Brian Ross, D.Min.
Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministries, Disciplinary Lead
The Master of Arts in Ministry, Formation and Entrepreneurship combines biblical and theological study, spiritual and ministry formation and entrepreneurial leadership to equip leaders for faithful service in churches, workplaces and communities.
As churches increasingly rely on co-vocational leaders, this innovative program prepares you to serve effectively across multiple contexts. You'll learn to integrate a commitment to Jesus and scripture, with leadership and entrepreneurial thinking, while developing practical skills to strengthen church ministry, launch new initiatives and build financial sustainability.
Designed for those who serve churches and lead businesses, you'll develop the skills to lead faithfully, innovate creatively and make a lasting impact. Through a supportive cohort model, personalized coaching and immersive residency experiences, you'll deepen your sense of calling while preparing for long-term, sustainable leadership in the church and marketplace.
Program Highlights
- Complete your degree in just two years
- Primarily online coursework, with three face-to-face experiential residencies in different American cities
- Designed for working adults, who lead churches and have outside careers
- Develop church ministry and personal business skills
- Strengthen your spiritual formation through coaching and mentoring
- Learn from experienced faculty, pastors and business practitioners
- Build church ministry and business plans to align with work and calling
- Preparing for leadership in churches and launching entrepreneurial ventures
- Founded on a unique partnership between Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary, US Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, Vineyard USA, the Center for Community Transformation and Lead From Transformation
- Fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
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Faculty
Leon Harris, Ph.D.
JB Toews Endowed Postdoctoral Fellowship in Theology and Biblical Studies
Carlos Huerta, MBA
Executive Director of Center for Community Transformation
Adjunct Instructor
Cheryl Dueck Smith, D.Arts
Director, Center for Anabaptist Studies
Assistant Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy , LMFT #38497
Mariah Cushing, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor & Program Coordinator of Biblical Studies
Brian Schultz, Ph.D.
Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies
Catalog
We’re excited to share the details of our MA in Ministry, Formation and Entrepreneurship course curriculum with you! Our team is putting the finishing touches on the offerings, and they’ll be available here soon.
Check back soon to explore the courses designed to support your goals and open new possibilities for your future in ministry.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, our admissions team is happy to help.
Office of Seminary Admissions
Phone: 559-453-3690
Email: Graduate.Studies@fresno.edu
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, Formation and Entrepreneurship, please submit the following items:
- Completed Application for Admission
- 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
- Fresno Pacific University
- If you are currently finishing up your degree, please submit current transcript.
- 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 Form(s) – Two references are required for the M.A. in Ministry, Formation and Entrepreneurship program. One spiritual reference from a pastor or other ministry leader (not a family member) and one academic reference.
- After you submit your application, your listed reference(s) will be contacted via email with a link to provide their recommendation.
- 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.
- All applicants must be in a pastoral ministry role and are expected to serve in a pastoral ministry position (paid or volunteer).
- Students who are not in pastoral ministry roles may apply to FPU’s M.A. in Ministry, Leadership and Culture.
- View our State Professional Licensing and Certificate Disclosure here.
Special Circumstances
Cost & Financial Aid
The below listed prices reflect the current and upcoming Fall and Spring semesters and do not include any financial aid. Paying for college can be an overwhelming step in your education journey. We can help you find all the possible opportunities to reduce your out of pocket costs.
Tuition & Financial Aid
* This is an estimate. Costs subject to change. Cost of attendance figures are used for budgeting purposes only and represent an estimate of projected tuition and fees for the coming academic year. Actual tuition rates are approved by the Board of Trustees and may vary.
Types of aid
Financial aid can refer to scholarships, grants and loans, which are available to you from the government, the university or outside sources. Aid types vary depending on the type of student you are.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the M.A. in Ministry, Formation and Entrepreneurship are prepared for effective church and personal business leadership. Career opportunities may include pastor, church planter, ministry director, community outreach director, entrepreneur, or co-vocational ministry leader. The program also equips graduates to go deeper in their personal commitment to Jesus, grow holistically and to serve as healthy members of various communities and neighborhoods.
Career Possibilities
- Executive pastor
- Student ministry pastor
- Senior pastor
- Worship pastor
- Children’s pastor
- Business owner
Career Development Happens Here
The staff in our Calling and Career Center are here to help you prepare to enter the working world. Whether you're a freshman or an FPU alum, there are a number of resources and trainings offered to help you find the internship and job you’re looking for.
- Resume writing classes
- Career assessments, exploration & planning
- Job search and networking opportunities
- and much more