The church needs you. You need to be equipped.
Southern Seminary is here to prepare you to leverage your retirement for greater gospel impact. With one, two, and three year degree options, we have the program that will give you the knowledge and skills you need in a format that works for you.
Your family is raised, and your career is complete. Those task-free days you worked for, saved for, and planned for are finally here. But have you faithfully considered what’s on the other side of all the golf you can play and all the places you plan to visit?
Churches all over America are struggling to find pastors, worship leaders, and teachers who can faithfully explain the Scriptures to others. Imagine how fulfilling your retirement can be for yourself and others were you to acquire the theological training needed to fill one of those roles?
For those who profess faith in Christ, retirement should be redefined to better serve Christ and his church in meaningful and fulfilling ways. Review the three degree tracks below to find the one that can best prepare you to finish the race well.
How Christ-Followers are Redefining Retirement
Read Their Stories
Learn how Bob, Chris, Joy, and Clay have found retraining to be redefining their retirement.
Retirement: I think it is possible to retire from a vocation, which I probably will in the next five years, hang it up from trucking. But from a ministry standpoint, I don’t think people really ever retire.
Age: 62-years-old
Degree: Master of Arts in Theological Studies, Class of 2023
Inspiration: “I didn’t know how to share my faith with people at my office. I knew nothing about what people of other world religions believe or how those beliefs compare with Christianity.”
Retirement: I have spent 40-plus years in information technology using my computer science degree. I hope to spend the next 20-plus years using my SBTS degree. My time at Southern Seminary was a blessing. It is one of the best things I’ve ever done.
Age: 69-years-old
Degree: Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Inspiration: I’ve read the Bible and heard countless sermons. But here, I have learned insights that made me wonder, “Why did I never get that before?” I love writing, so I think I will pursue writing for publications with my degree.
Retirement: You have a mission from the Lord from the moment you are saved, and you don’t stop ever having that mission. We (retirees) have more time to devote to that mission now than we ever did. My best service to the Lord is still ahead of me because I’m growing, learning and acquiring the ability to do that even better.
Age: 63-years-old
Degree: Master of Arts in Theological Studies or Master of Divinity
Inspiration: I have been a small group leader, and this brings so much to my ability to communicate the truth. Before, I was just kind of winging it, making funny jokes, and trying to be entertaining. But now, because of the education I am getting, I can express the truth about the current situation (in the culture) and our future in Christ.
Retirement: If I weren’t doing this, I’d be playing tennis, drinking a protein shake, and then turning on Squawk Box to see how my stocks are doing. But really, we are going to (Southern Seminary) simply to grow in knowledge and understanding of the Lord.
3 Ways to Redefine Retirement
Certificate in Great Commission Studies
This one-year certificate program is five courses that provide you with the foundation you need to interpret Scripture faithfully. Take courses in Hermeneutics, Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, and Applied Ministry.
Best for those who desire to:
- Better interpreters of Scripture
- Serve as Small Group Leaders
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
This two-year Master’s Degree provides comprehensive preparation in biblical and theological studies, providing you with a deep understanding of the Old Testament, New Testament, and Systematic Theology.
Best for those who desire to:
- Study the Old and New Testament in Detail
- Receive thorough training in systematic theology
- Lead specific ministry areas in your church
Master of Divinity
This three-year degree program offers the same comprehensive preparation in biblical and theological studies as the M.A. in Theological studies while also providing training in the biblical languages and extensive training in practical areas like preaching, counseling, and apologetics.
Best for those who desire to:
- Learn Greek and Hebrew
- Be equipped in areas of practical ministry
- Join Church Staff
In their own words
“Going back to school after all those years was a struggle, but I loved it!”
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
A Faculty You Can Trust
Learn from renowned scholars and church leaders who are committed to faithfully teaching God’s Word.
Meet the Faculty