Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When was the school established?
A: Read about our history here.

Q: Why was MHGS established?
A: MHGS was established by a core group of impassioned, thoughtful leaders who wanted to change the way theological and psychological education was being done.

Q: Is MHGS affiliated with a particular denomination or church?
A: MHGS is not affiliated with any denomination or church. Our faculty, staff and students come from a variety of backgrounds, which all contribute to an overall feel of being truly inter-denominational.

Q: Is MHGS accredited?
A: MHGS is nationally accredited with Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) as approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). MHGS has degree authorization by the State of Washington and Title IV authorization by the Federal Department of Education for federal studnt financial assistance.  In 2006, MHGS was granted associate membership in the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). 

Q: What does "Mars Hill" mean?
A: Mars Hill refers to a location found in Acts 17, most commonly referred to as the Areopogus.  Paul interacted with thought leaders there in order to proclaim the truth of their unknown god.  Several ministries have chosen the name "Mars Hill" to represent a desire to proclaim the Gospel as Paul did.  Check out Mars HIll Bible Church in Grandville, MI and Mars Hill Church in Seattle, WA for additional perspectives on what Mars Hill "means".

Q: Where is the school located?
A: 2501 Elliott AVE / Seattle, WA 98121
MHGS is in the middle of Belltown, one of Seattle's neighborhoods. We reside between a high-end hotel and a charity aimed at providing jobs, meals and assistance to people in need. As we grow into this neighborhood, we long for ears to hear and eyes to see all that has gone on before us. We are actively looking for ways to allow the growth that Belltown is undergoing to impact our own growth as individuals, as a school, and as neighbors.

Q: Does MHGS offer distance learning?
A: MHGS does not offer any distance learning programs. However, if you are interested in training from MHGS please look into our conferences.

Q: What is the MIller Analogies Test (MAT) and why do I have to take it for admission?
A: The MAT is a standardized test that provides only a small part of the criteria for admission while we determine its validity and reliability for evaluating our students. We chose the MAT because of its ability to measure the "recognition of relationships" as well as its assessment of general knowledge and vocabulary.

Q: When would be a good time to come visit MHGS?
A: The best time to come is during one of our Campus Visit Weekends, or you can schedule an individual visit any time that might interest you. Take a good look at the course schedule online and see if there are any classes that coincide with your schedule and interest. Please contact Crystal Miller to schedule an individual visit.

Q: How would you define the typical MHGS student?
A: Our students come from a variety of backgrounds and none of them could be called "typical". About 60% of this year's incoming class relocated from outside of Washington State. Most of them are women (about 65%) and their average age is 31. Some came straight out of their undergraduate program. Others are returning to school to pursue a second (or third) career. Many are looking and hoping for an academic experience that will be truly transformational for themselves, their communities and their churches.

Q: How diverse is your student body?
A:
Not as much as we'd like, but as each trimester passes we become more fully committed to honoring the diversity that does exist, as well as making sure we are increasingly becoming a community that welcomes people from any background, nationality, and culture.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Complete financial aid information can be found here.

Q: Are financial aid and/or scholarships available?
A: Most of our students are taking out student loans to help pay for school through the FAFSA system. MHGS is Title IV sanctioned for both subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loans. In addition some students apply for alternative loans through financial institution of their choice. There are a few scholarship programs available with specific eligibility criteria.

Q: Is it realistic to work part time during school?  What about full time?
A: Many of our students work at least part time as a way to support themselves during school. Most classes are offered in the late afternoons and evenings to accommodate daytime work. It is extremely difficult to work full-time and be a full-time student. Because your schedule changes three times a year, not to mention your "home-work", you'll need to have an employer who is flexible and supportive of your educational pursuit.

Q: I don't see my question here...can I ask one?
A: Send us an email with your question.  We'll do our best to answer it right away and may even post it here.