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What's in a Name?
In beginning your search for a theological school, the first thing you will notice is that these institutions have different titles, such as "seminary," "divinity school," or "school of theology." In addition to these, theological schools are also called "schools of religion," "theological institutes," "theological consortiums" and other combinations. Is there any significance to the different names? Yes and no. They all have commitments to forming ministers (broadly defined) for church and society, but they are organized in different ways that have an impact on their students.
- "Divinity Schools" are almost always related to an established university and act as one academic unit among many others (such as business, education, law, humanities.) Students at university-related divinity schools usually have access to the broad resources of the larger university, including a full range of library holdings, faculty and courses in other fields, and facilities and services associated with the larger institution. Generally speaking, university-related divinity schools offer students a broad base of resources beyond the theological disciplines. Students with interests in areas such as music, education, international studies or joint degrees should take a look at these types of schools.
- "Seminaries" are usually freestanding institutions related to a particular denomination or religious movement but entirely independent of a college or university. This environment can be powerful for student's faith formation. Many, if not most, seminaries provide a strong sense of community, often centered on a residential community that lives, eats and worships together. While these schools may maintain cross-registration agreements with other institutions, the resources available to students are held internally and are usually centered exclusively on the theological disciplines. Generally, these institutions are particularly focused on the formation and preparation of traditional ministers as well as counselors, missionaries and other vocations closely related to traditional ministry. Students typically do not have to be a member of the related denomination to attend.
- "Schools of Theology/Religion" represent a third category of theological schools. However, after the two categories above the nomenclature for theological schools begins to fragment significantly. For example, some schools of theology and religion are closely related to universities while others are free-standing, like seminaries. Others maintain relationships with other educational institutions or communities without maintaining official ties. Still others operate in theological consortia, where a number of schools from different traditions come together to offer a unique breadth of opportunities for students.
As a prospective student trying to choose among these different institutions, you should be most interested in the resources available to students, regardless of the name or organization of the school. Ask yourself: Does the school offer everything you want and—more importantly—everything you might want in the coming years? Which type of institution can best serve your interests and calling? Where can you get the most flexibility as you grow into your vocation in these schools? Does the school seem to be the best "fit" for preparing you in what you are seeking or feel called to do? All these questions should be part of your evaluation as you consider the type of school to attend.
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