Perkins School of Theology, one of the thirteen United Methodist seminaries, is a premier institution with a world-class faculty. Committed to the life and work of the church, Perkins provides an exceptional theological education by offering degree programs including the Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Master of Church Ministries (C.M.M.) in Urban Ministry or Christian Education, and Master of Sacred Music (M.S.M.), as well as the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree and multiple continuing education and church/public programs. Master of Arts (M.A.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees are offered jointly through Perkins and the SMU Dedman College Graduate Program in Religious Studies.

Consideration is given to applicants who demonstrate seriousness of purpose, emotional stability, likelihood of satisfactory performance in the degree program, as well as the presence of and potential for growth in those emotional, moral, and spiritual qualities requisite for the profession of ministry. Academic ability, as shown by a minimum G.P.A. of 2.75 (on a 4.00 scale) in a well-balanced curriculum, is required.

The admission process requires completion of an application form, a personal essay, four letters of recommendation and submission of official transcripts from all colleges, universities, and graduate schools attended on or before the appropriate deadline prior to the term in which you expect to begin study at Perkins. Our staff is dedicated to being supportive to you during the admission process and will assist you in clarifying the degree program best for you, as well as answer any questions you may have during this important time in your life.

Answering God’s call to professional and lay ministry in service to the church and society is a life-changing experience. Perkins is here to help you answer your call. Within a Christ-centered community, a faculty comprised of nationally known theologians and scholars, a setting of practical learning experience in ministry, and affordable tuition and an outstanding scholarship and financial aid package, you will have the opportunity to gain the balance of academic preparedness and hands-on learning to equip you to minister and lead a church in these changing times. Whether on the main campus at SMU in Dallas, or at our extension program site in Houston-Galveston, we encourage you to take a closer look Inside Perkins.