Academics

Rigorous, Transformative Academics Guided by World-Class Faculty

At Union Presbyterian Seminary, academics are rooted in a commitment to rigorous, accessible theological education that prepares leaders for transformative service in the church and the world. Grounded in deep engagement with Scripture and the Reformed and ecumenical traditions, UPSem equips students with the hermeneutical, prophetic, and pastoral skills needed for today’s complex ministry contexts. Central to this experience is an exceptional faculty—highly regarded scholars, teachers, and practitioners who are deeply invested in student formation and widely recognized as leaders in their fields. Through close mentorship, innovative pedagogy, and a learning environment shaped by both academic excellence and spiritual depth, UPSem ensures that students are not only well-educated but well-prepared to lead with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love.

Rev. Dr. Daniel J. Ott
Vice President of Academic Affairs
and Professor of Theology

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Academic Resources

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Academic Programs

Doctor of Ministry (30 credits)

D.Min. | Doctor of Ministry

Strengthen Your Ministry. Lead with Wisdom and Courage.

An advanced professional degree for experienced ministry leaders seeking renewal and deeper formation.

Mode: Online-based cohort

Tuition: Total tuition for this multi-year degree program is $10,000. Students are eligible for need-based aid.

Key Dates: Apply by March 1 for consideration.

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Master of Theology (30 credits)

Th.M.

Deepen Your Scholarship. Expand Your Ministry.

A one-year advanced master’s degree for deeper academic study before pursuing teaching, doctoral work, or specialized ministry.

Mode: Hybrid at Richmond

Financial Aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students.

Time to degree: One year.

Key Dates: Apply by February 1 for consideration.

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Master of Divinity (73 credits)

M.Div.

Lead Christian Faith Formation

A flexible program rooted in Scripture, theology, and real-world formation, designed to equip leaders for congregational ministry, chaplaincy, nonprofit leadership, and emerging forms of Christian service.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Time to degree: Typical completion is three years, with flexible pacing that supports both full-time and part-time paths.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

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Master of Arts in Christian Education (49 credits)

M.A.C.E.

Prepare to Teach, Lead, and Form Faith in Every Generation

A flexible program designed for educators, leaders, and ministry practitioners who shape Christian formation in congregations, schools, and communities.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond | Fully Online

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Time to degree: Designed to be completed in two to three years.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

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Master of Arts in Public Theology (46 credits)

M.A.P.T.

Change individuals, communities, and the world with your faith.

A flexible program for leaders connecting theology with social justice, community leadership, advocacy, and public life.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond | Fully Online

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Time to degree: Typical completion is two to three years, depending on pace.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due June 1
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

Note: At this time, the M.A.P.T. program does not accept international students.

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Master of Divinity/Master of Arts in Christian Education (88 credits)

M.Div./M.A.C.E.

Lead, Teach, and Minister with Confidence

A flexible dual program combining Christian education and theology

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Time to degree: Full-time completion is typically four years, with flexible pacing available to support your ministry context.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

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Master of Divinity/Master of Arts in Public Theology (88 credits)

M.Div./M.A.P.T.

Lead the Church, Engage the World

A combined program for students called to both congregational leadership and public ministry.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Time to degree: Typical completion is four years, with flexible pacing available to support your ministry context.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

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Master of Arts in Christian Education/Master of Arts in Public Theology (70 credits)

M.A.C.E./M.A.P.T.

Strengthen Your Ministry. Lead with Wisdom and Courage.

Integrates Christian education with public theology, equipping you to preach, pastor, and engage public life for the common good.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond

Financial aid: Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due February 1

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Certificate in Christian Education (12 credits)

C.C.E.

This 12‑credit graduate certificate equips pastors, educators, and congregational leaders with best practices in educational theory, faith formation, and teaching practice. Students will develop competencies in three core areas of Christian Education: Educational Theory, Faith Formation and Educational Practices. The curriculum supports those pursuing PC(USA) Educator Certification requirements, and is intended to be completed in 1-2 years. Complete fully online or study in hybrid formats on either campus: Charlotte’s rhythm includes a monthly in‑person gathering; Richmond’s hybrid includes a 4-day residency each semester.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond | Fully Online

Cost: $500 per course

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due March 1

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Certificate in Public Theology (12 credits)

C.P.T.

Strengthen your public‑facing ministry in this 12‑credit graduate certificate addresses policy, ecology, economic justice, gender, race and reconciliation, community care, and interreligious dialogue. Delivered in a hybrid format (online + in‑person) on both campuses, the program includes three courses linked to our academic centers plus a travel seminar that connects learning with lived contexts. This program is designed for those not seeking a full degree, and is intended to be completed in 1-2 years. Study in hybrid formats on either campus: Charlotte’s rhythm includes a monthly in‑person gathering; Richmond’s hybrid includes a 4-day residency each semester.

Modes: Hybrid at Charlotte | Hybrid at Richmond

Cost: $500 per course

Key Dates:

Fall term applications due December 1 (international)
Fall term applications due June 1 (domestic)
Winter applications due October 1
Spring applications due March 1

Learn More