San Francisco Theological Seminary degree programs are rooted in the Reformed tradition, a tradition renewed daily through dialogue, inquiry, and critical reflection. SFTS offers a theological education that is grounded in Scripture and the heritage of the faith. Yet it is also an education in touch with the issues affecting contemporary ministry and the lives of people in today's world.

For students who wish to prepare for careers in theological teaching or research, SFTS, in conjunction with the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, offers three academic graduate degree programs. These programs are designed to develop and demonstrate research and teaching competence in specific theological disciplines or sets of disciplines.

Certificate programs are designed for students who want to explore theological study for a year before embarking upon a degree program. For some, this is a discernment opportunity, while others may use these programs to enhance and complement learning.