Considering Seminary?
WHY SEMINARY?
Western Theological Seminary is an evangelical and ecumenical community of faith and learning in the Reformed tradition that serves the church of Jesus Christ. WTS equips women and men for Christ-centered, biblically-based, theologically integrated, culturally competent, and mission-oriented Christian leadership.
WhO WE ARE
COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING THE CALL OF WOMEN
Throughout Scripture, we see God calling and appointing women to teach, preach, and lead God’s people. We uphold the biblical witness as we prepare women and men to lead the church in mission.
CONDISDERING SEMINARY?
GET TO KNOW WTS
Western Theological Seminary is an evangelical and ecumenical community of faith and learning in the Reformed tradition that serves the church of Jesus Christ. WTS equips women and men for Christ-centered, biblically-based, theologically integrated, culturally competent, and mission-oriented Christian leadership.
Programs
Which Path is right for you?
Western offers many paths to fit your area of study and individual life circumstances. Visit our degrees page to determine the best program for you.
Doctor of Ministry Cohorts
- In-Residence
- Online
- Spanish
36
Credits
Leadership for Integral Mission Today
Do you wish to lead your congregation in a faithful witness to the Good News? This Doctor of Ministry cohort builds upon the legacy, vision, and practice of integral mission in Latin America and equips you to address current challenges creatively and faithfully to the Gospel.
36
Credits
Intentional Integration: Christian College Student Development
This Doctor of Ministry cohort equips leaders to intentionally integrate spiritual formation and developmental theory, maximizing the impact of their current and future ministry. Participants will learn to lead and flourish in these unique and essential spaces.
36
Credits
The Active Contemplative
The life of a leader is filled with challenges. Sometimes it feels so full that meaningful space for quiet and reflection seems impossible. Sometimes it feels so busy that a sense of purpose seems elusive. In this Doctor of Ministry cohort, we will explore the challenges of contemporary leadership, inviting leaders into deeper action and contemplation.
36
Credits
Formation Beyond Education
This Doctor of Ministry track invites ministers in non-faith-based university contexts seeking practical and theological reflection as you innovate and/or lead in your organizations. You will identify, clarify, and bring your experience, expertise, and emphases into conversation with the educational mission of the university as an institution, especially the formation and development of students and faculty for their context and beyond.
36
Credits
Holy Presence: Eugene Peterson and the Pastoral Imagination
The Holy Presence Cohort welcomes women and men who are committed to pursuing and strengthening their calling as contemplative pastors in the company of like-minded pilgrims.
Graduate Certificates
- In-Residence
- Online
- Spanish
21
Credits
Graduate Certificate in Disability & Ministry
For Ministry practitioners who are seeking to refresh their ministry and gain skills in the art and practice of ministering to and alongside those with disabilities.
24
Credits
Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry
The Graduate Certificate in Pastoral Ministry is for the ministry practitioner who wants to increase their knowledge and skills in pastoral ministry without committing to a full degree program.
This program is the ideal first step for those without a bachelors degree or are looking for an on ramp to an MA or MDiv.
24
Credits
Certificado de Posgrado en Ministerio Pastoral
Estudiantes seran fortalecidos con las habilidades y herramientas para una comprensión bíblica y teológica mas profunda para ejercer un ministerio pastoral fiel y vibrante.
21
Credits
Graduate Certificate in Restorative Justice
For those whose vocation brings them in contact with the criminal justice system, as a pastor, lawyer, social worker or community leader.
Other Programs
- In-Residence
- Online
- Spanish
3
Credits
Individual Courses
All are welcome to take individual courses either for credit or by auditing the course. Space for auditing students is limited. Click below to learn more.
3
Credits
Instituto Hispano de Verano
El Instituto Hispano de Verano existe para proporcionar a los estudiantes de Maestría un espacio para aplicar y ejecutar prácticas efectivas para la Iglesia y la vida cristiana.
Master Degrees
- In-Residence
- Online
- Spanish
87
Credits
Master of Divinity
Our Master of Divinity program prepares women and men for ordained ministry. The MDiv also gives foundational training for ministries in mission, social service, evangelism, education, pastoral care, chaplaincy, and theological research.
87
Credits
Master of Divinity Dual Track
The MDiv-MSW Dual track degree program can prepare you for professional ministry where Christian theology and faith meet the pain and struggle of human life. You will learn to integrate the theory, knowledge, and skills required of pastors and social workers as they seek to be instruments of grace and peace.
87
Credits
Bachelor of Arts and Master of Divinity
Offered in partnership with Hope College, Northwestern College, and Dordt University, students save both time and money compared to the typical 7 years it takes to complete a bachelor of arts and master of divinity degree separately.
42
Credits
Master of Arts in Ministry and Theology
Explore broadly with our most flexible degree! Half of these courses can be taken as electives, OR dive deep with a concentration in one of several areas as you pursue a particular passion or prepare for a specific calling.
42
Credits
Maestría de Artes en Estudios Cristianos
La Maestría de Artes en Estudios Cristianos ofrece una amplia selección de cursos que preparan estudiantes para un liderazgo cristiano reflexivo y competente en una amplia gama de entornos vocacionales.
69
Credits
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers the most contemporary, research-based training while, at the same time, remaining deeply rooted in a longstanding Christian soul care tradition.
48
Credits
Master of Theological Studies
The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) gives students thorough training in the academic disciplines of theology and biblical studies in the context of WTS’s distinctive approach to whole-person formation.
25
Credits
Master of Theology
The Master of Theology is a ten month program designed for scholars who wish to pursue a program beyond the Master of Divinity.
Costs
AFFORDING sEMINARY
Tuition rates vary for different programs and degrees. At WTS, we understand that finances can be a major concern for prospective students. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and loan options.
Important Dates
For terms starting in 2026 - 2027
Fall Semester (starts late August)
Apply by:
January
Application fee waived for Fall semester MTS applications!
March
Deadline for international students
May
To ensure housing and best financial aid opportunities
August
Final application deadline for fall start
August
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions
spring Semester (starts Early January)
Apply By
December
For best financial aid opportunities
December
Call the admissions office for options!
Contact Admissions
Apply
APPLICATION PROCESS
Your application will be completed fully online. Once you complete your application be sure to watch your email. Some programs require additional interviews or follow up.
Have questions? Email us at [email protected].
1.
Create an Account
2.
Fill out an application
3.
Upload written Materials
4.
Request letters
5.
Submit Your Application
6.
Schedule a Conversation with Drew
7.
Watch your email
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need to Apply by?
Application deadlines depend on the program and term you plan to start. Select a program above to find out when you need to apply.
How much will my program or course cost?
Costs depend on what program you are seeking, what scholarships you qualify for, and how you plan to attend (either in person or online). Visit the tuition page to learn more and discover how scholarships will help you keep your costs down.
Do I need to be affilated with the RCA to attend?
You do not! Western Theological Seminary has many denominational and network partners, and our students come from a wide cross-section of churches.
Interested in Transferring to WTS?
At Western Theological Seminary, you can transfer your credits and join a community deeply committed to forming faithful Christian leaders. Let’s talk about how your journey can continue—and flourish—here.
