Denominational Preparation

Purposeful Partnerships

The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary is one of nine theological institutions of the Presbyterian Church (USA), but also serves students from a variety of other denominations. The seminary is primarily informed by the Reformed tradition, but welcomes and engages the riches of theology and ministry of the various communions of the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church.

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Presbyterian Church (USA) Preparation for Ordination

Academic Coursework
UDTS encourages students perusing ordination in the PC(USA) to complete the following courses in preparation for ordination exams:

• MN 555: The Polity and Program of the Presbyterian Church (USA)
• MN 709: Worship in the Reformed Tradition
• HT 615: Presbyterian History and Confessions
• Hebrew and Greek Language
• Biblical exegesis in language

Students studying at other seminaries seeking denominational coursework may complete all recommended denominational coursework as unclassified students. Courses are offered online throughout the academic year.

Vocational Training and Tools
UDTS offers connections to a number of vocational development opportunities including:

• Board of Pensions seminars hosted at UDTS biannually
• Workshops on interviews, PNC process, completing call process documents, pastoral identity
• Supervised ministry opportunities at sites across the nation
• Employment opportunities for students, alumni, and call seekers posted regularly

Commitment to Care
UDTS works closely with presbyteries with students under care. Regular contact and academic status updates can be provided to care committees to build a community of care around each student. Every effort is made to work with committees to help students effectively work through requirements while in seminary.

 

Presbyterian Church (USA) Preparation of Commissioning as a Ruling Elder

UDTS seeks to strengthen the church through quality theological education for laypersons. Courses offered in the Congregational Equipping Program meet the requirements common in many Presbyteries for those seeking commissioning as a Ruling Elder. See Congregational Equipping Program for more information.

 

United Methodist Church (UMC) Preparation for Ordination

The seminary has enjoyed the endorsement of the University Senate of the United Methodist Church since 1972 for residential studies. UDTS has a long history of ecumenical cooperation, and United Methodists continue to be active participants in the community.

Academic Coursework
Students studying in the United Methodist program are required to study the history, doctrine, and polity of the United Methodist Church through the following coursework:

• HT 521: United Methodist Studies: History
• HT 553: United Methodist Studies: Doctrine
• MN 553: United Methodist Studies: Polity

Vocational Training and Tools
The Wesley Tables, provided in the residential program throughout each academic term, provides the United Methodist students a place in which community is enhanced while denominational issues and concerns are explored. Guest speakers from United Methodist churches, districts, and conferences help students connect with church leaders while strengthening their understanding of the denomination as a whole.

 

Episcopal/Anglican Church Preparation for Ordination

UDTS partners with the Bishop Kemper School for Ministry (BKSM), in order to provide Episcopal/Anglican students at UDTS access to Anglican Studies courses for ministry preparation and preparation for General Ordination Exams in The Episcopal Church. Under this partnership, students may complete Anglican Studies courses through BKSM for graduate elective credit toward their UDTS degree elective credit requirements (up to 1/3 of their degree total). The elective credits must be approved through the credit by portfolio process administered by UDTS.