students in class

Threshold

Threshold

 

At Western Seminary, we believe that theological education ought to involve transformation of the heart, as well as of the head. This kind of spiritual transformation requires a learning community—peer relationships forged in the process of working through difficult questions. It also requires mentorship from a faculty of experienced ministry practioners. 

That's why we created Threshold. 

Threshold is a unique, weeklong opportunity for students to complete one or more in-person courses at our Portland Campus. It is offered every semester and is especially designed to provide community and mentorship for students who might not live in Portland. 

Flexible Course Design

Students can take several classes at Threshold. Each class runs for two or four days, depending on the number of credits (see below). Classes meet each day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Although class time is limited to these days, coursework is spread out across the entire semester.

Here is a sample Threshold schedule:

 

An Enriching Seminary Experience

woman in class

Flexibility

Come to Portland for only a short period of time and receive the rich benefits of in-person learning. 

 students eating lunch

Community

Develop relationships with other ministry leaders as you engage in class and enjoy meals together.

 Professor Stephen Stallard chats with students

Mentorship

Be mentored by our faculty—ministry practitioners with a pastoral heart to serve students.

Summer 2024 Courses

Dates Course Credits Professor
June 3–4 ML506—Ministerial Ethics 2 John Kwak, PhD
June 3–6 TH503—Theology III: Living as the Community of the Spirit 4 Todd Miles, PhD
June 5–6 BT502—Understanding Biblical Theology 2 Josh Mathews, PhD
June 7–8 ML510—For the Life of the City: Reimagining Urban Ministry (promo video) 2 Stephen Stallard, PhD

Planning for future semesters? View our 3-year Threshold Rotation Schedule.

Meals

MealsWestern provides lunch to Threshold students on Monday through Thursday. We also host two dinners and provide breakfast and snacks on certain days. Check out the Spring 2024 Schedule for details!

Accomodations

Although Western does not offer on-campus housing, we can help connect you with several options in the Portland area, including staying with a Western family or sharing an Airbnb with other students. Let us if you are interested by contacting our Student Services team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will help you find a place to stay!