Pastors, teachers, and nonprofit professionals who feel the tension between their calling and the complex demands of organizational leadership now have a convenient option for focused training.

Walla Walla University’s MBA with a Ministerial Leadership specialization—or its graduate certificate counterpart—equips leaders with the practical skills needed to run mission-driven organizations with confidence and competence. Core areas of study include nonprofit finance, advancement and fundraising, nonprofit management and leadership, and ministerial strategy and governance.

“We’ve heard from leaders who are eager to expand their skills so that they can successfully navigate in a changing ministry environment,” says Paul Rhynard, MBA program director. “They feel called to lead, but underprepared for the financial and operational realities of running an organization during a time of rising costs, increased competition for donor support, and declining member engagement. This program bridges that gap.”

The fully-online program offers:

• Asynchronous learning for busy professionals who need a flexible study schedule.
• Interactive, case-based lessons guided by leading experts.
• Rolling start dates in January, April, July, or October, with completion at the student’s own pace.

Scholarships may be available, and employees of the North Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists will receive a 15% discount on tuition in partnership with the university, Rhynard adds.

“We do not want financial barriers to delay the equipping of our NPUC leaders,” Rhynard says. “This discount is our way of supporting our churches and schools, and it demonstrates Walla Walla University’s belief that professional development and ministry belong together.

“In a world where long-term viability increasingly determines a nonprofit organization’s impact, programs like this are a necessity,” Rhynard adds. “We are excited to help leaders walk away with tools that will translate directly to their ministry’s day-to-day work.”

To apply or request information about the MBA or graduate certificate with Ministerial Leadership specialization, visit wallawalla.edu/mba.

Posted May 18, 2026