University of Dubuque Theological Seminary Welcomes Largest Incoming Master's Level Spring Class

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary welcomed a wealth of experience and knowledge among its incoming master's level students this semester.

Fifteen students from nine states began their journey towards a master of divinity, master of arts in ministry, master of arts in reformed theology, and master of arts in mission and discipleship degrees. It is UDTS' largest incoming master's level spring semester class in a generation.

"This spring class is rich in church service and experience with nearly 70% already serving on church staff or providing pulpit supply preaching for churches. We have students who have been pastors for many years, students who have served the larger church at denominational and international levels, and students who bring gifts from their rich life experience in corporate and non-profit worlds," said Rev. Krista Denne, MDiv, director of seminary admission. "The experience they will bring to the classroom will be enriching for all of us as we grow together in community. We are excited to welcome these new students and walk with them in the coming years as they say 'yes' to God in this season of their lives."

UDTS is committed to preparing church leaders for the needs of the church today. This attention to building competencies that serve the church was represented in the 100% pass rate for UDTS students who wrote exams in the fall and winter in polity, theology, worship, and Biblical exegesis.

"UDTS is church-facing, meaning that we provide education and formation with the ministry of church in mind and heart," said Rev. Beth McCaw, DMin, dean of the seminary and vice president of the university. "This call is particularly demanding in these days of great change in congregations and the world. It is encouraging to receive affirmations that our students are learning, and answering their vocations, with strength."

A vibrant student body rooted in faith was important to Chelsea Nave, a master of arts in ministry student from Portland, Oregon, who started classes spring semester.

"I chose UDTS because I like the idea of it being a big tent that encompasses people from all different backgrounds," she said. "... UDTS' remote learning option and the generous financial aid available made going to the seminary possible for me. When I met with the director of admission, as well as my mentor, they both offered to pray for me. I really appreciated their prayers and their example of living their faith. I found the UDTS community very welcoming and supportive."

Angel Ortiz, a master of divinity student from Homestead, Florida, first learned about UDTS from an alumnus who shared it was the only seminary he knew of that provides flexibility to study remotely all the way from Florida to Iowa.

"I always resonated with the way UDTS comes out to encounter with us as we continue this journey of discernment," Ortiz said. "As my first week has finished, it is clear to me God led me to the correct place."

UDTS' leaders have listened to those in the church and responded with creative models, degrees, and certificates that meet the needs of those being equipped for service.

The seminary's distance program operates asynchronously with weekly rhythms allowing students to remain in contexts, careers, or church service while they learn. Students have touchpoints with virtual office hours, hybrid worship in Monday chapel, and an August residency.

Flexibility is also found in the seminary's residential program for those who choose to commute or live on campus with the chance to meet face-to-face on Mondays and gather for prayer, fellowship, and worship.

"Our sister seminaries are also seeing growth right now," Denne said. "I believe this can be attributed to many things, but the most important is that God is stirring leaders to answer a call to ministry and people are willing to respond."