Mission: Candler School of Theology is grounded in the Christian faith and shaped by the Wesleyan tradition of evangelical piety, ecumenical openness, and social concern. The school’s mission is to educate faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries throughout the world.
Candler is one of seven graduate professional schools of Emory University, a premier research institution consistently ranked among the top 25 national universities by U.S. News and World Report. Founded in 1914, Candler is an intellectually vital, internationally distinguished, and richly diverse university-based school of theology that remains at the heart of Emory’s commitments and campus.
As one of 13 seminaries of The United Methodist Church, the school has provided a home for reflection, critical study, social action, and inspiration to men and women from many walks of faith, including every expression of Methodism.
Candler offers five master’s, one doctoral, and nine dual degrees, including online, hybrid and residential options. Each degree program integrates intellectual, professional, and spiritual growth, emphasizing contextual learning alongside a commitment to academic excellence. The school also houses Pitts Theology Library, widely regarded among the top theological libraries in North America. Outside the classroom, Candler offers a community of welcome, encouraging engagement across differences. There are a host of opportunities for fellowship, worship and spiritual formation, and activities in and around our great hometown of Atlanta.
Scholarships are available to students in all degree programs. Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religion and Leadership, and Master of Theological Studies scholarships begin at 50% of tuition and range to full tuition plus stipend. MDiv students who are certified candidates for ordination in The United Methodist Church and apply by the priority deadline receive scholarships covering 100% of tuition.
Candler’s faculty value scholarship, teaching, and serving the church in equal measure—a rare combination in a research university. Equally important, they are committed to their students’ success and foster an ethos of accessibility and mentorship.
Candler students share a call to join God’s work of transforming the world. Whether that’s through pastoral ministry, teaching, scholarship, nonprofit leadership, policy and advocacy, spiritual entrepreneurship, or any number of other ways, Candler’s blend of rigorous academics, hands-on learning, and spiritual formation in a diverse community prepares them to move forward in faith and action.
WEBSITE: www.candler.emory.edu
ADDRESS: 1531 Dickey Drive
Atlanta, Georgia 30322
PHONE: 404.727.6322
DEAN OF SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY:
Jonathan Strom
ADMISSIONS AND FINANCIAL AID:
Email:candleradmissions@emory.edu
Phone: 404.727.6326
ASSISTANT DEAN OF METHODIST STUDIES:
The Rev. Dr. Brett Opalinski
Email: bopalin@emory.edu
Phone: 404.727.1351
