San Francisco Theological Seminary is an institution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and a member of the Graduate Theological Union, devoted to graduate theological education in the Reformed tradition. SFTS seeks to prepare women and men of many racial and ethnic backgrounds to serve God in the ministry of the Church of Jesus Christ and, through that leadership, to serve the entire human community. The Seminary's purpose is to lead and assist the whole church for its ministry to the world.

The Seminary's 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.

SFTS is a community of faith whose outreach extends far beyond its campus in San Anselmo. It seeks to provide support for local churches and agencies active in public affairs throughout the West. The Seminary's affiliation with the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, one of the largest consortiums of seminaries in the nation, provides an ecumenical context in which to explore diverse religious views and traditions. This relationship offers SFTS students unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.

SFTS degree and non-degree programs are open to women and men of all Christian traditions. The diversity of the faculty and student body, representing many denominations, nationalities, and ethnic origins, is one of the Seminary's strengths.