McCormick Theological Seminary

Actively engaged in a diverse world, McCormick Theological Seminary is a seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) that educates women and men for service in Christian ministry and faithful leadership in God's world. McCormick offers a program of study that builds on and contributes to the Reformed tradition and engages students in commitment to God and renewal of the global church. The seminary desires to create a community where academic excellence, critical reflection, and faithful witness are commonly valued and actively pursued. It provides settings where persons and communities are transformed in faithfulness to God and biblical tradition. It shapes visions for ministries in urban locations and integrates cross-cultural and ecumenical learning into classrooms and communities. In all it does, McCormick Theological Seminary supports congregations and governing bodies in developing Christian ministry in a changing, broken, and fearful world.

History and Location

Founded in 1829, McCormick Theological Seminary's has a history rooted in the westward movement of the mid-nineteenth century and the subsequent social and industrial development of Chicago.

McCormick Theological Seminary campus. Photo courtesy of McCormick.

From this context of movement, exploration, and change, McCormick has maintained a commitment to training ministers "at the edge of life." In 1975 the seminary moved from a twenty-acre campus on the north side of Chicago to the neighborhood community of Hyde Park to join a world-class consortium of theological institutions clustered around the University of Chicago.

McCormick's location supports its special emphasis on ministry in the midst of culturally diverse and rapidly changing urban environments. This emphasis has given rise to the development of programs in congregational revitalization, administration, pastoral care, and Hispanic ministry. McCormick also serves as an important research center for the church, promoting studies of congregational and public ministry, church organizational behavior, Latino church history, African American leadership, and cross-cultural and international mission.

What programs does McCormick offer?

McCormick Theological Seminary campus. Photo courtesy of McCormick Seminary.

McCormick Seminary's 454 students are enrolled in three degree programs. Master of Divinity courses prepare candidates for ministry in the local congregation and specialized ministry settings. Opportunities are provided for earning a dual degree, enabling students to gain master's level competency in coordinate fields such as social work along with the Master of Divinity. McCormick also awards the Master of Arts in Theological Studies. Its internationally recognized Doctor of Ministry program provides learning and faith communities for ministers who gather in locations throughout the United States, Korea, and Puerto Rico. Continuing education is offered for laity and clergy throughout the year as well.