Austin Graduate School of Theology

Austin Graduate School of Theology, formerly known as the Institute for Christian Studies, is located in Austin, Texas, in the heart of Central Texas. Austin Grad is a private Christian seminary associated with the Churches of Christ and in conversation with all who confess Jesus as Lord.

Mission & Purpose

Austin Graduate School of Theology’s mission is to promote knowledge, understanding, and practice of the Christian faith by equipping Christians and churches for service in the Kingdom of God.

Austin Grad discharges its mission through a single focus of theological studies that is represented in its two degree programs, the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and the Master of Arts in Theological Studies, as well as through a variety of programs and activities. Courses of study provide instruction for those preparing for service as ministers, missionaries, or other vocations, as well as for university students and other interested persons who may not wish to pursue a degree. Seminars and lecture series provide continuing education for churches and church leaders. Publications incorporating faculty research extend the services of Austin Grad to a wider audience. Regular occasions for community worship, such as chapel services, place all of these programs and activities in a context of commitment to the glory of God.

Accreditation

Austin Grad is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor's and master's degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Austin Graduate School of Theology.

History

The Austin Graduate School of Theology traces its origins to 1917, when the University Avenue Church of Christ established a Bible Chair at the University of Texas. In 1975 this program was expanded with the offering of a bachelor's degree in biblical studies by arrangement with Abilene Christian University. That same year, the Bible Chair was incorporated as the Institute for Christian Studies (ICS). In 1978 an undergraduate program in ministry was initiated for the purpose of training ministers, teachers, and missionaries.

Independent accreditation was granted in 1987, and since that time over 200 students have earned an undergraduate degree and are serving throughout North America and five other continents. Graduate theological education was incorporated into ICS’s mission in 1992 when a master's degree was offered by arrangement with Abilene Christian University.

In the fall of 2001, ICS launched its own graduate program, and the Institute for Christian Studies became the Austin Graduate School of Theology. At the same time, the needs of undergraduate students continue to be met through Austin Grad’s Bachelor of Arts program. More than 100 graduate degrees have been conferred by Austin Grad. In 2007-2008, Austin Grad relocated, moving from its historic site near the University Avenue Church of Christ and the University of Texas to north-central Austin. The new location allowed for expansion to meet the needs of a growing enrollment and the addition of future programs. Austin Grad’s alumni offer Christian witness in both churches and the broader society in a variety of capacities including ministry, mission work, teaching, and business.

Austin Grad’s campus is located near several of central Texas’s major transportation arteries, including Interstate 35, Highway 183, and Loop 1 (MoPac). The campus houses administrative and academic offices, classrooms, a student activity center, and the ICS Bookstore. It also affords a large theological library with access to technology resources and a comprehensive collection of databases for religious studies. The campus has ample parking and includes space for future growth.

Academics

The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies is a 120 credit-hour undergraduate program especially suited for those pursuing a life of service in the church and for those planning to enter seminary or graduate theological studies. The curriculum includes a broad range of subjects, including Bible, Theology, Church History, and Ministry, taught by highly credentialed professors and experienced ministers.

The Online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies Degree Completion offers the major coursework for the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies in an online setting (51 hours of Bible, Theology, Church History, and Ministry). The coursework provides disciplined study of the Bible and the Christian faith, formation for leadership and service in the church, and practical guidance in preparation for real-life ministry.

The Master of Arts in Theological Studiesis a 42 credit-hour graduate program with 12-credit hours of background coursework that provides a foundation in biblical and theological studies essential to the responsible practice of Christian ministry. The MATS is especially appropriate for persons seeking specialized ministry in the congregational setting and for those wishing to enhance the effectiveness of their volunteer or lay ministries.

Spiritual Growth Programs
Austin Grad believes that all Christians are called to lives of faithful service. Therefore, along with the accredited degree programs, Austin Grad also offers continuing education opportunities for those who are not seeking a degree, including a Certificate Program and an Audit Program.

Current Faculty

M. Todd Hall – Director of the Library; Instructor; MA, Austin Graduate School of Theology; MLIS, University of North Texas
Allan McNicol – A. B. Cox Professor, Emeritus, New Testament; PhD, Vanderbilt University
Daniel Napier – Assistant Professor of Scripture and Theology; PhD, Vrije Universiteit
Jeffrey Peterson – Jack C. and Ruth Wright Professor of New Testament; PhD, Yale University
Stan Reid – President; Senior Instructor, Christian Ministry; DMin, Southern Methodist University
R. Mark Shipp – Pat E. Harrell Professor of Old Testament; PhD, Princeton Theological Seminary
Keith Stanglin – Associate Professor of Scripture and Historical Theology; PhD, Calvin Theological Seminary
Michael Weed – Billy Gunn Hocott Professor, Emeritus, Theology and Christian Ethics; PhD, Emory University

Contact Information

Austin Graduate School of Theology
7640 Guadalupe Street
Austin, Texas 78752-1333
1-866-AUS-GRAD
www.austingrad.edu

External links

• Official Site
• Faculty Theological Statement
• Christian Studies Journal
• Sermon Seminar