Overview
At Perkins School of Theology, the gifts and fruits and labor of theological study and teaching are available not only to those enrolled in regular courses but also to others throughout the church and wider community.
Public Programs
Each year more than 1,500 persons benefit from Perkins’ public programs such as Perkins Fall Convocation, which offers lectures and workshops to practicing church professionals; Perkins Summit for Faith and Learning (formerly Perkins Theological School for the Laity), which brings together seminary professors who are leaders in their fields with committed laity to study Bible and theology; and Perkins School of Youth Ministry, which brings comprehensive training to youth leaders. Numerous additional events are frequently available to the general public as well.
Centers
Perkins houses several centers for theological research and education in service to the church, including the Center for Preaching Excellence, the Center for Religious Leadership, and Bridwell Library's Center for Methodist Studies. In response to Perkins' geographical and cultural setting in the southwestern United States, the Hispanic/Latin@ Ministries Program, the Center for the Study of Latino/a Christianity and Religions, and the Curso de Estudio provide educational services for Hispanic ministries.
Certificate Programs
Perkins also offers a variety of programs for church staff and leadership, including certificate programs in Spiritual Direction, Christian Education, and Youth Ministry, and the Course of Study School for United Methodist local pastors.
