Austin Seminary and Schreiner University Launch MDiv/MBA Dual Degree Program for Future Faith Leaders

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary (Austin Seminary) has joined forces with Schreiner University to introduce an innovative four-year dual degree program aimed at cultivating a new generation of faith-based leaders equipped to tackle the complexities of modern spiritual and organizational challenges. Upon graduation, students will receive a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Austin Seminary and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Schreiner University, representing a significant educational collaboration that underscores Austin Seminary’s dedication to evolving its academic offerings and empowering graduates with critical skill sets.

The dual degree program integrates theological education with essential business principles, addressing the increasing need for competent faith-based leaders in a variety of settings, including non-profit organizations, bi-vocational pastoral roles, and entrepreneurial ventures rooted in faith. “For years now, we have heard that bi-vocationalism is emerging as a new model of doing ministry in the church. Students engaging in this degree will be equipped with professional knowledge and skills to help them bring an ethical mindset to the industries or organizations they will work with,” said Austin Seminary President Rev. Dr. José R. Irizarry. “It will equally enhance the administrative capacities of those called to lead congregational life.”

As churches and faith organizations increasingly require their leaders to manage both spiritual development and the ethical governance of faith-based non-profits, the significance of business administration skills cannot be overstated. “The MBA in Ethical Leadership is designed to strengthen business competencies, improve networking skills, and foster leadership traits that challenge business making decisions based on the right thing for the common good versus for the bottom line,” explains Schreiner University Provost Dr. Lucien Costley. “The ethical leadership component is a nice complement to the divinity program as they prepare for their roles as ministerial leaders.”

The Reverend Dr. Margaret Aymer, vice president for academic affairs and academic dean at Austin Seminary, emphasizes the need for comprehensive preparation in light of changing ministerial demands: “Our alumni are entering the ministry at a time of great change. More of them are being asked to take on solo or senior pastorates earlier in their ministry, and they have little time to apprentice with a more experienced pastor. They have told us that they desire more preparation for ministerial leadership as they enter their vocation.”

While each institution maintains its own degree programs, the dual degree initiative offers a flexible and economical pathway for students to acquire extensive knowledge in both fields simultaneously. With a thoughtfully integrated curriculum that satisfies the academic requirements of both Austin Seminary and Schreiner University, students can anticipate graduating with a multifaceted skill set that prepares them to make meaningful contributions in diverse professional environments. “This dual degree allows our students to continue to live and learn in community, being formed for the ministry of the gospel while preparing themselves to be better financial and administrative leaders,” stated Aymer.

This partnership enhances the collaborative educational mission shared by Austin Seminary and Schreiner University within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and sets a transformative benchmark for uniting faith with leadership education. Schreiner University President Dr. Charlie McCormick noted, “This partnership between Schreiner and Austin Seminary marks the beginning of what we envision as a series of meaningful collaborations. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, Schreiner University is committed to providing an education that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Austin Seminary, with its deep roots in faith, heritage, and tradition, stands as a natural and invaluable companion in this mission.” Irizarry underscored the synergy between the two institutions stating, “We are glad to join Schreiner University, an institution that shares our historical affiliation with the Presbyterian Church and a common service-oriented mission, in offering this dual degree program.”

What are the key benefits of pursuing a⁢ dual degree⁣ in divinity ⁣and⁣ business ⁣administration for future faith leaders?

**Interview with Rev. Dr. José⁣ R. Irizarry, President of ‌Austin Presbyterian Theological⁤ Seminary**

**Interviewer:** Thank you ⁤for‌ joining us today, Dr. Irizarry. Austin ⁢Seminary’s recent collaboration ‌with Schreiner University to ⁢offer a dual degree program is quite⁣ innovative. Can you share what‍ inspired⁢ this partnership?

**Dr. Irizarry:** Thank⁤ you for having me. The inspiration for​ this partnership stems from ​the‍ evolving landscape of ministry. We recognize that today’s⁢ faith leaders require a‍ unique blend of⁤ theological‍ acumen and business expertise. The ‌increasing demand for bi-vocational ministry roles calls for leaders‌ who can ⁢navigate ​both spiritual and‍ organizational challenges effectively. This program endeavors to fill that gap.

**Interviewer:** ‍That’s fantastic! ‍What⁢ specific ‌skills do you believe ‍this dual ⁢degree program will equip‍ students with?

**Dr. Irizarry:** Students⁤ will graduate with both a Master of ‌Divinity and a Master of Business⁢ Administration,⁣ which means they’ll‌ gain a comprehensive skill set. They’ll learn⁤ how to manage church‍ operations,⁣ understand financial⁤ stewardship, and apply ethical decision-making in a variety​ of contexts. We ‍aim to foster leaders who⁢ approach their work ⁣ethically and​ are prepared‍ for the⁣ diverse demands of modern ministry.

**Interviewer:** It sounds like the MBA’s focus on‍ ethical leadership is a ​key aspect of this program. How does it complement the divinity education?

**Dr. Irizarry:** ⁢Absolutely. ⁣The ethical leadership training not only enhances business competencies⁣ but ⁤also reinforces the moral and ethical framework that is essential‌ in ministry.⁣ As ministers engage​ with their communities and ⁢organizations,⁢ they will be better prepared⁣ to make decisions that consider the‍ common⁣ good over mere financial gain. ⁤This balance is crucial in today’s complex​ social environment.

**Interviewer:** Dr. Irizarry, Reverend Dr. Margaret ​Aymer mentioned that incoming ministers are often thrust into ⁤significant roles⁤ without adequate‌ experience. ‌How does this program address that issue?

**Dr. Irizarry:** By‌ integrating practical business education ‌with theological training, we’re giving our‍ students the tools they need to thrive in‌ their roles from day​ one. This preparation is crucial, especially as many of our ⁣students will face​ the unique challenges of ​leading congregations earlier in their careers. We’re helping them⁤ become not just ‌pastors but well-rounded leaders.

**Interviewer:** Thank⁢ you for your insights, ​Dr. Irizarry. It’s clear ‍that⁣ this dual ⁤degree program will play ⁢a significant role in‌ shaping‍ future ​faith-based leaders.

**Dr.‍ Irizarry:** Thank​ you.⁢ We’re excited ‌about the‍ opportunities this program will provide and believe it will have a lasting ‌impact on both our graduates and ​the broader​ community they ⁤serve.