And LSTC was made for you.
Theological Education for the Church and World
At the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, we believe ministry isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is seminary. Whether you feel called to the pulpit, civic engagement, the classroom, or are on a journey of personal growth, LSTC equips you to lead in real contexts with real people.
Our students are recent college graduates, seasoned professionals, second-career pastors, bi-vocational ministers, community organizers, chaplains, scholars, and lifelong learners. What they share is a common conviction:
You were made for this moment. We prepare you for what comes next.
Multiple Paths. One Purpose.
Whatever your background, schedule, or setting, there’s a place for you here.
Residential & dual Degrees (for full-time or part-time students)
LSTC offers multiple graduate-level programs, dual-degree options, and is proud to support in-person, hybrid, and online modalities.
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Full pastoral preparation, with hybrid or residential coursework and internship.
Master of Arts in Ministry (MAM)
Practical leadership development for service in the church and beyond.
Master of Theology (ThM)
Advanced, post-MDiv theological study for academic enrichment or future doctoral work.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
For experienced leaders deepening their vocation through applied theological reflection.
Note: Our PhD program is currently paused.
Contextual Pathways to Ministry
You don’t have to leave your community to lead your community
Theological Education for Emerging Ministries (TEEM)
A flexible, mentor-supported program designed for bi-vocational and context-based ministry candidates serving underserved communities.
Synod Authorized Ministers (SAM) Development Program
LSTC’s SAM pathway equips lay leaders to serve in communities of need through affordable, contextual, and credentialed coursework—built for real-world application.
You Bring the Call. We Bring the Preparation.
No matter your background or career stage, seminary should never feel out of reach. At LSTC, we’ve built systems of support, formats that work, and programs that center flexibility without sacrificing theological rigor.
If you’re ready to explore ministry, deepen your formation, or simply say “yes” to something bigger—you’re in the right place.
