This course introduces the practical aspects of engaging God’s mission to the world within the theological constructs of the Bible and church history. Students are taught to critically and constructively reflect upon mission practices in a variety of contexts and apply the lessons gained to their own setting.

We're Bringing Faith-Driven Education to New York City.
Want to learn more?
We are expanding our mission by launching a new learning location in Manhattan and enhancing our online learning options to reach more students than ever before.
Since our founding in 1866, Roberts Wesleyan University has equipped students to think critically, lead faithfully, and serve compassionately. Now, we take this mission beyond Rochester and into a global city that needs Christ-centered professionals in ministry, education, healthcare, business, and beyond.
What Are We Offering?
By taking classes (either individually or matriculating into an online degree), you will save money and build your network.
- $500 per undergraduate course
- $750 per graduate course (most provide proof of previously received bachelor's degree)
Sample of Courses
PHIL 2101 - Ministry to the Doubting
The student learns how to interact effectively with non-believers and with Christians who are experiencing doubts in their faith, through study, discussion and practice (role-play and/or interactions with guests who are experiencing doubts). Students learn how to argue for the reasonability of the Christian faith, and how it is that we can know that Christ is real. The foundation for this involves understanding individuals as whole persons with backgrounds, emotions, desires, and biases. Students work towards developing and expressing in interactions with others the virtues of intellectual and spiritual humility grounded in love. The class covers direct ways of knowing, theistic and Christian arguments, challenges to theistic and Christian belief, and resources for responding to these challenges. It also addresses various approaches to doctrinal issues that parishioners often struggle with.
GBUS 5030 - Strategic Marketing
Strategic marketing encompasses a broad view of marketing theories, strategies, and tactics, and is based on the “systems management” approach. Today, marketing takes place in a very dynamic marketplace where national economies are being dramatically and rapidly affected by globalization and technological changes. This course provides leaders with an extensive overview of strategic marketing principles for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, including an emphasis on stakeholder satisfaction and advanced marketing strategies such as segmentation, targeting, differentiation, branding, and positioning. Graduate learners are given the opportunity to perform case analyses, focusing especially in the area of strategic brand management. Students will develop a comprehensive marketing plan as the primary deliverable. Assignments will be utilized to enhance the graduate learner’s ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
GBUS 5010 - Strategic Leadership
This course provides the graduate learner with the opportunity to study some of the most recent thinking on the leader’s role in the strategy formation process. This begins by helping the graduate learners understand the responsibilities of the leadership role (as distinctive from the manager and follower roles) when it comes to providing unity, focus, engagement and direction, while also providing them with the opportunity to practice using some practical tools that will help them fulfill the responsibilities of strategic leaders. This is accomplished by introducing graduate learners to the strategic audit process and the associated tools that this audit process leverages. The class material also spends some time on the 10 schools of thought related to strategy formation, helping the graduate learners decipher the strategic approach that is most advantageous to their situation. The course content also places great emphasis on equipping leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively formulate mission/purpose statements, shared values and foresight/vision. In the midst of rapid and dynamic change, forecasts based on historic trends are increasingly invalid and inaccurate (when used exclusively). This course equips leaders for success in their development of vision through the use of scenario planning.
GBHT 5240 - The Early Church (Seminary)
Reflecting on the formative era of the Christian church, this course takes up the conversation about what it means to be and to become Christian. Much like today, the early church found itself in a religiously plural context, which shaped the development of Christian identity. In this course, students will consider how Scripture, context, and spirituality shaped early Christian communities, the formation of doctrine through early church councils, and the ways in which these conversations continue to shape the church throughout the world today.
Program Offerings
Seminary Program Offerings

Message From the President
Communities across the world are longing for hope, churches want to strengthen their impact, and a generation of young people are searching for direction.
Yet we recognize the challenges: a culture often indifferent to faith, a workforce demanding highly skilled professionals, and a growing need for accessible, high-quality Christian education.
Since our founding in 1866, Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary have been committed to transforming lives through rigorous academics and deep spiritual formation. Looking ahead, we see an urgent need for Christ-centered education in New York City.
In response, we are launching a new learning location at the Hub in Manhattan to equip believers in New York City. Our students will learn how to engage with the world’s greatest challenges and respond in meaningful, local ways.
As we take this step forward, we invite our entire Roberts community to pray for and support us. May God bless this next chapter of our journey, and may He use us to transform lives for His glory.
-President Rupert A. Hayles, Jr.
Why New York City?
Strategic Location
NYC shapes culture, business, and ministry worldwide. It’s where Christian leaders can make the greatest difference.
Meeting a Need
NYC needs more accessible, high-quality Christian education. We're making it accessible for those called to serve.
Strengthening the Church
Partnering with local churches means raising up bold, faith-driven leaders who will make a lasting difference in the city.

Pictured left to right: Simao DaSilva, Rupert Hayles Jr., and Adam Durso
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary?
Roberts Wesleyan University was founded in 1866 by Benjamin Titus Roberts, whose radical commitment to Jesus Christ led him to advocate for holiness, equality, and justice. His vision of cultivating both the mind and heart through education lives on today.
Roberts Wesleyan has grown into New York’s leading university for character education, offering more than 100 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Through integrated Christian values, faculty help students grow spiritually while gaining practical knowledge to serve others with compassion, justice, and integrity in their chosen careers.
Founded in 1998, Northeastern Seminary is a graduate school of theology located on the Roberts campus, offering Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, Doctor of Ministry, and certificate programs to equip students for faithful, effective ministry.
How do Roberts Wesleyan and Northeastern Seminary see their relationship with the Church?
Both institutions share a calling with the Church to equip men and women to live out their faith with wisdom, integrity, and purpose. While the Church engages through discipleship, the university provides Christ-centered education, strengthening Christian leadership across every sphere of life.
Why is the university expanding into New York City?
Roberts Wesleyan sees a growing need for accessible, relevant Christian education in the heart of the city.
The Manhattan learning location, paired with new online programs, brings education closer to where people live, work, and serve - especially young adults, professionals, and ministry leaders.
How will the Manhattan location support local churches and communities?
We are partnering with local churches to offer coursework, internships, and leadership training that empower students to serve and make a meaningful impact within the city.
How can churches partner with Roberts and Northeastern Seminary?
Churches are invited to support scholarships, identify and encourage future students, and form learning cohorts.
Pastors can also connect congregants with resources and upcoming events to support the mission of Christian education in the city.
What types of courses will be offered at the new Manhattan location?
Roberts Wesleyan University will offer online and in-person courses in business, healthcare leadership, and more; Northeastern Seminary will offer its Biblical coursework in an online format
The goal is to create a vibrant community of students—young adults, professionals, and church members—being equipped academically and spiritually and then sent back to serve in their churches, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
What is the cost of attending the Manhattan location?
Tuition rates at our Manhattan location are in line with our commitment to providing accessible education. Financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans are available to help support you.
Is there a specific admissions process for the Manhattan location?
The admissions process is the same as for our other locations. You can apply online, and our admissions team will guide you through the steps to help you get started on your educational journey.

Meet Your Admissions Counselor
Jim Sheets
Director of GPS Recruiting and Strategic Initiatives
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