Seated in the nation's capital, centered in Christian faith, Wesley Theological Seminary prepares over 1,000 students annually, representing more than 25 denominations, to become exemplary teachers, preachers, and leaders in the world today.
The mission of Wesley Theological Seminary is to equip Christians for leadership in the church and the world, to advance theological scholarship, and to model a prophetic voice in the public square. Wesley is a teaching seminary and a service-oriented community. Our graduates are in ministry in all 50 states and in 20 countries as leaders of churches and other service organizations.
Wesley has come to have a strong impact through its commitment to service and to congregational partnerships. As vectors of creative, collaborative and scholarly practice, the members of Wesley's 2010 graduating class alone will minister to more than half a million people in the course of their careers. I welcome you to join them.
The Rev. Dr. David McAllister-Wilson, President | Bio
Wesley At A Glance - Mission and Ministry Statement
Founded
1882
Affiliation
The United Methodist Church
Accreditation
The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
Commission on Higher Education of The Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
The University Senate of The United Methodist Church (Board of Higher Education and Ministry)
Non-Discrimination Policy
No person who meets our admission requirements shall be denied admission or be subjected to discrimination in recruitment or educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, or other Seminary administered programs on the basis of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, or physical disability. We are working toward the realization of a barrier-free environment with adequate facilities and assistance for persons with disabilities. Wesley Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. We are in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended. Details are available in the Office of the Registrar.
Location
Washington, DC | Campus Map
Student Body
Wesley is one of the most diverse seminaries in the world. Within the community of about 500 students, 56% are women, 43% are an ethnic minority, and 38 denominations are represented.
Student Life
Clubs and organizations on campus include Association of Black Seminarians, Episcopal Student Union, Korean Student Association, Open Room, Of Sacred Worth, LOGOS, Multicultural Fellowship, Plumbline, Presbyterian Student Organization, Student Council, Unitarian Universalist Student Association, The Writing Group, Wesley Student Fellowship, and Wesley Ambassadors. New student groups are regularly formed based on the needs and interests of the community.
Residence Life
About 30% of the student body lives on campus in 2 residence halls, including both standard dorm style rooms and apartments. 2008-2009 costs are $1,925 per semester for a Single occupancy dorm room, $935 per semester for a double occupancy dorm room, $615 per month for one room efficiency apartment, $800 per month for one bedroom apartment, $875 per month for two bedroom apartment.
Facilities
Wesley is located in the Northwest quadrant of the District of Columbia, directly adjacent to American University. Wesley's campus consists of a chapel, library, residence hall, apartment building, administrative building, dining hall, faculty offices. classrooms, and community meeting areas. Wesley students have the privilege of using the library and wellness facilities at American University. Wesley is also a member of the Washington Theological Consortium which affords students the opportunity to take classes at and use the library facilities of any member institution. Wesley has long been a leader in promoting the intersection of Arts and Theology and in that vein boasts an art studio with changing exhibits and several artists in residence each semester.
Degrees
Wesley offers 4 degrees including Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, Master of Theological Studies, and Doctor of Ministry. In addition, Wesley offers a dual degree program with neighboring American University combining a Master of Theological Studies from Wesley and a Master of Arts degree in International Peace and Conflict Resolution or International Development from American University. The Master of Divinity and Master of Arts degrees include a Practice in Ministry and Mission (PMM) placement, Covenant Discipleship, and an Intercultural Immersion. Optional specialities within the Master of Divinity degree include Youth Ministry, Student Pastor Program, Emerging Ministry, and Urban Ministry. Master of Arts and Master of Theological Studies offer many options for specialization.
Urban Fellows
Urban Fellows are a small cadre of outstanding Master of Divinity students who possess the experience, calling, and potential to become future leaders in urban ministry. Urban Fellows receive scholarship funding. They have exceptional opportunities for internships with urban congregations and not-for-profit organizations, including being mentored by experienced urban pastors and leaders. Urban Fellows learn to engage a broad spectrum of communities, meeting the needs of the diverse cultures and populations in the complex neighborhood in which the program is located. The Urban Ministry program is based in downtown Washington DC which provides a unique setting for the preparation of future leaders in urban ministry.
National Captial Semester for Seminarians
The National Capital Semester for Seminarians (NCSS) is a semester-long, intensive program of study in ethics, theology and public policy. Seminary students from across the country join Wesley students in Washington, DC each Spring for a combination of classroom experience, field visits, and internships. Class seminars pose a changing array of questions in public life; exposure to those involved in policy formation, implementation, and critique; and the opportunity for hands-on experience in one of many organizations engaged in policy research, advocacy, and implementation.
Deadlines
Rolling Admissions. Early acceptance (Full consideration for housing and merit based financial aid) deadlines are November 15 for Spring Semester and February 1 for Fall Semester. Those seeking placement as Student Pastors or Urban Fellows should apply also by February 1st for fall admission. Those needing an I-20 for a student (F-1) visa should apply no later than March 1st for fall admission.
2009-10 Cost
Tuition is $475 per credit hour. Student fees are $350 for 4 or more credit hours or, alternately, $150 for 3 or fewer credit hours.
Financial Aid
Both Need-Based and Merit-Based financial aid is available. 34% of students receive Merit-Based aid.
Class Size
Introductory lecture classes average 30-60 students in size. Discussion based classes generally include 6-10 students.
Affiliated Organizations and Programs
The Lewis Center for Church Leadership
Wesley Ministry Network
Henry Luce Center for the Arts and Religion
Churches' Center for Theology and Public Policy
Center for Deacon Education
