Global Partnerships

We are a global learning community that weaves cross-cultural experiences into the fabric of our mission to serve humanity and all creation.

At Central Seminary, we are a global learning community that weaves cross-cultural experiences into the fabric of our mission to serve humanity and all creation. Students who live outside the United States can study at our campus locations or participate in online education program options for those who prefer to remain in their home country. These global connections have a positive impact on theological institutions and ministries around the world, creating valuable experiences that educate and shape everyone involved.

Central Seminary offers several types of partnerships for churches and other faith organizations all over the world. Our academic programs benefit international students who live abroad and in the United States. Through these partnerships, we work to address issues that transcend borders while fostering education, ministry training, and institutional improvement. We welcome the influence of our partner organizations to help improve our global awareness and intercultural competencies. Our global partnerships fuel innovation and creativity through our shared experiences with diverse groups of individuals.

Global Education

There are several ways to join Central’s community for global education.  International students who wish to come to the US can apply to one of our eligible programs.  If admitted, students can apply for a visa to study in the US.  Students who want to stay in their home country can apply to join one of the seminary’s online programs.  Institutions can review Central’s partnership categories below and begin a conversation with us regarding the type of partnership that would be mutually beneficial.

If you want to attend Central Seminary as an international student or learn how our partnerships can benefit your institution, simply fill out the quick contact form. We will respond quickly to answer your questions and provide more information.

Korean Programs

Central Seminary offers qualifying students living in the Republic of Korea the opportunity to participate in our Doctor of Ministry program offered through Calvin University. For over a decade, we have also offered several degree programs in the United States for Korean speaking students, such as: the Doctor of Ministry (Missional Church emphasis), the Master of Divinity, the Master of Arts in Missional Church Studies, the Master of Christian Care and Counseling, and the Diploma (Christian Formation).

If you are interested in the diploma and degree programs we offer for Korean speaking students, contact us to learn more.

Doctoral Program in Myanmar

Students who have earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Myanmar Institute of Theology or an equivalent degree from a theological school accredited by ATESEA or Serampore Senate, are eligible to apply for our Doctor of Ministry program offered in Myanmar. With a focus on Congregational Health, this program prepares students to lead and teach in contemporary settings and multi-cultural contexts.

Partnering with People from Burma

Central has history of educational programs for persons from Burma which dates back to the 1950s.  Recently, the seminary has engaged partnerships to offer to ministry-oriented education to students from different ethnic groups in Myanmar.

  • In partnership with American Baptist missionaries, Duane and Marcia Binkley, Central formed the Foundations Judson Communities program to provide certificate level seminars for students of Karen ethnicity.  The program has offered its seminar series in 14 different communities around the United States.
  • The Kachin American Baptist Association, the Ola Hanson Bible Institute and Central Seminary work together to offer certificate and diploma level education to Kachin speaking students.  Certificate level students can complete two years of courses to earn Level I and Level II completion.  Students in the Diploma in Kachin Christian Formation study online to enhance their biblical and theological knowledge for church leadership development.

Partnering with Institutions

There are several categories of partnerships and collaborations that we offer at Central Seminary. Take some time to review the following information to determine which program is the best fit for you or your organization. We look forward to discussing ways we can work together to further our shared mission of spiritual growth and service to humanity.

Affinity

Affinity partnerships are created between Central Seminary and other seminaries, churches, and faith organizations. These relationships are based on mutual respect and compatibility of purpose. These partnerships are completely free from legal, financial, accreditation, and other responsibilities.

Special Project

We engage in special project partnerships with other institutions for a specific purpose or activity that reflects and furthers our mission. These partnerships are sometimes ongoing but can be singular projects with no further obligations for either party upon completion of the project.

Enrichment

Enrichment partnerships are formed between Central Seminary and one (or more) institutions to engage in a program designed for the enrichment of the partner institution in specific ways. Many of these partnerships are aimed at improving learning or teaching outcomes. Most of these programs require funding, such as grants to move forward.

Academic Program

These partnerships involve a formal and binding agreement between Central Seminary and another institution to create a specific program offering. Central Seminary and the partner institution will agree on the purpose, goals, curricula, and anticipated outcomes of the program during the formation of the agreement. It is critical to ensure that these partnerships remain financially sustainable, with a clear business plan in place, as part of the approval process.

Ready to Partner with Central Seminary?

Whether you are part of a faith-based organization or international student who wants to prepare for ministry practice, we want to talk to you about your goals. There are a variety of ways we can work together to attain spiritual, personal, and academic growth while making a greater global impact. We hope to join you as you seek to change the world through your vocational journey.