Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary

History: Established in 1950, PLTS is a seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and a founding member of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley, California. In 2014, it merged with California Lutheran University, enhancing its academic offerings and resources. In 2017, PLTS relocated to downtown Berkeley, providing a vibrant urban setting for theological education.

Faculty: PLTS boasts a diverse and experienced faculty dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual formation. Key faculty members include:

Dr. Raymond Pickett, Rector and Professor of New Testament
Dr. Alicia Vargas, Associate Professor of Multicultural and Contextual Studies
Dr. Kirsi Stjerna, Professor of Lutheran History and Theology
Dr. Cynthia Moe-Lobeda, Professor of Theological and Social Ethics
Dr. Kyle Schiefelbein-Guerrero, Assistant Professor of Worship and Liturgy

Programs and Courses: PLTS offers a range of programs designed to equip students for various ministry roles:

Master of Divinity (MDiv): A professional degree preparing students for ordained ministry, emphasizing theological education, spiritual formation, and contextual learning.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS): An academic degree for those seeking to deepen their theological understanding, suitable for various vocational paths.
Certificate of Theological Studies: A program offering foundational theological education for personal enrichment or professional development.
Certificate of Advanced Theological Studies: Designed for individuals with prior theological education seeking further specialization.

Courses cover areas such as biblical studies, theology, ethics, pastoral care, and liturgy, integrating traditional Lutheran theology with contemporary ministry practices.

Tuition and Fees (2024-2025 Academic Year):

Master of Divinity (MDiv): $18,000 per year.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS): $18,000 per year.
Certificate Programs: $9,000 per year.
Additional Fees: Student Services Fee ($500 per semester), Technology Fee ($250 per semester), Application Fee ($50), Graduation Fee ($200).

Location: PLTS is located at 2000 Center Street, Suite 200, Berkeley, California, in the heart of downtown Berkeley. The campus is within walking distance of the GTU Library and the University of California, Berkeley, providing access to extensive academic resources and a vibrant community.

Denominational Affiliation: PLTS is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and serves as the only ELCA seminary on the West Coast, preparing leaders for ministry in diverse and changing contexts.

Additional Information: PLTS is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and offers cross-registration opportunities with other GTU member schools and UC Berkeley, fostering ecumenical and interfaith dialogue. The seminary emphasizes social justice, public witness, and the integration of faith and learning in its programs.

For prospective students, PLTS provides support in academic, personal, financial, and spiritual aspects, guiding them from orientation to graduation. The seminary welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

⭐ REVIEWS