Christian Theological Seminary is a theological seminary separate from the Catholic Church that offers five degree-level education programs, including a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Religious Education, a Bachelor of Science in Theology and Education, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, and a Doctor of Divinity. It is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, near the southern suburbs of Indianapolis. It is one of twenty-eight colleges in the Indiana School of Theology. It has been approved by the Roman Catholic Dioceses of America.
The educational goals of this denomination are distinctly different from those of the Roman Catholic Church. While the former emphasizes obedience as the means of entrance into the ministry, the latter emphasizes a more academic approach. Likewise, both schools teach their students the sanctity of life, the importance of tradition, and the necessity of holding firmly to traditional principles. While a number of other denominations also have a formal education program in their churches, the three listed here are the only ones that offer four-year degree programs.
The Graduate-Level Degree Programs The major part of the curriculum at a Christian theological seminary is its graduate-level degree programs. Two types of graduate degree programs are offered by this kind of school: fully accredited graduate-level degree programs and non-accredited graduate-level degree programs. The fully accredited graduate-level degree programs offer professional degree or doctoral degrees; while the non-accredited ones offer diploma or certificate programs. The Graduate degree includes master’s degrees and doctorate degrees. Some of the specific areas of study that can be obtained by graduates include: Marriage and Family Therapy; Counseling; Criminal Justice; History; Business and Law; Education; and Social Work.
The Ecumenical Seminary The main characteristic of a Christian theological seminary is its adherence to evangelical standards. The ecumenical seminary also offers fully accredited graduate-level degree programs in related areas. Some of the specific areas of study that can be obtained by graduates include: Human Studies; Marriage and Family Therapy; Sexuality and Gender Issues; African-American Studies; Hispanic and Latin American Studies; Arts and Humanities. A small number of colleges in the region also offer programs in the field of biblical studies.
The Search For An Unknown Campus Many young Christians are interested in attending a Christian theological seminary because they want to be near the growing number of people who are becoming christened. As a result, many schools offer the programs that are designed to attract these young Christian students. For instance, Fuller Theological School in Atlanta, Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. This school also has campuses in New York and Los Angeles. Its curriculum and educational approach are influenced by the Methodists, including their emphasis on education.
Location is Important When searching for a fully accredited Christian theological seminary, location is important. Most schools have at least one campus in the United States. Other schools, however, have programs located overseas. Before committing to a program at an overseas site, check out the location and hours of operation of the facility.
Types of Learning A fully accredited Christian theological seminary may be a community-based institute of higher learning or it may focus on either religion or pastoral counseling. If it is a community-based institute, it will typically offer courses that are related to Bible studies, pastoral counseling in the areas of church leadership, social ministry and the church at large. Some of its coursework may even include courses in elder-rule and women’s ministry, continuing education and volunteer opportunities. A primarily online school may have similar requirements for its courses. Some of its required courses include: marriage and family counseling, human growth and development, ethics and celiac disease, and history and culture.
Degrees awarded at a Christian theological seminary can range from those at the bachelor’s level to doctoral degrees. Many programs require their students to obtain a master’s degree. The level of education you receive will depend upon your specific career goals and where you are going with your future studies. You may want to get your bachelors or master’s degree so you can work toward a doctorate. Others may only need a bachelors.
