The student is at the heart of the Payne Theological Seminary experience. The goal of both the academic and practical dimensions of theological education is to facilitate the development of a student's social and personal theology. Both the academic and practical aspects of Payne's Master of Divinity Program together provide the theological discourse, personal and social reflection, and ministerial experience needed to service in a variety of leadership roles in the Church, the community, and the world.

The African American community is the primary home of Payne Theological Seminary. It is nurtured by the Black Church and seeks to serve it by training men and women of its ministry. Payne attracts students from many denominations in the African American community and abroad. While the majority of its students go into the pastoral ministry, the seminary trains people as chaplains, educators, pastoral counselors, and community outreach workers.

The seminary is open to qualified students of all religious, ethnic, sexual and cultural persuasions. "Qualified" presupposes a minimum of an undergraduate degree from an accredited university or college. Students are expected to achieve a level of academic competence, which will make their seminary experience an enriching one. The entire seminary program cultivates an eagerness to learn within the context of academic excellence. A student's academic life will demand the major part of his/her time and effort.

If you are considering graduate theological education, please contact us at (937) 376-2946 Ext. 201 or (888) 816-8933 Ext. 201 or via the web for a catalog and/or admissions package.