The mission of Houston Graduate School of Theology is empowering spiritual leadership through the intellectual, spiritual and vocational development of men and women in order to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. Founded in 1983, HGST is an independent, evangelical, multicultural, and ecumenical seminary, training students from more than 30 denominational traditions. HGST is fully accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS), the leading accrediting agency for theological higher education. HGST offers five degree programs: Master of Arts in Counseling, Master of Christian Ministry, Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, and Doctor of Ministry. Certificate Programs are available in Biblical Languages, Christian Spirituality, Missional Leadership, and Spiritual Direction. HGST is the leading provider of theological education in Houston and Southeast Texas, offering more course options at different times, in each of its full terms, than any other school. Numerous other courses are available in summer and special “mini” terms. HGST's student body is a model of ethnic and racial diversity, reflecting the complex population of Houston itself.