Columbia Theological Seminary

Discover Columbia Theological Seminary, a distinguished institution with nearly two centuries of rich history, nestled in the vibrant suburban Atlanta community of Decatur, Georgia. Since its founding, Columbia has been a pivotal center for Presbyterian theological education, shaping leaders and thinkers who have profoundly impacted the church and wider society.

The seminary's journey began in 1828 in Lexington, Georgia, quickly moving to Columbia, South Carolina, in 1830, from which it draws its esteemed name. A testament to its resilience, Columbia navigated significant historical currents, including its affiliation with the Presbyterian Church of the Confederate States of America during the Civil War. It also became a focal point for intellectual discourse, famously hosting a contentious debate over the theory of evolution in the 1880s, which underscored its role in engaging critical theological questions of its time.

Through strategic leadership, such as President J. McDowell Richards' nearly four-decade tenure beginning in 1932, Columbia experienced substantial growth. After formally adopting its popular name in 1925, the seminary made a significant move to its present, expansive fifty-seven-acre campus in Decatur in 1927, positioning it within a growing cultural and educational hub. Upholding its enduring commitment to its denominational roots, the seminary proudly joined the PC (U.S.A.) following the 1983 merger and maintains historic covenants with the Synods of Living Waters and South Atlantic.

Prospective students seeking an engaging academic environment rooted in a profound history will find Columbia Theological Seminary a place where faith is explored with intellectual rigor. It continues its mission to prepare diverse leaders for ministry, service, and scholarship, fostering both spiritual growth and critical engagement with the world's complexities.