Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Ready to take your next steps toward God’s calling? We’re here to answer your questions about our seminary school. Start by reading our frequently asked questions below, or feel free to schedule a campus visit or contact our offices directly.
Saint Paul is Where Theology Meets Life. We have a long tradition of integrating practical experiences in ministry with work in the classroom to prepare persons for leadership in churches, communities, city streets, and country roads. We provide flexible course scheduling and delivery options to meet students where they are. Saint Paul is online, on-campus and on mission. To learn more, visit Why Saint Paul.
Yes! Saint Paul is committed to making seminary affordable. One hundred percent (100%) of students admitted into one of our degree programs receives a 50% tuition scholarship. Your admissions application serves as your application for the scholarship. All students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid for additional opportunities. You can finance your education with a combination of these resources and a paid contextual education position. We also encourage you to apply for private scholarships or grants from sources outside Saint Paul. Learn more about scholarships and grants here.
- March 1 Priority Admission (all students)
- April 1 International Students
- June 1 U.S. residents
- October 1 International Students
- November 1 U.S. residents
Absolutely! Many students enter seminary uncertain of their career path. Saint Paul is a great place to explore your gifts and talents and discern your calling for Christian ministry. Learn more about our certificates and degrees:
If you are seeking ordination as an elder in The United Methodist Church or other denominational tradition: MDiv
If you anticipate a sacramental ministry, in which you consecrate the communion elements and bless the waters of baptism: MDiv
If you want to serve in The United Methodist itinerant ministry and be appointed by the bishop to serve in a particular location: MDiv
If you are considering service as a chaplain in a hospital setting or in hospice care: MDiv, MACM
If you plan to seek ordination as a deacon in The United Methodist Church: MACM
If you would like to seek out your own ministry setting on a church staff or some type of social services helping agency: MACM
If you are thinking about further graduate school education, like a PhD in theological studies: MATS
If you are looking for an exciting journey through which you experience the grace and gift of growing closer to God: MDiv, MACM, MATS
Learn more about our theology degrees.
Saint Paul offers three Master level degrees - Master of Divinity (MDIV), Master of Christian Ministry (MACM) and the Master of Theological Studies (MATS). Per the standards of our accrediting agency, the MATS is the only Master level degree offered 100% online. The other two degrees require 1/3 of the degree to be taken on-campus. Saint Paul satisfies this by offering a Focus Week each semester which can allow you to complete the MDIV and MACM by only traveling to campus once a semester for the duration of your program.
If you are interested in ordination as a deacon or elder in the United Methodist Church, 1/3 of your degree must be taken on-campus.
Learn more about our theology degrees.
