Listed A–Z
Boston University School of Theology
Boston, MA•Interdenominational•Progressive•Medium campus
Boston University School of Theology in Boston, Massachusetts, is a United Methodist-affiliated theological program that champions progressive theology and societal change. It's an excellent choice for those seeking Methodist seminaries in Boston or pursuing liberal theological studies. Curriculum explores ethical dilemmas, ecumenical relations, urban ethics, and liberation narratives, urging transformative action.
Candler School of Theology of Emory University
Atlanta, GA•United Methodist Church•Progressive•Medium campus
Candler School of Theology, founded in 1914 as part of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, is a United Methodist-affiliated seminary renowned for its progressive scholarship and global outreach. It fosters a diverse, inclusive community, welcoming students from over 40 denominations to a vibrant and affordable city. With accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools, Candler offers access to exceptional resources like the Pitts Theology Library and international study programs in 13 countries, creating an enriching environment for spiritual and academic growth.
Dallas Theological Seminary
Dallas, TX•Inter/Multidenominational•Conservative•Large campus
Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS), located in Dallas, Texas, is a non-denominational evangelical institution recognized as one of the most well-known seminaries in the United States. Founded in 1924 by Lewis Sperry Chafer in response to liberal theological trends, DTS has maintained a focus on conservative scholarship and biblical inerrancy. The seminary's mission involves equipping servant-leaders for the proclamation of Scripture and the development of the church worldwide.
Duke University Divinity School
Durham, NC•United Methodist Church•Progressive•Medium campus
Duke University Divinity School, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a graduate theological institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church and part of Duke University, a private research university founded by Methodists and Quakers. Established in 1926, the school holds accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It emphasizes the integration of academic rigor with public theology, serving students from various denominations through programs that combine scholarship with practical ministry.
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
South Hamilton, MA•Inter/Multidenominational•Evangelical•Large campus
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, located in Hamilton, Massachusetts, with additional campuses in Boston, Charlotte, and Jacksonville, serves as an evangelical institution formed from a 1969 merger of Gordon College Divinity School and Conwell School of Theology. The seminary emphasizes biblical scholarship, preaching, and global missions, aiming to equip students to think theologically, engage with the world, and live a biblically informed life. This approach suits those interested in New England evangelical seminaries or programs focused on scriptural proclamation and cross-cultural ministry.
Harvard University Divinity School
Cambridge, MA•Inter/Multidenominational•Progressive•Medium campus
Harvard Divinity School (HDS) at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, serves as a nonsectarian institution dedicated to rigorous scholarship and real-world experience in religious studies. Founded in 1816, HDS is recognized for its Ivy League affiliation and emphasis on pluralism in theological education, attracting a diverse student body of over 330 individuals representing more than 35 religious traditions. The school fosters an environment that encourages comparative religious exploration and ethical discourse, suitable for those interested in interfaith understanding and societal impact through faith-based learning.
Princeton Theological Seminary
Princeton, NJ•Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)•Progressive•Medium campus
Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey, is a Presbyterian institution renowned for its world-class education rooted in Reformed traditions, preparing leaders for ministry, scholarship, and public service. Founded in 1812 as the first seminary of the Presbyterian Church, it has a storied history of theological innovation and ecumenical dialogue, attracting a diverse student body from around the globe. This legacy positions it as a leading choice for students seeking rigorous academic programs in a faith-centered environment that is committed to addressing global challenges through theological perspectives.
Union Theological Seminary
New York, NY•Inter/Multidenominational•Progressive•Medium campus
Union Theological Seminary in New York City, New York, is an independent ecumenical institution founded in 1836, renowned for its progressive theology and social activism on a bustling urban campus. The seminary welcomes students from various denominations, with an emphasis on liberation theology, interfaith dialogue, and public theology, to address global injustices. It offers the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy, preparing individuals for roles in ministry, academia, and advocacy with a commitment to transformative scholarship and ethical leadership.
University of Chicago Divinity School
Chicago, IL•Inter/Multidenominational•Progressive•Medium campus
University of Chicago Divinity School in Chicago, Illinois, is a non-sectarian graduate institution founded in 1892, renowned for its scholarly approach to religious studies and interfaith inquiry in a prestigious university setting. The school emphasizes the critical analysis of religion's role in society, attracting students from diverse backgrounds who are interested in academic theology and public engagement. It offers the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religious Studies, and Doctor of Philosophy, preparing individuals for roles in ministry, academia, and policy with a focus on comparative religions and ethical discourses.
Yale Divinity School
New Haven, CT•Inter/Multidenominational•Progressive•Medium campus
Yale Divinity School, part of Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, is a non-denominational graduate institution founded in 1822, devoted to fostering knowledge and love of God through scholarly inquiry into religious traditions on a prestigious Ivy League campus. The school welcomes a diverse student body from various faith backgrounds, prioritizing interreligious understanding and public leadership. It provides the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Religion, and Master of Sacred Theology, readying individuals for ministry, academia, and societal roles with a commitment to ethical discourse and social justice.
Rankings reviewed: August 23, 2025 — see our Ranking Methodology
Every school here has been hand-selected for this category. The order is not a ranking — schools are listed alphabetically.
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Best Online Seminaries
Leading seminaries offering exceptional online and distance learning programs.