Welcome all new and returning students to the National School of Theology (NSOT). We appreciate you giving us an opportunity to teach you the best of the Word of God. We offer over 200 courses that we are prepared for you to study to learn and become the best version of yourself that God wants. Visit the website often and go through every link so that you will know how to find your assignments, your materials, and where and who to go to for questions, comments, and/or statements.
CONTRACT
Your school contract will clearly outline the date your class begins, the agreed-upon amount for your courses, the cost of any required courses, and, if applicable, the expected end date for completion. All payments must be made before the start of any course and no later than the second week of classes unless alternative arrangements have been approved by the school administration. ALL students are required to have a school contract. If you do not have one, contract your professor immediately.
MyNSOT
MyNSOT is your central hub for accessing all information about your upcoming courses. Here, you will find essential details such as the required materials, course start times and dates, the name of your instructor, and the course end date. Any updates, including cancellations or changes to your class schedule, will also be posted in this section.
CLASS ATTENDANCE OPTIONS
The National School of Theology (NSOT) offers two convenient ways to attend classes: Weekly Zoom Sessions and Home Study. Zoom courses are held live each week, beginning at 7:00 PM EST, with two courses offered every 8 weeks. For those who prefer a more flexible approach, the Home Study option provides all course materials, including eBooks and videos, via email. Home Study students are still expected to complete assignments on a timely basis, maintaining the same high standards as those attending live sessions to ensure a consistent and enriching learning experience.
DRESS CODE
To maintain a professional and respectful learning environment, all students are required to adhere to the following dress code guidelines during virtual Zoom classroom sessions. This policy ensures the dignity and professionalism of the school, particularly as recordings may be shared publicly.
The implementation of Virtual Background policies and Dress Code policies was necessitated by recurring disruptions in the virtual classroom environment. As a Christian institution, we are called to uphold the highest standards of excellence, respect, and decorum in all aspects of our academic community. Maintaining professionalism is not only an expectation but a reflection of our commitment to representing Christ in all we do. With our courses being viewed on a global stage, it is imperative that we present ourselves as professionals, free from distractions such as background noise, clutter, or inappropriate attire. These measures ensure a focused and respectful learning atmosphere that honors God and the integrity of our mission.
Recording and Public Sharing Notice
Please be advised that all virtual Zoom classroom sessions are recorded. These recordings may be shared on the National School of Theology website, YouTube channel, and potentially on social media platforms. By participating, you consent to being part of these recordings and agree to uphold the standards of this policy to maintain the integrity of the school’s image and your own.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL STUDENTS
Professional Attire: Students must wear clothing that is modest, clean, and suitable for a professional and academic setting. Attire should align with a casual business dress standards.
Visibility: Ensure your attire is fully visible on camera. Avoid clothing that blends into your background or distracts others.
Logos and Graphics: Clothing with offensive, vulgar, or inappropriate language, imagery, or symbols is strictly prohibited.
Body Coverage: Tops must cover shoulders, chest, and midriff. Bottoms, if visible, should also adhere to modesty standards.
Pajamas and Lounge Wear: Sleepwear, including pajamas, is not permitted during class sessions.
Accessories: Avoid wearing distracting accessories, such as oversized hats, flashy jewelry, or items obstructing your face.
Religious and Cultural Attire: Students are encouraged to wear attire that reflects their religious or cultural identity, provided it adheres to the overall guidelines of respect and appropriateness
Additional Guidelines for Men
Sleeveless tops, tank tops, or muscle shirts are not allowed.
Ensure facial grooming and hairstyles maintain a neat and presentable appearance.
Avoid overly casual attire such as undershirts.
Additional Guidelines for Women
Tops should not have low necklines or be strapless.
Avoid revealing, sheer, or excessively tight clothing.
Hair and makeup should be modest and professional for an academic setting.
Enforcement and Compliance
Faculty Enforcement: Faculty members reserve the right to address dress code violations. Students may be requested to adjust their attire immediately or before the next session.
Notification: Students in violation will be notified privately via chat or email.
Repeated Violations: Consistent failure to comply with the dress code may result in disciplinary actions under the school’s code of conduct.
VIRTUAL BACKGROUND GUIDELINES
To ensure professionalism and minimize distractions, students are encouraged to either use a neutral physical background or a virtual background that aligns with the following guidelines:
Acceptable Backgrounds:
Neutral or plain-colored backgrounds (e.g., white, gray, beige).
Professional or academic-themed virtual backgrounds.
Branded National School of Theology virtual backgrounds, if provided by the school.
Simple nature or abstract designs that are not overly bright or busy.
Unacceptable Backgrounds:
Backgrounds with offensive, political, or inappropriate content.
Animated or rapidly moving virtual backgrounds.
Cluttered, messy, or distracting physical backgrounds.
Zoom Virtual Background Setup:
Virtual backgrounds can be added in Zoom by following these steps:
Open your Zoom application and join the meeting.
Click the arrow next to the video icon in the bottom-left corner.
Select Choose Virtual Background from the menu.
In the settings window, select a default Zoom background or click the “+” button to upload your own image.
Ensure proper lighting to make the virtual background appear smooth and professional.
Tips for Professional Appearance:
Avoid backgrounds that blend with your attire or cause “ghosting” effects.
Use a plain wall or green screen if available for the best results.
Enforcement and Compliance
Faculty Enforcement: Faculty members may request adjustments to attire or background if deemed inappropriate.
Notification: Students will be notified privately if their attire or background violates policy.
Repeated Violations: Non-compliance with dress code or background guidelines may result in disciplinary actions in line with the school’s code of conduct.
Purpose of the Policy
This dress code ensures all participants contribute to a respectful, professional, and distraction-free learning environment. It also ensures a high standard of presentation for videos shared on public platforms, reflecting positively on both students and the school.
For questions or clarifications regarding this policy, please contact the school administration.