Located in St. Louis, Concordia Seminary is a division of The Lutheran Church, serving the church and individuals by providing theological education and leadership centered in Christian faith. The seminary was founded in 1936. It is approved by the Association of Theological Schools, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and Commission of Institutions of Higher Education. It offers various academic programs, such as master s degrees in deaconess studies, divinity, theology, philosophy and secret theology program. It also offers certificate and doctoral programs in theology. The seminary operates the Center for Hispanic Studies, Deaf Institute of Theology, Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology and Cross Cultural Ministry Center. It also provides distance education programs. The seminary offers financial aid, counseling and on-campus housing facilities to students.