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ADMISSIONS CRITERIA

Doctor of Ministry

  • Master’s degree with at least 50 credits of graduate work
  • 3.0+ master’s GPA
  • 3+ years of ministry experience, preferably in a local church context
  • Demonstrated ability to write at a doctoral level
  • Clear demonstration of a vibrant Christian faith and ministry integrity

Masters-level

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5+ undergraduate GPA. Students with a lower GPA will be evaluated by the admissions committee.
  • Demonstrate graduate-level writing ability
  • Evidence a strong relationship with Jesus and a desire to serve Him

Undergraduate

  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or Associate’s Degree
  • Evidence a strong relationship with Jesus and a desire to serve Him
  • Demonstrate strong writing ability
  • Receive strong recommendation from pastoral reference

ADVANCED STANDING

Students who have attended a Christian college are eligible to receive advanced standing for biblical, theological, and ministry coursework they have completed. Up to 18 credits can be accepted into MDiv programs and up to 9 credits can be accepted into MA programs.

In order to be receive advanced standing credits, students must fully apply and request an advanced standing evaluation of their transcript. A student’s transcript will be evaluated by the academic dean. Any qualifying credits will be added to the student’s academic record at WBS.

Only coursework that meets these criteria will be accepted as advanced standing:

  • Course in Bible, theology, or Christian ministry,
  • 300-level course or higher
  • B grade or higher earned by student
  • Fits within a student’s selected degree program at WBS

TRANSFER CREDIT

Students who have completed previous graduate-level work are eligible for transfer credit. Up to half of a full degree at WBS can be transferred from another program.

In order to receive transfer credit, students must fully apply and request to receive transfer credit. A student’s transcript will be evaluated by the academic dean. Any qualifying credits will be added to the student’s academic record at WBS.

Only coursework that meets these criteria will be accepted as transfer credit:

  • Graduate level course
  • B grade or higher earned by student
  • Fits within a student’s selected degree program at WBS

STUDENTS WITHOUT A BACHELOR’S DEGREE

Degrees at WBS are designed for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree. However, some students have experience that can compensate for a limited educational background. WBS is able to admit a limited number of students each year who have not completed a bachelor’s degree.

Applicants without a bachelor’s degree are evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Experience in ministry
  • Educational background (including accredited and non-accredited work)
  • References

Contact the admissions department if you have more questions about applying without having first earned your bachelor’s degree.

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