Lifelong Leadership

Degrees & Certificates for Ministry

Our goal at Union Presbyterian Seminary is to provide a theological education that is both rigorous and rooted in community. Our hybrid and residential options in Richmond and Charlotte make seminary study accessible and affordable—without compromising the depth of formation that defines a Union education. 

Whether you study through the Charlotte hybrid format, the Richmond hybrid residency, or as part of the Community Scholars, you’ll join a diverse, supportive learning community committed to faithful, creative, and compassionate leadership in today’s world. Union Presbyterian Seminary is committed to making theological education accessible and affordable for all who are called to study here. Degree-seeking students who complete their admission application by the June 1 final deadline are eligible for significant financial aid. 

Non-Degree Certifications

Our non-degree certification offerings equip church leaders and educators with practical training, theological depth, and supportive learning communities for ministry today. Through the Christian Educator Certification (PCUSA), Commissioned Ruling Elders Cohorts, and Christian Education Cohorts, participants gain flexible online learning, collegial support, and resources tailored to real ministry contexts. Whether pursuing certification, serving in pastoral leadership, or strengthening educational ministry, these programs offer accessible pathways for growth without requiring enrollment in a degree program.

Course Auditing

Want to broaden your understanding of your faith and your role in ministry but can’t commit to a degree? Auditing may be right for you!

Auditing provides an opportunity to receive instruction in a particular course without receiving a grade or course credit. Auditors are expected to attend class sessions and may listen in class; the instructor is not required to review any written work auditors may choose to do. Audit is by permission of the instructor, and the instructor shall also set all terms of the audit.

Graduates of Union Presbyterian Seminary and other Richmond Theological Consortium institutions, degree-seeking students, spouses of current Union students, and staff members employed by Union and RTC schools, as well as their spouses, may audit one course per term at no charge, as long as the course is otherwise available to auditors and as long as procedures for signing up for audit have been followed.