Union Theological Seminary (UTS) offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on theological education, preparing students for ministry, scholarship, and social justice leadership. The main courses emphasize biblical studies, historical theology, ethics, and practical ministry, all within an ecumenical and interfaith framework.
- Biblical Studies: Courses include Introduction to the Old Testament, exploring Hebrew scriptures, prophetic literature, and ancient Near Eastern contexts; New Testament Interpretation, covering the Gospels, Pauline epistles, and early Christian communities; and Advanced Biblical Languages, such as Hebrew and Greek exegesis for in-depth textual analysis.
- Theology and Doctrine: Systematic Theology surveys major Christian doctrines like Christology, soteriology, and ecclesiology; Contemporary Theological Issues addresses liberation theology, feminist theology, and process theology; and Interfaith Dialogue examines Jewish, Christian, and Muslim theological intersections.
- Church History and Ethics: History of Christianity traces developments from early church to modern denominations; Christian Ethics delves into moral theology, environmental ethics, and racial justice; and Global Christianity studies the growth of the faith in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
- Practical Theology and Ministry: Homiletics teaches preaching and sermon preparation; Pastoral Care and Counseling focuses on spiritual guidance and mental health in congregations; Worship and Liturgy explores liturgical practices across traditions; and Social Justice Ministry integrates activism with faith, including courses on community organizing and public theology.
- Specialized Programs: Master of Divinity (MDiv) core includes integrative seminars; Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) offers concentrations in religion and society; and Doctor of Ministry (DMin) emphasizes advanced leadership. Electives cover spirituality, arts in worship, and digital theology.
The curriculum fosters critical thinking, spiritual formation, and engagement with contemporary issues like climate change, inequality, and interreligious peacebuilding. Faculty draw from diverse traditions, ensuring a rich, inclusive learning environment. Students engage in fieldwork, chapel services, and global partnerships, culminating in capstone projects that apply theological insights to real-world challenges. This holistic approach equips graduates for roles in churches, nonprofits, academia, and beyond, promoting a theology of justice and compassion.
