Christian Ministry, M.A.

When ministry strives to transform communities,
the possibilities are endless.

Christian ministry in today’s increasingly pluralistic society requires practical leadership grounded in theological study – it requires the ability to nuance the Gospel and engage creatively to promote transformation.

At Fresno Pacific University Biblical Seminary, you’ll complete your master’s degree in less time than a master of divinity, allowing you to spend less time in the classroom and more time serving your community.

You’ll study with a diverse community of learners, and from published faculty and local pastors. A combination of classroom education and field experience will equip you with knowledge and skills for effective, long-term ministry.

Program Highlights

• Study one night a week, one class at a time
• Finish the program in less than three years
• Gain new perspectives as MFT and ministry students study together in foundational courses
• Consider studying in Israel during summer or attend Hispanic Summer Program
• Engage in diverse practicum opportunities
• Online courses available
• 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 Christian Ministry. 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 and leadership in today’s world.

Faculty

Brian Ross, D.Min.

Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministries, Disciplinary Lead

Mariah Cushing, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies

Connie Nicholson, M.A.

Adjunct Instructor

Carlos Huerta, M.B.A.

Executive Director of Center for Community Transformation

Adjunct Instructor

Brian Schultz, Ph.D.

Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies

Darren Duerksen, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Intercultural Studies and Christian Ministries, Program Coordinator

Cheryl Dueck Smith, D.Arts

Director, Center for Anabaptist Studies

Assistant Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy , LMFT #38497

Peter Smith, Ph.D.

Director of Partnerships and External Relations for Seminary

Adjunct Instructor

Sheri Wiedenhoefer, M.A.

Adjunct Instructor

Catalog

Program Director: Brian Ross, D.Min

Overview

To prepare people for a range of ministries in a variety of settings. Those with pastoral experience and those who are involved with ministry through Christian agencies will have the opportunity to strengthen the foundations of ministry and develop new skills. Some may wish to enhance their volunteer ministry in congregational settings or train to be more effective in the market place. With its emphasis on practical and personal formation, as well as its solid underpinning of biblical and theological studies, the degree gives knowledge and skills for a continuing and deepening ministry. Elective units provide opportunity to focus on area of special interest.

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 pastoral ministry.
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, serving and reconciling in a resistant culture.
7. Provide best-practices pastoral leadership that results in growing churches that prepare, plan, equip and empower members to engage in God's 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

Main Campus Fresno

Required Courses (48 Units)

Biblical and Theological Reflection (21 Units)

• BIB 520 - Church & God's Mission in the World Credits 1.5 - 3

•        Must be taken for 3 units and be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

• BIB 709 - Bible Knowledge Requirement Seminar Credits 0
• BIB 725 - Understanding, Interpreting and Teaching Scripture Credits 2 - 3

•        Must be taken for 3 units

• THEO 730 - Discipleship and Ethics Credits 1.5 - 3

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

•        Must be taken for 3 units

• BIB 750 - Old Testament Theology Credits 3 *
• BIB 752 - New Testament Theology Credits 3 *
• THEO 512 - The Story of the Church and Its Theology Credits 1.5 to 3

• Must be taken as a 3 unit course

• Journeying Deep Into Scripture - Biblical Literature Elective Credits 3

Personal and Holistic Formation (6 Units)

• COUN 724 - Interpersonal Communication and Family Systems Credits 2 - 3

•     Only 2 units required

• MIN 704 - Discerning Vocation and Calling Credits 1

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

• MIN 712 - The Charismatic Experience Credits 1.5
• MIN 714 - Spirit, Character, and Transformation Credits 1.5

Missional and Practical Application (16.5 Units)

• MIN 553 - Leading Organizations and Volunteers for Mission Credits 3
• MIN 718 - Effective Contemporary Public Communication Credits 3
• THEO 719 - Exploring Secular Culture & Connecting with Secular People Credits 3
• MIN 750D - Cross-Cultural Encounter: San Francisco Credits 1.5
• MIN 762 - Exegeting and Serving Your Neighborhood Credits 1.5
• MIN 768 - Serving Resiliently Through Crises and Trauma Credits 1.5 - 3

•         MA in Christian Ministry students are only required to take 1.5 units

• MIN 793A - The Practice of Ministry I Credits 1.5 *

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

• MIN 793B - The Practice of Ministry II Credits 1.5 *

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

• * Students do not need to take the Practice of Ministry series in order.

Integration and Specialization (4.5 Units)

• Specialization elective units 1.5
• BIB 790CM - Senior Seminar - Christian Ministries Credits 3

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

• MIN 770CM - Ministry Discernment - Christian Ministry Credits 0

•        Must be an FPU Biblical Seminary course.

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 Christian Ministry program, 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 Question – 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 M.A. in Christian Ministry. 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.
• International applicants must submit additional documentation including English Proficiency Score (TOEFL=minimum of 550 PBT or 79 iBT, IELTS=6.5), certified transcripts through an FPU approved service, copy of passport, visa information and a statement of financial support.
• View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure here.

Special Circumstances

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition & Financial Aid

Career Opportunities

Graduates with this degree are currently serving locally and abroad as executive pastors, student ministry pastors, pastoral counselors, and fire, law enforcement and hospital chaplains. Graduates have planted churches and led teams in unconventional and creative ministry and community development.

Career Possibilities

• Executive pastor
• Student ministry pastor
• Pastoral counselor
• Chaplain

Career Development Happens Here