M.A.R. Urbana Theological Seminary. Urbana, Illinois (May 2022). 

Degree: Master of Arts in Religion 

​

Ph.D. Washington State University. Pullman, Washington (May 2012). 

Degree: Rhetoric and Composition

​

M.A. Old Dominion University. Norfolk, Virginia (May 2010). Degree: Literature 

 

B.A. University of Illinois. Urbana, Illinois (May 2006). Degree: Literature 

Pearce Durst serves as Administrative Dean and Associate Professor of Christianity and Culture at Urbana Theological Seminary. His teaching focuses on the intersection of theology, culture, writing, ministry, and film. Recent courses include “Theological Writing for Graduate School" and "Ministry and Evangelism in Contemporary Context,” which help students think carefully, write clearly, and engage contemporary culture. He is also developing distinctive new courses, including “Silence,” a study of Shūsaku Endō’s novel and Martin Scorsese’s film adaptation, and “Preachers in Film,” which explores how ministers, preaching, and Christian witness are represented in cinema.

 

Dr. Durst is especially committed to Urbana Seminary’s model of theological education: small classes, close faculty-student interaction, and unique course offerings that connect academic study with ministry, culture, and everyday discipleship. He values the seminary as a place where students are known personally, intellectually challenged, and formed for faithful service in the church and the world.

 

Dr. Durst’s recent scholarship focuses on the intersection of film and theology. His forthcoming book chapter, “Watching the Central Miracle with C.S. Lewis: Christmas and Xmas Movies,” will appear in Going to the Movies with C.S. Lewis: An Experiment in Film Criticism, an upcoming volume from Integration Press in Fall 2026. This work reflects his broader interest in helping students and churches engage culture thoughtfully, theologically, and imaginatively.