Union Presbyterian Seminary prepares leaders for faithful service in a complex and changing world. Rooted in theological depth, spiritual formation, and intellectual rigor, our programs integrate academic study with a commitment to justice, community, and lived practice. Through biblical and theological study, contextual learning, and close faculty mentorship, you'll learn to connect theology with real ministry experience. Graduates are equipped to lead congregations, serve in chaplaincy and nonprofit settings, and engage emerging forms of Christian leadership with wisdom and care.

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Become a Christian Educator and Leader at Union Presbyterian Seminary

Connect with admissions to learn more about our M.A.C.E./M.A.P.T. dual degree

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Master of Public Theology/Master of Arts in Christian Education Dual Degree At-A-Glance:

Prepares you for ministries that unite the Word of God, sacrament, and formational education, from youth ministry to chaplaincy, camps, and congregational leadership.
Learn how to integrate educational theory within communities.
Integrate biblical and theological study with educational theory, teaching practices, and faith formation.
Learn in community through worship, shared meals, and faculty mentorship.
Study in hybrid formats on either campus. Charlotte's rhythm includes a monthly in-person gathering, while Richmond's includes a four-day in-person experience each semester.
Full-time completion is typically four years, with flexible pacing available to support your ministry context.

Shape Formation. Lead Change. Serve Community.

A flexible dual program combining Christian education and public theology

Become a Christian Educator at Union Presbyterian Seminary

Union Presbyterian Seminary’s Master of Arts in Christian Education/Master of Arts in Public Theology dual degree (M.A.C.E./M.A.P.T.) prepares you for ministries that integrate Christian formation with thoughtful public engagement. Rooted in the Bible, the Reformed tradition, and the church’s living mission, this dual degree forms you as a practicing theologian who can teach the Word of God, nurture faith communities, and engage the pressing issues of our time with theological depth and moral clarity. Through study in Christian education, practical theology, and public theology, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills to lead educational ministries and serve communities seeking faithful witness in the world.

Master of Arts in Public Theology (M.A.P.T.)

Master of Arts in Christian Education (M.A.C.E.)

DUAL DEGREE PROGRAM

On Campus Experiences

Gain hands-on community experience in preaching, teaching, and community care with in-person experiences in Charlotte and Richmond.

Accredited Dual Degree Program

Union Presbyterian Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Certification Prep

Degree and Certificate Christian Education programs support PC(USA) Certified Christian Educator preparation.

Hybrid Learning

Study theology and Christian Education with our hybrid module. Choose from Richmond or Charlotte, VA for on-campus components.

Financial Aid Available

Accessible entry with up to 100% financial aid available for degree-seeking students at both Richmond and Charlotte campuses.

Experience the benefits of both in-person and online learning.

Hybrid Dual Degree Program

Study Christian Education and Theology with a curriculum grounded in biblical teachings.

Theology Focused

Join an intentional covenantal learning community.

Become a Community Scholar

Our dedicated faculty are here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty Mentorship

Be in a faith-based community with classmates who range in age, denominations, and come from a variety of backgrounds.

Diverse Student Body

Complete your public theology degree or certificate full-time or part-time to accommodate your schedule.

Flexible Pathways

Apply by June 1
Fall Term Deadline

Apply by October 1
Spring I Term Deadline

Apply by February 1
Spring II Term Deadline