The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task (1 Tim. 3:1, ESV).

CTSFW offers several pastoral formation programs leading to ordination in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. The most comprehensive and in-depth program is the four-year residential Master of Divinity program, which prepares men for faithful service through rigorous coursework, a rich worship life, practical field experiences, and a supportive, fraternal community. The depth of formation in the MDiv program equips graduates to serve confidently in a variety of capacities throughout their ministry.

Additional paths to ministry, including the Alternate Route certificate program and Specific Ministry Pastor programs (English and Español), are available for students with significant related experience or special ministry circumstances. Those completing the three-year AR certificate program can also earn a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies degree if they have already earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

Whatever the program, students can expect high academic, interpersonal, and ministerial standards as they prepare for the noble task of caring for souls.