Reformed Theological Seminary CHARLOTTE

Transcription

1 Reformed Theological Seminary CHARLOTTE

2 Reformed Theological Seminary CHARLOTTE Come and join us at RTS Charlotte. We are blessed to have a uniquely gifted and trained faculty who exist to train up the next generation of pastors and scholars for the church to go out from the Carolinas to the world with the timeless message of the Gospel. In Charlotte, we will equip you to... Learn the Word in depth: Study the Bible in a Christ-centered curriculum that focuses on Bible, theology, and practice! At RTS Charlotte, I was equipped to handle the word of God with faithfulness and confidence. Bradford Green, RUF Campus Minister at University of Central Arkansas and Hendrix College Love God and His Gospel: Grow in your prayer life and love for the Lord and His Gospel as you study his redemptive message expressed from Genesis to Revelation! My love for God grew at RTS Charlotte in extraordinary ways. Seeing God s redemptive plan and his Triune Nature made me a more thankful and grateful worshipper of the Living God. Live Out Your Faith: Be prepared to minister, teach, evangelize, counsel, and live a life marked by a foundation in the Gospel that will give hope to the lost and encourage the church! RTS Charlotte is a place that challenges you to grow in your faith and prepares you to take the Gospel to the nations. Lacy Larson, Ph.D. student in Religion with focus on the Old Testament at Baylor University RTS Charlotte helped train me to understand the Scriptures as the Christ-centered living foundation to my church-planting ministry. Rev. Andres Garza, Center for Church Planting, Monterrey, Mexico and D.Min. candidate at RTS Charlotte Rev. Tom Bost, Senior Pastor/Rector, Church of the Good Shepard

3 Master of DIVINITY I was taught at RTS Charlotte how to pastor people by preaching to people not pews. Rev. J.R. Foster, RUF Southeast Regional Coordinator Purpose: To equip and train students to bring the Word of God to people through preaching, teaching, and counseling the flock. Objectives of the Master of Divinity: Biblical: We believe that the Bible is the inerrant, infallible Word of God and it is the central focus in every area of our curriculum. Whether it is grounding students in the original languages throughout their studies or preaching expositionally, we prepare our students to rightly handle the Word of God. Confessional: We teach from the perspective of the reformed faith as expressed by the Westminster Confession of faith. We believe that this document most faithfully summarizes the teaching of the Bible. Practical: We train our students to bring the Word of God to bear on every area of life. Our faculty all have pastoral and ministry experience and seek to make every subject and class have some application to church ministry. Without fail, when I recommend seminaries, I always tell them to look at RTS Charlotte first. Dr. Harry Reeder, Senior Pastor, Briarwood Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, AL Get to know your professors with a faculty to student ratio of 11:1

4 Master of Arts Programs Christian Counseling Purpose: The Master of Arts in Christian Counseling (MACC) trains the Pastor or Counselor to exposit Scripture as the foundation for understanding people and helping them find lasting change. Objectives of the MACC: Biblical & Theological: With a minimum of 34 hours required in Bible and Theology in our MACC degree, we believe that the Bible shows us how to counsel in a biblical way and most effectively bring hope and change to hurting and needy people. Ecclesiological: While graduates can use their degrees in multiple types of ministry, the local church is the primary means and avenue by which we seek to equip students to counsel. Biblical and Theological Studies Purpose: The Master of Arts (Biblical Studies) or Master of Arts (Theological Studies) trains and equips the student, through rigorous study of the Scriptures, to faithfully understand and communicate the word of God in multiple contexts. Objectives of the MA: Exegetical: Through a detailed study of the books of the Bible and theology, the MA degrees build a foundation upon the inerrant Scripture to help one deeply comprehend, apply, and communicate God s transformative truth. Confessional: A thoroughly cohesive and reformed understanding of the Bible will be taught as the foundation throughout the theological disciplines of biblical, systematic, historical, and philosophical theology. Practical: Our program brings a practical component where theory meets practice, and where field opportunities are required and mentorships are encouraged and developed. Flexible: In each of the programs, electives in different areas such as Biblical languages, historical studies, and other topics of theology allow students to delve more fully into subjects and categories that will further ground them for their call in ministry.

5 World-Class Faculty Selected Faculty Highlights: Dr. Michael J. Kruger President and Professor of New Testament Dr. Kruger is the Professor of New Testament and is one of the foremost experts on the New Testament Canon. He is a prolific writer who has published numerous books, many articles and the popular blog, Canon Fodder ( Education: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, B.S.; Westminster Theological Seminary in California, M.Div.; University of Edinburgh, Ph.D. Recent Publications: The Question of Canon: Challenging the Status Quo in the New Testament (IVP Academic, 2013), Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books (Crossway, 2012) Regular Classes taught: Gospels, Hebrews Revelation Dr. John D. Currid Carl W. Murray Professor of Old Testament Dr. Currid s career as a professor and author spans thirty years in which he has written numerous books including nine Old Testament commentaries and the ESV Bible Atlas. Dr. Currid is a professional archaeologist and his expertise in the area has benefited students in the classroom and on expeditions to Israel. He has also been a pastor for the past nine years at PCA and ARP churches. Education: Barrington College, B.A.; Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, M.A.; University of Chicago, Ph.D.; NEH Post-Doctoral Fellowship, University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) Recent Publications: Against the Gods: The Polemical Theology of the Old Testament (Crossway, 2013), Ruth: From Bitter to Sweet (Evangelical Press, 2012) Regular Classes taught: Gen Joshua, Judges Esther, Hebrew I & II, Hebrew Exegesis Dr. Douglas F. Kelly John Richards Professor of Systematic Theology Dr. Kelly is one of the most respected Reformed Systematic Theologians in the world. Dr. Kelly s impressive career is found both in the written page, where he has written over fifteen books in multiple areas of theology, and in his service to the church, where he has pastored faithfully for many years. This pastoral care and theological expertise has been a blessing to his students for over thirty years. Education: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, B.A.; University of Lyon, Diplome; Union Theological Seminary, B.D.; University of Edinburgh, Ph.D. Recent Publications: Revelation: A Mentor Expository Commentary (Mentor, 2012), Systematic Theology (Volume 1): Grounded in Holy Scripture and Understood in the Light of the Church (Mentor, 2008) Regular Classes taught: Systematics 1, 2, & 3, Trinity, History and Theology of the Puritans (Left to right) Dr. James N. Anderson, Dr. Donald Fortson, Dr. Richard P. Belcher Jr., Dr. Michael J. Kruger, Dr. Robert J. Cara, Dr. John D. Currid, Rev. Kenneth J. McMullen, Dr. Rodney Culbertson Jr., Dr. Douglas F. Kelly. Other Faculty: Dr. James N. Anderson Associate Professor of Theology and Philosophy Dr. Richard P. Belcher Jr. Professor of Old Testament and Academic Dean Dr. Robert J. Cara Hugh and Sallie Reaves Professor of New Testament and Chief Academic Officer Adjunct Faculty: Dr. Rod A. Culbertson Jr. Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of Student Development Dr. S. Donald Fortson III Professor of Church History and Practical Theology and Doctor of Ministry Program Director Rev. Kenneth J. McMullen Associate Professor of Theological Bibliography and Research and Library Director Dr. Rod S. Mays Adjunct Professor of Practical Theology Dr. Mays has served as the National Coordinator of Reformed University Ministries (RUF) for the past 15 years and brings over 37 years of pastoral experience to the classroom. Education: Covenant College, B.A.; University of West Georgia, M.Ed.; Westminster Theological Seminary California, Diploma in Counseling and Preaching Recent Classes: Pastoral Ministry: Local Church and College Campus, Marriage And Family Counseling Superior Faculty: n Academically Significant: Our faculty has published more than 40 books, hundreds of articles, and has made many other contributions to the academic world. n Consistently Practical: Our faculty members are all ordained ministers and have pastoral and ministry experience. n Genuinely Caring: Our faculty has an open door policy for students and are open to meet with them over meals, prayer meetings, and personal appointments. n Culturally Relevant: Three faculty members regularly blog on their websites Dr. Kruger, Dr. Anderson, and Dr. Culbertson, Other Adjunct and Guest Faculty Include: Dr. Bill Barcley Dr. D. A. Carson Dr. Richard Pratt Dr. Carl Trueman Dr. Scott Oliphant Dr. Derek Thomas

6 engaging Community Grow in grace through a rich and loving community Student Life: Whether it s a vigorous basketball game after a full day of classes, a hastily played ping-pong game between classes, or a relaxed gathering during an on campus picnic in the fall or spring, students share both fun and fellowship as they hang out together. Additionally, spontaneous prayer meetings, faculty forums and various ministry lunches provide avenues for spiritual encouragement and mission opportunities. RTS Charlotte is a vibrant community where both students and faculty join together to grow in their knowledge of and love for Christ. Women of RTS: For our female students and student wives, Women of RTS provides fellowship, teaching, retreats, outreach opportunities, and fosters intimate friendships among the women on campus. Through these events, RTS Charlotte provides numerous opportunities for women to be mentored, build relationships, and find opportunities for growth in ministry dependent upon their calling and individual giftedness. Weekly Chapels and Fellowships: Each week, RTS Charlotte has a Tuesday chapel with professors, visiting pastors, and special speakers. On Wednesdays, we have a time of fellowship with breakfast food in the lobby. On Thursdays, we have a prayer chapel where students and faculty gather to pray.

7 CHARLOTTE The Queen City Charlotte is a southern city that has doubled in size during the last twenty years and is now home to approximately 800,000 people. The largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte is the second largest financial center in the nation. Known by its nickname the Queen City, Charlotte is an ideal setting for RTS Charlotte. Today, more than 3,000 churches, within an hour drive of Charlotte, minister to an ever-expanding population. Charlotte Highlights: n Strategic location on the border of South Carolina within a couple of hours drive to the beach and mountains n Numerous trails and parks for biking and walking and other outdoor activities n Home of professional sports teams such as the NFL Carolina Panthers, NBA Hornets, AAA MLB Charlotte Knights, and AHL Charlotte Checkers n Home of the Billy Graham Library n Home of Carowinds Amusement Park n Home of the US National Whitewater Center n Home to many family friendly destinations such as museums, nature centers, and outdoor activity centers Numerous accolades are said about Charlotte: No. 1 No. 2 No. 2 No. 4 No. 9 top 10 top 10 Best Employee Engagement Apr Forbes Happiest City for Job-Seeking College Graduates May 2013 CareerBliss Most Desirable Place to Purchase a Home Feb Nerdwallet.com of 25 largest cities Fastest Growing City Since Recession June 2013 Forbes.com Most Job Openings per Capita May 2013 Beyond.com Best Cities for Newlyweds June 2013 Rent.com of all cities Best Cities for Foodies Oct CreditDonkey of all cities

8 Alumni IMPACT Mantle Nance Master of Divinity, 2010 Mantle is the pastor of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Newberry, SC. He is a PhD candidate in theology at the University of Aberdeen. Andres Garza Master of Divinity, 2006 Andres is the leader for the Northern Mexico Church Planting Movement. He oversees church planting movements in five cities, and coaches and mentors church planters. He is a D.Min. candidate at RTS. Cynthia Ruble Master of Arts (Theological Studies), 2000 Cynthia is a missionary in Japan, where she heads a crisis pregnancy center. She regularly shares her home with pregnant women and is also helping to plant a church in her neighborhood. Matt Howell Master of Divinity, 2009 Matt is the RUF Campus Minister at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Prior to that, he served for four years as the RUF Campus Minister at Appalachian State University. Jon D. Payne Master of Arts (Theological Studies), 1998 Dr. Payne is church planting pastor of Christ Church Presbyterian (PCA) in Charleston, South Carolina, visiting professor of practical theology at RTS Atlanta, and author/editor of several books and articles. JR Foster Master of Divinity, 1999 J.R. is the southeast Area Coordinator for Reformed University Fellowship. He also has served as an RUF campus minister on the campuses of Florida State University and Virginia Tech. Alexander M. Shipman Master of Divinity, 2008 Alex is senior pastor of The Village Church of Huntsville, AL. He is currently implementing The RISE Initiative, which is a leadership development movement for African Americans interested in doing ministry in the PCA. Connice Dyar Master of Arts (Theological Studies), 2008 After graduation, Connice joined the staff of the Sports Outreach Group as a Women s Chaplain where she has served on the Chaplains Team of Joe Gibbs Racing since 2008, doing ministry with women throughout NASCAR. What have some of our recent graduates done? Global and Local Ministries RUF Campus Minister, Duke University, Durham, NC World Harvest/RUF, Prague, Czechoslovakia Church Planter, Corvalis, OR Dean of Students and Professor of Theology, Dallas, TX Missionary, North Africa Community Group Director at Redeemer Church, New York City, NY Campus Outreach Regional Director, Charlotte, NC Senior Minister, Bay Village, OH Assistant Pastor, Nashville, TN Military Chaplain, Fort Bragg, NC Further Graduate Education Baylor University, Waco, TX Catholic University, Washington D.C. Highland Theological College, Dingwall, Scotland Johannes Gutenberg-Universität-Mainz, Mainz, Germany University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa University of Saint Andrews, St. Andrews, Scotland Westminster Seminary, Philadelphia, PA

9 rts Admissions & Financial Aid partnerships or other forms of merit and need-based scholarships. 5. Transition to Charlotte: Once accepted, we ll help you transition with resources on housing, jobs, and other transitional details. Remember that the Admissions staff here at RTS Charlotte is here to help you! We d love to show y all some proper southern hospitality and welcome you to RTS Charlotte! Types of Financial Aid 1. Church Partnership: This program matches a gift of support from your church. RTS matches your church s gift up to 33% of your total tuition each semester. APPLY ONLINE! rts.edu/onlineapplication OTHER PROGRAMS: Certificate Program: Not interested in starting a full degree? This 32 hour certificate in Theological or Biblical Studies can also be used towards an MA or MDiv program. Doctor of Ministry: A flexible and thorough doctorate program that builds on an MDiv and comprises 30 credit hours. Please find more information regarding these programs on the website, or contact our admissions team. Getting Started is Easy! 1. Visit us online: We have a ton of resources online with a dynamic website of helpful information, videos, and resources for you to get to know our campus and faculty. 2. Schedule a campus visit: There is no replacement for a campus visit where we can set you up with a professor, meet with admissions, get a tour of the campus, and talk with current students! We have a Preview Day in the Fall or you can come visit us anytime during the week. To set up a campus visit, please go to 3. Application and Admission: You can easily apply online at Once complete with transcripts and references, we ll review your application and get back with you. We usually suggest applying at least 3 months ahead of anticipated enrollment. 4. Financial Aid: After acceptance, we ll go through the financial aid process with you to see if you are eligible for assistance through church partnerships, ministry 2. Ministry Partnership: This program is for those who have been or are currently involved in a ministry partnered with RTS. Such ministries include: RUF, Cru, Campus Outreach, MTW, and others. These Partnership awards usually vary from 33-50%. 3. RTS Grants: RTS Grants offer various awards based on need, international status, and more. 4. Spouse Scholarships: If your spouse is studying full-time at RTS you will qualify for this scholarship, which offers between % off tuition, depending on the degree program and scholarship. Financial Aid Application Information: Financial Aid applications need to be submitted generally two months prior to the start of the term. There is no stacking of awards, it is only one award per student. For more information regarding suitable awards to apply for, please contact the admissions team. Alternatively, please visit our website: OVER 70% of students receive financial aid The majority of students leave DEBT FREE! and this is our goal for you!

10 Visit RTS CHARLOTTE One of the best ways to explore if God is leading you to RTS Charlotte is to come visit! We d love to plan a visit where you can sit in on classes, meet some professors, interact with students, and meet with someone in admissions. We also have an annual campus visit day in the Fall. To come visit, please contact us at: TF E admissions.charlotte@rts.edu W Dear Prospective Student, Thank you for considering RTS Charlotte. If God is calling you into a lifetime of ministry, you need a place where Christ is worshipped and glorified, His Word is taught with faithfulness and depth, and hearts are stirred and renewed by the power of the gospel. You will find that here at RTS Charlotte. For over twenty years, we have trained men and women to serve Christ and His church in Charlotte, in the United States, and throughout the world. As you think about your seminary education, I encourage you to consider the following: n What You Are Taught: At the center of a seminary education is the Word of God. RTS Charlotte is committed to the absolute authority of Scripture in all areas of life, and the core truths of Reformed Theology. n How You Are Taught: RTS Charlotte is committed to teaching these truths in a manner that develops both the mind and heart. Here you will find academic excellence and hands-on training that will prepare you for any area of ministry. n Where You Are Taught: RTS Charlotte exists on a beautiful 20-acre campus in one of the most vibrant cities in the Southeast. Charlotte is a city with unparalleled ministry and internship opportunities, with over 3000 churches in the metro area. n Who Teaches You: At the heart of any seminary experience is the faculty. The Charlotte campus has nine full-time faculty committed to teaching both the heart and the mind. These are not just scholars, but also pastors. They not only teach, but they shepherd. We believe God is doing something special here at RTS Charlotte. We pray that God might lead you to become a part of it. In Christ, Mike Kruger, President and Professor of New Testament Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte Campus

11 A mind for truth. A heart for God. Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte Campus 2101 Carmel Road Charlotte, NC (800) (704) Web: charlotte.rts.edu admissions.charlotte@rts.edu Charlotte NC