IGNITE Cohorts

Earn a Masters of Arts in Christian Formation (MACF) in four years at North Park Theological Seminary (NPTS) in partnership with the Pacific Southwest Conference (PSWC). IGNITE is open to Covenanters from across the country. This collaborative, cohort-based pathway enables staff pastors and lay leaders serving at local Covenant churches to complete an affordable seminary degree in a community of pastors and leaders.

The Ignite experience brings the academic excellence of North Park Theological Seminary into partnership with a “Friends on Mission” culture.

2026 Fall Launch Details Coming Soon!

The next cohort, Cohort 7, launches in Fall 2026, and applications are open through June 1 on the North Park Theological Seminary website. 

We encourage you to review the Ignite information and video available on NPTS’ site.

You're also invited to join us for a live Ignite Info Zoom Chat to connect and ask questions in real time. Register for the date that works best at Ignite Zoom Chats

Thursday, April 9 at 9 am PT

Wednesday, May 6 at 11 am PT

Wednesday, May 13 at 12 noon PT

Thursday, May 28 at 9 am PT 

Kara Sexton from North Park Theological Seminary is a wonderful resource if you have questions prior to the Zoom chat.

A Smart Way to Fund Seminary Education: Five-way Partnership

The low cost of the IGNITE is made possible because of the friendships and partnerships within the Covenant. Here is a glimpse of how Covenant entities contribute to the IGNITE student tuition and experience:

(1)  North Park Theological Seminary generously gives each IGNITE student a 50% discount off the normal seminary tuition. 

(2)  The Pacific Southwest Conference (or your home conference) is invited to contribute to help cover costs of your September Room and Board at Mission Springs.

(4)  A Sponsoring Covenant Church covers 25% student tuition ($2500* - up to 2750/annually)

(5)  The Student covers 25% student tuition annually.

*Tuition will likely increase slightly annually.

All Travel and Midwinter Food/Lodging

Travel and Midwinter food/Lodging are arranged by each student.  Churches are encouraged to consider assisting with these costs. Students travel every Fall and Spring for four years.  Midwinter is required only in year one. 

Visiting Students

These spots require a $500 investment per student/per year from the student’s home Conference (or other sponsor).  Please chat with Conference leadership about the possibility of their partnering to invest in your theological education. Please apply, even if there is a question as to the Conference’s financial ability to partner.

Ready to Begin?

  1. Talk with your Church Leadership and conference staff about their willingness to provide financial sponsorship.  

  2. Also talk with your Conference Staff. 

  3. Apply here

  4. Submit all supplemental items by June 1 to complete your application.

  5. If accepted, confirm your enrollment through the process outlined in your admissions letter.

  6. After being accepted by NPTS, watch for a contract by email from the Pacific Southwest Conference and return it by the designated due date.