What is the ruling on studying Sharia with the intention of gaining both scientific and material benefit? Is this considered polytheism, seeking other than the countenance of Allah, or selling for a small price?

A student of Islamic law should intend to draw closer to Allah, to remove ignorance, and to benefit Muslims. There is no harm in also intending worldly benefits such as work and salary, for Allah has permitted seeking worldly gains alongside acts of worship. What is forbidden is for the sole purpose of seeking knowledge to be for worldly gain, as this carries a severe warning, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Whoever learns knowledge by which the face of Allah Almighty is sought, but does not learn it except to obtain a worldly عرضًا (portion/benefit) thereby, will not find the fragrance of Paradise on the Day of Resurrection." As for one who desires the Hereafter and also seeks something from this world, there is no harm upon him, as in the verse: "There is no blame upon you for seeking bounty from your Lord." These worldly aims may diminish the reward, but they do not invalidate the deed or make it a sin. It is permissible to pursue religious studies for a certificate with the intention of using it in obedience to Allah and serving Muslims, and this does not affect the intention of seeking knowledge.