Opportunities for MIssion Leader Formation

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Looking for opportunities to learn, grow, and expand your theological and missiological understanding of how God is working in our world? Pittsburgh Theological Seminary’s World Mission Initiative provides the following learning opportunities for students, PTS community members, local church leaders, and anyone interested in learning more about God’s mission alongside our brothers and sisters from both near and far.

Graduate Certificate in Missional Leadership  

To provide academic and experiential training, mentoring, and skills in networking, the Seminary offers the Graduate Certificate in Missional Leadership, equipping students to engage their congregations more faithfully and effectively in God’s mission. 

WMI Conference

Every two years, the World Mission Initiative offers a conference that draws hundreds of students, staff, and local church mission leaders from all over the country for a weekend of learning and networking with national and internationally recognized speakers. Please listen and watch the video recordings from our 2022 Conference here.

W. Don McClure Lecture in Evangelism and Mission

Through these lectures we’re able to bring prominent scholars to campus for a series of conversations with the wider Seminary community. These lectures honor the Rev. Dr. W. Don McClure, a 1934 graduate of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, who served as a missionary in Africa for nearly 50 years. Join us for our 2023 McClure Lecture with Dr. Jonathan Tran by clicking here. 

Intercultural Learning Trip  

The intercultural learning trip is part of a required and intensive course Intercultural Experiential Learning (MI 310), which is offered during the J-Term and in the summer. This course consists of 15 hours of pre-trip orientation (plus preparatory readings) and 15 hours of post-trip reflection and integration. 

Valentour Fellowship

The Valentour Fellowship enables a full-time PTS student who has completed at least two full years of study by the time to travel for 7 to 12 weeks during the summer visiting various cultures and societies to research a particular topic in the global church. The award is based on a proposal that outlines the purpose and plan for travel, which must be outside the United States and includes at least one non-Western World countries. The following academic year, the student is encouraged to complete an independent study, related to some aspect of the student’s travel experience, with a member of the PTS faculty. Learn more about the Fellowship and application guidelines and read about previous award winners.

Global Internships

Are you interested in spending more time in a particular context? WMI can connect you to longer-term mission internships ranging from one month to two years. Contact Hunter Farrell for more information: .