. Special emphasis is placed on the ministry relevance of Christ's message and miracles.

BS130           Life of Paul

A study of Paul’s life investigating the model of Christian character as seen from the Christian leader who is completely serving our Lord. Special emphasis is placed on the relevance of Paul’s missionary journeys.

CE110           Marriage Enrichment

This course focuses on enriching (enhance, add beauty, improve, make more fertile, perfect, refine) marriages through solid teaching and instruction out of God's Word, as well as participation from each student.

CE115           Family and Youth Ministry

Meeting the needs of the whole family is emphasized in this course. Areas covered include methods and practices that communicate God’s special people group known as the family including how to connect all aspects of family including boundaries and blessings of family.

Youth ministry ranges from nursery up through the completion of high school. How the various aspects of youth ministry are handled are discussed. The unique nature of ministering to children is considered as well as planning and conducting youth conferences, camps, and year round activities.

CH100          Church History I

A study of Christianity in the course of its development from the apostles through the end of the church age. Special emphasis is given to a biblical definition of events, persons, decisions, and developments.

CH200          Israel, past, future and feasts

A study on the signal greatest evidence for the validity of the Bible. Israel is a prominent fixture in today’s current events but they do have a history that is well documented. This course will study Israel’s history and how it affects the world today.

CH300          World Religions and Cults

A study to introduce and expose learners to the major world religions, the important characters responsible for the development of religious thought, and the major doctrines of the world religions and how they differ from Christianity including an examination of modern cults and their doctrines. Practical conclusions are drawn concerning how to best reach out to these groups.

EP101           Homiletics

A course designed to give the student a philosophy of preaching. Instruction is included on sermon structure, preparation, diagrammatic analysis, sermonic research, and a limited opportunity for preaching. with a focus on principles of expository preaching

NT105          The Gospel of Matthew

A study showing Christ to be the king of the Jews, emphasizing the features of Matthew that are unique and distinctive. The first gospel is analyzed from the viewpoint of its doctrinal, devotional, and prophetic elements.

NT115          The Gospel of John

A verse-by-verse study. The richness of this gospel provides broad doctrinal and inspirational backdrop.

NT120          Acts of the Apostles

An analytical study of the book of Acts that examines the foundations and early development of Christianity. Particular attention is given to the transition from Israel to the Church and Paul's role in the dispensation of grace.

NT125          Romans

A systematic study of the Book of Romans as a starting point for all Christian doctrine. Special emphasis is placed on laying a solid foundation for Christian life and ministry.

NT135          I Corinthians

A strategic church epistle studied in order to understand Paul's description of ministry in an urban setting.

NT140          Church and Pastoral Epistles

A verse-by-verse examination of some Paul’s epistles to the churches in order to discover true doctrine for the New Testament believer. An exposition of I and 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon as God's handbook for pastors. The content and themes are developed with an emphasis on the responsibilities of pastoral leaders in the church.

NT145          Hebrews

To increase the student’s comprehension of the Bachelors content of the book of Hebrews and James in order to see the relationship that exists in the ideas, concepts and theology of the book as it relates to the other New Testament books.

NT155          The Book of Revelation

A study of Revelation to enable students to recognize and interpret themes in the book and provide an opportunity to evaluate book and to encourage them to apply the knowledge they gain from their study to their lives and ministries.

OT110          Genesis

A systematic study of the progression of events in this foundational book of the Bible showing it as the book of beginnings. Emphasis is placed on the content and its relevance to today as well as its significance to science, history, and theology.

OT115          Genesis II

A continuation of the systematic study of the progression of events in this foundational book of the Bible showing it as the book of beginnings. Emphasis is placed on the content and its relevance to today as well as its significance to science, history, and theology.

OT130          Survey of the Book of Isaiah

To increase the student’s comprehension of the content of the book Isaiah through a study of major doctrines found in the book with an examination of relationships that exist in the ideas, concepts and theology of the book.

OT140          Daniel

An exposition of the book of Daniel looking at the relationships that exists in the ideas, concepts and theology of the book as it relates to the other New Testament books.

OT150          Job

An exposition of the book of Job in order to see the relationship that exists in the ideas, concepts and theology of the book as it relates to the other New Testament books.

OT160          Minor Prophets

A study (mostly verse-by-verse) of the Minor Prophets. This course covers practical and doctrinal aspects of the books of Hosea through Malachi.

4.2. Minimum Knowledge and skills list

All students are expected to master the knowledge for each subject mentioned below. Evidence that a student does not have mastery of these topics may be removed from HBI.

 1.      Understand, articulate and support scripturally the following doctrines:

3.      Understand, articulate and support scripturally Manuscript Evidence of the validity of the King James Version of the Bible
4.      Understand, articulate and support scripturally the following doctrines

5.      Have a basis of scriptural Biblical counseling for the following conditions

6.      Understand needs in church planting

7.      Understand the state of missions and God moving in the world today including:

 8.      Pastoral procedures

 9.      Children’s ministry

 10.  Worship and Praise

 11.  Church administration

 a.   13.   Leadership development based on the following books of the Bible

 14.   Life of Christ

 15.  Life of Paul

 16.  Expository Preaching – Homiletics

 17.  Bible Study Principles – Hermeneutics

 18.  Church history

5. Other Requirements

the following requirements are expected for any student to be eligbile to graduate,

5.1. Dissertation submission

Dissertation

All students are expected to write a dissertation prior to graduation.  A one page written proposal must be submitted according to the written yearly schedule of the first semester of the students fourth year.  For further details on content of this proposal see General Dissertation Guide in tab 5.

5.2. Service and Special Projects

Service and Special Projects

Since Heartland Bible Institute involves understanding all facets of leading a church, time management, and a balanced life-style, each student may be placed on a work team, service team, or special project at any time.  Many times, these assignments will extend through the summer months even though class is not in session. These responsibilities are considered part of the student’s education and should be carried out with the same diligence as any classroom assignment.  Failure to show up without notifying your team captain and finding a replacement could result in lowered grades and/or termination.  Team projects may also be assigned which may be graded or considered pass/fail.  Fulfillment of these projects and assignments will also be taken into consideration each Fall when applications for admittance are received and with the Pastor Evaluation for graduation.

5.3. 3rd Year student

3^rd Year Students

A reception for graduates and their families will be held on the night of graduation ceremony.  Third year students are asked to help with this reception both in providing refreshments and serving that night.  This is a required service function.

5.4. Discipleship/Mission Trips

Discipleship/Mission Trips

Prior to graduation, each student is required to participate in a national or international discipleship, discovery, or mission trip.  These trips could include taking material to other churches and teaching the principles of discipleship or trips to assist missionaries in their local work.  No absence is charged to students on a pre-approved trip.  All requests must be submitted on the appropriate form (see Forms section).  Although only one trip is required, a form should be submitted for any trip during the four-year course of study.

5.5. RAP Sessoins

RAP Sessions

Periodically the instructors and staff will hold informal RAP sessions where the students and the faculty will be able to interact outside the classroom. All students are encouraged to attend the RAP sessions however attendance is not required.

5.6. Requirements for Graduation

All requirements for graduation are achieved once a student completes the following:

·         Received passing grades in all four years of course work

·         Submitted all paperwork required

·         Completed a mission, discipleship, or discovery trip

·         Completed all special and service projects assigned

·         Submitted a satisfactory dissertation

·         Received a positive pastoral evaluation

·         Made request for graduation

Graduation is recognized by the pastoral staff of Heartland Baptist Fellowship not because the certificate qualifies anyone for ministry, but because that student’s ministry and diligence has qualified him/her for the certificate. 

Candidates will be graduated only if they hold to the system of truth as found in the Bible and set forth by the pastors of Heartland Baptist Fellowship

Transcripts will be updated at the end of each semester.  After graduation and upon written request by the student, a copy of the final transcript can be sent to a person or place designated by the student.  Transcripts are issued in their entirety; no partial transcripts will be issued and will not be released if the student has failed to pay any part of applicable fees.

A meeting will be scheduled in March for all students meeting requirements for

graduation at that time.  Information about graduation, standings on criteria still

needed for graduation, voting for Service Award recipient, and miscellaneous

details are discussed at this meeting.  It is required for all graduates. 

Notification will be sent by mail when a date is set.