McAfee School of Theology Preview Book

Discover

yourself in the story

McAfee School of Theology Mercer

University

“Our hope is to nurture the spiritual life and character of students in a

community that values both authentic scholarship and authentic piety

and to equip students for Christian leadership through personal mentoring, challenging courses, community worship and the integration of scholarship and experience in the practical tasks of ministry.�

Dr. R. Alan Culpepper Dean

Progressive Baptist tradition National reputation for excellence Ecumenical in outlook and practice Mercer University was founded in 1833 to provide students with a classical and theological education. Mercer is firmly rooted in the Christian tradition, and the

McAfee School of Theology reflects that heritage

to offer students a theological education that prepares them for

a lifetime in ministry.

Princeton Review has for 10 consecutive years included Mercer in its annual best colleges guide, putting the University among the top 15% of institutions in the US and Canada. For 15 consecutive years, US News & World Report has ranked Mercer among the top 10 schools in the South.

“McAfee exposed me to various theological and spiritual viewpoints. I have learned that it is perfectly acceptable to agree to disagree and that every opinion, no matter how different from mine, should be acknowledged and respected.”

— Matt Blair

Dynamic and vibrant city Vast ministerial opportunities Beautiful, accessible campus We are located in one of the nation’s most exciting and fastest growing cities. Known for its world-class entertainment, variety of cultural venues and professional sports teams,

Atlanta provides innumerable ministry opportunities for

worship, service and ready employment

for

our students.

In Atlanta, 27.7% of people live below the poverty line. Over 20% of families with children apply for the National School Lunch Program’s free or reduced lunches. Sadly, Atlanta is the most human trafficked city in the world.

“I love the diverse Christian atmosphere in Atlanta.

There’s a variety of local churches offering unique ministries right here in the city.”

— Amanda Whipple

Challenging and authentic Diverse, close-knit community Socially concerned, justice-oriented We believe a crucial part of theological education is the experience of

shared life

faith.

Our seminary is enriched through the diversity of

races, ethnic backgrounds, socio-economic levels and genders.

18 denominations, 60% female, 48% white, 47% black, 5% other, student ages: 22-65 with median age of 23.

“I have cried with this community, laughed with this commuity, praised God for extended deadlines with this community, and most importantly I have learned to be an instrument of peace because of my experiences with this community. I am a better lover of people for it.� — Alyssa Aldape

Quest for spirituality Sacredness of life Power of the spoken word While at McAfee, students learn to appreciate more than ever before:

the hope of the Kingdom, the peace of spiritual awakening, the joy of life, the love of God’s word.

We believe these themes act as load-bearing pillars that hold up a lifetime of ministry.

Among McAfee’s 600+ alumni, 50% work in congregational ministry, 26% work in nonprofits, global missions, chaplaincy and counseling and 15% continue to post-MDiv education.

“Faith is a life-long process and, often, very hard work. I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me and am grateful for those who continue to walk beside me.”

— Susan Ferdon

Integrated approach Critical, theological reflection Goal-oriented tracks

Our programs are designed for your particular calling using an integrated approach to theological studies. We believe ministers must

know, be and do.

You must know and be committed to the story of faith

while developing the skills necessary to do gospel ministry.

Cohort style Communities of Learning, Clinical Pastoral Education, annual Mission Immersion opportunities, mentorships with seasoned practicioners.

“It is difficult to articulate all the ways I have grown since coming to McAfee. I can sum it up best by saying: I know more; I understand less; and as a result, my faith has grown in ways I never previously knew.”

— Noelle Owen

Nationally recognized scholars Caring and nurturing mentors Denominational leaders Known to many outside of the school as authors, preachers, scholars, counselors, missionaries and denominational leaders,

the McAfee faculty are also

firmly committed to the high calling of being teachers. They dedicate the majority of their time

mentoring and challenging students

to have eyes that see Jesus, minds that grasp the history of the Christian faith, hands that serve the sick and dying, feet that chase after justice, ears that hear differing worldviews and hearts that love themselves better.

“From mentoring and pastoral care to writing and honest Biblical scholarship, my calling is now uniquely equipped with the tools necessary to pastor.� — Sam Brooks

McAfee’s three dual degree options MDiv/MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

With Mercer’s CACREP and ATS accreditations, graduates enjoy ready employment in both secular and Christian counseling settings. Graduates with these degrees are prepared to do a variety of mental health ministries (i.e. poverty, crisis, vocational, play therapy, etc.)

MDiv/MS Organizational Leadership with a Concentration in Nonprofit

McAfee’s the only seminary in Atlanta that carries a dual degree in nonprofit. This 3-year,100-hour degree prepares ministers to kick start or lead an existing 501c3. This unique degree sets the pace for doing ministry outside of traditional contexts while furthering God’s love in the world.

MDiv/MBA

McAfee’s dual degree in business is perfect for students with a business background who are looking to combine Christian vocation with healthy business practices. Since Mercer’s School of Business is one of the top ranked business schools in Georgia, students receive one of the most versatile dual degrees available.

McAfee’s Master of Divinity With seven track options focusing inside and outside of the church, McAfee helps unfold your God-given potential to become the person God intends for you to be. Our flexible track options allow you to tailor nearly half of your hours with electives of your choosing.

Master of Divinity degree with seven tracks: Academic Research Business Administration Christian Social Ethics Congregational Ministry Global Christianity Pastoral Care Urban Mission

McAfee’s MA in Christian Ministry The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry is a two year professional degree.

Designed to prepare women and men for competent leadership in their faith communities, this degree is ideal for bi-vocational and part-time ministers.

Before you finishing the MACM, if you decide to earn the MDiv degree, MACM credits can easily be transferred.

It’s time...

Looking for the right seminary is daunting.

Undoubtedly you are weighing programs, cities, theological affiliations and finances.

The more you know about each institution, the more equipped you are to decide. We understand the significance of this process, and we are committed to answering your questions. Contact us today so we can help you begin to discern your vocational direction.

discover yourself in the story.

McAfee School of Theology 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341 (678) 547-6474 • theoadmiss@mercer.edu • theology.mercer.edu

12

McAfee School

of

Theology

of

Mercer University