Ministry, Leadership & Culture, M.A.

When ministry strives to evolve,
the possibilities are endless.

Relevant ministry requires creativity and evolution. The Master of Arts in Ministry, Leadership and Culture is an innovative and holistic educational experience designed primarily for pastors currently engaged in ministry.

You’ll serve in your local church for at least 10 hours per week, attend a weekly 90-minute synchronous discussion via video conference, attend three one-week retreats in North America, and create your own cross-cultural experience by graduation. You’ll also be assigned a coach or spiritual director to help you develop into a highly equipped ministry leader.

This three-year, mostly-online, program includes instruction from strategic, global ministry leaders and is grounded in engagement with our changing culture.

Program Highlights

• Gain new perspectives from guest faculty and through cross-cultural experiences
• Learn from your personal ministry coach or spiritual director
• Engage with faculty who take interest in your success
• Take online courses with live weekly sessions
• Travel with your cohort during three 1-week residencies.
• Fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
• For a detailed program brochure, click here

Yes! Tell Me More!

Guest Teaching Mentors

FPU Biblical Seminary is excited to announce our guest teaching mentors for the M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture program. These visionary leaders bring a wealth of experience, wisdom, and innovative perspectives to our program, enriching the educational journey of our students with their profound insights and practical experience. Jay Pathak’s deep understanding of community and Rich Villodas’s transformative leadership will undoubtedly inspire and empower you as they navigate the complex intersection of ministry, leadership, and culture in today’s world.

Faculty

Catalog

Program Director: Brian Ross, D.Min.

Overview

This three-year program, conducted largely in an online classroom, includes instruction from strategic, global Anabaptist leaders and is grounded in the Anabaptist tradition. It is designed for men and women currently engaged in ministry and requires students to serve within a local church or other ministry setting for 10 hours per week. Four one-week residencies are required in this cohort program as well as weekly synchronous sessions. The curriculum, designed by practicing Anabaptist leaders, is intended to help graduates lead the church into the future with a distinct ability to understand sub-cultures, theology and leadership practice.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Admission to the Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture program is based on a review of each applicant's academic achievements, experience, and personal statement by the admission committee.

Application Process

To be considered for admission to the M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture program, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
  • Fpu.edu/applysem
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post-baccalaureate work.
  • If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
  • A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an enveloped sealed by your institution to:

Fresno Pacific University

Office of the Registrar

1717 S. Chestnut Ave

Fresno, CA 93702

• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor's degree is below a 2.5 (4.0 scale), a letter of explanation is required.
• Short Answer Questions – During the application submission process, you will be asked to respond to some short answer questions in your application portal. These questions will help us get to know your character and career goals. Your file will not be reviewed for admission until your responses are received.
• Reference Forms – Two references are required for the MA in Ministry, Leadership and Culture program. One spiritual reference from a pastor or other ministry leader (not a family member), and one academic reference.
  • Form can be found at fpu.edu/sem-ref
• Writing Sample – Submit three or more pages of original writing that you would consider some of your best work.
• Program Interview – After submitting your application materials, including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview.
• International applicants must submit additional documentation including English Proficiency Score (TOEFL=minimum of 550 PBT or 79 iBT, IELTS=6.5), copy of passport, visa information, and a statement of financial support.

Notification of acceptance will be sent as soon as all necessary documents are on file and have been reviewed by the admissions committee.

Please view other admission policies and information in the Admissions Policies and Requirements section of the catalog.

View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure at fpu.edu/about/disclosure-documents.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate commitment to live as a disciple of Jesus in Christian community.
2. Articulate commitment to a biblical theological Christian perspective.
3. Interpret diverse cultural contexts of ministry using theological perspectives integrated with social scientific approaches.
4. Practice leadership skills in community leadership and transformation.
5. Proclaim the biblical good news through culturally relevant words and deeds with the purpose of leading all people into covenant with Jesus Christ and the church.
6. Develop self-aware renewal practices that empower fulfillment of the contemporary pastoral vocation of leading, and serving and reconciling in a resistant culture.
7. Provide best-practices in pastoral leadership that result in growing churches that prepare, plan, equip and empower members to engage in Gods transformative mission in the world.
8. Interpret the emerging post-Christian cultural context locally and globally.
9. Equip a congregation to attend to pastoral care needs of the congregation and its community.

Locations Offered

Online

Required Courses (48 Units)

Biblical and Theological Reflection

• BIB 721 - The Kingdom, the Church, and the Mission of God Credits 3
• BIB 734 - Understanding, Interpreting and Listening to Scripture Credits 3
• BIB 744 - Exploring God's Self-Revelation Credits 3
• BLIT 700 - Journeying Deep Into Scripture Credits 3
• HIST 724 - The Story of Radical Renewal Movements Through Church History Credits 3
• THEO 718 - Following Jesus, Living Out the Implications Credits 3

Personal and Holistic Formation

• BIB 724 - Engaging the Bible With New Eyes Credits 1.5
• MIN 706 - Discerning Personal Vocation and Calling Credits 1.5
• MIN 710 - Spiritual Formation Credits 1.5
• MIN 721 - Building a Deep and Sustainable Life Credits 3

Radical and Practical Application

• MIN 718 - Effective Contemporary Public Communication Credits 3
• MIN 736 - Entrepreneurial Leadership of Non-Profit Organizations Credits 1.5
• MIN 738 - Collaborative Leadership Credits 1.5
• MIN 755 - Transformative Outreach for Disciple-Making Credits 1.5
• MIN 757 - Forming a Community of Mercy, Justice and Peace Credits 3
• MIN 759 - Conflict and Peacemaking within Organizations and Communities Credits 1.5
• MIN 768 - Serving Resiliently Through Crises and Trauma Credits 1.5 - 3

•        Must be taken for 3 units

• THEO 725 - Investigating Western Culture and Local Contexts Credits 3

Self-Directed Learning

• MIN 749 - Cross-Cultural Experience Credits 2.5
• MIN 790 - Creative Capstone Project Credits 2

Possibilities Await
With and FPU Education

Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary is rooted in the evangelical, Anabaptist tradition, and like you, we are passionate about making a tangible difference in the Central Valley and around the world. You’ll learn this through spirited inquiry, thoughtful reflection and hands-on experience. If you want a place to explore and pursue your calling in a practical way – join us!

The decision to embark on graduate studies is a big one. Our 45+graduate programs will equip you to succeed in your career and in your life. You’ll become part of a small community of learners, thrive in a flexible learning environment and be challenged by a rigorous curriculum. Learn how much further you can go at FPU!

For more information, visit our Connect page to schedule a meeting with an admission professional or to find an upcoming information session or registration event.

Ready to take the next step?

To be considered for admission to the M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture, please submit the following items:

• Completed Application for Admission and $45 non-refundable application fee.
• Official college/university transcript(s) verifying receipt of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and any post baccalaureate work.
  • If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
  • A final transcript will need to be submitted before you may enroll in classes.
  • If you have not completed a bachelor’s degree and are applying for special admittance, send all official collegiate transcripts if applicable.
  • Transcripts can be sent electronically by your institution to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or via mail in an envelope sealed by your institution to:
    • Fresno Pacific University
      Office of the Registrar
      1717 S. Chestnut Ave.
      Fresno, CA 93702
• If your cumulative GPA for your bachelor’s degree is below a 2.5 (4.0 scale),
  a letter of explanation is required.
• Short Answer Questions – During the application submission process, you will be asked to respond to some short answer questions in your application portal. These questions will help us get to know your character and career goals. Your file will not be reviewed for admission until your responses are received.
• Reference Form – Two references are required for the M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture program. One spiritual reference from a pastor or other ministry leader (not a family member), and one academic reference.
• Writing Sample – Submit three or more pages of original writing that you would consider some of your best work.
• Program Interview – After submitting your application materials, including transcripts, a representative will contact you to schedule an interview.
• View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure here.

Special Circumstances

Office of Graduate Studies - Seminary

Phone: 559-453-3690

Email: Graduate.Studies@fresno.edu

State Authorization

Cost & Financial Aid

Student Financial Services

Phone: 559-453-2041

Fax: 559-453-5595

Cashier: 559-453-5586

Toll free: 866-321-7502

FAFSA code: 001253

Email: sfs@fresno.edu

Tuition & Financial Aid

Career Opportunities

Graduates will be equipped to integrate theory and practice. As the Christian church looks to creatively navigate current culture, this degree will help you lead the church into the future with a distinct ability to understand sub-cultures, theology and leadership practice. Graduates cultivate the important practice of caring for their own souls as they minister to others.

Career Development Center

Phone: 559-453-2073

Email: career.services@fresno.edu

Career Development Happens Here