About Mark Olson, John Leland Center
Under the guidance of President Mark Olson, the John Leland Center for Theological Studies is officially a Baptist seminary, accredited by the Association of Theological Schools, but has a diverse student body, representing a variety of Christian denominations. The seminary’s main campus is located in Arlington, Virginia. There are additional teaching sites in other towns across the state. Since Mark Olson assumed leadership of the John Leland Center in 2007, the seminary has added a new degree program in leadership studies and graduated three of the largest classes in its history.
Students can train at the seminary to pursue many vocations. These include careers as a local church leader, a pastor, a missionary, and a lay minister. In addition, the seminary recognizes that individuals may be called to serve in other areas of life, including business and the arts. As a result, the Center offers a spectrum of programs, ranging from graduate certification to master’s degrees in leadership and theology. Those wishing to pursue a career in full-time ministry, for example, can seek a master of divinity.
Leland has become known as the most affordable accredited seminary in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. To make sure its programs are accessible to students on a tight budget, the seminary works to keep costs low while maintaining high academic standards.
