Divine Word College Seminary
| Divine Word College Seminary | |
|---|---|
| Short name | DWC |
| Type | College Seminary |
| Status | Active |
| Affiliation | Higher Learning Commission (accredited) |
| Operated by | Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) |
| Religious order | Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) |
| City | Epworth, Iowa |
| State / province | Iowa |
| Country | United States |
| Address | 102 Jacoby Drive SW, PO Box 380, Epworth, Iowa 52045 |
| Website | Official site |
| Levels of formation | SVD Candidates, Other Religious/Diocesan, Women Religious |
| Degrees | Two-year degree |
Divine Word College is a Roman Catholic seminary college in Epworth, Iowa, operated by the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD), that prepares students for Catholic missionary service through education, formation, prayer, and intercultural training. It is described on its website as the only Roman Catholic seminary college in the country dedicated to this mission.
Campus and Formation
The campus is located in Epworth, Iowa, in the northeast Iowa countryside. Student formation includes SVD candidates, other religious and diocesan candidates, and women religious, within what the college describes as a uniquely intercultural community. Campus life includes housing, dining, student services, safety and security, and recreation. Regular Mass is held Monday through Friday at 8 AM, Saturday at 8 AM, and Sunday at 10 AM.
Academics
Divine Word College offers a Core Curriculum through its Department of Interdisciplinary Studies and Department of Theology & Philosophy, along with continuing education. Its Intensive English Language Institute runs an 8-week intensive English program with small classes, one-on-one tutoring, and cultural field trips. The Good Neighbor Scholarship allows students to earn a two-year degree tuition-free. The college has received full 10-year reaccreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Current Status
As of 2026, Divine Word College continues to admit students, including international students in its English Language Institute, and was accepting applications for a Music Instructor and ESL Adjunct Faculty Pool positions. Its newsletter, The DWC World, has reported on the novitiate application process for SVD candidates, students from East Timor and Vietnam in the ESL program, students serving in liturgical roles on campus, and its English Conversation Partner Program.