School of Business, Government, and Economics

Business/Theology Dual Degree

Shape the future. Change the world.

You've heard God's call and you’re eager to answer. It’s time to integrate what you’ve learned about yourself, God, the world, and the Church as you look forward to your future career in ministry, business, and/or the non-profit or public sectors. Combining theological, biblical, and pastoral training with business and organizational leadership training, our graduate dual degree program will prepare you for the great journey the Lord has in store for you, and ready you for leadership with compassion, integrity, and the highest ethical standards.

At a Glance

  • check mark icon Accreditation Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and Commission on Accreditation of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS)    
  • check mark icon Upcoming Application Deadline The next deadline for domestic students is 5/1/2024 for Summer
  • check mark icon Expected Time to Completion Varies 
  • check mark icon Format

    Working-professional friendly (part time, evenings); on campus


  • check mark icon Credits to Graduate

    Varies. See checklist

  • check mark icon Upcoming Information Session The next information session is TBD.
  • check mark icon Cost

    $778/MBA credit; $595/MDiv credit

Program Overview

SPU grad students attend class | photo by Dan Sheehan

Shape the future. Change the world.

You've heard God's call and you’re eager to answer. It’s time to integrate what you’ve learned about yourself, God, the world, and the Church as you look forward to your future career in ministry, business, and/or the non-profit or public sectors.


Combining theological, biblical, and pastoral training with business and organizational leadership training, our graduate dual degree program will prepare you for the great journey the Lord has in store for you, and ready you for leadership with compassion, integrity, and the highest ethical standards.

THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, GOVERNMENT, AND ECONOMICS DIFFERENCE

Grounded in sound theological reflection and rigorous business education, Seattle Pacific’s School of Business, Government, and Economics and Seattle Pacific Seminary provide dual degrees in business and theology. Through the applied, experiential, and collaborative-based curriculum, students gain purpose-driven, cross-functional leadership skills in business, government, and civil society, and discover how business principles and ethical practice unite to lay a foundation for business as service to others.

A dual degree MBA/MA or MDiv from Seattle Pacific integrates business competence and Christian character, inviting students to think and act strategically, apply in-depth knowledge, communicate effectively with various teams, and learn to provide values-based leadership. This program is tailored to meet the needs of today’s leaders who wish to gain a strong theological education and management education to enhance their effectiveness in ministry, business, non-profit, and public sector careers.

By pursuing dual degrees in Business Administration and Theology, you will bring together skills and knowledge in both disciplines, enriching your graduate education and your career opportunities. You will also earn two advanced degrees with fewer credits than it would take you to earn the same two degrees separately.

This program, combining an MBA or MA in Management with an MA (Theological Integration) or an MDiv, focuses on augmenting the practical skills of a business degree with an exploration of the profound questions about how and why a Christian business leader can find vocation in business. As many as 24 credits may be counted toward both degrees, for a savings of about two academic quarters worth of time and tuition.

Why Seattle Pacific? 

From its inception in 1977, SPU's School of Business, Government, and Economics upheld an unwavering dedication to excellence ― quality faculty and curricula, commitment to values and ethics, and dedication to graduating students ready and able to impact their professional and personal worlds. 

  1. AACSB + ATS Accreditation

    Seattle Pacific was the first school of the nearly 100-member Council for Christian Colleges and Universities to achieve the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) distinction. AACSB International represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. As a member, we are part of a united movement to improve the quality of business education around the world, helping to develop the next generation of great leaders. SPU is also listed as a Best Business School in the West by The Princeton Review. In addition to AACSB accreditation, Seattle Pacific Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association of Theological Schools, a membership organization of more than 270 graduate schools. 

  2. Deep Ethics Emphasis

    Built on an ethical foundation, this dual degree program at SPU offers first-class business education through the lens of Christian faith and values. Students take at least two ethics classes, and ethical issues are integrated throughout the curriculum. The School of Business, Government, and Economics also operates the Center for Faithful Business.

  3. Flexible Format

    The dual degree program offers students countless opportunities for interaction with one another and with faculty beyond the classroom, all while keeping in mind that many students are working professionals. Our evening courses are designed to accommodate varying work schedules. Classes are smaller, allowing students to get involved with professors and fellow students in a cooperative and reciprocal learning environment.

  4. Mentor Program Advantage

    At SPU, students are encouraged to follow their inspiration and imagination while benefiting from a top-rated mentor program that connects them with professionals in their chosen fields of study. To enhance the dual degree experience, we offer a mentor program that gives students access to more than 900 business people and professionals from a variety of companies, industries, roles, and levels of experience. Meet one-on-one with a mentor or multiple mentors for a richer learning experience and to gain network resources for future contacts. 

  5. Valuable Connections

    When you graduate with a dual business/theology degree from SPU’s School of Business, Government, and Economics, you join a community of alumni and partnering stakeholders who stay connected. As a graduate, you’ll find experienced and engaged, top-level business professionals eager to lend their support.

  6. Robust Suite of Career Services

    Dual degrees in Business Administration and Theology will enable you to serve in the marketplace as a Christian grounded in the Scriptures and theology. You could also serve as a business or finance manager of a church or parachurch organization.

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Curriculum

Curriculum

To earn the dual degrees, you will need to apply to the School of Business, Government, and Economics as well as to Seattle Pacific Seminary (acceptance in one does not guarantee acceptance in the other). Once you are admitted to both programs, you will receive a specialized program plan to follow for the duration of your enrollment at SPU. The dual degree program also includes internship options and a Theology and Business Integration Seminar that make connections between the disciplines of business and theology.

The configuration of the dual degree will be worked out on an individualized basis between the student and the associate deans of the School of Theology and the School of Business, Government, and Economics.

View or download the dual degree program checklist.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

To earn the dual degrees, you will need to apply to the School of Business, Government, and Economics as well as to Seattle Pacific Seminary (acceptance in one does not guarantee acceptance in the other). Once you are admitted to both programs, you will receive a specialized program plan to follow for the duration of your enrollment at SPU. The dual degree program also includes internship options and a Theology and Business Integration Seminar that make connections between the disciplines of business and theology.

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Career Opportunities

Dual degrees in Business Administration and Theology will enable you to serve in the marketplace as a Christian grounded in the Scriptures and theology. You could also serve as a business or finance manager of a church or parachurch organization.

Career Services

Supporting the careers of our graduate business students and alumni is a high priority for the School of Business, Government, and Economics. These career resources are available:

Graduate students may use the Center for Career & Calling Resources for Current Graduate Students which include online vocational resources and résumé tips, workshops, and events. 

Job Leads

Job leads are posted in SPU's job posting board, Handshake, as well as in the SBGE LinkedIn group.

Career Counseling, Job Search Coaching, and Résumé Assistance

Where do you plan to work once you graduate? How do you plan to land your next job? If you just started your graduate business program, you might not know what is on the other side of your degree. A list of qualified, vetted career counselors and coaches is available to students who desire one-on-one assistance (i.e. résumé writing, career exploration counseling or job search coaching, career assessments, or other related activities).  This is on a fee-for-service basis.

Professional and Career Development Workshops

Managing your career is critical for success in today’s turbulent environment. To accelerate your development, each quarter we host one career related workshop on topics such as job searching, networking, résumé writing, interviewing, etc.

Alumni/Student Networking Events

Connecting alumni and current students together is a win-win for everyone. Networking events are held to connect and help current students and SBGE alumni navigate life in the workplace.

Mentoring

A mentor can be a pivotal influence in your career. Our Center for Applied Learning offers a world-class, individually customized mentoring experience that pairs you with a mentor based on your career goals and aspirations. Find out more about the Mentor Program.

Does Business Matter to God?

Does Business Matter to God?

Yes, says Jeff Van Duzer, SPU provost and former dean of the School of Business, Government, and Economics. Read his award-winning article in SPU's Response magazine.

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Costs

Tuition and Fees for 2021–22

money icon

$778

per SBGE credit

Seattle Pacific Seminary costs are $595 per credit

dollar icon

$150

one-time application and matriculation fee

See additional fee details.

textbook icon

Credits vary

See checklist

Financial Aid

Before applying for aid, you must first be admitted to a graduate program. Make sure you:

  • Enroll in at least 3 credits (or half-time) toward a degree or eligible certificate each quarter.
  • Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.

Just like undergraduates, you may take advantage of scholarships and loans. SPU does not have a deadline for graduate financial aid, though earlier is always better than later! Learn more

Fees

Learn more about administrative, certification, and other program fees.

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Application Info

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Generally, you must have at least a 3.0 GPA in your undergraduate studies, at least a 500 GMAT total score (25V, 30Q, and 4.4AW) or at least a 295 GRE score and evidence of at least one year of continuous, full-time, substantive work experience after receipt of the bachelor's degree on your résumé.

To earn the dual degrees, you will need to apply to the School of Business, Government, and Economics as well as to Seattle Pacific Seminary (acceptance in one does not guarantee acceptance in the other). Once you are admitted to both programs, you will receive a specialized program plan to follow for the duration of your enrollment at SPU. The dual degree program also includes internship options and a Theology and Business Integration Seminar that makes connections between the disciplines of business and theology. For more details regarding application information, contact Gary Karns at gkarns@spu.edu or request more information here.

Applicants must submit the following:

  • Online application and $50 application processing fee.
  • Current résumé as evidence of a substantive work experience. You will need at least one full year, continuous full time, post-bachelor’s degree experience at the time of application. More is preferred. This is a significant factor in the admission decision process. Applicants with less than one year of post-baccalaureate professional work experience, but who are otherwise strong candidates and are currently employed in a meaningful professional role may be considered.
  • Official transcript from colleges or universities attended. Include the transcript from the institution that granted your bachelor’s degree with the posted degree appearing on the transcript. Also, send official transcripts for all institutions attended following your undergraduate degree, as well as any other schools where you earned credits that may be used to request waivers of foundations courses.
  • GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores. GRE scores above 295 (150 verbal; 145 quantitative) are preferred. For the GRE, the SPU school code is 4694. The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) may also be accepted, and scores above 500 (25 verbal; 30 quantitative; 4.4 analytical writing) are preferred. For the GMAT, the SPU school code is C9FD273.
    • The GRE/GMAT test is optional for admission for applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher in their bachelor's degree program.
  • Two professional letters of recommendation (optional);find the forms in the online application.
  • Personal statement (3-4 pages), responding to the essay questions listed in the online application.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

The application for admission, application fee, and personal statement must be received by the dates listed below. Recommendation letters, official transcripts and test scores must arrive before an admission decision can be made.

Quarter/Starting Month

Application Deadline

Autumn/September

August 1

Winter/January

November 1

Spring/March

February 1

Summer/June

May 1

International applicants attending on an F-1 visa 
(International applicants who do not need an F-1 visa may adhere to the above deadlines.)

Quarter/Starting Month

Application Deadline

Autumn/September

June 1

Winter/January

September 1

Spring/March

December 1

Summer/June

Admission not available for F-1 visa students

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLICANTS

Pre-Qualified Students

Qualified individuals may take up to five courses if they have an undergraduate degree (as evidenced by an Official transcript(s) from an accredited institution); a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0; and a minimum of one year full-time post-baccalaureate work experience (as evidenced by a current résumé).

Prequalified students must apply for admission to take additional courses. Prequalified status does not guarantee full admission at a later date.

Conditional Admission

You may request conditional admittance into the School of Business, Government, and Economics under these conditions:

  • You are a student who needs an F-1 visa to study in the United States.
  • You have graduated from an accredited four-year institution. Your transcript must show completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • You have achieved at least a 3.0 GPA on the US 4.0 scale.
  • You have a minimum of at least one year, continuous full-time, post-bachelor’s degree experience at the time of application. You will be required to submit a résumé with job titles, duties, start date and end date (month and year), Internships and job training are not accepted as full-time employment.

If approved, you will receive a Conditional Letter of Admission from SPU. Conditional admission assures that you will be considered for admission, if you satisfy all admission requirements at the time of your intended enrollment.

Please complete this form to request conditional admission to a graduate program in the SPU School of Business, Government, and Economics.

VISITING GRADUATE STUDENTS

If you have been admitted to a graduate degree program in another accredited institution, you may enroll for up to 9 credits at Seattle Pacific University ― with the approval of the School of Business, Government, and Economics.

To gain admission as a visiting graduate student, you must submit:

  • Online application and $50 application processing fee.
  • Letter from the dean’s office at your home institution stating that you are good standing at that institution.
  • Current résumé.
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International Applicants

International students are an important part of Seattle Pacific University. A vibrant and active international population, SPU’s international graduate students represent 32 different countries.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT APPLICANTS

In addition to general admission requirements, international students must also submit:

  • TOEFL score of at least 86 on the iBT, or an IELTS official score report of at least 6.5 if English is not your first language. Otherwise strong applicants with a TOEFL score of 68-85 (IELTS 6.0) may be probationally or conditionally admitted with the requirement to successfully complete SPU approved ESL coursework prior to or at the outset of enrollment and continuing as needed.
  • Official financial statement reflecting financial support equivalent to the cost of the first year of graduate study. Complete the Declaration of International Student Finances form and send it to the address listed on the form, along with an original bank statement and copy of your passport (front and back).
  • For non US transcripts, provide a transcript evaluation by World Education Services (WES) or Foundation for International Services Inc. (FIS). (A page-by-page evaluation is sufficient, but a course-by-course evaluation is needed to determine if any pre-requisite foundations have been satisfied.)

All official transcripts must be submitted in English. International applicants are responsible for all costs associated with this service, including transcript(s) order and/or delivery fees (official transcripts must be sent directly from the school or translation evaluation service in a sealed envelope). 

Questions?

For other questions, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

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