Where is WTS?
Western is located in Holland, MI 145 miles northeast of Chicago, Il and 30 miles southwest of Grand Rapids, MI near the shoreline of beautiful Lake Michigan. Holland is host to the world-renowned Tulip Time Festival. Area Info
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What is the size of the student body?
Western Seminary's student body population is approximately 225 full and part-time students.
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Who attends WTS?
The student body is composed of a diversity of backgrounds, denominations, and ages. The students, staff and faculty form a community of support and caring where spiritual growth and learning is nurtured.
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What is the main goal of Western Seminary?
It is the purpose of Western Theological Seminary to prepare Christians called by God to lead the church in mission. Western provides an atmosphere where a person's call can be nurtured and developed, where gifts and talents are utilized, and where Christians can deepen their relationship with God in Christ to go out and serve the church in the mission of spreading the gospel message. History and Mission
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Can I receive advanced standing and transfer credit?
You can receive both of these at Western. Advanced standing can be awarded to any student who has done previous academic work at another accredited institution. This standing is subject to the approval of the dean and the admissions committee. Transfer credit can be awarded for course work completed at another seminary accredited through the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). Students who seek transfer into Western's M.Div. program must earn at least 30 semester credit hours in residence during the senior year.
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Can I take classes if I am not enrolled in a degree program?
Yes. Persons who wish to take a course for personal enrichment, equipping themselves for specific ministry in a congregation, or to explore a sense of vocation must complete a Non-degree-seeking Student form. Non-degree-seeking Student This form, along with an official transcript of undergraduate or graduate degrees or courses must be submitted to the registrar.
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Is financial aid available?
Yes. There are many options of financial aid available. For more information please visit Financial Aid page.
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How do I know if I have been called to seminary and do I need a call to come to seminary?
The Christian Church has traditionally believed that people entering ordained ministry should be called by God. However, a call can take many different forms. For some, it is a single, life-changing experience. Others experience God's call gradually over a period of time, like a steady nudging that ministry is where they are to be. For still others, recognizing God's call is a difficult process made up of starts and stops, or experience and questioning. As important as an inner call is, so too there must be an outer calling - the affirming voice of the church community that recognizes the gift for ministry in an individual.
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Is the student body primarily residential or does it also include commuter students?
There is a good balance between residential and commuter students at Western. Many students are housed in the student housing units on campus, but there is a significant commuter population as well. Housing and student life