Academics
Columbia Theological Seminary cultivates faithful leaders for God’s changing world!
Academics at Columbia
Columbia Theological Seminary regularly exceeds standards set for the 10 seminaries which are in relationship with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Columbia consistently receives top scores on ordination examinations, while training students for the practical work of ministry in the community. Additionally, it reports on educational effectiveness to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) based on questionnaires submitted by recent alumni/ae, and internal evaluations of learning outcomes.
Columbia Theological Seminary’s strategic planning process invites input from faculty, staff, the Board of Trustees, and alumni/ae. The plans address the development of our curriculum, the improvement of our facilities, and the resulting service for our students. Columbia students engage a wide range of theological, social, and other issues directly in classroom exercises, open forum discussions, and as much as possible through hands-on experience in the community. While faculty and students may hold a variety of perspectives on these issues, we model and encourage civil discussion at every step.
Degree Programs
COLUMBIA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OFFERS SIX DEGREE PROGRAMS AT THE MASTER’S AND DOCTORAL LEVELS. As an accredited theological school of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we engage students internationally with some of the best faculty anywhere! We host a large table for people from all denominations and backgrounds. For full descriptions of our graduate degree programs and academics, you may click on the links below.
Master of Arts in Practical Theology – MAPT
A flexible program for those interested in pursuing specialized professional ministry, with concentrations in Educational Ministries; Pastoral Care/Pastoral Theology; and Worship, Preaching, and the Arts.
+ About the DegreeMaster of Arts (Theological Studies) – MA(TS)
A flexible academic degree program especially for those interested in pursuing specialized ministry or doctoral studies with focus areas in Old Testament, New Testament, theology, church history, and ethics.
+ About the DegreeMaster of Divinity – MDiv
A professional degree program preparing students for ordination in a variety of ministries including pastor, teacher, evangelist, chaplain, or any church leadership position.
+ About the DegreeMaster of Theology – ThM
Particularly designed for persons who wish to pursue a further year of academic preparation for Christian ministry, are preparing to teach, or seek a terminal degree.
+ About the DegreeDoctor of Ministry – DMin
A leadership development program offering a variety of concentrations for experienced pastors currently engaged in ministry in any denomination.
+ About the DegreeDoctor of Educational Ministry – DEdMin
An advanced-level degree program designed to enhance the practice of and theological reflection on educational ministry.
+ About the DegreePartnership Programs
+ ATA/ARCHE Programs+ ARCHE Cross Registration+ Healthy Seminarians Healthy Church+ International Studies+ Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Seminarieswhat you can do with a degree
PASTORAL POSITIONS
CHAPLAINCY
CHURCH MINISTRY POSITIONS
NON-PROFIT WORK
COUNSELING
EDUCATION
I chose Columbia Theological Seminary because I wanted to learn in the context of relationships with God and other people. I didn't want to go to a theological school just to study. We are making each other better to do justice to the reading of God's word and living in God's world.
Claudia Ford, MDiv Student, Decatur, GA
Additional Resources
