Central Baptist Theological Seminary

Nestled in Shawnee, Kansas, Central Baptist Theological Seminary (CBTS), affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA since its founding in 1901, champions progressive ministry and social justice. Renowned among Midwest Baptist seminaries, CBTS is a beacon for students passionate about social gospel theology and inclusive leadership. Its dynamic location in the Kansas City metro area offers a blend of urban and suburban access, fostering opportunities to engage with diverse communities and address contemporary social challenges.

The seminary’s programs, including its flagship Master of Divinity, focus on preparing students for transformative ministry through a curriculum that highlights women in leadership, urban ethics, progressive doctrines, and community advocacy. With flexible online and hybrid learning options, CBTS accommodates students balancing ministry, work, or family commitments. Faculty, deeply rooted in Baptist values and social justice, provide mentorship that encourages students to integrate their faith with activism, equipping them for roles in pastoral care, community organizing, and advocacy for inclusion and equity.

At CBTS, student life buzzes with purpose, shaped by thought-provoking dialogues, justice-focused campaigns, and immersive retreats that inspire visionary leadership. The seminary’s partnerships with local churches and organizations offer hands-on ministry experiences, while its inclusive community fosters collaboration among a diverse student body. Graduates leave prepared to lead with compassion and courage, advancing inclusive Baptist principles in churches, nonprofits, and community settings across the Midwest and beyond.