Business Details
Christ-Centered Graduate Theological Education in Portland
Multnomah University is a Christ-centered institution committed to integrating biblical wisdom with academic and professional excellence. Since assuming stewardship of the Multnomah Campus in May 2024, we have prioritized sustaining educational continuity for students while navigating financial challenges to ensure long-term viability. Our focus remains on mission-aligned programs like Multnomah Biblical Seminary and JessupGlobal, which extend theological education through hybrid and international platforms.With over 80% of continuing Multnomah students graduating successfully, we honor the legacy of both institutions while innovating for future impact. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to cultivating transformational leaders through rigorous academic training and spiritual formation, serving communities locally in Portland and Sacramento as well as globally through distance education. This strategic vision reflects our commitment to advancing God's redemptive work through higher education.
Services
Graduate Theological Programs
Multnomah Biblical Seminary
Distance Education
International Student Programs
Doctoral Degrees
Highlights and features
- We offer accredited graduate theological programs with hybrid learning options
- Our faculty combines academic expertise with practical ministry experience
- We maintain Multnomah's 125-year legacy of biblical education
- Our JessupGlobal platform serves students in 15+ countries
- We prioritize spiritual formation alongside academic excellence
Services
Graduate Theological Programs
Multnomah University offers advanced theological education through Master of Divinity, MA Biblical Studies, and MA Global Development programs. These graduate degrees combine academic rigor with spiritual formation, preparing students for ministry and professional service. Programs utilize hybrid learning models that integrate face-to-face instruction, digital platforms, and practical ministry experiences.
Multnomah Biblical Seminary
Continuing Multnomah University's 125-year legacy, this seminary provides theological training through on-campus and distance education formats. Degree options include Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry programs that emphasize biblical scholarship, practical ministry skills, and spiritual development for church and parachurch leaders.
Distance Education
Our hybrid education model delivers theological training through digital platforms while maintaining personal interaction. Students access course materials remotely while participating in periodic on-campus intensives and local ministry practicums. This approach accommodates working professionals and international students seeking flexible theological education.
International Student Programs
JessupGlobal extends theological education to students worldwide through culturally adapted distance learning programs. The initiative supports international students through localized content delivery, cross-cultural ministry training, and partnerships with churches and mission organizations across 15+ countries.
Doctoral Degrees
The Doctor of Ministry program develops advanced leadership skills for pastoral and ministry professionals. This terminal degree combines academic research with practical application through cohort-based learning, residencies, and dissertation projects focused on contemporary ministry challenges and innovations.
People
John Jackson
President
Dr. John Jackson leads Multnomah University with a vision for Christ-centered education. He has guided the institution through its integration of Multnomah University's Portland campus while maintaining academic excellence and financial stewardship. His leadership focuses on expanding global theological education through innovative delivery methods.
Jessica Lynn Taylor
Dr
Dr. Jessica Lynn Taylor served as Multnomah Campus leadership during the transition period. Her administrative experience in theological education contributed to maintaining academic continuity during Multnomah University's integration of Multnomah's programs and personnel.
Karen Fancher
Dr
Dr. Karen Fancher provided leadership during the Multnomah University transition. As part of the senior leadership team, she helped maintain educational quality and student support services during Multnomah University's assumption of campus operations in 2024.
Joe Slavens
Dr
Dr. Joe Slavens contributed to Multnomah Campus leadership during the transition to Multnomah University. His experience in theological education administration helped ensure program continuity and faculty support during the institutional integration process.
Lisa Newbore
Director
Lisa Newbore served in Multnomah Campus leadership during Multnomah University's integration. Her administrative role supported the transition of academic programs and student services while maintaining operational continuity during the institutional merger.
Questions
What happened to Multnomah University?
Multnomah University merged with Jessup University in May 2024. Jessup assumed all assets and liabilities, continuing Multnomah's legacy through the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University.
Are graduate programs still available in Portland?
Yes, Jessup University continues offering graduate theological programs on the Portland campus including Master of Divinity, MA Biblical Studies, and Doctor of Ministry degrees.
What changes occurred in 2025?
Traditional undergraduate residential programs concluded in May 2025. Jessup now focuses on graduate theological education through Multnomah Biblical Seminary and JessupGlobal initiatives.
Can international students enroll?
Yes, JessupGlobal programs now accept international students. The campus will host global learners through distance education models combining digital and in-person components.
How does Jessup maintain Multnomah's legacy?
Jessup preserves Multnomah's mission through continued operation of the Biblical Seminary, maintaining Portland campus operations, and extending theological education through hybrid learning platforms.
What financial challenges exist?
Jessup has covered multi-million dollar deficits since 2024. The university is restructuring to ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining core theological education programs.
Videos
