Academic Programs

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a school of the church. Each of our four degree programs is designed to serve the church and its ministers in a specific way.

MDiv - Master of Divinity

The MDiv is designed to prepare those called to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament.

MATS - Master of Arts (Theological Studies) 

This degree is designed for lay leaders in congregations, non-ordained ministry professionals, and those pursuing post-graduate study in religion.

DMin - Doctor of Ministry 

Our DMin program allows ministers with three or more years of pastoral experience to further their education through a rigorous post-graduate course of study. For more detailed information, go here

Dual Degree Program (MDiv/MSSW)

This program provides master's-level students the opportunity to complete requirements for two degrees concurrently: The Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Austin Seminary and the Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) through the University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work.

The program is designed to be completed in four years of full-time study. Students will receive degrees from both institutions. Students must be accepted into both programs independently, meeting each institution's admission criteria. As much as possible, the program of study will be tailored to meet students' individual vocational needs as approved by an oversight committee.

Special Students

Austin Seminary provides educational opportunities for persons to enroll in seminary course work for academic credit. Special Students are not enrolled in a degree program, but register for master's-level classes on a per course basis. This program is designed primarily for persons interested in beginning study toward a first theological degree and lay persons who want to deepen their own theological understanding.

Transfer Students

Students wishing to transfer from another accredited seminary must fulfill the requirements described within the program into which they desire to transfer. In addition, the applicant should submit a letter of dismissal from the president or dean of the seminary previously attended.

Up to 48 credits may be applied toward the MATS degree; up to 92 credits may be applied to the MDiv degree. These credits include those earned at other theological schools and those earned as a Special Student at Austin Seminary.

International students wishing to transfer from another institution in the United States to a degree program at Austin Seminary, in addition to the requirements noted above, must be in good standing both academically and under the provisions of their visa.