Union Presbyterian Seminary expands hybrid learning from its Richmond campus
Beginning in September, the expanded outreach is designed to increase student access
Union Presbyterian Seminary is expanding its graduate and certificate programs on its Richmond campus to a fully hybrid learning model beginning in September 2026.
The mission-driven change combines online learning with on-campus residencies to expand access and emphasize connection and community. By combining online learning with a four-day on-campus experience each term, the new format makes it easier for students to pursue theological education.
UPSem’s mission is grounded in the Presbyterian and Reformed tradition and is committed to inclusive, ecumenical learning. The move to a fully hybrid model reflects UPSem’s understanding that theological education is both a responsibility and a calling for its students, and supports leaders as they build a more just, faithful, and compassionate church and world.
Founded in 1812, UPSem serves about 200 students across multiple denominations on its Richmond, Virginia and Charlotte, North Carolina campuses, preparing leaders for ministry, scholarship and service in congregations, nonprofits and civic institutions.
“Our hybrid model provides a rigorous academic and spiritually formative experience, while maintaining the quality and connection for which Union Presbyterian Seminary is known,” said the Rev. Dr. Jacqueline E. Lapsley, president of Union Presbyterian Seminary. “This strategic shift meets students where they are. We know many UPSem students balance ministry, work, family, and community commitments, and the new format allows students to remain rooted in their communities while fully engaging in theological education and spiritual formation.”
Students learn from and develop close relationships with UPSem’s faculty, including 21 full-time and five adjunct faculty members, many of whom are globally recognized as leading experts in their fields of study. Faculty teaching and mentoring are central to UPSem’s hybrid model, ensuring a rigorous, relational and spiritually formative educational experience.
Until now, graduate and certificate programs at UPSem’s Richmond campus were delivered primarily in person, requiring students to live near campus or relocate to pursue their degrees.
The expansion builds on the success of UPSem’s Charlotte campus, which has offered a hybrid learning model for several years by combining online coursework with four Saturday on-campus days per semester to emphasize accessible and flexible theological education.
The Master of Arts in Christian Education and Master of Arts in Public Theology degrees can be completed in two years; the Master of Divinity in three.
The Richmond campus will continue as a vital hub of theological education and community formation. UPSem is launching the Community Scholars program, a new concept for students who want to live in an intentional Christian community with shared meals, recreation, service, worship, spiritual practices and study. The Community Scholars program emphasizes how living life together creates shared understanding and unity as students engage in theological education.
Throughout the year, UPSem’s Leadership Institute organizes workshops, seminars and conferences on campus to equip church and ministry leaders with continuing education and development. These programs are open to everyone — no prior degrees or experience is required.
Students and ministry leaders also benefit from one of the largest theological libraries on the East Coast. The William Smith Morton Library features more than 5,200 rare books and periodicals, dating back to 1470. The library offers a wealth of resources to church leaders, congregations, and visitors to enrich their engagement with Christian faith and practice.
“This is an exciting moment for UPSem as we continue to equip diverse and thoroughly prepared leaders for a variety of ministries in the rapidly changing church and world that God so loves,” Lapsley said. “We’re excited to welcome many new learners in the years to come.”
For more information about hybrid programs and degree offerings, visit the seminary’s website.
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