Our dedicated faculty are here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty Mentorship

Be in a faith-based community with classmates who range in age, denominations, and come from a variety of backgrounds.

Diverse Student Body

Complete your public theology degree or certificate full-time or part-time to accommodate your schedule.

Flexible Pathways

Hear what our faculty and alumni have to say

Develop Theology Skills for Public Ministry and Community Leadership

Master of Arts in Public Theology (M.A.P.T.) At-A-Glance:

Prepares you to bring biblical, historical, theological, ethical, and practical wisdom into public life for the common good of society.
46-credits
Explores how Christian faith engages the world beyond the church, through policy, ecological stewardship, economic justice, gender concerns, interreligious dialogue, race and reconciliation, and other forms of public-facing ministry.
Tailored studies to focus on the areas most central to your calling, whether in advocacy, community care, institutional leadership, or charitable service.
Typical completion is two to three years, depending on pace.

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.

Public Theology (M.A.P.T.)

Experience the benefits of both in-person and online learning.

Hybrid Degree and Certificate Programs

Study Public Theology with a curriculum grounded in biblical teachings, social justice, and forms of public-facing ministry.

Justice and Theology Focused

Join an intentional covenantal learning community.

Become a Community Scholar

Connect theology with social justice, community leadership, and advocacy at Union Presbyterian Seminary

Union Presbyterian Seminary's Master of Arts in Public Theology (M.A.P.T.) prepares you for ministry that engages the public square for the common good of society. Rooted in the Bible, Reformed tradition, and the church's living mission, these programs form you as a practicing theologian who can bring biblical, historical, theological, and ethical wisdom to issues of public concern with faithfulness and clarity. Through theological study, social and ethical analysis, and practical engagement, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to lead in nonprofit organizations, advocacy work, community organizing, and other forms of public-facing ministry that serve the common good.

MASTER OF ARTS

Union Presbyterian Seminary prepares leaders for faithful service in a complex and changing world. Rooted in theological depth, spiritual formation, and intellectual rigor, our programs integrate academic study with a commitment to justice, community, and lived practice. Through biblical and theological study, contextual learning, and close faculty mentorship, you'll learn to connect theology with real ministry experience. Graduates are equipped to lead congregations, serve in chaplaincy and nonprofit settings, and engage emerging forms of Christian leadership with wisdom and care.

For the Church in the World

About Union Presbyterian Seminary

Connect with admissions to learn more about our M.A.P.T. program

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On Campus Experiences

Gain hands-on community experience in preaching, teaching, and community care with in-person experiences in Charlotte and Richmond.

Accredited M.A.P.T. Graduate Program

Union Presbyterian Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Justice-Centered Curriculum

Degree and Certificate Public Theology programs are rooted in social justice and God's Mission of helping the common good of society.

12-Credit Certificate Option

The Certificate in Public Theology (C.P.T.) provides a shorter, focused pathway for those not seeking a full degree.

Hybrid Learning

Study public theology with our hybrid model. Choose from Richmond, VA or Charlotte, NC for on-campus components.

Financial Aid Available

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

Apply by June 1
Fall Term Deadline

Apply by October 1
Spring I Term Deadline

Apply by February 1
Spring II Term Deadline