Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian Reformed tradition. Its mission is to educate and equip individuals for ordained Christian ministry and other forms of service and leadership. The seminary employs its resources in the service of the church, promoting and engaging in critical theological thought and research. It endeavors to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.

History and Location

Austin Seminary was founded in 1902 to provide pastors for the rapidly growing Presbyterian Church in the frontier Southwest. Today the seminary hosts more than 300 students from across the United States, preparing them for ministries throughout the nation and world.

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary campus. Photo courtesy of Austin Seminary.

Deep in the heart of the capital city of Texas, Austin Seminary enjoys the cultural, intellectual and recreational benefits of its location. Austin is not only a regional center for arts, music, theater, and literature, but is also home to the University of Texas — now the largest university in the nation — which provides students and faculty with rich opportunities for interdisciplinary dialogue and exchange. The seminary experience is further enriched by its proximity to Mexico and to the nearby Texas Hill Country, where a vast system of parks and lakes provides myriad recreational opportunities.

What programs does Austin Seminary offer?

Austin Seminary president Theodore J. Wardlaw. Photo courtesy of Austin Seminary.

Offerings at Austin Seminary include Master of Arts, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry degrees, and many educational opportunities for non-degree students. The curriculum places an emphasis on biblical studies and practical experience in ministry. January travel seminars, financially subsidized for all students, allow participants to discover the gospel in other cultures and contexts.

At Austin Seminary, theological education has always been guided by a strong commitment to the church. Here, a serious approach to learning is tempered by warmth and good humor. Visionary academic inquiry is informed by practical experience in ministry in mission. A Christian spirit of collegiality and openness to dialogue is prevalent in classrooms and among faculty.