CATS Distinctives

Thinking of pursuing a PhD or ThM degree? Interested in graduate study that challenges you academically and takes seriously your formation for a life of service? These are hallmarks of the CATS community.

CATS draws on the significant resources of Fuller Seminary’s  world-class faculty. Thirty-five faculty from across the School of Theology are directly involved in the work of CATS, and other faculty from the Schools of Theology, Intercultural Studies, and Psychology participate in seminars, directed reading courses, and dissertations.

CATS supports faculty mentors devoted to the academic and vocational formation of our students. Our faculty recognize that the cultivation of academic leaders in the service of the church involves rigorous study as well as issues of formation and discipleship.

CATS encourages a vibrant community of more than 135 graduate students. With outstanding graduate students in every theological discipline, opportunities for discussion within one’s own discipline and across disciplines is possible. In some fields of study, informal reading groups are already in place. Student initiative in cultivating these or additional groups is always welcome.

CATS provides access to the resources of the world’s largest theological seminary. With some 4,000 students, Fuller Seminary is the world’s largest theological seminary – with regular opportunities for interaction with visiting lecturers or for participation in an enormous range of activities for learning and reflection.

CATS allows for uncommon creativity and contextualization in key areas of study. The size and strength of its faculty, the flexibility of its degree programs, its proximity to cutting-edge intellectuals and practitioners, and its multicultural and international context make CATS unusually hospitable to student initiative in formulating the direction of their programs.

CATS includes a wide range of program concentrations and seminar offerings. CATS students choose to major in one of ten fields of study, and often select a minor as well. They can choose among more than twenty graduate seminars offered each academic year.