On average how long does it take to finish a degree?
In general, students take between nine and twelve credits a semester. Depending on the program and level of intensity, the student tenure can range from as little as two years to possibly as long as five. The Master of Divinity program is the most comprehensive and is generally completed in three to four years by residential students.
How will my undergraduate Religion classes apply?
Undergraduate credits cannot transfer directly as graduate credits. NTS does offer Course Options and Advanced Placement for students who received the grade of A or B in applicable undergraduate classes. Course Options and Advanced Placement allow the student to have more options or even "test out" of certain degree requirements. Look under Academic Information in the catalog for a further description.
I don't have an undergraduate degree in Religion/Theology. . .can I still attend NTS?
YES! Many of our current students have undergraduate degrees in areas besides theology. For these students, preparation and adjustment to theological studies is imperative. NTS provides introductory courses to assist in this transition.
How will I pay my tuition?
Many of our students do not incur any further debt by attending NTS. Institutional scholarships are available; please view the Financial Aid Calendar for deadlines and requirements. Some students take advantage of a semester by semester "pay as you go" program called Security Savings Loan. Subsidized and unsubsidized federal loans are also available for graduate studies. It is also possible to pay for seminary without loan assistance. Many students work part or full-time and pay for their classes as they attend.
Where will I live?
Our students live throughout the Kansas City Metro area. Kansas City is a diverse city with a variety of neighborhoods communities; deciding where you will be living is an inevitable part of the transition to NTS. We encourage visiting Kansas City in order to understand housing options. NTS does not offer student housing, but we do maintain a housing opportunity list on our website connecting students to roommates, houses and apartments.
Where will I work?
There are a variety of work options throughout the Kansas City metro area. Whether you are interested in part-time, full-time, or ministry employment, there are various employers that offer benefits, flexible timing and assistance with tuition. The best known employers to offer benefits and tuition assistance are banks, UPS, Starbucks, Nazarene Publishing House, Nazarene Headquarters, and local churches. The NTS Admissions office also maintains employment opportunities list that can be viewed on our website.
What opportunities are there for ministry while I am in school?
Besides the active clubs and groups of seminary students there are numerous local churches associated with NTS that provide excellent opportunities for seminary students to minister. For pastoral and paid positions check the employment opportunities list on our website. NTS is also well connected with the Bresee Institute for Metro Ministries, the Kansas City Urban Youth Center, and the Kansas City Rescue Mission. Each of these non-profit groups provides great opportunities for experience and service.
What is the average NTS student like?
When it comes to ministry, there doesn't seem to be a typical student. NTS students come from various walks of life and from different places around the world. Some of our students come to NTS directly after undergraduate studies while others are experienced ministers wanting to further their professional credentials and degrees. Diversity of is of high importance to us. NTS admits a growing number of international students and we are pleased to say that one-third of our students are women.
What is Kansas City like?
Kansas City is a sprawling metro area in Middle-America. When in Kansas City, MO or Kansas City, KS you are never far from numerous opportunities to enjoy its rich culture and heritage. Nicknamed the "Heart of America," Kansas City is a diverse city with historic urban neighborhoods and new developments. For more information about what KC has to offer, check out www.experiencekc.com.
Where is NTS located?
We are located just off highway 71 in Kansas City, MO. We are amidst a neighborhood that provides many opportunities for cross-cultural ministry experience and orientation. Most of our students live and work within a 30 minute driving radius.
What will an NTS degree prepare me for?
Ministry. In both profession and life NTS graduates are prepared for lives of ministry. Our graduates enter into varieties of ministries. Our courses and programs are designed to prepare the pastor, educator, missionary, chaplain and teacher for service in the church. Our graduates can also be found actively ministering in vocations of social justice, non-profits, counseling, local and international development, youth and children's programs, and many more. A student's degree program will depend on her or his interests. Asking questions and seeking advice as to what program best applies to a particular student is foundational to each student's education.