Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hours and credit?
Hours represent physical time spent at a particular ministry or service.
Credits take time a step further, acknowledging a qualitative component in the
ministry or service experience. For example, fifteen credits represent roughly
15-25 hours of service.
How do I know what counts for credit?
A full list of experiences are covered on the website (see Get Involved) and are also available
in the MAS office. Beyond the listed opportunities, many other experiences
count for credit, including volunteer work with a church, tutoring, serving at
a local non-profit, and after-school programs or summer camps.
Can I get paid and receive credit?
No. A paid position cannot count toward ministry credit. However, if you work
more than what you are paid (e.g., 20-hour contract, work 25) then you can
count your extra time toward ministry credit. This encourages you to continue
working in your chosen ministry rather than finding another service
opportunity.
When do I need to turn in my Service Credit Report Form?
You should turn in your Service Credit Report Form at the end of each semester of
ministry or immediately after returning back to school from summer
experiences. This encourages you to write the reflection while your thoughts
are fresh.
How many credits can I get during the academic year?
Each academic year (August to August), you may receive a maximum of 60 credits
and a maximum of 30 credits for a single service experience and/or during a given semester or summer.
Can opportunities on campus count toward credit?
There are some opportunities to receive credit from various campus activities,
but the purpose of the service requirement is to encourage students to move
outside the walls of Azusa Pacific University and into the broader
community.
What if I don’t like what MAS offers for service opportunities?
If you are unsatisfied with the current opportunities or see an unmet need,
research other organizations that may be engaging the work in which you would
like to participate. If you cannot find something, stop by the office to talk
personally with a coordinator to help you find an opportunity that matches
your interests and strengths.
How do I request a letter verifying my hours of service for a graduate school or scholarship application?
Please provide us with a pre-written verification letter addressed to the appropriate institution and include the information that you would like verified (e.g., hours served, location of service, etc.). Our office would be happy to print the letter on university letterhead and sign the letter to verify your service. We have a two-week turn-around policy, so please plan accordingly.
