Iliff School of Theology

Iliff School of Theology is an independent, nonprofit graduate school in Denver, Colorado, with roots in the United Methodist tradition and a student community representing many faiths and denominations. Its teaching brings theology into conversation with public life, social justice, pastoral care and spiritual leadership. This is a small, specialized graduate institution, so prospective students should compare its approach and intended career paths with the requirements of the ministry, counseling or academic roles they hope to pursue.

Degrees and academic approach

Iliff currently highlights the Master of Arts, Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry. The MA offers an interdisciplinary route through religious and theological studies, while the MDiv combines theological study, cultural and ethical analysis, spiritual formation and practical experience for leadership in religious and community settings. The DMin is designed for experienced professionals and uses a hybrid format with online study and campus intensives. Iliff also participates with the University of Denver in a joint doctoral program; that PhD has a separate admissions process through the university. Courses connected to ordination and ministry preparation are available for several traditions, including United Methodist, United Church of Christ, Episcopal, Disciples of Christ, Unitarian Universalist and Presbyterian Church (USA).

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Theological Schools, which approves its theological programs and comprehensive distance education. Review the current program requirements and ask the relevant denominational body about ordination prerequisites: a degree alone does not determine eligibility for ministry in every tradition. Iliff’s degree directory describes its study options and concentrations.

Tuition and financial aid

The tuition page currently publishes 2025–26 rates: $918 per credit for master’s degrees, or $16,524 per year at the listed full-time pace of nine credits each semester; the Doctor of Ministry is listed at $850 per credit, or $10,200 for six credits each semester. The page lists $491 in annual student fees, with some optional charges separate. Because those are 2025–26 figures, students enrolling in a later term should request the current schedule before budgeting.

Iliff says degree applicants are automatically considered for institutional scholarships, with priority generally given to applications submitted by January 31. The school reports that more than 90% of applicants receive a partial institutional scholarship; awards vary and should not be treated as guaranteed for any individual student. Its Annual Iliff Scholarship is described as ranging from $5,000 to nearly full-time tuition for eligible incoming full-time students. Other possibilities depend on denomination, program, financial need and continuing eligibility. Graduate students can also use FAFSA to explore federal loans; Iliff encourages applicants to contact Financial Aid about the current award year. See the school’s tuition and aid information and scholarship options.

Campus life and student perspectives

The campus sits beside the University of Denver at 2323 East Iliff Avenue. The school describes it as partially open: visitors may enter the lobby during regular hours, while classrooms and offices require an invitation and visitor pass. During semester sessions, the published building and library schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.; hours extend during Journey and Gathering Days and differ in non-semester periods. The lots are metered, and visitors are asked to call the front desk before arriving to confirm access.

Public student comments reflect a range of experiences, with some current or former students describing supportive faculty and a meaningful MDiv experience, while another reviewer said the program did not meet their expectations. These accounts are few and personal rather than a representative survey. They suggest useful questions for a campus visit: how the curriculum balances theology and social justice, what mentoring looks like in practice, and which degree or concentration best matches a student’s professional or denominational goals.

Use Iliff’s application and admissions page to begin an application, check deadlines or request a visit. The main campus is at 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210-4798; phone: (303) 744-1287. Street and campus parking can be limited and metered, so review directions and visitor instructions before traveling.