Theology Major

Introduction

The Theology major stands at the heart of MTU’s proud tradition, continuing the legacy it began in 1887 as Korea’s first theological institution. Founded with just eight students, the university has grown into a leading center of theological education, nurturing countless leaders who have shaped the nation’s spiritual and social history. Among its alumni are prominent figures of the Korean independence movement and faithful servants who continue to respond to the needs of the church and society.

Carrying this legacy forward, the Theology Major continues to offer dynamic theological education that meets the challenges of an ever-changing world. The program continues MTU’s tradition of nurturing thoughtful and compassionate Christian leaders.

Educational Objectives

    1. Training Professional Pastors Serving the Methodist Church

The primary goal of the Theology major is to prepare dedicated pastors for the Korean Methodist Church. Grounded in the university’s threefold educational ethos—Piety, Scholarship, and Practice—the program equips students to grow through biblical and experiential faith formation, an ecumenical understanding of the church, and the development of leadership skills for building Christian communities.”




Through balanced, biblically grounded theological training, students are formed into spiritually mature leaders equipped to guide congregations in sound, faithful ministry. Their ecumenical formation ensures openness and balance between differing theological traditions, enabling healthy and transformative pastoral leadership

2. Forming Intellectual and Moral Leaders for the Nation and Society

The major also aims to cultivate leaders who serve the nation and society with wisdom, integrity, and courage. Such leadership is built on disciplined prayer, rigorous academic study, and active engagement in ministry practice. This goal aligns with MTU’s broader commitments to fostering dialogue between tradition and contemporary scholarship, serving humanity, and promoting peace and life beyond denominational and social boundaries

3. Equipping Spiritual Leaders To Serve the Global Church

Finally, the program seeks to raise leaders who embody a global vision of ministry. Many MTU graduates now serve as missionaries, pastors, and church leaders worldwide—including bishops of the United Methodist Church in the United States. This global reach reflects MTU’s continuing mission to prepare leaders who faithfully serve Christ’s Church throughout the world

Curriculum Overview

The Theology major offers a combination of required and elective courses to provide both breadth and depth in theological education. Students develop a balanced understanding of biblical, historical, and practical theology while gaining exposure to related fields such as philosophy, psychology, and language studies




The curriculum is continually updated to meet the needs of the 21st•century church, emphasizing intercultural awareness, global engagement, and spiritual formation. Courses in English, German, and other modern languages are provided to prepare students for advanced theological study and international ministry

Academic Vision

Grounded in MTU’s century long commitment to Christian scholarship and ministry, the Theology Major prepares students to serve the church, inspire their communities, and lead with spiritual insight. The program combines rigorous academic study, spiritual formation, and practical ministry to equip leaders who embody both deep faith and intellectual excellence, preparing graduates to serve as pastors, theologians, and missionaries in Korea and around the world.

Career Pathways

Ordained Pastor in the Korean Methodist Church (after completing the two-year graduate program)



• Missionary service in domestic and international contexts.
• Worship and Music Minister
• Cultural Ministry Specialist
• Christian Journalist or Media Professional
• Advanced Study Abroad at leading theological and graduate institutions