Eastern University Upcoming CBE PhD in Professional Practice

[Jonathan Whatley]

Eastern University is applying, per the MSCHE Accreditation Action of April 23, 2026, to convert its existing online PhD in Professional Practice program into a direct assessment (i.e., competency-based education) format.

Eastern’s PhD in Professional Practice is an interesting creature. It’s housed in the university’s Palmer Theological Seminary division. Students with a prior theology degree may be eligible for advanced standing (via Dustin on DegreeInfo). Eastern is affiliated with American Baptist Churches USA, and Eastern has been described as a relatively progressive-minded “maverick among evangelical colleges.”

At the same time, the PhD in Professional Practice is clearly intended to be relevant to professionals in a wide range of secular positions as well as religious-related ones. There do not appear to be religious tests in admission, unless there’s something in the online application form (account creation required). This degree is not specifically included within Palmer Theological Seminary’s specialized accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools.

Applicants are currently expected to have “10 years as a practitioner in a professional practice, such as minister, lawyer, nurse, etc.”