ANCHORED IN A VIBRANT LOCAL CHURCH

One of our most distinct advantages is that we are embedded in a local church, allowing students the opportunity to both study under world-class academics and to learn valuable, practical ministry skills and real-world lessons inside a vibrant church. Students are able to benefit personally as well as serve in an environment where servant leadership is modeled.

EXPOSITORY PREACHING

When the Apostle Paul told Timothy to “preach the word,” it wasn’t a suggestion, but a command. To preach the word of God is to deliver the message of God directly from His heart to ours. Among numerous God-designed benefits, expository preaching protects the flock from being shaped into the image of the preacher, conveying instead the image of Christ. Anything less than expository preaching isn’t just laziness – it is tantamount to defiance.

DISPENSATIONALIST

STS stands out for its commitment to dispensationalism as the proper method for interpreting scripture. We believe this approach, characterized by its fidelity to the Bible’s integrity and respect for its divine authorship, provides unparalleled consistency. Contrary to being a predetermined lens, dispensationalism emerges naturally from a rigorous, literal, and grammatical-historical reading of the Bible. This unwavering commitment shapes every aspect of our educational experience, from the classroom instruction to the theological positions we espouse. Learn more here.

CHURCH PLANTING INITIATIVE

Theological training, practical coaching, and financial provision define the goals of Shepherds’ dedication to reaching communities with new or revitalized churches. Two major graduate degree programs give students all the theological and practical training needed under the guidance of experienced pastoral faculty who have effectively practiced church planting and revitalization in communities throughout the US and overseas.

3-YEAR MASTER OF DIVINITY DEGREE

The 3-Year MDiv cohort program is an accelerated pastoral ministry program offering a comprehensive curriculum that equips students for ministry. Students will learn the biblical languages, explore scripture from beginning to end, and gain a systematic understanding of Christian doctrines. The program also delves into the practical aspects of ministry, teaching the principles and practices of teaching, counseling, and discipleship. Graduates will leave with the foundational knowledge and versatile skills needed to serve effectively in any ministry setting.

ONE-YEAR MASTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES DEGREE

In one calendar year, students in our one-year master’s program are given a firm foundation in understanding and living out the Bible. Our one-year format makes theological training available to future teachers and for men and women of all professions. It is available at our teaching sites in Laramie, WY, and Bryan, TX.

ISRAEL INITIATIVE

Our Shepherds faculty host a study trip to Israel with the specific intent of not only educating each student about Israel . . . but educating them in Israel. Our generous donors have made it possible for Shepherds to underwrite the land costs and most meals for the Israel Initiative, leaving students with only minimal costs for lunches, snacks, and souvenirs.

LOW TUITION

Our desire is to offer fully-accredited graduate degrees without adding debt to our students’ undergraduate debt. We deliberately keep tuition low and offer a number of excellent scholarships, along with tuition Grant-in-Aid for qualified students. We are also approved for Title IV funds and for military and veterans benefits.

LIVE SYNCHRONOUS DISTANCE LEARNING

With the advent of online education, many schools offer programs that create a disconnect between faculty and students, and between the students themselves. Live synchronous distance education provides a learning environment that allows the same interactions as would be found in a residency-based classroom. Such interactions provide an opportunity for faculty mentoring as well as effective education.

FULLY ACCREDITED BY ATS

Shepherds is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in the United States and Canada.

Shepherds Theological Seminary was birthed in the local church in 2003 by Stephen Davey, pastor/teacher of The Shepherd’s Church with the vision “. . . to produce a generation of servant leaders who are equipped for effective ministry within their local church, and to prepare those who will serve vocationally as pastors, teachers, global workers, educators, and ministry leaders.” Over the years, Shepherds has grown from a handful of graduate students in one degree program to a vibrant accredited seminary now offering seven degrees and three diploma studies. Our graduates are serving Christ and His church in 22 countries abroad as well as 34 states here in our own country. We remain a local-church-based seminary with a passion to train the minds, impact the hearts, and prepare the hands of our students for the calling of God in their lives.