Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

The mission of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary is to prepare men and women for pastoral ministry and Christian lay leadership in all phases of the church's outreach. Dedicated to excellence in theological education, the faculty strives to prepare graduates who will demonstrate both personal piety and keen intellectual understanding of the gospel and its implications for individuals and social living. The seminary is rooted in the Reformed history of faithfulness to scripture and commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. In keeping with our tradition, the seminary continues to be a caring and ecumenical community, nurturing personal faith and corporate worship. It also seeks to promote global consciousness and service and to encourage students and faculty to integrate learning with styles of contemporary ministry.

History and Location

In 1794, the Rev. John Anderson established the first Presbyterian seminary in the United States to serve the frontier regions of western Pennsylvania and Ohio. From those humble beginnings in a log cabin with six students, the ministry and mission of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary has continued through many mergers and moves, both within the seminary and the Presbyterian Church. Since 1959, the seminary has made its home on a tree-filled, peaceful campus in the heart of the east end of Pittsburgh.

The seminary's location is complimented by the close proximity of some of the finest colleges and universities in the United States: Carnegie-Mellon, the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University, as well as first-rate medical centers including the nation's leading transplant center. And yet, within a fifteen-minute drive of the seminary campus, one can find rural farming communities and small towns. This location of cultural, social, and academic richness has provided Pittsburgh Seminary with many opportunities for developing unique and exciting educational opportunities.

What programs does Pittsburgh Seminary offer?

More than 300 students are officially enrolled at Pittsburgh Seminary and more than 3,000 persons participate in the seminary's programs annually. Seminary programs include the traditional and joint Master of Divinity courses of study, with second Master's level programs in law, social work, public health, public policy, business, and sacred music. Other degree programs include the Master of Arts in Theological Studies, Doctor of Ministry, and a joint PhD with the University of Pittsburgh. Non-degree emphases include spiritual formation, Christian leadership for urban, racial ethnic congregations, and lay pastor certification. A wealth of seminars and lectureships are offered through the Department of Continuing Education. The seminary's Center for Business, Religion, and the Professions holds an average of six symposiums a year, encouraging critical reflection on issues of faith and values. An annual Summer Youth Institute provides an opportunity for high school students to participate in a week of inspiration and exploration as they learn more about theological education and ministry.