School Details
Founded on a common Christian conviction, Messiah is a multi-faith institution rooted in the transformation of students to follow the likeness of Jesus. Established over a century ago in Pennsylvania as a missionary training center, the school soon became a Bible school of higher education. At the mid-century point, Messiah became a recognized college. Now, the institution has grown and evolved into Messiah University, holding true to its founding, but providing more student opportunities than ever.
Messiah University offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and applied sciences. Most of the school’s graduate programs are offered online, with a broad range of master’s programs, doctorate options, and graduate certificates.
Across all disciplines, you’ll find faculty that not only teach, but serve as mentors and advisors, as you grow your knowledge and Christian faith. You’ll enhance your career and understanding of service.
At Messiah University, there is a sense of renewal in transformation by bringing together seemingly disparate students and ideas, perhaps best illustrated by these integrations:
- Humility-Aspiration
- Wisdom-Expertise
- Worship-Service
- Harmony-Difference
- Faith-Intellect
- Discipline-Imagination
Accreditation & Licensing
Messiah University is accredited by:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
- Choral Conducting
- Orchestral Conducting
- Wind Conducting
Teachers can expand their knowledge of music with a Master of Music Education degree. This program prepares students for leadership roles in the classroom, with ensembles, and in instructional design roles.
Music teachers will study topics including effective curriculum development and the application of learning benchmarks. Courses also discuss past and present trends in music education. The entire program can be completed online, with an optional one-week summer intensive course on campus available to those who are interested.
- Wind Conducting
- Orchestral Conducting
- Choral Conducting
Business
Messiah University’s online graduate certificate in Business Analytics equips you with the analytical skills needed to advance your career and stand out in a data-driven business world. Designed for both recent graduates and professionals, this fully online program helps you master statistical tools, interpret market trends, and communicate data-driven insights effectively. Whether you’re looking to enhance your expertise or pivot into analytics-focused roles, this credential prepares you for career opportunities in business analysis, consulting, marketing analytics, operations, and supply chain management.
Benefit from:
- 100% Online, 8-week courses
- Completion in less than six months
- Practical courses integrated with faith-based values
- Faculty advising and peer networking
Messiah University offers a Graduate Certificate in Digital Marketing online that can be completed in as little as one year part-time. Professionals with an existing undergraduate degree can use this program to learn how to effectively use the latest digital marketing strategies.
Students will learn techniques and tools to reach target customers through online advertising, social media, mobile marketing, and big data analytics. Courses examine marketing theory and foundations as well as challenging contemporary issues in the field. Graduates will understand ways to use technology to ethically grow their business.
Career options available to graduates include:
- Content strategist
- Digital marketing
- Marketing analytics manager
- User experience designer or researcher
- Marketing automation manager
The online Graduate Certificate in Management from Messiah University provides knowledge in a range of disciplines so professionals can more effectively lead and manage their organizations. The program is available to recent graduates and professionals with an existing bachelor’s degree and can be completed online part-time in as little as one year.
Courses examine business strategy and execution from a faith-based perspective. Students will learn techniques for gathering and using quantitative and qualitative business data for decision-making. Other classes take a look at teamwork, group dynamics, and organizational effectiveness.
Graduates can pursue positions such as:
- Chief executive officer
- Chief financial officer
- Chief operating officer
- Product manager
- Brand manager
- Sales director
Messiah University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership. The program is offered to recent graduates or professionals with an undergraduate degree who want to impact their organizations by becoming more effective leaders.
Classes in this organizational leadership program focus on the leader’s role in strategic thinking, planning, and organizational change. The strengths and weaknesses of various leadership models will be examined. Students will learn how to identify and develop leaders within their organization and how to encourage teamwork, trust, and positive group dynamics in the workplace.
Careers available to graduates include:
- Chief financial officer
- Program manager
- Operations manager
- Leadership and organizational development director
Messiah’s hybrid Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership master’s degree equips you with in-depth knowledge of sports management and coaching within the higher education setting. This program features online coursework, a required on-campus summer intensive, and optional hybrid classes. Topics of study include sports management, marketing and communication, coaching, and strategic organizational leadership. 8-week formats and multiple start dates provide you with added flexibility. You may also have the opportunity to apply for paid graduate assistantships.
Just a few career options include:
- Athletic director
- College/university scout
- Director of sports marketing
- Student-athlete development counselor
Jumpstart your career with a degree you can complete in as little as two years!
A master’s degree in Strategic Leadership is offered fully online by Messiah University. The program seeks to teach best practices for leading change, developing leaders, and empowering teams to achieve desired results.
Courses in this online master’s in organizational leadership analyze leadership theories and change management techniques. Students will better understand their leadership style by evaluating their own personal strengths and challenges. The role of faith is examined as it informs and gives purpose to ethical and effective leadership.
Students can pursue a variety of positions after graduation, such as:
- Executive, director, or manager leading teams and organizations
- HR executive/management
- Talent and organizational development leader
- Leadership and change management leader/consultant
If you’re aiming to excel in today’s data-driven business landscape, Messiah University’s online Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Business Analytics is tailored for professionals like you. This program equips you with the skills to extract meaningful insights from data, inform strategic decisions, and lead ethically in the realm of business analytics.
The online MBA is designed to fit your professional needs. Complete this program in as little as one-to-two year, plus a capstone project. New courses begin every 8 weeks, offering flexibility to fit your schedule. Enjoy a no-fee tuition model.
Just as important, Messiah University is nationally recognized for integrating top-tier academics with Christian faith, ensuring a holistic educational experience. The MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), reflecting its commitment to excellence in business education.
Career opportunities include:
- Business and marketing analysis
- Consulting
- Operations and supply chain management
Earn an online MBA with a concentration in Digital Marketing with Messiah University. Students will learn the latest in advancements of strategies, techniques and methods used to execute successful campaigns and projects. The flexibility of learning online allows for students to work while they learn, acquiring applicable skills lending enhanced workplace opportunities.
Students will take on topics including but not limited to:
- Social media strategy
- Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Management
Messiah designs its online programs to meet the needs of working professionals from diverse business backgrounds. Class sizes remain small to encourage close academic relations with peers and professors. Graduates of this program may find fruitful career paths as executives, directors or managers in finance, sales, or consulting.
A concentration in Management is available through the Messiah University online MBA program. This specialization offers multiple disciplines to working managers interested in more effective leadership. The flexibility of learning online allows for students to balance work and education and learn techniques applicable to today’s industry.
Management MBA concentrations include:
- Digital marketing
- Social entrepreneurship
- Strategic communication or leadership
Messiah University is a faith-based institution providing an ethics-centered practice of business. Students join a diverse community of professionals honing their skills to exceed and reach high-level leadership positions. Graduates may pursue careers in finance, human resources, supply chain management and more.
A Master of Business Administration degree in Strategic Leadership is available with Messiah University. This program is offered fully online, allowing working professionals the flexibility to balance career and academia while honing applicable skills for their industry. Students will invest time in core MBA courses, including entrepreneurship, management and global business.
More specialized courses include:
- Strategic planning for change
- Leading leaders
- Teamwork and group dynamics
Messiah University provides an ethical framework to its degree programs, keeping students focused on effecting change for good in today’s complex business climate. Faculty student ratios are small, allowing for individualized attention and closer dynamics with peers. Join a diverse and beneficial community and earn your MBA online with Messiah College.
Computer Science & IT
If you’re a business professional aiming to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operations, decision-making, and customer experiences, consider Messiah University’s online AI graduate certificate program. This 9-credit program is designed to be completed in 4 to 6 months, with courses starting every 8 weeks. The curriculum not only equips you with practical AI applications but also addresses the ethical and legal challenges associated with this rapidly evolving technology. By enrolling, you’ll gain the skills to effectively integrate AI into your business practices while upholding ethical standards.
Career possibilities include:
- AI or business analyst
- Marketing manager
- Entrepreneur
If you’re aiming to lead in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, Messiah University’s online MBA with a concentration in AI is designed for professionals like you. This program equips you with the skills to drive innovation, enhance strategic decision-making, and implement AI solutions ethically to meet today’s marketplace demands.
Program Highlights:
- 1-2 year completion, plus a capstone project
- 6-week and 8-week courses
- No-fee tuition model
- Courses with practical applications
- Faith-based learning
Messiah University is nationally recognized for integrating top-tier academics with Christian faith, ensuring a holistic educational experience. The MBA program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), reflecting its commitment to excellence in business education.
By enrolling in this AI-focused MBA, you’ll position yourself at the forefront of technological advancement, ready to lead and innovate in various industries.
Education
You’ll gain knowledge and insight how to help your students grasp command of the English language with this online graduate certificate in TESOL & Bilingual Education. You’ll also develop leadership skills and grow professionally with what you learn in this program from Messiah. Classes generally include:
- TESOL Methods & Assessments
- Second Language Acquisition: Theories & Contexts
- Bilingual Education
The Graduate Certificate in Exceptional Children and Youth prepares you to work with a wide range of youth in various settings. Graduates of this program can put their skills and knowledge to work in ministry, missions, social service agencies, private schools, and more settings.
Program participants will learn how to teach, support, include, and advocate for children with exceptionalities. This online special education certification can be completed in just nine months. While coursework is completed online, students will also participate in in-person field experiences.
The online Graduate Certificate in Online Instruction provides vital skills to anyone who needs to lead virtual learning experiences. Whether you are a licensed teacher or educate others in another capacity, online learning has become a large part of society. In this program, you will learn how to prepare and deliver instruction and assess students remotely.
This online instructional design program is a great asset to teachers in K-12 public, charter, private, and cyber schools and community college faculty, but can also benefit anyone who works with educating others online. For those currently holding Instructional I or II Teacher Certification with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, this program fulfills requirements for the K-12 Online Instruction Endorsement.
Take a holistic approach to teaching your students with this online graduate certificate in Social, Emotional & Behavioral Wellness from Messiah University. This program gives you valuable insight towards counseling and proactive support for students. Curriculum usually includes:
- Effective Practices of School Counselors
- Crisis, Trauma, and Grief Counseling
If you’re looking for a teaching endorsement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, consider this online graduate studies certificate from Messiah. You’ll gain the insight of why this area of study is trending in school systems and gain the skills to effectively teach tomorrow’s progressive thinkers. Coursework likely includes:
- STEAM Project Design & Grant Writing
- Advanced Instructional Design & Assessment
Support your peers and boost your career with this online graduate program in Teacher Leadership. At Messiah University, you’ll gain insight and management skills to lead others and step up effectiveness in your educational setting. Classes you’ll likely take are:
- Diversity & Leadership
- Organizational Effectiveness
This online Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed specifically for educators who do not need teaching licensure or certification. These can include teachers in private schools, international schools, schools in certain states, or those teaching outside of K-12 settings.
Classes examine theories, grammar, phonology, methods, and assessment related to language learning. Coursework connects theory to practice. Students will learn TESOL methodology through online coursework and then apply their skills in real situations through field experiences in their local area.
At Messiah, this online MA in School Counseling is CACREP-accredited. You’ll gain additional expertise and in-depth knowledge to broaden your professional career. You’ll take a core of counseling classes, followed by an equal number of specialized courses that will help you engage students and overcome emotional challenges in their lives. Coursework usually included in this School Counseling track include:
- Effective Practices of School Counselors
- Organization and Administration of School Counseling Programs
- Effective Practices for Every Learner
- School Counseling Practicum
Review your individual state’s regulatory board for licensing requirements before enrolling in this, or any other program. Messiah’s curriculum does prepare you to sit for the exam within Pennsylvania and other states, but check to be sure.
Messiah University’s Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership equips you to become a transformative leader in faith-based and other higher education settings. Whether you’re passionate about coaching, student activities, multicultural programs, academic advising, admissions, or residence life, this hybrid program provides the skills needed for leadership roles. The program features predominantly online coursework with on-campus options, no application or tuition fees, eight-week courses, a one-week summer intensive, and the opportunity for graduate assistantships. With flexible start dates, you can complete your degree in just two years.
Choose from concentrations in:
- College Athletics Leadership
- Strategic Leadership
- Student Success
- Individualized
With the ability to select between a capstone thesis or project, Messiah offers this online MEd in Curriculum & Instruction. Coursework has been designed to allow you convenience and flexibility as you pursue this advanced education degree online as a working professional. This specialized track offers classes in traditional instruction and curriculum design. However, Messiah also offers a specialized MEd in Online Curriculum and Instruction. In both of these concentrations, your classes will likely include:
- Curriculum & Instruction
- Family & Community Partnerships
- Advanced Instructional Design & Assessment
This online elementary education degree is built specifically for those who did not study education in their undergraduate degree. The Master of Education in Elementary Education degree will provide students from various majors with the knowledge and experience they need to achieve initial teaching certification. In addition, students who currently have a full-time or long-term substitute teaching position may apply for the Pennsylvania intern certification program.
Classes explore ways to create developmentally appropriate learning environments, systems for classroom management, and how to conduct learning assessments. Students will learn strategies for effective collaboration with parents and other educational partners. Graduates may sit for the Pennsylvania Level I teaching certification exam. Students from other states should check with their state board of education for reciprocity and any additional requirements.
Gain new skills in distance education with a Master of Education degree in Online Instruction. In this program, instructors will learn how to design curriculum, deliver instruction, and assess students in virtual learning environments.
Coursework is primarily targeted towards credentialed PK-12 teachers seeking to update their skill sets, although non-licensed professionals who lead online instruction can also benefit from this program. Classes are conducted primarily online, with additional one-week summer intensive courses on campus. The program can be completed in as little as two years full-time.
If your undergrad degree was in an area other than education but you are now seeking teaching certification, the Master of Education in PK-12 Education is designed to help you. Whether you currently teach in a private or charter school or a different industry altogether, this program will prepare you for first-time teaching certification through the Pennsylvania intern certification program.
Students in this online teaching degree can receive certification in as little as 18 months, with the full master’s degree requiring an additional nine credit hours. Classes are conducted primarily online, with the exception of two one-week summer intensive courses.
If your bachelor’s degree was in a field other than education but you are now seeking teaching certification, the Master of Education in Secondary Education is designed to help you. Whether you currently teach in a private or charter school or work in a different industry altogether, this program will prepare you for first-time teaching certification through the Pennsylvania intern certification program.
Students in this secondary education degree online can receive certification in as little as 18 months, with the full master’s degree requiring an additional nine credit hours. Classes are conducted primarily online, with the exception of two one-week summer intensive courses.
Enhance your knowledge of teaching students with special needs through this online Master of Education in Special Education degree. Certified special education teachers, as well as those who do not hold certification but plan to work in settings other than public schools, can both find benefit from this program.
Students will complete coursework mostly online, with the addition of a one-week intensive course on campus each summer. Work at your own pace, with flexible start dates and schedules. Students can take from two to six years to complete the curriculum.
Participants who hold special education certification can choose an advanced track with studies focused on one of the following areas:
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Emotional and behavioral disorders
- Specific learning disabilities
Take a look at how English-language learning works worldwide in this online ESL degree program. The Master of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), can help teachers in numerous settings improve their classroom abilities.
Students in this program will study the ways in which individuals, programs, communities, and governments provide and engage in new language acquisition. Coursework takes a deep dive into better understanding the English language through studies of phonology, syntax, and comparisons to other languages. In as little as two years, students can earn their degree with primarily online coursework and one-week summer intensives on campus in Pennsylvania.
Healthcare
If you want to advance your career in the healthcare industry, Messiah University’s Healthcare Management graduate certificate is tailored for professionals like you. This fully online program is designed to be completed within one year. The curriculum focuses on developing the skills necessary to effectively lead and manage at the administrator level in the rapidly growing healthcare sector. Studies include topics in health informatics, health law and policies, and business management strategies.
By enrolling, you’ll enhance your leadership capabilities and be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of healthcare management.
With healthcare environments constantly undergoing change and healthcare workers subject to stress and overwork, there is a need for professionals who can effectively manage in this unique setting. This online MA in Healthcare Leadership from Messiah can give you outcome-based skills and the ability to build strong, productive teams in this unique environment. While Messiah’s program is 100% online, you can count on the same quality instruction and attention as their on-campus education. Professors make your educational success a priority, as they teach classes such as:
- Economics of Healthcare
- Organizational Effectiveness
- Health Policy & Legal Aspects of Healthcare
An online MBA in Dietetics is available through Messiah University to the non-traditional business student. This flexible program is for working professionals and recent graduates interested in expanding career and promotional opportunities. Learn to impact today’s growing field of nutrition through positive and innovative service.
Graduates of this program may seek careers as:
- Registered dietetic nutritionists
- Food and nutrition managers
- Corporate wellness directors
Combine foundational courses in business with a dietetic internship program. Messiah helps students develop into leaders through the study of ethical practice and management tools which can transform today’s industry standards.
A Master of Business Administration degree in Healthcare Management is available with Messiah University. Offered fully online, you have the flexibility to continue working and advance your educational goals. There is no need to choose one over the other.
Required courses combine health related and business fields, including topics in:
- Business and marketing strategies
- Health informatics
- Finance and accounting
- And more!
Messiah University's ethical framework gives added knowledge to effect change for good in today’s complex business climate. And, faculty student ratios are small, allowing for personalized attention and collaboration with peers. Join a diverse and beneficial community and earn your MBA online with Messiah College.
Nursing
The Doctor of Nursing Practice for Family Nurse Practitioners provides extensive clinical experience and educational preparation to care for patients of all ages from a Christian perspective. Students who have already completed a master’s degree can apply credits from graduate-level courses to this program.
This online Nurse Practitioner degree prepares students with a minimum BSN to provide leadership and service in healthcare. Students will learn how to promote quality, holistic nursing care as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
A few of the course topics available in this degree program include:
- Advanced pharmacology
- Christian philosophical and ethical foundations of healthcare
- Advanced physical assessment across the lifespan
- Principles of care in advanced family nursing practice
- Advanced concepts in health promotion and prevention
If you want to advance your nursing education career, consider Messiah University’s online DNP Nurse Educator degree. This program is designed for nurses like you who hold a master’s degree in nursing or a related field and seek to step into leadership roles in academic and clinical education settings. Enroll in curriculum, advanced writing, and teaching and learning courses which prepare the nurse educator for the classroom experience. Participate in a clinical residency and hands-on projects. Moreover, the program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring it meets high standards of quality and rigor.
Program Features
- 100% online
- Year-round entry
- Complete in two years
- No-fee tuition
By enrolling in Messiah University’s DNP nurse educator program, you’ll be equipped to make a meaningful impact on the nursing profession and educate future generations of nursing professionals.
Messiah University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a concentration in Nursing Leadership. Through this online nursing administration degree, you will not only be able to advance your career but will also make a difference in the lives of patients and the healthcare system. Plus, students benefit from the courses taught with a Christian faith perspective. Taught by experienced Christian professionals, students are mentored in their education, faith, and career in one program.
This program is designed for working adults. Offered with 100% online coursework, students are able to maintain their current lives and careers while seeking an advanced professional nursing degree. In as little as two years you will be prepared to take on leadership positions in various healthcare settings and specialties. While graduates have less one-on-one time with patients, they are in a better position to make the most difference in the lives of a population, improving outcomes, quality of care, and healthcare organizations and policy.
The MSN in Nurse Educator from Messiah University prepares students to lead and teach in a variety of educational and clinical settings. Graduates can sit for the National League for Nursing (NLN) Certified Nurse Educator exam after meeting practice requirements. Students can also go on to pursue doctoral study.
The curriculum is designed to prepare Nurse Educators for entry-level teaching positions in undergraduate nursing education programs or to serve as clinical nurse educators. Students will learn about teaching methods and learning theories in nursing education.
Classes discuss topics such as:
- Curriculum in nursing education
- Principles of measurement and evaluation
- Health informatics
- Christian philosophical and ethical foundations of healthcare
Messiah University’s online MSN in Nursing Administration prepares students to be successful leaders at the nurse manager and executive levels. Nurses can advance their careers with this degree, which combines cutting-edge nursing science and practice with executive management skills.
The program aims to produce professionals who lead through ethical decision making and critical thinking to create effective teams and build professional collaborations. This online Nursing Administration degree includes online coursework as well as clinical practicum hours.
Courses cover a range of topics including:
- Health policy and legal aspects of healthcare
- Business strategy and execution
- Organizational effectiveness
- Nursing research design and methodology
- Christian philosophical and ethical foundations of healthcare
Advance your nursing career along with your Christian faith in Messiah University’s MSN in Nursing Administration and MBA dual degree program. You will complete an online nursing administration degree concurrently with an online business administration degree, graduating with diplomas in both degrees and ready to be an effective leader in an executive healthcare role.
Comprised of both specific nursing and business degree courses and courses that overlap both programs, this curriculum prepares advocates for healthcare quality from the patient and administrative perspectives. In as little as four years students will maximize their nurse leadership potential. As Messiah University explains, “…you will master advanced nursing competencies while gaining a strategic business perspective that is focused on practical relevance and application in rapidly changing healthcare settings.”
Designed for working professionals, this online program allows you to study when and where it is convenient for you while still benefiting from the quality education Messiah is known for. For professors, student success is a top priority, and they make sure each one receives the individualized attention they need. Graduates are ready to succeed in such career roles as:
- Chief nursing officer
- Advanced nurse administrator
- Director of nursing practice
- Nurse manager
Psychology & Human Services
This online Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Counseling is intended for practicing professionals who need to complete continuing education credits for state requirements. As a clinician who already possesses a master’s degree, you’ll amend your current level of expertise with the contemporary trends and methodologies. Curriculum is:
- CACREP-accredited
- Tailored to your professional needs
- Integrates a weeklong, on-campus intensive study
- Includes a relative field experience
Check with your individual state’s regulatory board for continuing education requirements before enrolling in this, or any other program.
- Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- Substance Abuse/Addiction and Families
- Crisis, Trauma, and Grief Counseling
- Evidence Based Treatment of Psychopatholog
- Psychopathology and Diagnosis Across the Lifespan
- Contemporary and Integrative Theories of Family Counseling
- Premarital and Marital Counseling
- Human Sexuality
Earn your online Master of Social Work (MSW) from Messiah University and embark on a fulfilling career in social work. This flexible, online program empowers you to create meaningful change in communities and individuals’ lives. With an Advanced Generalist specialization, you’ll gain the skills needed for diverse roles, including clinical practice, group work, organizational leadership, community advocacy, and policy development. Rooted in a Christian context, the program offers customizable coursework tailored to your career goals, giving you a strong foundation in social work at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. You can also choose a focus area in health, leadership in organizations, or mental health to further specialize your expertise.
Program features:
- Online cohort classroom
- Field placement opportunities
- One-year completion
- No-fee tuition
Pursue Careers in:
- Hospital settings
- School environments
- Community and non-profit organizations
- Government agencies
The online Master of Social Work is designed to equip you as a graduate-level practitioner to lead and serve in diverse communities, addressing social, racial, economic, and environmental justice while promoting reconciliation. It encourages you to ethically integrate faith with social work practice and provides accessible education through innovative and effective distance-learning strategies. Additionally, it prepares you for professional licensure and, if applicable, for further academic pursuits at the doctoral level.
Program highlights include:
- Health, leadership in organizations, and mental health focuses
- Online cohort classroom
- Field placement opportunities
- Two-year completion
- No-fee tuition
MSW degree completion equips you for careers, including:
- School social worker
- Child welfare social worker
- Substance abuse counselor
- Policy advocate
- Program manager/director
- And more!