Ecumenical seminary of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church offering theological education for ordained and lay ministry.
Memphis Theological Seminary offers three primary degree programs: Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM), and Doctor of Ministry (DMin). The MDiv is available with concentrations in Chaplaincy Studies and Spiritual Direction. The MACM offers specializations in Chaplaincy Studies, Christian Education, Methodist Ministry, Social Justice, Spiritual Direction, and Youth and Young Adults Ministry. The seminary also administers the Program of Alternate Studies (PAS), a non-degree certificate program designed as an alternate route to ordination for those unable to pursue traditional graduate theological education. All master's-level students must complete required colloquia credits to graduate.
In December 2025, the General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church approved the closure of Memphis Theological Seminary effective July 31, 2026. The seminary was placed on probation by the Association of Theological Schools in February 2026 due to insufficient financial resources to sustain its mission. A teach-out partnership with Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University has been announced to allow current students to complete their degrees. A Board of Theological Education has been established to continue administration of the Program of Alternate Studies.
The seminary is located in Midtown Memphis at 168 East Parkway South, at the corner of Union Avenue and East Parkway. The main building is the historic Newburger House, constructed in 1912 and designed by the prominent Memphis architectural firm Hanker and Cairns. The seminary maintains a library, student services offices, and facilities for theological education. It is located across town from the denominational Cumberland Presbyterian Center in Cordova, Tennessee.
Memphis Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It is authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). The seminary is also approved by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church to educate United Methodist theological students seeking ordination.