Applying to Christian Theological Seminary
CTS has options for degrees, certificates or individual courses. The application process varies, depending on your goals. Click on the blue tabs below to learn how to take your first step toward becoming a CTS student.
Apply for a Degree
Ready to take the first step in pursuing an advanced or graduate degree? We’re excited you’re considering CTS. Complete the form below to request an application for admission.
To complete the application, you’ll need three academic / professional references, formal transcripts from all of the colleges you have attended, a passport-quality, color headshot and a personal statement (up to 700 words). The application will save your answers, so that you may return to it for completion and submission.
Currently CTS is not accepting international applications.
To apply for a degree, use this form to request an application.
Process
- Complete the online form.
- Check your inbox for an email from CTS. The email will include a personalized link to your online application.
Helpful Tip: Keep this email as it will be the easiest way to return to your application.
Contact Admissions Office with questions.
Application Deadlines
Spring deadline: November 15
Fall deadline: June 15
Application fee: $50 (non-refundable)
Hours and Fees
Single Degree: 30-72 hours
Dual Degree: 96-111 hours
Fees: $710 per credit hour plus associated fees
Apply for a Certificate
If you are interested in furthering your knowledge in a special area of study without pursuing an advanced degree, then our certificate program may be the ideal option. To apply for our certificate program, create an account to begin the application process.
CURRENTLY CTS IS NOT ACCEPTING INTERNATIONAL APPLICATIONS
Process
- Sign up for an account and fill out the application.
Helpful Tip: You can sign in again to finalize and submit your application.
Contact Admissions Office with questions.
Application Deadlines
Deadline: Rolling
Application fee: $50 (non-refundable)
Hours and Fees
Certificate: 18 hours
Fees: $355 per credit hour
Considering Individual Courses?
At CTS, you can take individual courses for credit or audit. To learn more about available courses and options for enrollment, visit our Lifelong Learning page. If you have any questions, please contact the Registrar.
Ready to apply for individual courses at CTS? Current students or former students with access to Populi can use the “Student Application” button below for an abbreviated application. If you are a new student or a former student without access to Populi, use the “New Application” button below to apply.
Process
- Submit your application online.
- The Registrar will review your application and seek approval from the Dean and course instructor.
- You will be notified of the decision by the Registrar.
- Contact the Registrar if you have any questions or concerns.
Application Deadlines
Deadline: Rolling
No application fee.
Hours and Fees
Individual Course: 3-6 hours
Fees: $355 per credit hour when enrollment is for credit; $178 per credit hour when enrollment is for auditing
Admission FAQs
What is the deadline for completing my application?
Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programs:
Fall Admission Deadline: June 15th
Spring Admission Deadline: November 15th
Where do I direct questions about financial aid?
Please email these questions to the Director of Financial Aid at finaid@cts.edu.
How long does it take to complete a degree program?
On average, it takes students 2.5-3.5 years to complete the MDiv, MACMHC, and MAMFT degree programs and 4.5 years for dual degree programs. The MTS is usually completed in 2 years, and the DMin is typically completed in 3.5 years. The PhD degree program is designed to take students around 3 years plus the time it takes to complete their dissertation.
Do you offer online classes?
Yes! At CTS, we offer flexible learning options for our degree programs, including online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Our Master of Divinity (MDiv) and Master of Theological Studies (MTS) programs have been redesigned to offer most of the coursework online. The MTS program can be completed 100% online, while the MDiv can be completed online with minimal on-site intensive days. We understand that some students prefer the traditional in-person classroom experience, and we continue to offer excellent options for in-person learning as well. Whether you prefer online, in-person, or a combination of both, we have a program that will meet your needs.
Where can I find the course schedule?
You can find the course schedule here.
What does a full schedule look like per semester?
At CTS, the number of courses required for full-time and part-time enrollment varies by degree program. For School of Counseling degrees, full-time enrollment is 9 or more credit hours per semester; fewer than 9 credit hours per semester is considered part-time. For master’s level School of Theology degrees (MDiv and MTS), full-time enrollment is 6 or more credit hours per semester; fewer than 6 credit hours per semester is considered part-time. For the Doctor of Ministry degree program, full-time enrollment is 3 or more credit hours per semester. PhD students are considered full-time if they are enrolled in at least one course per semester.
The maximum number of credit hours a student can currently take per semester is 15 credit hours in a Fall or Spring semester and 6 credit hours in a Summer semester.
*The majority of courses at CTS consist of 3 credit hours.
Can I transfer credits from other institutions?
This may be possible on an individual basis in conversation with Admissions and a faculty advisor.
Do I fill out an application if I’m interested in lifelong learning or a certificate program?
If you’re interested in pursuing lifelong learning through individual courses, certificate programs, or non-degree programs, you’ll find separate applications/registrations for each. You can find applications for these by following the corresponding links below.
- Individual courses application
- Certificate program application
- Non-degree program registration – applications/registrations can be found on the individual program page
For more information about lifelong learning, please visit our Lifelong Learning page. If you have questions about receiving credit or auditing individual courses, please contact the Registrar’s Office.
Contact Us:
Do you have additional questions? We would love to schedule a time to talk with you about our programs, so don’t hesitative to reach out to us. We look forward to talking with you!