FAQ

What kind of a degree can I earn in seminary?

The “standard” seminary degree is the MDiv (Master of Divinity), which is a two or three-year degree offering courses in biblical studies, theology, church history, pastoral counseling, homiletics, and the like. Many seminaries offer MA degrees in a variety of fields. For advanced students, there may be other degrees such as the ThM (Master of Theology), ThD (Doctor of Theology), and PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). TKC is open to offering any type of degree of wording should it be within your research ability.

Is seminary just for people who want to be pastors?

Although most people go to seminary in order to be pastors, people attend seminary for a variety of reasons. Some use seminary to prepare for further graduate study in theology or a related field. Others plan to become professional counselors or educators. There are even quite a few people who go to seminary simply to “test the waters” to see if ministry or further study is for them. Our personal perspective is that it is the closest modern-day perspective we have to the Biblical training of Christ calling the disciples. We believe everyone should be in deep communion with their father and therefore should go to seminary.

How do I pay for seminary?

Most students pay for seminary using a combination of church or kingdom raised scholarships, grants, internal financial aid and work funds. TKC in most cases does not accept government subsidy. We are committed to offering great seminary training regardless of someone’s financial ability. Compared to earning other degrees at state institutions, seminary training is very affordable.

How long does seminary take?

It depends on the degree. An MDiv generally takes eighteen months to three years while an MA takes less. For more advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. doctoral degree can take anywhere from Three to ten years. Most of our students are able to complete a simple 30 credit degree in 18 months.

How do I choose a seminary?

Choosing a seminary can be a difficult task. You want to make a list of factors that are important to you in the decision process. Does your church or governing body have a seminary that they prefer? How important is financial aid and cost? Are there particular faculty members you admire or would like to study under? Do you want to be surrounded by like-minded students or a more diverse student body? Is there a certain part of the country you would like to live in (or avoid)? These are just a few questions to consider. One aspect to consider is TKC is spirit led (charismatic or Pentecostal) and very much on the free will side, as would be opposite to “reformed” theology or Calvinism. However, that being the case, we do welcome students of the reformed tradition and several of our faculty have degrees from reformed institutions.

Are seminaries accredited educational institutions?

The vast majority of seminaries and divinity schools are not accredited by regional accrediting agencies (the same bodies that accredit state colleges and universities). Other seminaries may be part of reputable private accreditation agencies such as the ATS (Association of Theological Schools), TRACS, ABHE and others that are recognized by state entities. If you are truly attending the school for the theological training and know the school is reputable (such as TKC) you likely will not feel like the school needs to be accredited. Some seminaries pride themselves in not being tied to any government entities. If you plan on continuing your education after you attend seminary, a government accredited seminary is going to give you more options and confidence to choose wherever you may want to continue attending. However, keep in mind, government accredited institutions may be as much as 10x the price of unaccredited seminaries. Typically, if you receive a degree (and aren’t simply just looking to transfer credits) we have found that most seminary degrees with a good record of classwork and transcripts are ample for major schools and universities.

What’s the difference between seminary and divinity school?

Generally, the difference is that seminaries are independent or denominationally affiliated institutions whereas divinity schools are not tied to any particular entity or umbrella organization such as having denominational ties. TKC is not affiliated with any other entities.

Do you have to be “religious” to attend seminary or divinity school?

To be sure, the vast majority of students at seminaries and divinity schools would count themselves as believers in God; however, how these students understand the divine will differ from place to place. That’s all to say, a student at Harvard Divinity School will be more likely to define God as an amorphous higher power than a student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. However, at TKC one of the requirements is that you consider yourself on the pathway towards intimate “ALL-IN” discipleship and can adhere to our statement of faith.

How difficult is it to get accepted?

Compared to most professional graduate schools, seminary admissions are competitive but not ridiculously so. More competitive seminaries fall into the 40 % – 50% acceptance rate. TKC’s acceptance rate is currently around 60%.

What does 100% online mean?

Since TKC is 100% online you can live wherever God has called you to reside or go! Some students have found it beneficial to establish cohort and peer groups that are close to each other so they can meet in person. Occasionally TKC overs in person classroom learning at local churches. Please inquire with your advisor if this is something you would like to be involved with or if you would like to meet people that also attend TKC that reside close to you. 100% online means that you can complete all the requirements of study in every program 100% on your own.

What admissions tests are required for seminary admission?

TKC typically asks for GRE results for admission, however, if you have not done this, please inquire and it will likely be waived. Most Divinity schools do not require the GRE though many university-affiliated institutions do require it.

Do seminaries have doctrinal statements or statements of faith that students have to sign?

Declarations of faith are sometimes required at very conservative institutions (e.g. Dallas Theological Seminary) and usually not at others. TKC asks students to “ADHERE” to their statement of faith.

If I’m [insert denomination here], do I have to attend a seminary associated with my denomination?

Generally speaking, no. However, depending upon your denomination and the governing body you are subject to, they may strongly suggest that you attend a denominationally-affiliated seminary if you wish to pursue ordination under their care. As always, it’s best to check with your local church or governing body to see what they recommend. We would ask that you inquire with us and allow us to help guide you through this decision.

Is seminary good preparation for further graduate work, a PhD for example?

Absolutely! In fact, many people attend seminary and then pursue graduate or professional work in a variety of areas, not just theology or religious studies. Many people attend law school or pursue graduate study in a related field such as philosophy, literature, history, or psychology. The versatility of a seminary degree makes it an excellent stepping stone to further graduate work.