Degree Programs

COLUMBIA’S SEAL CARRIES A MOTTO WHICH CONSISTS OF THE GREEK WORDS FOR

PASTORS AND TEACHERS. These words are taken from the letter to the Ephesians: “The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NRSV). Since its inception, Columbia has seen its role as training persons for leadership in the Church by offering courses of study leading to both master and doctoral level degrees.

The Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Arts in Practical Theology (MAPT) and the Master of Arts (Theological Studies) (MA[TS]), are first-level master's degrees which combine academic and professional courses into coherent curriculums suited for a variety of vocational pursuits.

Advanced degrees include the Master of Theology (ThM), the Doctor of Ministry (DMin), and the Doctor of Educational Ministry (DEdMin). Women and men from all denominations are eligible to apply for any of Columbia’s degrees. The Doctor of Theology in Pastoral Counseling (ThD) is being discontinued, and currently is following a teach-out plan. The program is due to conclude in 2022.