Scholarship
New freshman undergrads planning to be LCMS pastors may be eligible for up to full tuition in aid.
Luther Scholar GuaranteeSchool of Arts and Sciences
Department of Theology
Pre-Seminary Studies
The path to the ministry is an exhilarating and earnest one. Our goal is to offer you the skills, knowledge, and support you need along the way.
Program Overview
The pre-seminary program provides academic preparation in the liberal arts for professional study for full-time pastoral ministry in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Following the earning of the baccalaureate degree, the pre-seminary student continues his program of study at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, or Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne.
Yes, there is immense joy in service as a pastor, but you most likely already recognize the weight of such a vocation. This undertaking requires prayerful consideration and an awareness of your own weaknesses and abilities. If you intend to pursue a Master of Divinity at seminary, this program offers you a basic overview of the Scriptures, Lutheran doctrine, and the biblical languages Hebrew and Greek. While our curriculum teaches Lutheran doctrine and our school is affiliated with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, all students who desire to prepare for the pastoral office (regardless of denominational affiliation) are welcome. Our theology faculty is made up of pastors dedicated to guiding, challenging, and encouraging you as you work toward God’s calling in your life.
Studies conclude with a senior seminar experience, which equips students for graduate studies and allows them to research and present on as specific topic of interest.
What to Expect
Pre-seminary students may choose any major, but must take at least the theological languages minor and the church work courses of Old Testament, New Testament, and Biblical Theology. Most choose the applied theology, biblical studies, theological languages, and/or Christian thought majors.
The Pre-seminary program from CUW offers you:
- Pre-seminary activities such as conferences and workshops, guest lecturers, seminary visits, mission trips and service projects
- A flexible, high-quality program of study
- A wide variety of worship and devotional opportunities
- Extra-curricular activities and spiritual life on campus that blend education with real-world experience and personal growth in Christian faith and life
- A Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world
