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Graduate Admissions

Advance your career as a Christ-centered Influential Leader.

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Graduate Degree Programs

You’re ready for more — more influence and greater career satisfaction. Explore graduate degree programs designed for working professionals like you who are ready to advance their careers and apply their faith as respected leaders of industries and communities. Cornerstone University offers high-growth master’s programs and a doctoral degree in organizational leadership, grounded in a Christ-centered approach and aligned with today’s workforce needs.

You’ll develop the skills employers value most—strategic thinking, communication, leadership and sound decision-making—equipping you to advance into leadership roles, grow spiritually, and lead with greater credibility and influence in your organization and industry

Areas of Study: Business & Leadership • Counseling • Education • Ministry & Seminary

What to Expect

  • Online graduate programs — with on-campus options available
  • Tuition designed to be accessible — so you can advance without unnecessary debt
  • Multiple start dates and program timelines designed to fit your work and life
  • Career-focused programs aligned with today’s workforce needs
  • Faculty with real-world experience who bring practical insight into every course
  • A Christ-centered approach that shapes your leadership and decision-making
  • Transfer up to 75% of your program credits

Preparing for ministry? Explore flexible, affordable seminary master’s degrees designed for today’s pastors and church leaders.

How to Apply for Graduate Programs

The application process is straightforward—and we’ll guide you every step of the way. GRE or GMAT not required.

  1. Submit your application – Complete your online application in just a few minutes.
  2. Submit your transcripts – Provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities you’ve attended.
  3. Receive your decision – Once your materials are received, you’ll receive your admissions decision quickly along with your next steps.

Graduate Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by program, and our team will help you understand what’s needed for your specific degree. Most applicants will need:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • A minimum GPA (program-specific requirements apply)
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended

Explore Programs with Additional Requirements

M.A. in Biblical Exegesis

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.A. in Biblical Studies

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.A. in Christian Counseling

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.A. in Ministry Leadership

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.A. in Organizational Leadership (Mobile-Only SOAR)

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.7 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.A. in TESOL

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.7 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.7 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit two letters of recommendations
  • Submit your resume
  • Complete a virtual interview with counseling faculty

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.7 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended

Master of Divinity

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 2.5 minimum GPA
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one letter of recommendation from a ministry leader or mentor

Master of Theology (Th.M)

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a Master of Divinity or Master of Arts in the relevant theological discipline
  • 3.0 minimum GPA in graduate-level study, and demonstrate advanced competency in both Hebrew and Greek
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Submit one ministry reference
  • Submit two letters of recommendation from former teachers – one must be from a former teacher in the anticipated field
  • Submit a graded writing sample from their
  • M.Div. or M.A. equivalent degree program.
  • Scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) may also be requested in addition to or in place of the graded writing sample as determined by the supervising professor.
  • Submit a formal letter to the faculty indicating reasons for pursuing an advanced graduate theological degree. The letter should also include the selection of a major field for the program and life objectives.

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development

  • A master’s degree from an accredited institution
  • 3.0 minimum GPA in graduate-level study
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
  • Minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in leadership, management, or a related field
  • Submit a well-crafted statement that articulates your career goals, reasons for pursuing the Ed.D., and how the program aligns with your aspirations
  • Submit a current resume or CV outlining your professional experience and education.

Transfer Credits for Graduate Programs

Already taken graduate-level courses? There’s a good chance those credits can count here—so you’re not repeating work or spending extra time and money. We’ll review what you’ve completed and help you see what applies so you can finish sooner, reducing your costs.

Submit Your Transcripts

Graduate programs offer multiple start dates throughout the year—so you can begin when you’re ready.

Electronic Transcripts:
Submit through your institution or services like Parchment or National Student Clearinghouse.

Mail:
Cornerstone University
Attn: Admissions Office
1001 East Beltline Ave. NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525

International Transcripts:
International evaluation requirements may apply.

Graduate Program Start Dates and Deadlines

Graduate programs offer multiple start dates throughout the year—so you can begin when you’re ready. Classes begin every seven weeks.

Apply early to secure your preferred start term and complete financial aid on time.

Talk with an Admissions Counselor

Have a program in mind or just a few questions? Get clear answers about your program, your timeline and your next steps.

  • Graduate Programs — 616.202.5603
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.) — 616.816.5023
  • Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.) — 616.816.5023
  • Seminary Programs — 616.202.5603

Tuition & Financial Aid for Graduate Students

A private, Christ-centered education with tuition designed to be accessible—so you can move forward without unnecessary debt. Explore your options:

Take the Next Step

Take the next step toward career advancement and Christ-centered leadership. Our admissions and financial aid counselors are ready to help you get started.

Graduate Admissions FAQs

Can I complete my degree online?

Yes. Many graduate programs at Cornerstone University are offered fully online, with additional on-campus options in Grand Rapids, Michigan—so you can choose what fits your schedule and responsibilities. Seminary degrees are available fully online for ministry professionals.

How long does it take to complete a graduate degree?

At Cornerstone University, program length varies by degree and your pace, but many can be completed in as little as 1–3 years.

How much does a graduate degree cost?

Cornerstone University offers one of the most affordable tuition rates for private graduate education. Tuition varies by program, and financial aid options are available.

When can I start a graduate program?

Cornerstone University offers multiple start dates throughout the year, so you can begin when it works best for you.

How do I apply for a graduate program?

Submit your application online and provide your undergraduate transcripts. Some programs may require additional materials depending on the degree.

Can I transfer graduate credits into my program?

If you’ve completed graduate-level coursework, those credits may be eligible to transfer—helping you avoid repeating work and finish sooner. Each course is reviewed to determine how it applies to your program.

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