Degree Concentrations
The program following tracks are available.
Ministry
If you are just starting a ministry career or sensing a call to shift into ministry from another career field, we encourage you to take the Ministry Concentration. It will give you a broader range of ministry skills as well as a solid foundation in the Bible and Christian theology.
Leadership
The Leadership Concentration is designed for those who have been in vocational ministry for several years and want to hone their leadership skills to enable them to lead at a higher level.
This degree will help you:
- Develop both leadership and ministry skills
- Evaluate organizational progress and effectiveness
- Gain skills in collaborative problem-solving and planning
Program Details
- Pentecostal focus and spirituality
- Pentecostal scholars as faculty
- Multiple modalities for courses
- Flexible degree deliveries: on-campus, online, hybrid, or at select partner sites/regional cohorts
Subscription-Based MAML Program Details
Whether you have worked in ministry for a long time or you are just beginning your journey, this innovative new approach offers you customizable learning pathways. Engage in personalized mentorship — which will help you grow both academically and holistically — as you set your own pace to progress through structured coursework tailored to your individual needs. This dynamic, interactive online learning environment will also give you the opportunity to demonstrate your proficiency in ways that recognize your prior knowledge and experience — no matter where you are in your ministry career.
This format is designed to enhance your learning experience by providing greater flexibility, mentor-driven guidance, focus on real-world competency, and affordability.
For just $399 per month, your subscription includes all coursework, fees,* learning resources, and faculty support toward earning your MAML. You can take up to 12 credit hours per semester, allowing you to complete your degree on your schedule.
For your convenience, this fee will be automatically charged each month (starting on the date you first subscribe, and then monthly on that date thereafter) using the payment method you provide upon enrollment.
Financial Aid
Due to the significantly discounted nature of this program format, financial aid is not available. See the chart below for examples of the cost savings possible with this format.
The MAML comprises 36 credit hours. Under the previous pricing model of $545 per-credit-hour, the MAML cost was $19,620 plus fees. Below is an illustration** of estimated degree costs for the subscription-based format, based on the number of credit hours taken at a time each semester.
| Courseload Per Semester (in credit hours) | Number of Semesters | Approximate Number of Months | Estimated Total Degree Cost |
| 12 | 3 | 12 | $4,799 |
| 9 | 4 | 16 | $6,384 |
| 6 | 6 | 24 | $9,576 |
| 3 | 9 | 36 | $14,364 |
*Some fees, such as the graduation fee, are not included in your subscription.
**The table above is for illustrative purposes only. The exact number of months that encompass each semester varies based on term start and end dates. Estimated total degree cost may also vary depending on when you subscribe to the program. Pricing is subject to change.
How to Apply for the Subscription-based MAML
Visit SEU.edu/apply, and follow the prompts for master’s degrees, choose “Competency-Based Education (CBE)” and then select “Online”. Contact your enrollment counselor with any questions about the application process.
Meet Your MAML Faculty Mentor
Anthony Roberts
Degrees Earned:BS Church Ministry — Southeastern University
MA Ministerial Leadership — Southeastern University
MA Theological Studies — Southeastern University
PhD Religious & Theological Studies — University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology
Anthony Roberts is a constructive theologian whose research lies at the intersections of theological anthropology, human identity, and Christian theology. Roberts teaches courses in systematic theology, constructive theology, historical theology, theological ethics, African American studies, and biblical studies. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member at the Iliff School of Theology and a guest lecturer of theology at the Issachar Center for Urban Leadership.
Roberts is married to Vontrice Roberts and has 4 children. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and watching football (Go Gators and Tampa Bay All the Way).
Dr. Elizabeth (Ellie) Canfield
Degrees Earned:BA Preaching & Evangelism Theology (Dual Degree) — Evangel University
MDiv Church & Ministry — Regent University
Clinical Pastoral Education: 5 Units of CPE from Level 1 Trauma Hospitals — Residency
DMin Leadership — Southeastern University
Dr. Elizabeth (Ellie) Canfield has been a professor for over seven years. She resides in Florida with her husband, Timothy, their son, Moses, and their Italian Greyhound, Noodle. Born in Michigan, she has lived in South Carolina, Missouri, and as a missionary in Indonesia and the Philippines. Ordained with the Assemblies of God, she serves under U.S. Missions as an endorsed chaplain. Her ministry experience includes chaplaincy, pastoring, church planting, youth ministry, evangelism, and missionary work. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the Holy Spirit in counseling and chaplaincy. She enjoys coffee, sushi, weightlifting, yoga, the beach, Netflix, prayer, and serving Christ.
Little Known Fact: Dr. Canfield has gone skydiving before. Her opinion was that it was peaceful, like hanging out in the clouds. If she could, she would pray up in the sky all the time. It would get expensive though.
Mike Cuckler
Degrees Earned:BA Sociology
MA Christian Ministry
DMiss Asbury Theological Seminary
Dr. Mike Cuckler currently serves as Dean of Unrestricted Education and Chair, Graduate School of Divinity at Southeastern University, as well as holds the rank of Professor, Practical Ministry. He served as Program Chair of Global Studies & Engagement & tenure-track faculty at Asbury after earning his doctorate in Contextual Theology at Asbury Theological Seminary. He chose doctoral studies in contextualization due to his belief that understanding the total context in which life, ministry, and human behavior occurs must be considered as a part of any strategy for growth. Dr. Cuckler’s area of research & writing has centered around reproducible principles for church growth among postmodern populations. One of the favorite parts of his current role at SEU is helping churches and partnerships “contextualize” an academic program alongside their current ministry training strategies, as well as helping leaders finish a degree. Dr. Mike’s (as known to his students) love of teaching in the classroom, engaging students along their calling & vocational journey, and contributing to innovation within higher education has persisted over his twenty-plus year career. Mike enjoys golfing, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and chillin’ by any waterside.
“Leadership chooses you. If you choose leadership, you’re not ready to lead.” -Dr. Mike Cuckler, Ascend: Living and Leading Above your Emotions, 2009.
Keila Boychack
Degrees Earned:EdD Christian Leadership: Ministry Leadership — Liberty University
MDiv — Southeastern University
MA Family Ministry — Southeastern University
BA Intercultural Studies — Southeastern University
Dr. Keila Boychak serves as Academic Operations Coordinator under the Office of the Provost at Southeastern University, where she also chairs the Institutional Review Board and is Main Campus Lead Instructor for CORE 1111 and 1112. In addition to these roles, she is an Assistant Professor. Her dissertation focused on intergenerational discipleship, and she is passionate about helping others discover their callings and spiritual gifting. She values reaching and empowering all generations in ministry, education, and professional settings. Thriving in higher education, Dr. Boychak finds joy mentoring students as they step into their purpose and integrate faith, learning, and leadership.
As a military kid, Dr. Boychak grew up moving often, which gave her a love for people, places, and new experiences. Now rooted in Florida, she enjoys living close to Walt Disney World and often takes advantage of the magic. Some of her favorite ways to recharge include exploring new coffee shops, reading a good book, visiting Disney, and spending time with family and friends. A little-known fact about her is that she has recently taken up running and has already completed 12 races, including a mix of 5Ks and 10Ks. She is currently training for both a half marathon and her first full marathon!
Christopher Palmer
Degrees Earned:PhD Pentecostal Studies — Bangor University (Wales, UK)
MA Theological Studies — Moody Theological Seminary
BA Pastoral Studies — North Central University
Dr. Chris Palmer is a scholar, author, and ministry practitioner. He joined the SEU family in the summer of 2024 and serves as Dean and Associate professor in the Barnett College of Ministry & Theology. Prior to SEU, Chris' full time ministry experience of 15+ years has included the role of lead pastor, as well as missionary work in over 40 nations. He has held faculty teaching roles at Moody Theological Seminary, Austin Christian University, and Theos Seminary.
Chris has a vision for developing thoughtful, impactful ministry leaders who are theologically faithful, Spirit-empowered, and effective in building the local church. Originally from Southeast Michigan, he also hopes to one day see the Detroit Lions win the Super Bowl.
Jeremy Sims
Degrees Earned:BA Youth Ministry — Southeastern University
MA Pastoral Ministries — Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
DMin Spiritual Formation — Portland Seminary
Jeremy Sims is Professor of Spiritual Formation at Southeastern University, directing the Doctor of Ministry and Master of Arts in Ministerial Leadership Cohort programs. With decades of pastoral and teaching experience, he equips pastors for Spirit-empowered, theologically rooted ministry. Specializing in spiritual formation, preaching, and integrating historic faith with contemporary practice, he also writes on attentiveness, suffering, and renewal. A mentor shaped by personal experience, academic depth, and love for the Church, he prepares students for transformative ministry. A dad to five, he lives in Lakeland with his family and golden retriever, Fort, enjoying music, games, adventures, and Calvin and Hobbes.
Steven Saccone
Degrees Earned:BA Pastoral Ministry — Lee University
MA Transformational Leadership — Bethel Theological Seminary - St. Paul, MN
DMin — Southeastern University
Served as pastor for almost two decades at Mosaic Church (Los Angeles), Willow Creek Community Church (Chicago), and Awakening Church (Silicon Valley). Roles included Teaching Pastor, Executive Pastor, Campus Pastor, as well as Youth and College Pastor.
His wife Cheri is his best friend, and his greatest joy is raising and loving our two boys, Hudson and Holden. He’s an avid golfer who loves traveling to new and adventurous places in the world and following sports. His favorite teams are the Braves, Cubs, 49ers, Bears, and Golden State Warriors.
Randall Allison
Degrees Earned:BA Religion — Baylor University
MDiv — Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
PhD (ABD) — Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Professor and Pastor Randall Allison serves as Dean of the School of Theology at Southeastern University’s Christ Fellowship extension site, while also teaching full-time and serving as Research/Writing Pastor at Christ Fellowship Church. A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he spent ten years as an Associate Pastor in Las Vegas before pursuing a Ph.D. in Ethics and Philosophy to teach in church and academic settings. That journey led him to South Florida, where he has served in Christ Fellowship’s Discipleship ministry. Now known to students as “Prof. Randy,” he often says, “Writing is work, but teaching is my passion!”
Randy's been married to his wife for 36 years and has two sons, one daughter-in-law, and two grandsons. Outside the classroom, he enjoys exercise, reading, and meaningful conversation over meals with family and friends—especially when it involves talking about life, leadership, and the Lord.
Scott Adams
Degrees Earned:PhD New Testament — Radboud University (the Netherlands)
DMin Applied Theology — The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
MDiv Biblical Studies — Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary
MA Religion — Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary
BA Religious Studies — Regent University
Dr. Scott Adams resides in Youngsville, Louisiana, with his wife, Kelly, and their four children: Carsten, Hudson, Preslie, and Aniston. With nearly two decades of pastoral experience, he currently serves as the Executive Teaching Pastor at Our Savior’s Church and Dean of Our Savior’s College. In addition to his local ministry, Dr. Adams is an adjunct professor at Regent University’s School of Divinity, where he teaches a variety of theological, methodological, and ministry-related courses. Deeply committed to Gospel-centered, Spirit-empowered leadership, he is passionate about equipping the next generation of pastors and church leaders. When not preaching or teaching, he enjoys exercising, hunting, and traveling.
I love going to my kids' athletic events. I cannot bear the sight, smell, and taste of pickles and mustard. My favorite city is Scottsdale, Arizona. Before I entered full-time ministry, I worked for four country music entertainers in Nashville, Tennessee. My favorite quotation is, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” — Attributed to Mark Twain.
Seahee Duran
Degrees Earned:BA Bible Theology — Central Bible College (now Evangel University)
MA Christian Ministries — Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
DMin — Southeastern University
Dr. Saehee Duran is a first-generation Korean-American and ordained Assemblies of God minister whose life journey — from deportation to divine assignment — reflects God’s redemptive grace. Entering higher education as a non-traditional student raising three children, she earned valedictorian honors at both undergraduate and seminary levels while serving as a campus leader and commencement speaker. She later completed a Doctor of Ministry at Southeastern University, focusing on male champions for female ministers. With 20+ years in education, ministry, and national initiatives, she has served on boards, developed resources for 10,000 women ministers, led ethnic fellowships, and ministered as chaplain and civic leader. Above all, she treasures family.
Dr. Saehee was born and raised in South Korea. She holds a third-degree black belt—though she admits it proved rather useless when she could not even take down her 190‑pound husband. She was once crowned Miss Korea Hawaii, but that glory was short-lived when she was unexpectedly deported back to South Korea. What seemed like a devastating event became a divine intervention that brought her closer to God and ultimately led her to meet her husband at an international church. Clearly, God has a wonderful sense of humor as a matchmaker!
She is fluent in Korean and English but secretly wishes for the superpower to speak every language so she could make friends all over the world. She is delighted to see the world now raving about K‑pop, K‑dramas, and K‑beauty, especially since she arrived in America when hardly anyone knew where Korea was. But if you are a fan of Korean culture, do not ask her to name her favorite actors or singers — she thinks they all look the same and truly cannot tell who is who!
Dr. Robert Waddell
Degrees Earned:BA Bible and Religion — King College
MDiv Pentecostal — Theological Seminary
PhD Biblical Studies — University of Sheffield
Robby Waddell, PhD (University of Sheffield), is Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, Faculty Chaplain, and Director of the Global Pentecostalism Center at Southeastern University. He is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Pentecostal Theology (Cleveland, TN), serves with Bangor University’s Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies supervising PhD students, and is a member of the Sheffield Institute of Interdisciplinary Biblical Studies. He serves on editorial boards for Sheffield Phoenix Press and Pneuma and is Associate Editor of the Journal of Pentecostal Theology. Also Lead Pastor of Oasis Community Church, his current projects include a Mark commentary (Brill) and a volume on Pentecostals and the Bible (OUP).
Robby and his wife, Angela, have six daughters and have lived in Virginia, Tennessee, Sheffield (England), California, and Florida. They share a love for travel and have led study tours and spiritual pilgrimages to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, and Italy.
Sarah Cabrera
Degrees Earned:BA Ministerial Leadership: Biblical Studies — Southeastern University
MA Ministerial Leadership — Southeastern University
MDiv — Southeastern University
Sarah Cabrera serves as the Undergraduate Chair for the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University, overseeing academic programs across main campus, extension sites, and online platforms. Passionate about reimagining Christian higher education, she works with faculty and ministry partners to provide a Spirit-empowered, transformative learning experience that bridges academic formation and real-world ministry. Her interests include spiritual formation, practical theology, and innovative models that equip the Church and broader community. Outside of her role at SEU, Sarah is a worship leader, pastor, and writer who finds deep joy in meeting and connecting with students—in fact, it’s her favorite part of the job. She is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, known, and called into deeper purpose.
Sarah is married to the love of her life, Andrew, and together they enjoy life with their golden retriever, who has no concept of personal space and has never met a sock she hasn't tried to steal.
Anthony Roberts
Degrees Earned
BS Church Ministry
Southeastern University
MA Ministerial Leadership
Southeastern University
MA Theological Studies
Southeastern University
PhD Religious & Theological Studies
University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology
Anthony Roberts is a constructive theologian whose research lies at the intersections of theological anthropology, human identity, and Christian theology. Roberts teaches courses in systematic theology, constructive theology, historical theology, theological ethics, African American studies, and biblical studies. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member at the Iliff School of Theology and a guest lecturer of theology at the Issachar Center for Urban Leadership.
Roberts is married to Vontrice Roberts and has 4 children. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and watching football (Go Gators and Tampa Bay All the Way).
Anthony Roberts is a constructive theologian focused on theological anthropology, human identity, and Christian theology. He teaches theology and ethics and has also taught at the Iliff School of Theology and the Issachar Center for Urban Leadership.
He and his wife, Vontrice, have four children and enjoy family time and football (Go Gators and Tampa Bay all the way).
Degrees Earned: BS Church Ministry, Southeastern University, MA Ministerial Leadership, Southeastern University, MA Theological Studies, Southeastern University, PhD Religious & Theological Studies, University of Denver/Iliff School of Theology
Dr. Elizabeth (Ellie) Canfield
Degrees Earned
BA Preaching & Evangelism Theology (Dual Degree)
Evangel University
MDiv Church & Ministry
Regent University
Clinical Pastoral Education: 5 Units of CPE from Level 1 Trauma Hospitals
Residency
DMin Leadership
Southeastern University
Dr. Elizabeth (Ellie) Canfield has been a professor for over seven years. She resides in Florida with her husband, Timothy, their son, Moses, and their Italian Greyhound, Noodle. Born in Michigan, she has lived in South Carolina, Missouri, and as a missionary in Indonesia and the Philippines. Ordained with the Assemblies of God, she serves under U.S. Missions as an endorsed chaplain. Her ministry experience includes chaplaincy, pastoring, church planting, youth ministry, evangelism, and missionary work. Her doctoral dissertation focused on the Holy Spirit in counseling and chaplaincy. She enjoys coffee, sushi, weightlifting, yoga, the beach, Netflix, prayer, and serving Christ.
Little Known Fact: Dr. Canfield has gone skydiving before. Her opinion was that it was peaceful, like hanging out in the clouds. If she could, she would pray up in the sky all the time. It would get expensive though.
Mike Cuckler
Degrees Earned
BA Sociology
MA Christian Ministry
Doctor of Missiology
Asbury Theological Seminary
Dr. Mike Cuckler currently serves as Dean of Unrestricted Education and Chair, Graduate School of Divinity at Southeastern University, as well as holds the rank of Professor, Practical Ministry. He served as Program Chair of Global Studies & Engagement & tenure-track faculty at Asbury after earning his doctorate in Contextual Theology at Asbury Theological Seminary. He chose doctoral studies in contextualization due to his belief that understanding the total context in which life, ministry, and human behavior occurs must be considered as a part of any strategy for growth. Dr. Cuckler’s area of research & writing has centered around reproducible principles for church growth among postmodern populations.
Read More
One of the favorite parts of his current role at SEU is helping churches and partnerships “contextualize” an academic program alongside their current ministry training strategies, as well as helping leaders finish a degree. Dr. Mike’s (as known to his students) love of teaching in the classroom, engaging students along their calling & vocational journey, and contributing to innovation within higher education has persisted over his twenty-plus year career. Mike enjoys golfing, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and chillin’ by any waterside.
“Leadership chooses you. If you choose leadership, you’re not ready to lead.”
-Dr. Mike Cuckler, Ascend: Living and Leading Above your Emotions, 2009.
Keila Boychak
Degrees Earned
EdD Christian Leadership: Ministry Leadership
Liberty University
Master of Divinity
Southeastern University
MA Family Ministry
Southeastern University
BA Intercultural Studies
Southeastern University
Dr. Keila Boychak serves as Academic Operations Coordinator under the Office of the Provost at Southeastern University, where she also chairs the Institutional Review Board and is Main Campus Lead Instructor for CORE 1111 and 1112. In addition to these roles, she is an Assistant Professor. Her dissertation focused on intergenerational discipleship, and she is passionate about helping others discover their callings and spiritual gifting. She values reaching and empowering all generations in ministry, education, and professional settings. Thriving in higher education, Dr. Boychak finds joy mentoring students as they step into their purpose and integrate faith, learning, and leadership.
Read More
As a military kid, Dr. Boychak grew up moving often, which gave her a love for people, places, and new experiences. Now rooted in Florida, she enjoys living close to Walt Disney World and often takes advantage of the magic. Some of her favorite ways to recharge include exploring new coffee shops, reading a good book, visiting Disney, and spending time with family and friends. A little-known fact about her is that she has recently taken up running and has already completed 12 races, including a mix of 5Ks and 10Ks. She is currently training for both a half marathon and her first full marathon!
Christopher Palmer
Degrees Earned
PhD Pentecostal Studies
Bangor University (Wales, UK)
MA Theological Studies
Moody Theological Seminary
BA Pastoral Studies
North Central University
Dr. Chris Palmer is a scholar, author, and ministry practitioner. He joined the SEU family in the summer of 2024 and serves as Dean and Associate professor in the Barnett College of Ministry & Theology. Prior to SEU, Chris’ full time ministry experience of 15+ years has included the role of lead pastor, as well as missionary work in over 40 nations. He has held faculty teaching roles at Moody Theological Seminary, Austin Christian University, and Theos Seminary.
Chris has a vision for developing thoughtful, impactful ministry leaders who are theologically faithful, Spirit-empowered, and effective in building the local church. Originally from Southeast Michigan, he also hopes to one day see the Detroit Lions win the Super Bowl.
Jeremy Sims
Degrees Earned
BA Youth Ministry
Southeastern University
MA Pastoral Ministries
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
DMin Spiritual Formation
Portland Seminary
Jeremy Sims is Professor of Spiritual Formation at Southeastern University, directing the Doctor of Ministry and Master of Arts in Ministerial Leadership Cohort programs. With decades of pastoral and teaching experience, he equips pastors for Spirit-empowered, theologically rooted ministry. Specializing in spiritual formation, preaching, and integrating historic faith with contemporary practice, he also writes on attentiveness, suffering, and renewal. A mentor shaped by personal experience, academic depth, and love for the Church, he prepares students for transformative ministry. A dad to five, he lives in Lakeland with his family and golden retriever, Fort, enjoying music, games, adventures, and Calvin and Hobbes.
Steve Saccone
Degrees Earned
BA Pastoral Ministry
Lee University
MA Transformational Leadership
Bethel Theological Seminary – St. Paul, MN
Doctor of Ministry
Southeastern University
Dr. Steve Saccone served as pastor for almost two decades at Mosaic Church (Los Angeles), Willow Creek Community Church (Chicago), and Awakening Church (Silicon Valley). Roles included Teaching Pastor, Executive Pastor, Campus Pastor, as well as Youth and College Pastor.
His wife Cheri is his best friend, and his greatest joy is raising and loving our two boys, Hudson and Holden. He’s an avid golfer who loves traveling to new and adventurous places in the world and following sports. His favorite teams are the Braves, Cubs, 49ers, Bears, and Golden State Warriors.
Randall Allison
Degrees Earned
BA Religion
Baylor University
MDiv
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
PhD (ABD)
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Professor and Pastor Randall Allison serves as Dean of the School of Theology at Southeastern University’s Christ Fellowship extension site, while also teaching full-time and serving as Research/Writing Pastor at Christ Fellowship Church. A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he spent ten years as an Associate Pastor in Las Vegas before pursuing a Ph.D. in Ethics and Philosophy to teach in church and academic settings. That journey led him to South Florida, where he has served in Christ Fellowship’s Discipleship ministry. Now known to students as “Prof. Randy,” he often says, “Writing is work, but teaching is my passion!”
Read More
Randy’s been married to his wife for 36 years and has two sons, one daughter-in-law, and two grandsons. Outside the classroom, he enjoys exercise, reading, and meaningful conversation over meals with family and friends—especially when it involves talking about life, leadership, and the Lord.
Scott Adams
Degrees Earned
PhD New Testament
Radboud University (the Netherlands)
DMin Applied Theology
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
MDiv Biblical Studies
Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary
MA Religion
Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary
BA Religious Studies
Regent University
Dr. Scott Adams resides in Youngsville, Louisiana, with his wife, Kelly, and their four children: Carsten, Hudson, Preslie, and Aniston. With nearly two decades of pastoral experience, he currently serves as the Executive Teaching Pastor at Our Savior’s Church and Dean of Our Savior’s College. In addition to his local ministry, Dr. Adams is an adjunct professor at Regent University’s School of Divinity, where he teaches a variety of theological, methodological, and ministry-related courses. Deeply committed to Gospel-centered, Spirit-empowered leadership, he is passionate about equipping the next generation of pastors and church leaders. When not preaching or teaching, he enjoys exercising, hunting, and traveling.
Read More
I love going to my kids’ athletic events. I cannot bear the sight, smell, and taste of pickles and mustard. My favorite city is Scottsdale, Arizona. Before I entered full-time ministry, I worked for four country music entertainers in Nashville, Tennessee. My favorite quotation is, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” — Attributed to Mark Twain.
Seahee Duran
Degrees Earned
BA Bible Theology
Central Bible College (now Evangel University)
MA Christian Ministries
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
DMin
Southeastern University
Dr. Saehee Duran is a first-generation Korean-American and ordained Assemblies of God minister whose life journey — from deportation to divine assignment — reflects God’s redemptive grace. Entering higher education as a non-traditional student raising three children, she earned valedictorian honors at both undergraduate and seminary levels while serving as a campus leader and commencement speaker. She later completed a Doctor of Ministry at Southeastern University, focusing on male champions for female ministers. With 20+ years in education, ministry, and national initiatives, she has served on boards, developed resources for 10,000 women ministers, led ethnic fellowships, and ministered as chaplain and civic leader. Above all, she treasures family.
Read More
Dr. Saehee was born and raised in South Korea. She holds a third-degree black belt—though she admits it proved rather useless when she could not even take down her 190‑pound husband. She was once crowned Miss Korea Hawaii, but that glory was short-lived when she was unexpectedly deported back to South Korea. What seemed like a devastating event became a divine intervention that brought her closer to God and ultimately led her to meet her husband at an international church. Clearly, God has a wonderful sense of humor as a matchmaker!
She is fluent in Korean and English but secretly wishes for the superpower to speak every language so she could make friends all over the world. She is delighted to see the world now raving about K‑pop, K‑dramas, and K‑beauty, especially since she arrived in America when hardly anyone knew where Korea was. But if you are a fan of Korean culture, do not ask her to name her favorite actors or singers — she thinks they all look the same and truly cannot tell who is who!
Robby Waddell
Degrees Earned
BA Bible and Religion
King College
MDiv Pentecostal
Theological Seminary
PhD Biblical Studies
University of Sheffield
Robby Waddell, PhD (University of Sheffield), is Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, Faculty Chaplain, and Director of the Global Pentecostalism Center at Southeastern University. He is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Pentecostal Theology (Cleveland, TN), serves with Bangor University’s Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies supervising PhD students, and is a member of the Sheffield Institute of Interdisciplinary Biblical Studies. He serves on editorial boards for Sheffield Phoenix Press and Pneuma and is Associate Editor of the Journal of Pentecostal Theology. Also Lead Pastor of Oasis Community Church, his current projects include a Mark commentary (Brill) and a volume on Pentecostals and the Bible (OUP).
Read More
Robby and his wife, Angela, have six daughters and have lived in Virginia, Tennessee, Sheffield (England), California, and Florida. They share a love for travel and have led study tours and spiritual pilgrimages to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, and Italy.
Sarah Cabrera
Degrees Earned
BA Ministerial Leadership: Biblical Studies
Southeastern University
MA Ministerial Leadership
Southeastern University
MDiv
Southeastern University
Sarah Cabrera serves as the Undergraduate Chair for the Barnett College of Ministry and Theology at Southeastern University, overseeing academic programs across main campus, extension sites, and online platforms. Passionate about reimagining Christian higher education, she works with faculty and ministry partners to provide a Spirit-empowered, transformative learning experience that bridges academic formation and real-world ministry. Her interests include spiritual formation, practical theology, and innovative models that equip the Church and broader community.
Read More
Outside of her role at SEU, Sarah is a worship leader, pastor, and writer who finds deep joy in meeting and connecting with students—in fact, it’s her favorite part of the job. She is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, known, and called into deeper purpose.
Sarah is married to the love of her life, Andrew, and together they enjoy life with their golden retriever, who has no concept of personal space and has never met a sock she hasn’t tried to steal.
FAQs
CBE is an educational philosophy that emphasizes demonstrating proficiency in essential skills and knowledge rather than simply completing coursework. It combines guided learning with practical application, allowing students to progress as they apply their understanding in real-world ministry contexts. By prioritizing not only skill development but also personal growth and leadership formation,. CBE is as much a formational journey as it is an academic one.
A competency is a clearly-defined ability, skill, or knowledge area that a student is expected to develop and demonstrate through their learning. Competencies outline what a student should be able to do upon successful completion of a course or program. The benchmarks used to determine a student’s level of competency are called proficiency indicators.
Your faculty mentor (FM) — who is matched to you based on your goals and current proficiency level — will work with you to create your personalized course plan. Your FM will also evaluate your work, determine your competency levels as you progress, and provide guidance and encouragement along the way.
A context mentor (CM) is an informal, non-university-appointed mentor who provides real-world guidance to you within your specific ministry or professional setting. You are encouraged to seek out a mentor in your own ministry environment who can offer practical, hands-on insight related to your field. Examples may include an experienced member of your organization’s leadership team, an executive or senior pastor, or a community leader with whom you have already established a level of rapport. While not required, context mentors are strongly encouraged.
The School of Divinity, housed within the Barnett College of Ministry & Theology at SEU, is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). This new MAML format follows the Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) framework of ATS. This framework emphasizes outcome-based learning, practical application, and mentored formation to prepare students for ministry leadership.
ATS has approved SEU to offer CBE-based programs. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), SEU’s main accreditation body, has also approved this program.
This program offers you customizable learning pathways, meaning you can set your own pace while progressing through structured coursework that is tailored to your individual needs. This dynamic, interactive online learning environment will also give you the opportunity to demonstrate your proficiency in ways that recognize your prior knowledge and experience — no matter where you are in your ministry career.
You’ll also be able to engage in personalized mentorship, which will help you grow both academically and holistically.
This program structure for the Executive Cohort and Regional Cohort will remain as is, offering students the ability to have periodic cohort meetings during their degree journey. Course content, structure, and pricing will also remain the same. For the time being, the MAML that is being offered in Spanish will also follow the traditional course format, albeit fully online without a hybrid cohort option.
Yes! One of the most exciting aspects of this program format is its flexibility and customizability. Once you have subscribed, you can go at your own pace — as quickly or as spaced out as you prefer.
While traditional financial aid is not available for this program, the monthly subscription fee is significantly discounted.
If you prefer to use financial aid, we invite you to consider another one of SEU’s master’s degrees in ministry and theology.
Additional Learning Formats
Just as every ministry and leader is unique, so is each person’s approach to learning. That’s why SEU has developed multiple options for your MAML degree journey, giving you the freedom to choose the format best suited to your needs. Learn more.
The MAML is also available in a cohort format at Grace Church in Humble, Texas.