Certificate Programs

The Seminary offers three certificate programs for those interested in theological education but do not meet the education requirement for the master's programs or do not wish to pursue the full degree.

Pneuma Spiritual Direction and Leadership Program

Pneuma is a two-year, ecumenical program in spiritual direction and spiritual leadership at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. It offers educational and supervised training of pastors and laity in the dynamics of the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius Loyola while engaging in Reformed, Catholic, and other diverse theological perspectives on growth in faith and the Christian life.

Spiritual Formation

One of the most significant programs the Continuing Education Office supports is the Spiritual Formation Certificate Program. Started 10 years ago, this cooperative program with Columbia (Georgia) and Austin (Texas) Seminaries has offered more than 600 laypersons and pastors the opportunity to enter more deeply into the life of the Spirit.
Completion of this challenging program involves participation in an Immersion Week Experience, six elective courses, a practicum, and a pilgrimage. Scheduled for five days, from Sunday evening through noon on Friday, the Immersion Week and the electives offer the possibility of in-depth study, prayer, and reflection with a group of like-minded journeyers.

Christian Leadership Certificate

The Christian Leadership Certificate Program is a two-year open enrollment program designed to empower faith-based leadership from all walks of life, regardless of past academic achievement. All that is required for admission is a high school diploma or GED. Individuals must complete 18 seminars and provide proof of a minimum of 180 hours of volunteer community service. Past recipients of the Metro-Urban Institute Christian Leadership Certificate seeking under-graduate degrees have successfully transferred their coursework to a variety of colleges and universities across the country for academic credit.