Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education

Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education (Union-PSCE), a theological institution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), confesses the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Standing within the Reformed tradition, Union-PSCE weaves together distinctive approaches to theological education for pastoral and educational ministries. Its mission is to educate and equip leaders for congregational life, theological scholarship, and Christian service to the world, and to be a theological resource to church and society.

History and Location

Since its formation in 1812, Union Theological Seminary (UTS) sustained the intention of its founders to provide education for Christian ministry that is scholarly, pastoral, and engaged with contemporary life.

A century later in 1914, in response to the needs of the church, the seminary was instrumental in establishing the Assembly's Training School (ATS) for Lay Workers, renamed the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in 1959. For eighty years, these two theological institutions labored side by side, preparing pastors and educators for work in congregations, church agencies, and other institutions of Christian service. In 1997 the two institutions were united in federation, creating Union-PSCE, a new theological institution to serve the Presbyterian Church and the church worldwide.

The 56-acre Union-PSCE campus, located in a historic residential area, is noted for its Victorian/Gothic style academic buildings. Richmond is rich in history and cultural opportunities. Union-PSCE is only two hours from Washington, D.C., Atlantic beaches, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The new William Smith Morton Library is one of the largest theological libraries in the United States.

What programs does Union-PSCE offer?

The Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Christian Education are the basic degrees awarded by Union-PSCE. The first educates students for ordained ministry; the second prepares students for positions as professional educators in Christian congregations or other settings. Union-PSCE offers a four-year dual degree combining these two disciplines. Two other dual degree programs are offered with Virginia Commonwealth University — the Master of Arts/Master of Social Work, and the Master of Science in Criminal Justice/Master of Divinity. For educators who wish to concentrate on a particular area of Christian ministry, Union-PSCE provides a one-year Education Specialist degree beyond the Master of Arts. Union-PSCE also offers four advanced degrees: the Master of Theology, Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Education.