Ecumenical seminary forming transformative leaders in theology and counseling since 1855.
Christian Theological Seminary operates two schools with complementary missions. The School of Theology offers Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Theological Studies (MTS), Doctor of Ministry (DMin), and PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric. The School of Counseling provides Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) and Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (MAMFT). The seminary also offers certificate programs and lifelong learning opportunities including the Compelling Preaching Initiative and Skills for Flourishing Congregations. All programs emphasize intellectual rigor, spiritual formation, and emotional support.
CTS occupies 12 acres on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis, within walking distance of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The main seminary building, designed by Edward Larrabee Barnes and opened in 1966, features the architecturally significant Sweeney Chapel (recognized among Indianapolis's ten most important post-WWII buildings). The CTS Library houses over 210,000 volumes, 1,300+ periodical subscriptions, and the Congregational Resource Center. The campus includes a Counseling Center, chapel, and historic mansions. Student housing and dining options are available.
CTS welcomes graduate students from 30+ denominations and faith traditions. Application deadlines are May 30 for Fall and November 15 for Spring admission. The seminary maintains a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and provides over $1 million in financial aid annually, with 85% of students receiving aid. The community is designated Open & Affirming, welcoming persons of all gender expressions and sexual orientations. Student life includes worship, housing options, and engagement with the Faith & Action Project focused on poverty mitigation.
CTS is committed to forming disciples of Jesus Christ for church and community leadership to serve God's transforming of the world. Core values include advancing scholarship and formation, embracing diversity as a gift from God, working toward justice for all, affirming human dignity, and promoting healing and wholeness. The seminary operates as a certified Green Seminary and hosts the Lilly Endowment-funded Clergy Renewal Program, which supports pastoral renewal for congregations nationwide.