United Methodist theological seminary at SMU offering rigorous graduate programs in ministry, theology, and sacred music.
Perkins offers graduate degree programs including Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Arts in Ministry (M.A.M.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Master of Sacred Music, Master of Theology (Th.M.), Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.), Doctor of Pastoral Music, and Ph.D. in Religious Studies (in cooperation with SMU's Dedman College). Students may concentrate in African American Church Studies, Anglican Studies, Church/Nonprofit Management, Hispanic Studies, Pastoral Care, Social Innovation and Nonprofit Engagement, Urban Ministry, and Women's and Gender Studies. The school emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and spiritual formation.
Bridwell Library is a premier theological research institution with over 370,000 volumes, including 50,000+ rare printed books from the 15th–20th centuries, manuscripts from John Wesley and early Methodist figures, over 1,100 incunabula, and manuscripts dating to the 2nd century CE. Since 2021, it houses the World Methodist Museum. In 2024, Bridwell received a major Lilly Endowment grant to establish a historic paper-making studio and printing press lab, opening in 2027. Perkins Chapel and the Habito Labyrinth are also on campus.
Perkins welcomes students from across the globe responding to their call to ministry. The school offers hybrid and online degree options, including a Houston-Galveston extension program. Ninety-eight percent of master's degree-seeking students receive scholarship assistance, with an average annual award of $14,310 to full-time, degree-seeking students. Scholarship notification typically arrives within three weeks of completed application submission.
Perkins cultivates a diverse, faith-centered community with devoted faculty and collaborative student life. The school operates specialized centers and programs including the Baptist House of Studies, Black/Africana Church Studies, Center for Preaching Excellence, Center for World Methodism, and the Perkins School of Youth and Children's Ministry. Global theological education immersions and the Perkins Intern Program provide experiential learning opportunities aligned with the school's commitment to ethical leadership and faithful service.