Since 1918, The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) has been crucial in improving theological studies at the graduate level. It now includes 279 schools in the U.S. and Canada, showing the vast world of theological education within the Christian tradition. With schools from many denominations like Roman Catholic and Baptist, ATS brings diverse views into theological discussions.
ATS does more than just include a variety of schools. It makes sure these schools keep high standards to prepare students for ministry, research, and teaching. The Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative, with help from the Lilly Endowment Inc., shows ATS’s push for new and better ways in education. Together with the In Trust Center, they’ve made big steps in making theology education more inclusive and aware of today’s issues.
Organizations like NAIITS and McCormick Theological Seminary have used grants to change how they teach, thanks to ATS. This helps make a theological community that’s active and open to change. The Academy for Jewish Religion’s educational videos demonstrate ATS’s embrace of other traditions beyond Christianity. Dr. Philip Dearborn’s work on special accreditation highlights ATS’s commitment to high standards for all its schools.
Key Takeaways
- ATS has been a cornerstone in theological education since 1918, continually elevating graduate-level programs.
- The Association’s network includes 279 member theological schools with diverse Christian denominations, strengthening a collective educational foundation.
- ATS is instrumental in setting and maintaining high standards of accreditation, which signify quality theological education.
- The Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative demonstrates ATS’s proactive approach to innovative and inclusive theological instruction and community engagement.
- Grants from the initiative reflect a commitment towards decolonizing theology, trauma-informed practices, and exploring public theology constructs.
- Through collaborative efforts and leadership, ATS plays a crucial role in shaping the future of ministry, research, and teaching in theology.
- Specialty accreditation is emphasized as vital for preserving the mission and integrity of theological institutions, as noted by experts like Dr. Philip Dearborn.
Understanding the Role of The Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) plays a key role in evaluating and improving theological education in the US and Canada. By using accreditation processes, ATS ensures that theological seminaries meet high standards. This boosts the institutions’ credibility and the quality of religious education they provide.
ATS affects educational policies, growth of institutions, and student success in both spiritual and academic areas. ATS demands continuous improvement, helping create environments where learning and spiritual growth can thrive. This work makes sure students receive an education that challenges them intellectually and nourishes them spiritually.
Here are some examples of accreditation processes for different theological seminaries, showing ATS’s detailed method to keep education standards high:
| Institution | Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starr King School for the Ministry | Re-accreditation Initiated | 2022 | Two-year self-study for re-accreditation |
| Starr King School for the Ministry | Scheduled ATS Visit | September 23-26, 2024 | Expected comments on fulfilment of accreditation standards |
| Logos Evangelical Seminary | New ATS Accreditation | June | Founded ten years ago, accreditation after extensive self-study from December 1997 |
| New Brunswick Theological Seminary | Programmatic Assessment | Cyclical (2024-2027) | Evaluates student learning, faculty, curriculum, effectiveness |
ATS accreditation has helped places like Logos Evangelical Seminary quickly become respected even though they’re new. Regular checks at seminaries like New Brunswick Theological Seminary make sure they keep up with modern religious education needs.
ATS’s work in accrediting theological seminaries is vital for high-quality religious education in North America. By improving educational practices, ATS prepares religious leaders to serve their communities well.
What is the Association of Theological Schools?
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) is dedicated to promoting high-quality theological education in North America. It was established in 1918. ATS ensures that seminaries and schools meet top education standards. This commitment fosters academic excellence and innovation.
ATS’s Accreditation Process and Standards
The ATS Commission on Accrediting accredits institutions and approves their degree programs. This process focuses on quality and improvement. It makes sure each school meets strict academic and ethical standards. This is vital for upholding the excellence of theological education.
The Vision and Mission of ATS
ATS aims to inspire innovation in theological education, building on a tradition of excellence. Their mission is to advance these schools for the good of faith communities and the public. This benefits everyone involved.
Services and Resources for Member Institutions
ATS provides its members with resources and services to support education. They offer workshops, seminars, and materials. These help schools achieve their educational and community goals.
| City | State/Province | Institution Type |
|---|---|---|
| Abilene | TX | Theological Seminary |
| Yonkers | NY | School of Ministry |
| Wolfville | NS | Divinity School |
| Calgary | AB | Department of Theology |
| Los Angeles | CA | Theological Seminary |
ATS reaches a wide range of locations in the US and Canada. This offers students many options for quality theological education. Each institution provides diverse and robust educational experiences.
Theological Education and Community Impact
Theological education plays a key role in enhancing both learning and spirituality in faith communities. Graduate programs in theology at ATS-accredited institutions blend scholarly study with real-world engagement. This approach prepares leaders who excel in both academic and pastoral efforts.
ATS member schools offer detailed graduate programs in theology. These programs deepen understanding of faith and church roles. They prepare students for ministry challenges and equip them for research and teaching in theology.
Educating for Ministry and Research in Theoretical Disciplines
ATS institutions’ curricula strengthen critical thinking and ethical analysis of religious texts. This nurtures advanced theological knowledge. Their programs cover systematic theology, biblical studies, church history, and pastoral care.
These graduate programs also train a new generation of theological scholars. Through research and scholarly work, like the insights shared in the 2002 ‘Theological Education’ volume, they contribute significantly to the field. This volume discussed racial and ethnic diversity in theology, featuring six thorough articles.
How ATS Benefits Communities of Faith
ATS’s dedication to theological excellence significantly aids faith communities. It provides leaders skilled in handling both church and societal issues. ATS’s work benefits various religious groups, supporting diversity and shared learning.
Schools such as Howard University Divinity School showcase ATS’s impact, especially in African-American religious education. These programs help bridge gaps and create inclusive environments. They enrich communities and promote a deeper societal appreciation for theology’s role in social justice.
ATS aims to blend academic precision with spiritual growth in its programs. This cultivates leaders who are wise and spiritually grounded. They lead their communities toward a more inclusive and thoughtful future.
ATS Accreditation: A Benchmark of Theological Quality
Since 1936, the ATS Commission on Accrediting has set high standards for graduate theology schools. The 2020 update made sure that quality assurance in theology education is strong. It uses self-review and peer review to highlight the importance of accreditation.
Accrediting with ATS means focusing on student learning and their development. In the US, there are about 90 accrediting agencies. But ATS is special because it offers accreditation for both institutions and programs. This makes it very important in theology education.
The new standards help schools be accountable and encourage creative and quality-focused teaching. They are written clearly to help with self-study and the accreditation process. Each standard highlights important values, like stewardship and commitment to the community.
Peer reviewers and the ATS Board of Commissioners are key in the accreditation process. They make sure schools not only meet but exceed tough education standards. This process considered almost 400 community comments, leading to meaningful changes. These changes balance educational quality and the need for flexibility.
The volunteer work and the ATS accreditation staff’s careful approach show it’s more than meeting standards. It’s about building a supportive community. This setup lets schools adapt their missions to their unique needs. This demonstrates that ATS accreditation is indeed a mark of excellence in theology education.
Membership in ATS: Who and Why?
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) brings together a variety of theological schools in North America. It aims to improve theological education’s quality and reach. Over 270 member schools represent different Christian denominations and faith traditions, enriching theological studies with their diversity.
Diverse Member Institutions Across North America
ATS includes schools from many religious backgrounds and denominations. This range of institutions makes the learning experience rich and prepares students for global society work. After including Roman Catholic and other denominational schools in 1966, ATS has embraced an even wider diversity.
Shared Values Among ATS Members
All member schools of ATS share common values. They focus on high academic standards, spiritual growth, and engaging with their communities. These shared values help shape missions and create places where students can grow in faith and knowledge. Being part of ATS means committing to these important values in education and beyond.
Criteria for Membership
ATS sets high standards for its members, focusing on excellent education and ongoing improvement. Schools must show they share ATS values and meet its specific criteria to join. The criteria ensure schools offer top-quality theological education and actively contribute to the community.
This overview highlights the importance of ATS member schools’ diversity, shared values, and strict criteria. Together, they enhance theological education across North America. ATS ensures its schools are ready for the future of theological teaching and ministry.
Innovations in Theological Schools Promoted by ATS
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) plays a big role in changing North American religion and higher education. It brings new ways of learning to keep up with fast changes in society and demographics. ATS highlights innovations in theological education to help its schools.
Support in theological schools is key to ATS’s work. They offer a wide variety of programs to improve education. For example, the Educational Models and Practices project looks into new ways of teaching theology as ATS moves into its next hundred years.
ATS keeps modernizing standards and policies to meet today’s challenges. This ensures high quality, good student numbers, and financial health. It helps schools stay up-to-date with religious shifts and what people expect from education.
- ATS’s new standards have been accepted by over 270 member schools. The standards grew from 610 words in 1936 to 29,214 words today.
- Doctor of Ministry programs have grown by 24%, showing more people are interested in advanced theological studies.
- With a 95% jump, ATS schools are moving to online teaching, changing how they deliver education.
ATS’s push for new degrees and online learning shows its dedication. Programs like the Master of Arts in Theological Studies have grown. This makes learning easier to get and keeps it fitting for our world.
| Year | Enrollment Trends | ATS Initiatives |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Master of Arts programs enrollment sees a 5% increase. | Introduction of new accreditation standards. |
| 2020 | Schools go completely online; 57% report enrollment decline. | Support programs for transitioning to digital platforms. |
| 2022 | Enrollment in professional degrees projected to increase by 4%. | Continued emphasis on professional and doctoral programs. |
ATS’s hard work makes its schools leaders in theological education. Its schools are well set to handle current issues and future growth.
Resources and Leadership Initiatives by ATS
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) Leadership development and Theological school administration resources are key. They help administrators deal with theological education challenges. This support encourages growth and innovation.
The Pathways Playlist stands out with episodes on real-world leadership. It highlights major developments in leadership at theological seminaries:
| Episode Number | Institution | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| 72 | Key Themes Analysis | Insight into prevailing leadership challenges and themes |
| 70 | NAIITS | Decolonizing theology and implementing trauma-informed education |
| 69 | McCormick Theological Seminary | Trauma-informed education strategies |
| 68 | China Evangelical Seminary North America | Engaging immigrant church leaders |
| 62 | Hood Theological Seminary | Financial planning proficiency, anti-racism education |
| 57 | Notre Dame’s Department of Theology | Cross-cultural competency |
| 56 | LTS | Enhancing accessibility with prior learning assessments |
| 55 | Seattle School of Theology and Psychology | Addressing mental health and trauma |
| 54 | Acadia Divinity College | Exploration of future paths in theological education |
ATS provides resources that meet current needs and prepare for future challenges. They help in managing theological schools effectively. This prepares leaders for the changing educational environment.
Leadership development is also a key focus. Grants and research opportunities, like Pathways grants, are given. These focus on multicultural leadership, technology, and partnerships. They improve management and education in theological schools.
ATS resources ensure leadership in theological education can adapt. It’s about evolving to meet diverse student and education needs. This creates a dynamic and responsive educational landscape.
ATS Member Institutions: A Closer Look
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) includes 283 member institutions globally. These schools showcase a wide range of faith traditions and educational opportunities. They aim to meet the diverse needs of students academically and spiritually.
National and International Member Schools
ATS schools are everywhere, from local areas to across the world. They include places like Liberty Theological Seminary and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. These schools are key to offering varied theological education.
Denominational Diversity Within ATS
ATS schools are diverse in their faith traditions. In 2023, this included 20% Roman Catholic or Orthodox, 34% mainline Protestant, and 46% Evangelical. This variety helps students find the right fit for their spiritual and educational needs.
Graduate Programs in Theology Offered by Member Schools
The theology programs at ATS schools cover a broad range of subjects. For example, Dallas Theological Seminary and Asbury Theological Seminary offer thorough academic and theological training. This prepares students for different paths in ministry and academics.
| Institution | Total Enrollment | FTE Enrollment | Denomination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Theological Seminary | 5,507 | 4,050 | Non-denominational |
| The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary | 3,281 | 1,866 | Southern Baptist |
| Dallas Theological Seminary | 2,186 | 1,234 | Evangelical |
| Asbury Theological Seminary | 1,947 | 1,215 | Methodist |
| Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary | 1,682 | 945 | Southern Baptist |
Accrediting and Quality Assurance in Theology Education
The ATS Commission on Accrediting ensures college programs for theology meet high quality standards. They help schools get ready to teach students for ministry jobs. This is done through detailed accreditation steps.
Knowing how well theological programs work is vital for those in this field. Data on how many students finish, get jobs, and are happy with their education shows the importance of the ATS’s work.
| Program | Completion Rate (2019-20) | Employment/Grad School (1 year post-grad) |
|---|---|---|
| MTS | 89% | 71% Employment, 21% Grad School |
| MDiv | 78% | Employed in intended field: 75% |
| ThM | 100% | Business: 5%, Law: 5% |
| ThD | 33% | Currently seeking employment: 4% |
Students’ feedback highlights the ATS Commission’s effective programs:
- 90% felt happy with their learning experience
- 96% felt prepared with skills and knowledge for the future
- 94% got better at analyzing and thinking logically
- 95% learned to understand issues in historical and cultural context
The ATS Commission on Accrediting not just maintains but also improves theological education. They push for degrees that go beyond today’s ministry and academic needs.
ATS Policies and Bylaws: Upholding Educational Integrity
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) has created detailed association bylaws and ATS policy guidelines. They aim to keep educational integrity in theology strong. These rules help make things clear and keep standards high in all schools.
Association Bylaws and Policy Guidelines
ATS bylaws and policies are crucial for theological education. They make sure schools operate fairly and maintain quality. Also, for every dollar in dues, schools get back over tenfold in resources and benefits.
Ensuring Consistency and Fairness in Theological Education
ATS works to ensure all its schools, whether they be divinity schools or theological departments, stick to high standards. This is key for building good church leaders and for building understanding in the community.
| Key Focus Area | Percentage / Data |
|---|---|
| ATS Member Schools in North America | 265 accredited, ~24 associate members |
| Embedded ATS Schools | 43% |
| Leverage of Membership Dues | Each $1 leverages over $10 in resources |
| US Department of Education Recognized Agencies | 37 accrediting agencies |
| Mission and Integrity Accreditation Standards | Addressed in 10 key areas |
Policy updates show ATS’s promise to keep improving and meeting new educational standards. Changes from meetings like the 2020 Biennial Meeting make theological education better worldwide.
Conclusion
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) is a key player in North American graduate theological education. It oversees more than 250 graduate institutions with accreditation and improvement programs. ATS sets high standards and leads the way in developing Theology studies.
It brings together schools from Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. This shows ATS’s big role in academic rigor and ecumenical conversation in theology.
Statistics show ATS’s broad impact, with 252 schools in the USA and 35 in Canada. It also has 81,063 students. The data shows ATS’s commitment to diversity, with a wide range of student backgrounds. ATS is also moving forward with technology and new education models for a sustainable future.
Looking back at ATS’s work since 1918, we see its dedication to excellence, diversity, and innovation. It not only keeps faith-based education strong but also meets today’s challenges. By doing this, ATS helps teachers and students, making a place where theology education grows and enriches both knowledge and faith in today’s world.
FAQ
What is the Association of Theological Schools?
The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) is an organization. It includes more than 270 graduate theological schools in the United States and Canada. These schools aim to offer excellent post-baccalaureate education and uphold professional integrity.
What role does ATS play in theological seminaries?
ATS accredits member theological seminaries. It ensures these seminaries uphold high quality standards in education. This fosters improvement in learning and the effectiveness of these institutions.
What is the accreditation process of ATS?
The ATS accreditation process reviews schools’ programs and faculty. It checks learning outcomes and resources to ensure quality and effectiveness. This process is a mark of excellence and encourages ongoing improvement.
How does ATS advance its vision and mission?
ATS works towards excellence in theological education. It provides resources, research, and support to its member schools. The goal is to enhance the quality of religious education for the community.
What services and resources does ATS provide to member institutions?
ATS offers leadership programs, data services, and networking to its members. These services strengthen the schools’ administration and teaching methods.
How does theological education impact communities of faith?
Theological education prepares future leaders for religious communities. It contributes to faith development and offers moral guidance. The education shapes the support and direction of these communities.
What is the significance of ATS accreditation?
ATS accreditation means a school meets high academic standards. It assures the education’s quality to students, faculty, and stakeholders.
Who qualifies for membership in ATS, and why is it important?
Graduate theological schools in the U.S. and Canada can join ATS. They must be committed to quality education. Membership shows a school’s dedication to high education standards.
What diversity exists within ATS member institutions?
ATS members represent various Christian denominations. This diversity brings different educational and spiritual views. It encourages a rich exchange of ideas.
What innovations in theological education are promoted by ATS?
ATS encourages new teaching methods, technology use, and collaborative studies. These innovations help schools adapt and meet current ministry needs.
How does ATS address leadership development in theological schools?
ATS offers programs and resources for administrators and faculty. These include research, workshops, and forums. They build specific leadership skills for religious education.
How do ATS policies and bylaws maintain educational integrity?
ATS has policies and guidelines to keep education consistent and fair. Member schools follow these to ensure a high-quality environment.
Why is ensuring consistency and fairness in theological education important?
Fairness and consistency give all students the chance to learn and grow. It also maintains the degrees’ credibility and public trust.
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