Perkins School of Theology

Founded in 1911, the School of Theology was one of SMU's three original schools. Perkins School of Theology, named in 1945 for Joe and Lois Perkins, is one of 13 seminaries of The United Methodist Church. Students and graduates come from many denominations, with approximately 4,000 alumni who have served, or are serving, in pulpits and in other ministries in 50 states and around the world. Study at Perkins comprises both higher learning in classroom instruction and real experience through vital ministry opportunities. Perkins is committed to preparing women and men for faithful leadership in Christian ministry.

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Centennial Decade Priorities

Student Quality

Increase scholarships to recruit and retain the most promising scholars

• Endow scholarships and fellowships for Master's programs
• Endow Ph.D. student stipends

Faculty and Academic Excellence

Attract outstanding teachers and researchers and enhance academic programs, facilities and resources

• Recruit and retain outstanding scholars and teachers through endowments for professorships and chairs, including the deanship of Perkins School of Theology
• Endow the Center for the Study of Latino/a Christian and Religions
• Endow the Master of Sacred Music Program
• Endow the Center for Religious Leadership
• Renovate and Expand Bridwell Library

Campus Experience

Improve and expand student services and programs

• Provide support for Perkins Youth Ministry initiative, which trains high school and college students who are interested in community service and exploring issues of faith and society
• Endow the Perkins Public Life/Personal Faith Lecture which bring outstanding scholars and lecturers to explore the intersection of faith and public life

Perkins School of Theology at a Glance

During the last century, Perkins School of Theology has become one of the nation’s leading Christian theological schools as a result of its outstanding academic programs and resources, relevant experiential learning opportunities and world-renowned faculty.

Perkins degrees and programs

• Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
• Master of Church Ministries (C.M.M.)
• Master of Sacred Music (M.S.M.)
• Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)
• Master of Arts (M.A.) through Dedman College
• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) through Dedman College

The Perkins Intern Program prepares students for effective ministry in the church and world. Students are given the opportunity to integrate knowledge and theological reflection with practical skills for providing ministerial leadership.

Perkins' Houston-Galveston Program enables students to begin their coursework closer to home. Students in this program can earn the majority of their degree requirements through evening and weekend classes before completing their degrees at the Dallas campus.

Sacred Spaces

The following facilities at Perkins have undergone extensive expansion and renovation during the past decade:

• Perkins Chapel, where students and faculty can participate in daily and Sunday services
• Bridwell Library – one of the nation’s finest theological libraries – holds approximately 400,000 volumes, including many rare historical documents and biblical artifacts
• Kirby Hall and Selecman Halls which provide work and office space for Perkins faculty and administration
• Construction of the Elizabeth Perkins Prothro Hall which provides a modern classroom and community gathering space for the Perkins community

Service programs and initiatives

• Continuing education for laity and clergy
• Hispanic Youth Leadership Academy
• Perkins Youth School of Theology
• The Global Theological Education Program that prepares women and men to minister around the world and across various cultures
• The Spiritual Life and Formation Program that enriches students' personal spiritual formation and prepares them to lead the spiritual formation of others

Join Us

Be a part of defining the next 100 years of unbridled achievement at SMU. To get involved in The Second Century Campaign, call 214-768-3688 or e-mail perkinstheologygiving@smu.edu.