Transformational Leadership (MATL)
Master of Arts
(Launching Soon)
The revision of the Master of Arts in Transformational Leadership (MATL) is a 36-unit graduate program designed to develop Christ-centered leaders equipped to drive change across ministry, nonprofit, and marketplace settings. Rooted in Christian theology and structured around four leadership pillars—authenticity, inspiration, empathy, and innovation—the MATL integrates personalized learning through four specialized concentrations: Strategic Leadership, Ministry Leadership, Executive Coaching, and Community Development. The program emphasizes practical leadership development via a robust core curriculum, culminating in a capstone project integrating real-world leadership experiences. With a focus on theological foundations, cultural intelligence, and innovative strategies, this revised MATL program is both a response to growing demand for leadership education and a strategic investment in developing leaders capable of navigating complex societal challenges.
About the Program
Built on Multnomah Biblical Seminary’s ATS-ready design, the MATL delivers a holistic 24-unit core that fuses theological foundations with cutting-edge leadership science. Courses such as The Leader’s Journey and Leading Innovation & Design combine self-assessment, case studies, and AI-enhanced simulations to foster deep personal formation alongside practical skill-building. Six annual entry points and standardized Canvas shells provide scheduling flexibility, while an Alignment Matrix ensures every class develops leadership Concepts (knowledge), Competence (skills), and Character (formation). Students then dive into a chosen concentration:
Throughout the journey, experienced faculty and industry practitioners mentor learners, culminating in the synchronous Leadership Capstone where students present a Transformational Leadership Development Plan built on real-world practice and peer feedback. The result is a graduate prepared to inspire, empathize, and innovate—transforming both people and organizations for Kingdom impact.
Transformational Leadership Core: 24 Units
- TLDR 513 Theology of Transformational Leadership
- TLDR 501 The Leader’s Journey
- TLDR 530 Leading Organizational Culture
- TLDR 560 Organizational Behavior & Leadership
- TLDR 642 Leading Innovation & Design
- TLDR 561 Resilient Teams & Conflict Resolution
- Core Elective (3 units)
- TLDR 698 Leadership Capstone
Concentration Options: 12 Units each (choose one)
Strategic Leadership
- TLDR 503 Strategic Leadership Foundations
- TLDR 521 Organizational Communication
- TLDR 541 Driving Projects & Initiatives
- Concentration Elective
Ministry Leadership
- TLDR 586 Church Life & Leadership
- TLDR 680 Ministry as Vocation
TLDR 513 Ministry & Spiritual Formation - Concentration Elective
Executive Coaching (ICF-aligned)
- TLDR 502 Introduction to Coaching
- TLDR 562 Coaching for Leaders & Managers or TLDR 572 Coach as Story-Listener
- TLDR 670 Coaching for Change
- TLDR 675 Supervised Coaching Practicum
Community Development
- GLS 501 Introduction to Global Development & Justice
- GLS 515 Conflict, Refugees & Complex Disasters
- GLS 614 Economic & Community Development
- GLS 617 Peacebuilding & Transformative Justice
To view all courses and course descriptions, please see our current Academic Catalog.
The Graduate Certificate uses the MA in Transformational Leadership admission requirements. The student who completes the Graduate Certificate in Executive Coaching may continue their studies by applying all their units toward a MA in Transformational Leadership degree with a Concentration in Executive Coaching.
3.0 Cumulative GPA
If less than 3.0, students will be invited to share an explanation of prior performance and describe the experiences and skills you believe indicate your ability to succeed at the graduate level and complete a graduate reading and writing course.
Personal Statement
Please upload a personal statement essay of 500 words on why this program is valuable for your ministry.
2 Letters of Recommendation
Bachelor’s Degree from Regionally Accredited Institution (Special Student Status may be considered for those students with proven longevity in significant leadership roles).
Official Transcripts
TOEFL may be required for international students
Students in the MA in Transformational Leadership are equipped to lead positive change and to build up the lives of those they serve. They are difference-makers—authentic, caring, inspiring, and innovative—impacting the Church, the marketplace, and beyond.
FACULTY
Jessup’s dedicated community of faculty, both full-time and adjunct, are here to walk alongside you, equipping you with the knowledge and values you’ll need to establish a meaningful career, grow spiritually, and succeed in all areas of your life. Learn more about our full-time faculty.
Program Director MAL, Associate Professor (Leadership), School of Theology & Leadership, Director of the Office of Graduate Studies
Rev. Dr. Marilyn Williams, M.Div., Ed.D.
Associate Professor, School of Theology & Leadership
Associate Professor, School of Theology & Leadership
Associate Dean, Associate Professor, School of Theology & Leadership
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