The Candler Experience is

The Candler Experience is

Candler School of Theology Experience

Truth is, there is no one Candler experience.

We’re a diverse community of committed learners called in countless ways to apply our hearts, minds, and hands in the study of theology and in service to God, the church, and the world. Each of us brings our own gifts and story, and together we weave these threads to create the tapestry that is Candler.

There’s infinite variety in the details, but if you step back, you can see patterns emerge that give shape to “The Candler Experience.”

Candler School of Theology Campus Red Pattern graphic
Candler School of Theology | Emory Advantage

the emory advantage

The first professional school established at Emory University, Candler remains at the heart of Emory’s mission today.

When this globally active, top-25 research institution creates, preserves, teaches, and applies knowledge in the service of humanity, Candler has a seat at the table—and so do you. That seat gives you access to deep, broad resources and a network of connections that enrich your studies and enliven your imagination.

Candler School of Theology | Gifted Faculty

Gifted Faculty

Our distinguished faculty could work anywhere in the world, but they choose Candler.

It’s because they share our commitment to teaching, scholarship, and serving the church. In many seminaries, you'll find one of those valued over the others, but Candler emphasizes all three.

What's more, these teacher-scholars will get to know you and you’ll get to know them—a rare treat made possible by Candler’s low 9:1 student/faculty ratio.

Background Pattern
Candler School of Theology | Teresa Fry Brown

I help student preachers find their unique voices. We talk through beliefs, we talk through theology, and we talk through background. Because God made us so different, there’s room for everyone’s own voice in the conversation.

Teresa Fry Brown, Bandy Professor of Preaching

Hands-on Learning

We make sure that what you learn here will be relevant to your future.

Whether you’re bound for ministry or further study—or somewhere in between—Candler gives you plenty of hands-on learning opportunities to clarify your vocation, deepen your understanding, and sharpen your skills.

Candler School of Theology | Hands-on Learning
Candler School of Theology | Contextual Education
Chandler School of Theology Contextual Education Video Interview

Contextual Education

Blending hands-on ministry, classroom learning, and critical reflection

For those called to ministry, our Contextual Education program is essential to the way we “do” theology at Candler.

In your first year, you’ll serve in a social service or clinical setting, such as a homeless shelter or a hospital. In your second year, you’ll move to an ecclesial setting at a church or campus ministry. Regular meetings with a reflection group made up of fellow Candler students and led by a faculty mentor round out the experience and help you connect the dots.

Just ask our students: Con Ed stretches, strengthens, humbles and affirms them, honing their skills for ministry.

Background Pattern
Candler School of Theology | Professor Ian McFarland

What do Christians teach? And why do they teach it? In systematic theology we explore these questions—and why Christians often disagree about which teachings best show faithfulness to the gospel.

Ian McFarland, Robert W. Woodruff Professor of Theology

Candler School of Theology Spiritual Life
Candler School of Theology Gospel
Cannon Cross verticalRed Pattern graphic

40 +

denominations

worship & spiritual formation

A thriving spiritual life

There are scores of opportunities to grow spiritually as you study theology at Candler. One of the most dynamic ways is through worship.

We gather on Tuesdays and Thursdays for our main chapel services, where we come together as Christians of all denominations and backgrounds to hear a word from one of our stellar faculty or a guest preacher. The diversity of our services reflects the diversity of our community, and God will reach you in new and inspiring ways every time.

Even outside of chapel, worship can continue to be a touchstone throughout your busy week, with Wednesday Evensong and Friday Eucharist.

“At Candler, I’ve been able to integrate my faith and my theological education in ways I had never imagined.”

Con Ed Mercy
Candler School of Theology Faculty
Diversity Grad AAPI
Candler School of Theology Spiritual Life

“It is life-giving to be in a place where real conversations to challenge and refine Christian theology are taking place, all within an understanding of God’s grace.”

Tiffania Willetts, MDiv '18

The Candler Experience:

it’s transformative

January 15 Priority Deadline | July 1 Final Deadline

Apply Now