FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- I have a bachelor’s degree, but it’s not in religion. Can I still apply?
Yes. While a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, that degree may be in any field. MTS has students with educational backgrounds in psychology, history, religion, engineering, finance, law… you name it.
- I don’t have a bachelor’s degree. Can I still come to MTS?
If you are interested in taking classes at MTS, but do not have a bachelor’s degree there are two options:- If you are simply interested in a particular class, anyone has the option of auditing a class at MTS as long as there is a seat. Auditors are those students who take a course without receiving academic credit. Most classes are available for auditing, and permission of the instructor may be required. First priority will go to degree seeking students, so auditors don’t officially know if there is room until the first full week of classes
- People who would like to seek education in ministry, but do not have a bachelor’s degree can apply to be a part of the Netter’s Certificate in Ministry Program. There are no education requirements for these certification classes and these classes are not for credit. The program is designed for persons who are active in congregational life and desire high-level theological education for associate ministers, Sunday School Teachers, committee chairpersons and others who serve the Church.
- Can I get financial aid?
Limited financial aid opportunities are available. For more information about Federal Financial Aid through the Stafford Loan program, United Methodist and Cumberland Presbyterian Denominational Service Loans, Veterans’ Benefits and other scholarships, please contact the Coordinator of Financial Aid Financialaid@memphisseminary.edu
- How long will it take me to complete a degree?
The MDiv is an 84 hour program, which is designed to be completed in three years for those who are full-time students. MTS now has an night track for students who are only able to take evening courses. The night track can be completed in four years for those who are full-time students. The MAR degree is a 36 hour program, which is designed to be completed in two years full-time and three years for the night track full-time. The MACM degree is 42 hours, which is designed to be completed in two years full-time and three years for the night track full-time. The MAYM is 48 hours and is completed in three years, this program does not have a night track. Your actual time for completion will depend on how many classes you are able to take each semester.
- I feel called to seminary, but I don’t know exactly what God wants me to do. Which degree program should I choose?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Most people whom God calls take a while to figure out the details of their call. Switching from one degree program to the other is easy if done early enough. You may also apply as a non-degree-seeking student and earn up to 12 hours credit while deciding which degree to pursue.
- Am I too old to go back to school?
No. The average age of our entering student is 42. We recently graduated a 73-year-old. You are never too old to answer God’s call on your life.
- When is my payment due?
Tuition is always due on or before the first day of class.
- Where can I mail my payment?
168 E. Parkway South, Memphis, TN 38104 Attn: Bursar’s Office.
- Can I register for the next semester if I have an outstanding balance?
Unfortunately, if a student account remains unpaid, the account is placed on hold at mid-term.
- Can I pay my fees before I receive an invoice?
Yes. Fees can be paid as soon as you register for a class.
- Can I pay my fees over the phone or online by credit card?
You can make a credit card payment over the phone. We do not accept credit card payments online at this time.
- How should my check be made out?
Make your check payable to “Memphis Theological Seminary” and write your student ID number on the check.
- How do I receive my excess financial aid funds?
Refund checks are ready within 7 days after the funds have been received by MTS. The Business Office makes it the highest priority to prepare the refunds as soon as possible. You will be contacted by the Business Office through your student MTS email address when your refund and paperwork are ready. You will need to bring your current drivers license with you. Also, please note that even if you do not receive a refund, you are still required to sign for your financial aid and award. Any inquiries concerning refund checks before 7 days only slows down the process.
- What if I decide I am not going to attend classes this term?
You should immediately contact the Registrar’s Office at nbrasfield@memphisseminary.edu or (901) 334-5801. There is a refund schedule in the financial section of the MTS catalog. It is your responsibility to withdraw or drop any classes within the appropriate time frame to receive a credit and there is an additional drop/add fee of $55 assessed to your account.
Library
- Where do I go to search for books or video recordings?
Use the library’s online catalog or WorldCat.
- Where do I go to search for periodical articles, book reviews, and essays?
Use EBSCOHost search for access to the ATLA Religion database or the Tennessee Electronic Library.
- Can I renew materials without coming to the library?
Yes, but only once and only if they’re not already overdue. Call the library or renew online using the library catalog.
- What is my patron ID number?
It is the number on the barcode on the back of your student ID or library card.
- Who can get a library card?
Current students, faculty, staff, and alumni of MTS can receive a library card with no charge. Other persons wishing to obtain a library card may purchase one for $25 per year.
- How do I contact the library?
You can email the library at library@MemphisSeminary.edu or call 901.334.5858
Where to find us?
168 East Parkway South,
Memphis, TN 38104
Memphis, TN 38104
Admissions Department
We appreciate your interest in Memphis Theological Seminary. The MTS admissions staff is committed to supporting you in your theological journey. We are here to help you while you are discerning your call, considering degree and certificate options, and supporting you as you do ministry in the real world. At MTS we are committed to educating and sustaining men and women for ordained and lay ministry in the church and the world through shaping and inspiring lives devoted to scholarship, piety, and justice. Please don’t hesitate to ask how we can assist you along in your journey.
Terrick Banks
LaShonna Williams
lkwilliams@memphisseminary.edu
Enrollment Services Assistant
Fekecia Gunn
flgunn@memphisseminary.edu
Associate Dean for Students