Watch these videos to learn why our students chose MTS.
Memphis Theological Seminary’s vision of theological education for ministry engages students throughout their studies in the practice of ministry. The MTS curriculum integrates theological study with practical experience in a variety of ministry settings. Five different courses spread throughout the curriculum have practicum’s. Additionally, students are required to take at least one “immersion” course in which the classroom becomes the city, farms and rural churches, the courts and jails, or a place of hospitality for homeless persons. All of the faculty at MTS are experienced practitioners of ministry, ranging from congregational settings in both urban and rural areas to non-profit organizations to chaplaincies. They know how to connect seminary education with the practice of ministry.
Finally, at MTS we know that preparation for ministry is not only about the head, but also about relationship with God in a community of faith. Formation for Ministry, regular opportunities for worship, time for prayer in the chapel, and colloquies with visiting scholars and activists, ensure that students have the space to develop spiritually as they prepare for ministry. We are dedicated to educating students so that they are well prepared to have a lively pastoral imagination, open to challenges, ready for difficult days, and committed to serving God through service in the church and the broader community.
Below you will find descriptions of each program and a link to download the application. Click on the name of the degree for more information or click on Learn More for the course and degree requirements. Let us know how we can be a part of answering your call to ministry.
Master of Divinity
The MDiv is a professional degree that prepares you to be a transformational leader in ministry. Theological instruction combined with hands-on ministry experience in immersive courses and practicums offers the knowledge and skills necessary for creative pastoral ministry.
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Hybrid-Online Master of Divinity
The MDiv is a professional degree that prepares you to be a transformational leader in ministry. Theological instruction combined with hands-on ministry experience in immersive courses and practicums offers the knowledge and skills necessary for creative pastoral ministry. The Hybrid-Online format offers flexibility to complete your MDiv at MTS while working or from a distance through a cohort model, combining in-person classroom experience with the convenience of online learning!
Doctor of Ministry
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree is available for ministers who have a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited seminary and who desire a higher level of competence in the practice of ministry. Designed to increase the ability of servant leaders to analyze and reform ministry and to empower constituents for discipleship in the world, it is the highest degree in the practice of ministry. LEARN MORE
Master of Arts Christian Ministry
The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry prepares you for leadership in ministry wherever God calls you. This degree equips those working in non-profits, campus ministry, para-church, missions, business, or other fields.
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Master of Arts Youth Ministry
The MAYM prepares you to be a transformational leader in youth ministry through theological education simultaneous with youth ministry placement in a congregation. Through a cohort experience, students merge scholarship, piety, and justice within covenant community relationships. The MAYM at MTS is a national leader in preparing students for youth ministry!
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Korean Doctor of Ministry
The Korean Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree is available for ministers who have a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited seminary and who desire a higher level of competence in the practice of ministry. Designed to increase the ability of servant leaders to analyze and reform ministry and to empower constituents for discipleship in the world, it is the highest degree in the practice of ministry. LEARN MORE
Addiction Counseling Certificate
This certificate program aspires to prepare Christians to offer competent counseling services to individuals, families, and groups who struggle with the effects of Substance Use Disorders. The program offers the number of hours that the Tennessee State Board of Alcohol and Other Drugs of Abuse Counselors requires for licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor. Students who complete all six courses receive the Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling Studies. LEARN MORE
Wesleyan Studies
The Certificate in Wesleyan Studies is earned by competing 15 hours in courses carrying the Wesleyan Studies designation. This program is a great way to learn about the Methodist tradition and prepare for ordination or simply deepen one’s knowledge of the tradition. For non-degree seeking students these courses are part of a regular course load. For non-degree seeking students these courses can either be audited with some additional requirements, or taken fro graduate credit.
Netters Certificate in Ministry
The Dr. James L. Netters Certificate in Congregational Ministry is a certificate program designed for persons who are active in congregational life, but not interested in pursuing a Masters level degree. This certificate program aspires to prepare Christian leaders (lay and clergy) to offer competent leadership in congregational life. This program provides high-level theological education for associate ministers, Sunday school teachers, committee chairpersons and others who serve the church. LEARN MORE
Guest Students
Memphis Theological Seminary now offers a Night Track for our Master’s degree programs. The program makes it possible for a working adult to obtain their MDiv, MACM, or MAR while still maintaining their full- time job. Classes are offered Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings from 6-9 pm. A full time student may complete the MDiv in 4 years and the MACM and MAR may be completed in 3 years. Learn how you can become a student.
Rev. Felecia LaVant
Admissions Associate
Felecia completed her undergraduate degree in Sociology at Fisk University in 1982, and MDiv at Memphis Theological Seminary in 2014. She serves as an Associate Minister and the Director of Christian Education at Central Baptist Church, Inc. Felecia also volunteers with Manna House, a place of hospitality in the Catholic Worker Tradition. She is the proud mother of two adult daughters, Andraea and Alexandria.
Contact Felecia:
frlavant@MemphisSeminary.edu
901.334.5804
Rev. Byron Forester
Admissions Associate
Byron is a graduate of Bethel University (1974) and of Memphis Theological Seminary (2007). He serves as pastor of Hopewell Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Benton Co. MS and as Coordinator of Ministries for West Tennessee Presbytery. He participates and serves in several ministries to people who are unsheltered. Byron and his wife, Michelle Brown have three daughters. They live five blocks from MTS.
Contact Byron:
bforester@MemphisSeminary.edu
901.334.5841