Christian Colleges and Universities

Young Christian men and women seeking an education in theology attend seminary. It’s not like your typical college atmosphere; in most cases, students who already have attained bachelor’s degrees live on campus and adhere to strict guidelines that regulate their behavior. The end result is a lifestyle that will prepare them for the clergy. If you plan to enter a seminary, consider the requirements needed to reach your aspirations.

1. Commitment to Christ
   All seminarians must have an unwavering commitment to Christ. If you already attend church regularly and sacrifice your free time to strengthen your relationship with the Lord, then you’ll benefit from seminary. Keep in mind that students are permitted to leave at any point, so the experience itself enables you to discover if you truly want to devote your life to God.
2. Thorough Knowledge of the Bible
   Without question, you must be well-versed in the Bible and have an understanding of the major books. This isn’t a problem for most students entering seminary, but it doesn’t hurt to brush up on the details and read the important passages that have become hazy in your memory.
3. Good Character
   Seminaries reject people with criminal records because of the risk they present to the school and the people they would serve in the clergy. A personal judgment must be made as to whether or not you have the ability to live your life as a leader and serve your community before yourself.
4. References
   Examples of your good character will be provided through personal references – it’s the same process used by secular colleges. Each one must be written by people who aren’t related to you, and of course, they must be more than just acquaintances.
5. Endorsement from Church
   An endorsement from the church to which you belong provides evidence of your strong faith. If you haven’t attended the church for a substantial period of time, additional endorsements from previous churches that you attended may be required.
6. Excellent Communication Skills
   In order to enter the clergy, you must possess excellent communication skills – written and oral. Your effectiveness as a leader will be dependent on how you interact with people who belong to your church. It’ll be your responsibility to listen to their spiritual needs and satisfy them to the best of your ability.
7. Ability to Research
   In your quest to gain in-depth knowledge of Christianity, it’s essential that you know how to research thoroughly and efficiently. These are the skills you gained while working to attain your undergraduate degree. The research process may have to include learning the languages of the Bible – like Greek, Hebrew or Aramaic.
8. Bachelor’s Degree
   More often than not, prospective seminarians are required to have completed a bachelor’s degree from a four-year regionally accredited institution. Also, many seminaries expect a strong liberal arts education, meaning a certain number of hours must be accumulated in liberal arts classes. For example, at Bethel Seminary, prospective students are “urged to have at least 75 credit hours.”
9. Meet GPA Requirements
   Admission depends on if you’re able to meet the minimum GPA requirements, which vary seminary to seminary. Some schools pay closer attention to the last two years of study; not unlike many graduate schools. Also, some schools require prerequisites courses.
10. Adhere to Seminary’s Doctrines
    Adhering to your seminary’s doctrines shouldn’t be difficult if you choose to attend one that shares your core beliefs. Some schools require students sign an agreement stating that the student agrees with the doctrines, while others tend to be less rigid, allowing the students to determine which doctrines are important. You can discuss any questions you may have with your prospective seminary.