UnionTheologicalSeminary

Union Theological Seminary and
Presbyterian School of Christian Education

Since its formation in 1812, Union Theological Seminary has worked with the intention of its founders to provide education for Christian ministry. In 1898, the seminary relocated from Hampden-Sydney College, near Farmville, Virginia, to Richmond so that seminarians would be have the advantage of the greater opportunities in Virginia’s capital. In 1907, a young woman, Annie Wilson, requested permission to attend lectures at Union Theological Seminary in order to prepare for work in foreign missions. Even though seminary education was intended for men only, her request was approved, and the organization of a school to prepare women and men for lay ministry was developed. In 1914, with the encouragement, leadership, and generous support of the president and faculty of Union Theological Seminary, the first class of twenty four women and four men enrolled in the new General Assembly’s Training School (ATS) for preparation as Christian “workers outside of the regular ordained ministry.” Assembly Training School was renamed the Presbyterian School of Christian Education (PSCE) in 1959. In 2002, Union- PSCE built an extension of the seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina on the campus of Queens University. The branch has since become fully accredited and produced its first graduating class of two students.

Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond offers nine degree programs to prepare those who wish to serve the church as pastors, Christian educators, chaplains, youth leaders, scholars, and any other forms of ministry. The degree programs offered include masters and doctorates in the arts, divinity, theology, ministry and philosophy. The courses offered by the school include an array of topics, including biblical language, biblical studies, theology and ethics, history, education and ministry, and practical theology.

Union-PSCE has been able to offer tuition rates that cover less than one-fifth of the cost to attend the school because of the “Ministry Fund.” The fund receives donations from alumni and willing contributors, which allows the school to offer these tuition rates to every student. Also from this fund comes additional financial aid for students, and monetary funds for the faculty pay and facilities, such as the library and campus housing.

Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education
3401 Brook Road
Richmond, VA 23227
Phone (800)-229-2990 or( 804)-355-0671

Sources:
http://www.union-psce.edu/

Profile prepared by Whitney Shank
April, 2007

 

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