Collaborative Learning

Wartburg Theological Seminary

A unique model of theological education that connects classroom and congregation. Since the fall of 2016, Wartburg Seminary has met the needs of the church for leadership formation through collaborative partnership between students, congregations, ELCA Synods, and the seminary.

Integrated Ministry & Study

Learn. Lead.
Serve.

Unlike many traditional programs in theological education, students in the Collaborative Learning Program serve in a congregation or other ministry setting all four years wile also completing coursework in a synchronous zoom distance program.

Serving in ministry from day one grounds learning in real-world experience and integrates it with academic curriculum and content, creating a dynamic, action-reflection based model of formation.

Real-Time Classroom Participation

Connected Learning

Engage Fully From Anywhere

Using the latest classroom technology, Collaborative Learners participate in courses live from their computers as if sitting in the classroom, engaging in conversation, asking questions, and sharing insights gained from simultaneous ministry work.

Building Community

Visit Campus Twice a Year

There’s no need to relocate to Wartburg Seminary’s campus in Dubuque, Iowa. Instead, students attend two one-week intensives, one at the start of each semester. These in-person gatherings foster community and connection, which are core to Wartburg’s formation process.

Leadership in Context

Learning Sites Provide Real Ministry Experience

Collaborative Learning sites provide pastoral leadership in congregations.

These may include:

Congregations currently without pastoral leadership, where students serve as synodically authorized ministers
Larger, multi-staff congregations where students serve alongside other pastoral staff

At a Glance

Program Benefits

Immerse yourself in full-time studies while serving part-time in a congregation.
Access dedicated financial aid for collaborative learners.
Engage an innovative learning model grounded in real-world ministry.
Share the full cost of education among the student, synod, congregation, and seminary.

Participate in two one-week intensives for face-to-face engagement.
Experience dynamic online learning that connects residential, distributed, and collaborative communities.
Learn while serving in a community of faith gaining real ministry experience.
Receive intentional support from faculty advisors and ELCA candidacy liaisons.

Curriculum Details ›

Get Involved

Learn More or Get Connected

For Students

Contact the Admissions Office at:
admissions@wartburgseminary.edu
563-589-0228

For Synods & Congregations

If you’re interested in being a Learning Site or have other questions, contact us:
contextualeducation@wartburgseminary.edu
563-589-0298

Forming Leaders Through Partnership

Learn. Lead. Serve.