FLORENCE, AL— Heritage Christian University Graduate School of Theology is pleased to announce its acceptance as an Associate Member of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). The school is now seeking accreditation from the Commission on Accrediting. ATS and the ATS Commission on Accrediting accredit and support a membership of more than 270 graduate theology schools in North America. The mission of ATS is to promote the improvement and enhancement of theological schools to the benefit of communities of faith and the broader public.

HCU President Dr. Kirk Brothers shares his excitement about the historic vote. “Associate membership is one step further in the process of becoming fully accredited for our Graduate School of Theology. This membership also gives us access to a wealth of resources that will bless the university, our graduate programs, and our graduate students as we seek to fulfill our mission for God’s glory. God has richly blessed us!”

Since 1968, Heritage Christian University, a private Bible college in Florence, AL, has offered affordable and effective degrees in biblical studies, allowing graduates to thrive in their ministries without the burden of student loan debt. To help meet the need for advanced education for preachers and church leaders, a graduate program offering Master of Ministry and Master of Arts degrees was added in 2000. In January 2001, the institution changed its name to Heritage Christian University to reflect more accurately its status as offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees. In 2011, the university initiated a Master of Divinity program emphasizing small church growth.

HCU offers the following degrees: Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts, Master of Ministry, and Master of Divinity.

Heritage Christian University Graduate School of Theology exists for the advancement of churches of Christ by equipping servants through graduate programs. HCU produces effective communicators, preachers, teachers, and missionaries for real-world ministry with a focus on evangelism and a commitment to scripture.