So You're Thinking about Going to Seminary: An Insider's Guide

by Derek Cooper

I think I want to go to seminary, but is seminary right for me? What is seminary like? How do I figure out where to go? If you or someone you know or counsel is asking these questions, this book is for you. A true insider, Derek Cooper answers the questions of anyone considering or just starting seminary. He explains what seminary is, how to research and choose the right school, what the different degrees entail, how to pay for it, the meaning of different theological terms, and what to expect once you arrive. The only book of its kind, this engaging, insightful, and user-friendly guide will help prospective students make wise choices and beginning students overcome uncertainty as they begin this life-changing experience. EXCERPT Theological education has actually changed considerably over the past few decades from the traditional classroom full of men wearing ties and slacks to the contemporary classroom full of women and men dressed in shorts and sandals. Although there still are many traditional schools available to you--if that is your persuasion--it is not necessarily your parents' seminary any more. This is because seminary education has evolved like everything else with the changing culture in North America. Seminaries in the twenty-first century differ in many ways from seminaries of the twentieth-century--which is one reason why a guide to seminary is now necessary.

Genres: Christian

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

About the author

Derek Cooper (PhD, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia) is associate professor of world Christian history at Biblical Theological Seminary. He is the author of several books, including Exploring Church History and Christianity and World Religions: An Introduction to the World's Major Faiths, and he is the coeditor of the Reformation Commentary on Scripture volume on 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, 1-2 Chronicles.

Reviews

[Antonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the time I read this book, I was seriously contemplating packing up everything and heading straight to seminary. Since I was unclear on where to go, I decided to educate myself before jumping right in, sort of speak. For some people jumping right in might work, but for others decisions need to be thought out, thoroughly.

This book helped me to do that. It explained the differences on what some institutions offer and what others don't. It also helped me to understand my decision on where I go could determine not only my path in ministry, but most importantly my walk with Christ. Very informative book, and I highly recommend it if you're thinking about attending.

God Speed.

[C.H.E. Sadaphal · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of the selection and application process to seminary. A number of the chapters detail concepts that are common sense but unless you have a wise mentor, the book will pose questions the average person would not consider.