Atlantic School of Theology (AST) is an ecumenical university committed to excellence in graduate level theological education and research, information for Christian ministries, lay and ordained, in church and society, primarily in Atlantic Canada. Founded in 1971, the Atlantic School of Theology is a co-educational graduate theological school for the Anglican, Roman Catholic, and United Church denominations. However, all denominations are welcome. The School is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.

AST is located on the beautiful shores of the northwest arm of Halifax Harbour. On its campus are facilities for worship, education, and residence life of students and faculty.

The School offers graduate studies in theology. Our areas of study include chaplaincy in health care, chaplaincy in the military, church history, congregational leadership, divinity, doctrinal studies, pastoral care, and theology. We also have a program for lay people.

The above rates are charged per month. Large and small single rooms are available with the lowest rates for university residence in Halifax. As a resident, you will have access to AST’s modern library, part of the Novanet system, with study spaces and public computers available for class work and/or Internet access.

At the beginning of the fall term, the Atlantic School of Theology (AST) community holds a 'Koinonia Week' to help orient new students to AST. The community also welcomes returning members back after the summer break and third year United Church students back from internship. The program involves introducing new students to the community and worship life of the School, the library system, and AST policies and curriculum. Numerous social events also serve to renew the AST community and prepare it for the coming academic year.

The AST community is made up of persons who belong to many communities. Some students live in residence, some in the city or at a distance in suburban and rural settings, some are married, some are single, there are men and women, young and old, they belong to several denominations. Many come from the four Atlantic provinces, others come from other provinces and countries. Together with faculty and staff they form a diverse group, but all share a common faith. Worship is a central act of the community. There are daily chapel services during the academic year. Music is also an integral part of the AST experience. There are many opportunities for students to participate, whether it is singing in the choir or preparing and playing music for the community in chapel worship. Finally, the School and the Founding Denominations co-operate in maintaining Formation Programs and Directors for the particular formation of both ordination candidates and lay persons.

Prospective students expecting to use a wheelchair, crutches, or other aids are asked to provide details with their application so that dialogue can take place during the admissions process. Such information is requested for allocation of rooms both for classes and in the residence.

We are affiliated with Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

For a tour of the School, please contact us at (902) 423-6939.