Overview
Luther Rice Seminary & University was founded in 1961 by Dr. Robert G. Witty, who created the founding charter for the school and recruited pastors to act as its initial faculty. The school began in Jacksonville, FL, and quickly added students and faculty members; in 1988, Luther Rice constructed new facilities in Lithonia, Georgia and relocated its campus. The school currently specializes in distance education, and offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in religion, theology, and ministry-related areas.
Student Appeal
Luther Rice Seminary and University has the mission of developing 21st century Christian leaders, through Biblical values and a number of core theological competencies. The school's academic programs include course work in religious interpretation, theological understanding, and pastoral leadership, as well as liberal arts areas and communication skills.
Accreditation
Luther Rice has national accreditation through the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Commission.
School Facts & Figures
- Accreditation: Regional, TACCSAC
- Size: Medium (1,000-10,000 students)
- Type: Private Not-for-Profit, 4-Year
- Religious Affiliation: Christian
- Academic Affiliation: N/A
- Career Services: Yes
- Course Schedule: Mini-semester, 8 Weeks
- Credit Options: Transfer
- Scholarships Offered: Yes
- Loans Offered: Direct Stafford Loans, Direct PLUS Loans
- Bachelor of Arts in Religion - Biblical CounselingBachelor of Arts in Religion - Biblical Counseling
This degree combines courses in general education areas, theology and Bible study, and ministry topics. Upon completing the program, students will have a working knowledge of Christian theology, Biblical counseling, and Biblical interpretation.
- Bachelor of Arts in Religion - Christian WorldviewBachelor of Arts in Religion - Christian Worldview
This degree program is aimed at individuals who would like to enter a career in church service or other ministry work. Students learn liberal arts topics like world civilizations, physical science, and natural science, as well as Biblical and theological principles.
- Bachelor of Arts in Religion - MinistryBachelor of Arts in Religion - Ministry
This degree combines liberal arts, ministry skills and strategies, and theological and Christian study. It is designed for individuals who would like to become Christian educators or ministry leaders.
- Master of Arts in ApologeticsMaster of Arts in Apologetics
The master's in apologetics combines 18 credit hours in general theological core areas and 18 credits in apologetics. Courses in areas like systemic theology, ethics, logic, and world religions prepare graduates to defend the Christian faith.
- Master of Arts in Biblical CounselingMaster of Arts in Biblical Counseling
Lay counseling and advising congregation members is an important aspect of a career as a minister or pastor. This program covers counseling methodology, as well as Biblical and theological topics.
- Master of Arts in Christian StudiesMaster of Arts in Christian Studies
This program approaches Christianity from multiple angles; students learn historical, theological, and Biblical takes on the Christian faith. Course work covers subjects like the Old and New Testament, church history, and values and ethics.
- Master of Arts in LeadershipMaster of Arts in Leadership
Non-ministers and pastors in areas of church leadership may find a good fit in this degree program. The degree is comprised of six theological foundational classes, along with six courses in leadership skills.
- Master of Divinity - Ministry TrackMaster of Divinity - Ministry Track
This 90 credit hour program combines courses in core divinity topics, historical studies, and ministry. Students graduate with the ability to interpret the Bible, communicate Biblical teachings, and develop church ministries.
- Master of Divinity - Apologetics TrackMaster of Divinity - Apologetics Track
Individuals with an accredited religion or theology bachelor's program may be able to transfer in 60 credits to this master's degree, in order to finish the program in 2.5 years. Courses discuss apologetics issues like ethics, logic, and non-traditional beliefs, as well as church history and ministry.
- Master of Divinity - Military Chaplaincy TrackMaster of Divinity - Military Chaplaincy Track
This degree program prepares graduates to become chaplains in the U.S. military, as defined by the requirements of the Department of Defense. Classes in Biblical counseling, crisis management, and strategic planning prepare graduates for this unique profession.
- Doctor of MinistryDoctor of Ministry
The doctoral program in ministry requires students to complete a major ministry project, as a prerequisite to graduation. Students also complete courses in research and writing, theology, and Biblical exposition.