Renewing minds, transforming lives.
Be a bold, Spirit-filled leader…
At United Theological Seminary, we believe in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit that occurs as you grow in your faith and live into your God-given purpose. Our curriculum is rooted in the power of the Holy Spirit and the biblical tradition, exposing students to God’s transforming work in their lives. Faculty who are faithful Christians and scholars guide the way for the academic and spiritual growth of future leaders of the Church. We hope that through your study at United you, too, will become a bold, Spirit-filled leader who makes disciples of Jesus Christ and in doing so makes a difference in the world.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Romans 12:2
Learning at United
At United, theological education is about more than simply earning your degree. United is a place where academic preparation intersects with spiritual formation and practical application for the work of ministry in the world. You will be challenged by an education that is both spiritually centered and scripturally sound. Encounter the historic Christian faith and deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit as you are equipped to fulfill your God-given purpose.
A seminary of The United Methodist Church, United brings together students from many backgrounds in a community that embodies the Kingdom of God. Representing different denominations, races and nationalities, students come together in an environment that fosters respect, learning and growth, united by a desire to follow God’s call on their lives. The United community gathers regularly in worship to celebrate the living God and be formed in the image of Christ. We believe in the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit in worship, who helps us to become the people God created us to be. So we invite you to come, to join this Christ-centered community, and to become a faithful leader of the Church.
United Students
595 Total Students 45% Doctoral 55% Masters
85 International students from 20 countries
48 Denominations
*Represents 12-month unduplicated headcount enrollment for the 2023-2024 academic year from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Figures represent those who responded. All figures rounded to the nearest whole number.
Learning That Fits Your Lifestyle
When God places a call on your life and you discern seminary might be the next step, that doesn’t mean everything else stops. That’s why United offers flexible learning options to make high-quality education accessible for working pastors and professionals. Choose the learning style that works best for you, or mix and match to get the right combination for your schedule. Our Academic Calendar (see next page) features traditional on-campus formats, hybrid and intensive courses offered on campus during Gathering weeks, online courses, and innovative virtual courses that make it possible to attend and participate in on-campus courses in real time from a distance.
And, with United’s FlexChoice program, master’s students can choose to schedule their coursework to earn a degree at the pace that best fits their individual needs.
• FlexChoice Accelerated enables students to move quickly through their seminary program by taking advantage of United’s year-round schedule to earn a Master of Divinity degree in as few as two years.
• FlexChoice Traditional is for students taking 6-9 credit hours per term. Students who prefer to earn a degree at a more conventional pace may prefer this pathway, with the Master of Divinity typically taking three years to complete.
• FlexChoice Balanced allows students to take a reduced course load for optimal work/life balance. This option is ideal for working pastors or professionals, with a Master of Divinity typically earned in four years or more.
Whatever your call, you’ll find opportunities to participate in a rich learning community that fits your lifestyle
“You don’t have to choose whether you do ministry or seminary. United is really well suited to complement a life that’s already engaged in ministry. And even if you don’t have a ministry, United is going to help you find an application [for your calling].”
Jonathan Cordle, MDiv
Academic Calendar
Gathering Weeks
Immersion Trip
Peer Sessions (recommended dates)
*For illustration purposes. Specific dates for the academic calendar may be found in the Academic Catalog.
Doctor of Theology Term
Doctor of Ministry Term
Masters Degrees and General Certificates Term
Academic Portfolio
Doctoral Degrees
Doctor of Theology
Doctor of Ministry
Master’s Degrees
Master of Divinity
Master of Ministry
Master of Theological Studies
Houses of
Concentrations Houses of Study Houses of Study
Focus Areas
Flexible Curriculum
United offers a comprehensive portfolio of programs, designed to support your academic and spiritual growth while preparing you to follow God’s call. Learn more about our graduate theological degrees:
Doctoral Degrees:
Contribute to the life of the Church through one of United’s doctoral degrees. The Doctor of Theology program trains future theological educators to work at the intersection of church and academy. The program provides advanced training to prepare you to conduct original research within a specialized field of theology. Work closely with United’s faculty to develop your research and receive mentorship in teaching, scholarship and church renewal.
The Doctor of Ministry program builds professional leadership capabilities from a ministerial perspective to produce change for the glory of God. In United’s mentor-led program, learn from experienced religious leaders and peers in focus groups of your choice.
Master’s Degrees:
The Master of Divinity, Master of Ministry and Master of Arts in Christian Ministries programs develop strong leadership skills for ministry and service in the Church and community. Whether you are called to religious, non-profit or secular vocations, a theological and spiritual foundation prepares you to live out your calling. United’s professional master’s degrees allow you to specialize your studies to prepare for your ministry calling. All three degrees offer specialized master’s tracks through houses of study.* The Master of Divinity also offers concentrations for your degree.
Through academic study of the Bible, historic faith and theological traditions, the Master of Arts and Master of Theological Studies programs expand your knowledge and help you grow in your faith. Multiple degree plans provide flexibility to select a focus area for specific study.
* The establishment and maintenance of Houses of Study at United Theological Seminary are dependent on sufficient enrollment.
United is a place where you are encouraged to grow spiritually, grow in your call to ministry, and do all this alongside some of the most intelligent and caring professors and students. Kristie Crisp ’20
Houses of Study
Houses of Study at United equip students for service in the communities, movements and denominations where they serve. Houses support students in several ways: through academic tracks in United’s Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Christian Ministries and Master of Ministry degree programs; through mutual support in formation groups; and through mentorship from facilitators and spiritual directors in United’s Contextual Ministries program. Houses may also include related non-degree certificates and groups in United’s Doctor of Ministry program.
Within a House of Study, you will find support from a House of Study director and fellowship among your peers. In most cases, the House of Study Director mentors the DMin focus group and may teach specialized elective courses in the Master’s tracks, enabling you to learn from an expert in the field.
African House of Study
Director: Dr. Saneta Maiko
The African House of Study is designed to provide accredited theological training that engages and equips students to grow followers of Jesus for the impact of the world, and specifically the African region, in the context where they serve. This approach eliminates challenges international students face, such as visa applications, traveling abroad, isolation from family and other educational expenses.
AME Zion House of Study
Director: Bishop Michael Frencher
The AME Zion Church House of Study is designed to instruct, prepare, and empower clergy and lay leaders with 21st century ministry resources taught from an African American Methodist (Wesleyan) historic Christian faith point of view.
Casa de Estudios Hispana
Director: Rev. Dr. Jorge Ochoa
La Casa de Estudios Hispana del United está para estudiantes hispanohablantes que desean obtener un título de Maestría en divinidades.
The Hispanic House of Study at United is for Spanish-speaking students pursuing their Master of Divinity degree.
Fresh Expressions House of Study
Director: Rev. Dr. Michael Beck
The Fresh Expressions House of Study, in partnership with Fresh Expressions US, is for visionary leaders who are called to cultivate transformational Christian communities through a missional, contextual, formational and ecclesial form of church for our changing culture, established primarily for the benefit of those who are not yet part of any church.
Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship House of Study
Director: Bishop Lisa Weah
The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, a worldwide fellowship of baptized believers, has established a House of Study at United to develop and equip charismatic intellectuals to “change forward” as led by the Holy Spirit.
Global Pentecostal House of Study
Directors: Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns and Dr. Mark Chironna
The Global Pentecostal House of Study is for students in Pentecostal and Charismatic traditions who celebrate the richness of the Pentecostal heritage and its place in the larger Christian Tradition and wisely handle the Sacred Text, while leading the community they serve by the empowering presence of the Spirit.
Global Methodist House of Study
Director: Rev. Gregory Stover
The Global Methodist House of Study is designed to prepare women and men for biblically-grounded and Spirit-filled leadership for dynamic discipleship, effective pastoral ministry, and world-wide mission in a vibrant expression of the Wesleyan and Methodist heritage.
Jabula Luminary House of Study
Director: Dr. Claudette Morgan-Scott
The Jabula Luminary House of Study, in partnership with Jabula Worldwide, is for luminaries to be trained and released to fulfill the call of evangelism to bring the Kingdom of God to earth by restoring and protecting the rights of all people.
한국어 석사 과정 - Korean House of Study
전석재 교수, 한국어과정 프로그램 디렉터 - Director: Rev. Dr. Seok Jae Jeon United 한국어 석사 과정의 MDiv, MACM, MMin 프로그램은 한국어를 구사하는 학생들을 위한 과정이다.
The Korean House of Study at United is for Korean-speaking students pursuing a Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Christian Ministries or Master of Ministry degree.
* The establishment and maintenance of Houses of Study at United Theological Seminary are dependent on sufficient enrollment.
Doctor of Theology
Become a scholar for the Church.
42 credit hours plus dissertation.
Primarily Online.
Program Design
United’s Doctor of Theology (ThD) is an advanced research degree program designed to support leading pastor-scholars, teachers and thinkers in the church, by expanding knowledge in the fields of History and Theology, Biblical Studies, or Practical Theology. The ThD is a highly customizable course of study that provides mentorship in teaching, scholarship and church renewal to support ministry at the intersection of church and academy.
Time on Campus
• Four week-long intensives at our Dayton campus, offered annually each summer.
• All other courses can be completed online through our virtual classroom from wherever you live and serve.
Preparing for the Doctor of Theology
Students entering the Doctor of Theology must hold a master’s degree in theology or a related field totaling at least 48 hours. If you are just beginning your theological education and are looking ahead to a ThD, United’s Master of Theological Studies is an excellent foundation for the advanced academic research required in this doctoral program.
Core requirements provide the theoretical and practical foundations for research and teaching within a specialized field of theology. They culminate in comprehensive examinations that prepare you for researching and writing your dissertation.
Conduct original research within your field of study. Research and writing are woven throughout the program to help you work toward completing your dissertation efficiently.
Electives are determined by field and research interest. They may be taken as either 800-level seminars, directed study, or independent readings.
A Note from the Director
At United, we’re exploring the critical intersection of church and academy for the future of theological education. If you love theological research and are passionate about its place in the renewal of the church, our Doctor of Theology program might be for you.
Justus H. Hunter, PhD Director of the ThD Program
Doctor of Ministry
Expand your ministry by becoming a Doctor of the Church.
60 credit hours.
3 years in context with intensives and peer sessions.
Program Design
The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) is designed for those who are actively engaged in ministry. Complete it from wherever you live. Your own ministry setting is the learning environment. Working with a faculty mentor, a peer group focused on an area of ministry, and ministry partners, you will develop an original research project designed to address a need within your unique ministry context. Thesis writing begins on the first day of the program, and chapters are due each semester to make your project manageable and help you graduate on time.
Individual Work
Assess your ministry context and design a project to address a need. Phases of your project are due each semester, providing accountability and momentum toward completing your thesis.
Peer Sessions
Meet with your focus group twice per year to expand your knowledge base through assigned coursework. Collaborate with your mentor and peers to refine your project.
Time on Campus
• Two week-long intensives each year (January and August)
• One 3-4–day focus group (at a date and location of the mentor and group’s choice)
• Second 3-4–day focus group meeting to be held virtually; may also include an in-person option at the mentor’s discretion
Intensives
Begin each semester learning from national leaders about major issues impacting ministry today. Work closely with mentors and peers to troubleshoot and progress through your project step by step.
Your mentor, with you the whole way...
Learn from experienced religious leaders in United's mentor-based program. Your mentor will lead your focus group through an area of ministry relevant to the church today. You will receive feedback, academic guidance and support in your ministry from your mentor and peers during your time in the DMin program.
Focus Groups*
• 21st Century Church
• Church Renewal and Evangelism
• Holy Spirit and Supernatural Ministry
• Pastoral Leadership and Church Administration
• Preaching
• Social Justice
*Focus Group offerings are subject to change. The Doctor of Ministry office is available at any time to assist you in identifying an appropriate group for your specific area of interest.
Preparing for the Doctor of Ministry
The Doctor of Ministry program presupposes a Master of Divinity degree (or its educational equivalent) followed by a least three years of ministry. If you have another type of master's degree, our Master of Ministry can prepare you for the educational rigor of the doctoral program, while accomplishing MDiv equivalency requirements.
United is a place where love, justice and reconciliation are inseparable and ineradicable.
Otis Moss '90
Master of Divinity
Available in Spanish and Korean
Prepare for ordained ministry or leadership as a lay professional.
72 credit hours.
Primarily online or on campus.*
Complete in 2-4 years.
Requirements
Biblical Studies (12 cr. hrs.)
• OT500 Introduction to the Old Testament (3)
• NT500 Introduction to the New Testament (3)
• Any 600 Level OT Course (3)
• Any 600 Level BI/NT Course (3)
Church
History and Theology (12 cr. hrs.)
• CH501 Introduction to Church History l (3)
• CH502 Introduction to Church History ll (3)
• TH502 Introduction to Theology (3)
• Any 600 Level CH/TH Course (3)
Practical
Theology (12 cr. hrs.)
• ER503 Church Renewal for Mission (3)
• Any 500 Level Preaching Course (3)
• PC507 Pastoral Care Giving (3)
• Any 600 Level Practical Theology Course (ER, LD, PC, PW) (3)
Contextual Ministries (12 cr. hrs.)
• CM501 Field Education Unit 1 (0)
• CM510 Contextual Ministry 1 (3)
• CM511 Contextual Ministry 2 (3)
• CM601 Field Education Unit 2 (0)
• CM610 Contextual Ministry 3 (3)
• CM611 Contextual Ministry 4 (3)
Immersion Trip Experience
All Master of Divinity students participate in an immersion trip in which they encounter other cultures to enrich their learning experience.
Cross-Cultural
Immersion (3 cr. hrs.)
• CM620 Methods of Interreligious and Intercultural Encounter (0)
• CM621 Immersion Trip
MDiv Electives
(21 cr. hrs.)
Students may use elective courses to fulfill concentration, track, and denominational requirements. United Methodists are required to have 6 credits in UM History, Doctrine, and Polity, as well as courses in Evangelism and Worship.
MDiv Non-Credit Requirements
• SS500 Online Master Student Orientation (0)
• SS601 MDiv Mid-Program Review (0)
• SS701 MDiv Final Program Review (0)
*Residency requirements may vary by denomination. Most United Methodist students must complete 1/3 of their degree (24 credit hours) on campus. ** The establishment and maintenance of Houses of Study at United Theological Seminary are dependent on sufficient enrollment.
on the Spring 2024 “Enacting the Beloved Community” immersion trip
Contextual Theology and Immersion Program
The Contextual Theology requirements for the Master of Divinity offer students a unique opportunity to encounter other cultures and religions. Coursework in interreligious and intercultural methods provides experiences and strategies for deepening understanding of global spiritual traditions.
All MDiv students participate in a cross-cultural immersion trip, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with global Christianity and other religious traditions in diverse settings.
“In this way, United lives into a faith-rooted, ‘Trinitarian hospitality,’ being disciples of Jesus who welcome the Spirit into our very flesh, in a polarized and violent world. We practice surrendering to the sovereignty of God, learning to be better guests in the mystery of creation, which willalways have more to teach us about the love of God.”
Dr. Lisa M. Hess, Professor of Practical Theology and Contextual Ministries
Students
Master of Arts in Christian Ministries
Available in Spanish and Korean
Prepare for specialized ministry in ordained or lay leadership.
45 credit hours. Primarily online or on campus.*
Complete in 1.5-2.5 years.
Requirements
Biblical Studies (6 cr. hrs.)
• NT500 Introduction to the New Testament (3)
• OT500 Introduction to the Old Testament (3)
Church History and Theology (6 cr. hrs.)
• CH501 Intro to Church History I (3)
• CH502 Intro to Church History II (3)
• TH502 Introduction to Theology (3)
Practical Theology (6 cr. hrs.)
• Any 500 Level Introductory Worship Course; or Any 500 Level Introductory Preaching Course (3)
• ER503 Church Renewal for Mission (3)
Contextual Ministries (6 cr. hrs.)
• CM501 Field Education Unit 1 (0)
• CM510 Contextual Ministry 1 (3)
• CM511 Contextual Ministry 2 (3)
MACM Electives (21 cr. hrs.)
Students may use elective courses to fulfill denominational requirements.
MACM Non-Credit Requirements
• SS500 Online Masters Student Orientation (0)
• SS603 MACM Mid-Program Review (0)
• SS703 MACM Final Program Review (0)
United has equipped me to engage my community in the call of “making disciples of Jesus Christ” in so many profound ways.
Jeremy Barkley '19
*Residency requirements may vary by denomination. Each student must check with her or his own denominational leadership regarding residency requirements for ordination **The establishment and maintenance of Houses of Study at United Theological Seminary are dependent on sufficient enrollment.
Master of Ministry
Available in Spanish and Korean
Prepare for ordained ministry or the Doctor of Ministry program.
36 credit hours. Primarily online or on campus.*
Complete in 1-2 years.
Requirements
Biblical Studies (6 cr. hrs.)
• OT500 Introduction to the Old Testament (3)
• NT500 Introduction to the New Testament (3)
Church History and Theology (9 cr. hrs.)
• CH501 Intro to Church History I (3)
• CH502 Intro to Church History II (3)
• TH502 Introduction to Theology (3)
Practical Theology (6 cr. hrs.)
• ER503 Church Renewal for Mission (3)
• Any 500 Level Introductory Worship Course; or Any 500 Level Introductory Preaching Course (3)
Contextual Ministries (6 cr. hrs.)
• CM501 Field Education Unit 1 (0)
• CM510 Contextual Ministry 1 (3)
• CM511 Contextual Ministry 2 (3)
MMin Electives (9 cr. hrs.)
May be used for denominational courses
Recommended elective for those seeking to enter the Doctor of Ministry:
•H510 Theological Research and Methodology
MMin Non-Credit Requirements
• SS500 Online Master Student Orientation (0)
• SS705 MMin Final Program Review (0)
Not only do I feel better equipped to live into who God has called me to be, but I can lead with confidence as a pastor.
Liz Jackson ’20
*Residency requirements may vary by denomination. Each student must check with her or his own denominational leadership regarding residency requirements for ordination. **The establishment and maintenance of Houses of Study at United Theological Seminary are dependent on sufficient enrollment.
Master of Theological Studies
Pursue the academic study of Christianity or prepare for a PhD or ThD.
48 credit hours.
Fully online or on campus.
Focused study leading to a thesis. Complete in 2-3 years.
Requirements
Biblical Studies (9 cr. hrs.)
• NT500 Introduction to the New Testament (3)
• OT500 Introduction to the Old Testament (3)
• Any 600 Level BI/NT Course (3)
Church History and Theology (9 cr. hrs.)
• CH501 Intro to Church History I (3)
• CH502 Intro to Church History II (3)
• TH502 Introduction to Theology (3)
Research and Methodology (6 cr. hrs.)
• TH510 Theological Research and Methodology (3)
• ER503 Church Renewal for Mission(3)
Thesis or Project (3 cr. hrs.)
• CQ650 MTS Thesis (3)
United showed me that academics and Christian spirituality work together and enhance each other.
Jimmy Mallory '19
MTS Electives
(21 cr. hrs.)
A minimum of 15 hours must be related to the student’s chosen focus area and all electives must be in the following areas: BI, NT, OT, CH, or TH. All electives must be chosen inconsultation with the student’s faculty advisor.
MTS Non-Credit Requirements
• SS500 Online Master Student Orientation (0)
• SS602 MTS Mid-Program Review (0)
• SS702 MTS Final Program Review (0)
Master of Arts
Design your own degree and grow in your faith.
36 credit hours. Fully online or on campus. Customized program of study. Complete in 1-2 years.
Build your own degree with United's Master of Arts (MA) program. Whether you are looking for a flexible curriculum for specialized expertise, pursuing ministry in the world or seeking to understand your faith more deeply, United's MA is intentionally flexible to meet a wide range of needs and interests.
The MA is also designed for those who wish to earn a degree while completing Advanced Course of Study (ACOS) in The United Methodist Church.
With one core course (3 credit hours) and eleven elective courses (33 credit hours), gain a strong foundation and choose electives that equip you to follow God's call. Design your own degree plan or pursue specialized studies in biblical interpretation, chaplaincy and pastoral care, or ministry leadership.
Requirements
MA Core Requirements (3 cr. hrs.)
• CQ640 MA Integrative Colloquy (3)
MA Non-Credit Requirements
• SS500 Online Master Student Orientation (0)
• SS706 MA Final Program Review (0)
MA Electives (33 cr. hrs.)
Create a flexible degree plan or use electives to fulfill Advanced Course of Study requirements.
Non-Degree Programs
United offers a variety of non-degree learning opportunities to equip people at all levels of ministry.
General Certificates
Certificate in Service and Leadership
The Certificate in Service and Leadership (CSL) is a great starting point for laity and those just beginning their journey into theological education. Grow in your faith as you gain a basic theological foundation for ministry as a deacon or servant leader in the church. The Certificate in Service and Leadership (CSL) is available in English, Spanish and Korean.
Certificate in Theology and Ministry
The Certificate in Theology and Ministry (CTM) is for clergy and laity of all denominations seeking a basic theological foundation for ministry as a local pastor or church leader. Taught fully online, the CTM offers non-credit courses in Bible, Theology, Church and Mission, and Ministry. The CTM is available in English and Spanish.
Specialized Certificates
Certificate in Online Teaching Strategies for Ministry Education
The Certificate in Online Teaching Strategies for Ministry Education is a 14-week program that prepares theological instructors, future pastors, and church leaders to begin teaching in a virtual environment. This program will guide you through the development of a ready-to-use online course. Upon completion of the professional certificate course, you will have the ability to confidently design, develop, and deliver online courses for virtual students of your choice through engaging content, interactive learning techniques, and an atmosphere that promotes a sense of community.
Certificate in Church Planting
The Certificate in Church Planting (CCP) is ideal for pastors, church leaders and lay people involved in the leadership and ministry of a church plant.
Certificate in Worship Leadership
The Certificate in Worship Leadership (CWL) is for clergy and laity of all denominations called to ministry through the worship arts. Through three online, non-credit courses, the CWL presents students with opportunities to explore biblical, theological, historical, and practical foundations of worship while applying learnings in their own contexts.
Fire Academy
The Fire Academy at United Theological Seminary offers year-round Spirit-filled teaching for lifelong learners, both clergy and laity. All three seminar courses from the Fire Academy are available for continuing education units (CEUs) and a certificate of completion.
Radical Discipleship Seminar | Fall
The Radical Discipleship Seminar is a half-day webinar, held annually each September. This seminar focuses on the nature and practice of discipleship in the Christian tradition, from developing personal discipleship practices to mentoring others in their own spiritual journeys.
The Holy Spirit Seminar | Winter
The Holy Spirit Seminar is an annual gathering focused on the person and work of the Holy Spirit. With different themes each December, the one-day event features the best in pneumatological theory and practice from top Renewalist scholars and practitioners. The mission of the Holy Spirit Seminar is to allow the person and work of the Holy Spirit to inspire, to instruct and to impart the life of God to United Methodists and to the larger Body of Christ.
The X-Seminar | Spring
The X-Seminar is a one-day certification course in deliverance and healing from one of the leaders in the field. Drawing on the best resources from scripture, theology and the sciences, the X-Seminar provides sound theology and effective practices to equip faithful Christians to minister liberation and inner healing to those who are bound.
Bishop Bruce Ough Innovation Center
The Bishop Bruce Ough Innovation Center's mission is to provide churches, pastors, and leaders with inventive new ways of moving from stagnation to innovation, for improved (or increased!) missional impact. Built on a foundational framework of breakthrough prayer, the Center offers collaborative ideation, practical training opportunities, and hands-on resourcing for incredible new God possibilities!
At Innovation Center, you’ll find:
• Leading Voices: Live online webinars with nationally-recognized ministry practitioners sharing their expertise on cutting-edge new trends
• The Floodgates Collective: A unique prayer-fueled congregational renewal coaching and training initiative, with new cohorts launching every six months
• The Powerhouse: Training, inspiration and event resources for all things prayer — including a dedicated prayer room available for use by students, staff, faculty, and visitors on site
• Bold Conversations: A strategic, prayer-guided structure for ministry teams to move past indecision or stalemate
• And more!
Student Aid Options
United Theological Seminary strives to make theological education affordable through reasonable tuition costs, contextual education placements and a comprehensive financial aid and scholarship program. From tuition discount programs to scholarships, student aid is available to support your educational journey.
The Financial Aid Department works with students to determine and access resources available to support their theological education. Finances are handled with a view toward fiscal responsibility, integrity, accountability and thoughtful planning. Financial assistance is available through both the seminary and outside sources. United attempts to present a comprehensive financial aid package which may include eligibility for scholarships, federal work-study and loans.
For additional information, contact the Financial Aid Department, studentaid@united.edu.
For priority scholarship consideration, apply by the deadline before your starting semester:
Summer Term April 1
Fall Term June 1
Spring Term December 1
Ready to Apply Start
Here!
How to Apply for Admission
The application process can take several weeks to complete. Below are the steps you'll need to follow to complete the process on the MyUnited applicant portal. If you plan to apply for financial aid or scholarships, it is advised that you work on these applications simultaneously.
1
Start your Application
Complete the quick and easy online application. Once submitted, you will receive credentials for the applicant portal where you can submit all other application materials.
2 Submit Application Materials
• Background Check
• Official Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Essays
International applicants may need to provide additional documentation regarding:
• English Proficiency
• Nationality and Citizenship
• Financial Resources
• Health Insurance (J-1 Visa Only)
Visit United’s website for complete international application and admission requirements.
3 Complete Letter of Intent
After you have completed your application, the Office of Admissions will review it. This process can take up to two weeks. The Office of Admissions will contact you if there are any outstanding required items, and may request an interview. If you are admitted, you will receive notification and instructions on how to confirm your decision to attend United Theological Seminary. If your application is denied, you will be notified by email.
Application Checklists
Doctoral Applications
ThD Admission Requirements:
• Master’s degree in theology or related field totaling at least 48 hours
• A minimum 3.5 GPA for all graduate-level studies
Application Materials:
☐ Background Check
☐ Official Transcripts
☐ Two Academic Letters of Recommendation
☐ One Ministerial Letter of Recommendation
☐ Statement of Purpose
☐ Writing Sample
☐ GRE (Optional)
DMin Admission Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree with minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA
• MDiv degree or its equivalent* with minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA
Application Materials:
☐ Background Check
☐ Official Transcripts
☐ Two Letters of Recommendation
☐ Spiritual Autobiography
*If the student has another type of theological master’s degree, they may be asked to take additional classes as a non-degree graduate student before entering the Doctor of Ministry program. If the student has a non-theological master’s degree, our 36-hour Master of Ministry degree can prepare you for the educational rigor of the doctoral program. Applicants without a Master of Divinity must have a minimum of five years of ministry experience.
Masters Applications
Masters-level programs include MDiv, MACM, MMin, MTS, and MA degrees
Admission Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum Grade Point Average
- MTS applications: Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA
- All other masters applications: Minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA
Required grade point averages refer to a 4.0 scale
Application Materials:
☐ Background Check
☐ Official Transcripts
☐ Three Letters of Recommendation
☐ Two Essays
Greetings from United Theological Seminary,
Is God calling you to step out in faith? As you take this next step on your spiritual journey, I encourage you to prayerfully seek the right seminary for you. At United Theological Seminary, we want to help you boldly follow God’s call on your life. In our programs, you will be challenged and inspired to grow spiritually and intellectually, while being prepared to serve God and bring new life to the Church. Our innovative faculty are passionate about equipping students with practical skills for ministry in the world. With an education built on a foundation of growth, diversity and respect, United students are being prepared to lead effectively in a variety of ministry settings.
Whether God is calling you to change lives by serving others, make a difference in your community, or understand your faith more deeply, United has a program to help you get there.
As you consider taking the next step in realizing your mission in Jesus Christ, we invite you to apply to United Theological Seminary, where you will receive a high-quality education to prepare you to live out your God-given purpose.
“I’m here because there’s a call on my life. [United] has not only refined that call, it’s affirmed that call. It’s really made me bolder in my leadership and more excited, if it’s possible, about the call that’s on my life.”
Steve Rudisill, MDiv
“At United, I have been encouraged to think outside the box to bring the good news to a broken world that desperately needs the love of Jesus Christ. I believe my education has equipped me to be a better and more compassionate servant leader for such a time as this and I am thankful.”
'Debo Onabanjo, DMin
“Come and see for yourself what God can do for you and in you because you’re here.”
Christine Doren, MA
“At United, not only are individuals prepared to spread the gospel worldwide, but they are also equipped to restore the kingdom of God through their efforts.”
Min Su Na, Master of Divinity
Mission
United prepares faithful and fruitful Christian leaders to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
Values and Beliefs
We are committed to the historic faith in Jesus Christ passed down to us through Scripture, sacraments, creeds and the fathers and mothers of the Church; scriptural holiness for personal transformation and the transformation of the world; and the church renewal through the power of the Holy Spirit.
