Admissions

How to apply and an overview of the costs of an Institute of Public Theology education.
Admissions Overview

Affordable, Debt-Conscious Theological Education

The Institute of Public Theology is committed to providing high-quality education without the burden of excessive debt. At just $300 per credit hour, our courses are designed to be accessible and affordable, allowing students to receive rigorous training without the financial strain common in both secular and Christian institutions. With our flexible online education, students can continue their studies while serving in their local churches and communities—graduating equipped for ministry, not saddled with debt.

Student Housing
While Institute of Public Theology does not offer official campus housing at this time, students will find a range of affordable housing options in the Cape Coral/Fort Myers area.

Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and reasonable cost of living compared to other parts of Florida (and the country), Cape Coral provides an excellent environment for seminary students and their families.

Our seminary community, including members of Grace Baptist Church, is eager to assist students in locating suitable accommodations. Whether you’re looking for an apartment, a rental home, or shared housing, local resources and connections within the church and school can help you find the perfect place to call home during your studies.

With a mix of affordability, safety, and accessibility, Cape Coral offers an ideal setting for focusing on your education and ministry preparation while enjoying all the benefits of living in sunny Southwest Florida.

Course Options
Flexible Online Courses

All of our courses are offered fully online during the fall and spring semesters, providing flexibility for students to engage with lectures on their own schedule. This format is ideal for working professionals, allowing them to pursue training without disrupting their vocational commitments. Every course is available in either the fall or spring, so students never have to wait years for a specific class. Students are also free to take as many courses per semester as they are able, making the program adaptable to a wide range of life circumstances.

Tuition & Fees

Founders Seminary is committed to being one of the most affordable seminaries in America.

We see value in not burdening our students with tremendous debt that can cripple young families and prospective churches. For this reason, Founders Seminary is heavily subsidized by the support of donors.

Tuition & Academic Fees
Tuition Fees

$300 per credit hour

Course Audit Fee

$400 per course, plus $50 application fee

Technology/Online Learning

Logos Student Fee /Digital platforms fee (this will be issued upon an approved application)

Administrative Fees
Application Fee

$50 non-refundable fee for processing admission applications

Registration Fee

$50 fee covers administrative costs associated with course enrollment

Late Registration Fee

$100 fee charged for registering after the regular enrollment period

Add/Drop Fee

$50 fee is applied for changes to course schedules after the second week of the course

Library Fee

Supports access to seminary libraries, databases, and research tools

Graduation Fees

This is a variable cost for qualified graduates. It covers the cost of processing graduation applications, diplomas, and ceremonies. May include the following (this list of fees varies from semester to semester and will be emailed to prospective graduating students at the beginning of their final semester):

Cap and Gown Fee

For the regalia for commencement

Transcript Fee

One-time fee for issuing final transcripts (or additional copies)

Diploma Fee

For the physical diploma and folio

Diploma Mailing Fee

For students who do not attend the graduation ceremony

Ceremony Gift

A gift from the institution (not mandatory)

Tuition & Fees

Affordable, Debt-Conscious Theological Education

Tuition & Academic Fees
Tuition Fees

$300 per credit hour

Course Audit Fee

$400 per course, plus $50 application fee

Technology/Online Learning

Logos Student Fee /Digital platforms fee (this will be issued upon an approved application)

Administrative Fees
Application Fee

$50 non-refundable fee for processing admission applications

Registration Fee

$50 fee covers administrative costs associated with course enrollment

Late Registration Fee

$100 fee charged for registering after the regular enrollment period

Add/Drop Fee

$50 fee is applied for changes to course schedules after the second week of the course

Library Fee

Supports access to seminary libraries, databases, and research tools

Payment-Related Fees
Late Payment Fee

Penalty for overdue tuition or other charges.

Returned Check Fee

Applied if a check payment bounces.

Graduation Fees

This is a variable cost for qualified graduates. It covers the cost of processing graduation applications, diplomas, and ceremonies. May include the following (this list of fees varies from semester to semester and will be emailed to prospective graduating students at the beginning of their final semester):

Cap and Gown Fee

For the regalia for commencement

Transcript Fee

$10 one-time fee for issuing final transcripts (or additional copies)

Diploma Mailing Fee

For students who do not attend the graduation ceremony