Members of Salève Adventist University (Campus Adventiste du Salève) and Friedensau Adventist University (Theologische Hochschule Friedensau) academic administrations signed a joint degree agreement offering a fully-accredited master's degree in theology, during a regular mid-year meeting of the Adventist Church's Euro-Africa region, held May 21-23 in Krattigen, Switzerland.

Salève Adventist University in Collonges-sous-Salève, France, announced plans last month to adopt a German university master's program into its curriculum. The move will give recognition to French Adventist seminary students in a country that does not recognize degrees from private universities.

Offering Salève seminarians a theology degree from Germany-based Friedensau Adventist University -- officially recognized throughout Europe -- will also make it easier for them to transfer credits, switch universities and change degree programs without jeopardizing academic credit, church education officials said.

France doesn't recognize private university degrees because of its century-old laws separating church and state, said Roland Meyer, Salève's seminary dean.

Udo Worschech, Friedensau University president, says the new degree will lend Salève Theology students more credibility, especially if they plan to further their studies at other campuses across Europe or outside the continent.

Salève students who earn a Friedensau-based degree will do so from their own campus. Both universities will maintain their own faculty and staff, but will jointly teach the new degree through brief professor exchanges. Salève theology students will earn a diploma from both universities.

Richard Lehmann, president of Salève Adventist University, hopes the agreement between the universities will "inspire the exploration of other agreements between [Adventist] campuses."

Other programs being considered for future joint efforts include leadership and youth ministries, said Meyer.