Academics - Payne Theological Seminary

Degree Programs

As the oldest African American freestanding seminary in the country, Payne Theological Seminary is a global seminary for a global church. Your peers will come from many different backgrounds, cultures, nations, and ethnicities to unite for one common goal – to make a positive impact on the world as part of our mission to enact social justice.

Our curriculum is founded from Africentric ethos that looks at progressive theology through a liberatory lens to empower our students to do ministry for the next generation. We believe it is our duty to not only recognize the importance of theological training, but to deliver it in a fashion that positions graduates to speak to the sociopolitical climate with ease and confidence.

Master of Divinity

4 core areas:

Biblical Studies

Historical Studies

Theological Studies

Practical Ministry

82 Credit Hours

Afrocentric Curriculum

Master of Divinity

Doctor of Ministry

Three year, Six semester program:

Advanced Preparation for Ministry

Problem Analysis in the Practice of Ministry

Foundations for the Practice of Ministry

Research Methods for Ministry

Field Research, Data Collection/Data Analysis

Research Writing and Final Preparations

One Intensive per semester

Peer Sessions via webinars

Doctor Of Ministry

Master of Arts in Religious Leadership

4 Areas of Specialization:

Church and Administration

Christian Education

Social Justice Ministries

Worship And Liturgy

48 Credit Hours

Afrocentric Curriculum

Master of Arts In Religious Leadership

Academic Resources

Ransom Memorial Library

The Bishop Reverdy C. Ransom Memorial Library holds more than 35,000 volumes with a concentration of materials focused on African American culture and African American religion. It provides access to relevant information through library, archival and closed research collections.

Student and Academic Services

The Registrar provides academic services including enrollment support, academic records and graduation information; assists students, faculty and other staff in their fulfillment of the schools mission to train leaders in ministry; and assists in the development, implementation and enforcement of academic policies.

“I just love all the historical context of the school Glory to God”

James Combs

“The Africentric exposure through the lens of Professors, and resources used at the Seminary are remarkable.”

Dianne Faust

Why Choose Payne Theological Seminary?

Spiritual

Education founded on the Word of God.

CULTURAL

Rich history of African American ethos weaved through our programs.

ACCESSIBLE

Giving you the ability to complete your degree online.

LIBERATIVE

Build advanced leadership skills with emphasis on social justice.

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