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 those who want to explore theological study, but do not seek a degree.  Certificates are geared to different levels of study. The Certificate in Ministry may be used to explore theological study before embarking on a Master of Divinity or Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree program, for preparation for Commissioned Lay Pastor (Commissioned Ruling Elder) in the Presbyterian Church (USA) or to develop an interest in a particular area of theological inquiry. The Certificate in Advanced Pastoral Studies is open to persons who  possess the MDiv degree and have been serving in ministry, but who desire to update their earlier education, pursue another ministerial specialty or prepare for the Doctor of Ministry degree.