Click here to return home
 

    Choosing a Seminary

    Why Western?

    Programs

    Admissions Process

      Common Questions
      Admissions Timeline
      Admissions Criteria
      Application Forms
      Philosophy & Standards

    Portland Campus

    San Jose Campus

    Sacramento Campus

    Distance Learning

 

 

What will it take for you to enter the doors of Western Seminary? Good question. It has been our experience over the past seven decades that most prospective students walk into this conversation with a series of concerns and we want to do our part to help answer them as you move along in the admissions process. The following represent the most frequently asked questions related to admissions:

Q. What are your admission standards?

A. Admission to Western Seminary requires submission and approval of a completed application. To qualify for admission you normally need to present an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with either a 3.0 GPA for M.A. admission or a 2.5 GPA for M.Div. admission.

Q. Where can I find a application forms?

A. Prospective students may find application forms in the back of the academic catalog, or online by clicking below for the program of their choice:

Masters Level Program Application
Doctor of Ministry Program Application
Doctor of Missiology Program Application

 

 

Q. Can I transfer credits from another accredited seminary into a degree program at Western Seminary?

A. Students who have completed relevant studies prior to becoming a student at Western Seminary may request consideration for the transfer of credit. Western Seminary normally accepts appropriate transfer credit from graduate institutions accredited by the Association of Theological Schools or regional accrediting associations. For credit to be granted, the previous work must approximately parallel course content (80% or higher equivalence), as described in Western's catalog, judged by comparison of typical course syllabi. The previous courses must be validated by an official transcript with indication of a grade of "B" (3.0) or higher. The course work must have been completed within five years of the application for transfer credit. If the student meets all of the above requirements, he or she will be able to transfer in credits up to 50% of whatever degree program he or she will be entering at Western. Please note that at the Northern California campuses, a maximum of six credits may be transferred. No transfer credit will be granted for non-degree status students. Incoming students should submit requests for transfer credit evaluations in writing prior to or during the first semester of enrollment.

Q. Does Western offer advanced standing based on work completed at Bible College?

A. Western Seminary provides the opportunity for qualified M.A., M.Div., and Graduate Studies Diploma students to "test out" of courses based upon classes they took at an accredited Bible college or Christian liberal arts college. Exemptions from classes may come in the form of either credit reduction or advanced elective substitutions. Ultimately, Western's desire is to be sure a student is both well trained and does not unnecessarily repeat information they have already learned.