Columbia Theological Seminary

Columbia Theological Seminary offers graduate degree programs for men and women seeking leadership positions in the church. Located in the Atlanta suburb of Decatur, the seminary is one of ten educational institutions affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA). Columbia Theological Seminary has earned a reputation for excellence both nationally and internationally.

The seminary was founded in Lexington, Georgia in 1828. In 1830 the school moved to Columbia, South Carolina and took its current name. As Atlanta became a growing population center in the 1920s, the decision was made to relocate the seminary to Decatur, Georgia, just six miles east of downtown Atlanta. The 57 acre campus is attractive, with red brick buildings and large stately trees.

Columbia Theological Seminary enrolls 475 students in its seven degree programs. Its student body represents more than 40 denominations. The school offers a Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Practical Theology, Master of Arts in Theological Studies, and Master of Theology. Its three doctoral programs are Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Educational Ministry, and Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Counseling. Columbia also offers non-degree programs. There are many continuing education courses designed for church leaders and lay people. Seminars and other events provide a resource to the denomination. The seminary places a special emphasis on lifelong learning for both clergy and lay people and encourages a focus on missions and evangelism.

Life on campus is similar to other educational institutions. Weekly forums give students the opportunity to consider significant issues or gain exposure to different traditions. A number of recreational opportunities are available to students at Columbia. They may participate in volleyball, tennis, and aerobics, as well as intramural sports such as football, basketball, and softball. Spouses of students may participate in lay programs and continuing education free of charge. Students participate in chapel four times a week, and several spiritual retreats are offered each year. Columbia encourages its students to participate in various types of outreach to the community. Some of the opportunities for service include helping in homeless shelters, prison ministries, and programs for children. Seminary students are available for supply preaching to area churches. The seminary offers housing for single students, married students without children, and married students with children. Families with children enjoy the playground and picnic area in the Campus Village apartment community.

Columbia’s graduates have gone on to pastor churches, serve as missionaries and chaplains, author books, teach, found evangelism ministries, and produce religious television and radio programs. Columbia Theological Seminary strives to equip people with a heart for ministry to share God’s love and mercy.

By: Pamela Haney

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