Lenoir-Rhyne University and Southern Seminary exploring partnerships
Sat Aug 28 2010
The boards of Lenoir-Rhyne University and Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary (LTSS), along with the ELCA, will be conducting a feasibility study to determine possible partnerships between the two Carolina institutions that will enable each to draw upon the academic and theological strengths of the other and will serve a broader audience.
Preliminary discussions recently began when it became clear that the two institutions had similar goals. The possible partnership would allow each school to capitalize on its unique strengths to provide the best theological education in the South. For example, LRU offers numerous professional programs and several master’s degree programs. LTSS offers theological studies and a variety of contextual learning experiences. By bringing these skills together students would have many more opportunities for advanced study. “We are fortunate that both of these institutions are excelling in their respective areas,” stated Wayne Powell, LRU president. “And because of this we are excited about exploring cooperative agreements to provide the best theological education in the south.”
Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary is located in Columbia, South Carolina. LTSS was established in 1830 with the intention of training ministers and imparting Christian education for Lutheran Churches in the South. The seminary is situated on a 17-acre campus. Sacred theology, religion, divinity and ministry are some of the areas of study offered at the seminary. LTSS also offers programs on military chaplaincy, Baptist studies and Methodist studies. LTSS has approximately 155 students with almost half that number over the age of 40.
Lenoir-Rhyne University enrolls over 1850 students in undergraduate and graduate programs. Every student is encouraged to rise up and make a difference in their vocations, in their community and in service to the world beyond. The university offers 57 undergraduate majors and 7 graduate degree programs.
