Claremont School of Theology

Claremont School of Theology (CST) stands as a beacon of theological education with a fascinating and dynamic history, deeply rooted in the American West. Founded in 1885 as the Maclay School of Theology in San Fernando, this Methodist seminary began its journey under the vision of Charles Maclay, a former minister and state senator. Its early years saw a significant affiliation with the University of Southern California, fostering its academic growth until its relocation to Claremont in 1957. Throughout its existence, CST has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to interreligious understanding, even as it navigated complex partnerships and philosophical shifts.

The institution has consistently adapted to the evolving landscape of higher education. From its pivotal role as a founding member of the multi-religious Claremont University Project in 2008—which later became Claremont Lincoln University—CST affirmed its dedication to diverse spiritual inquiry. Despite a subsequent parting of ways with CLU due to differing philosophies, CST reaffirmed its core mission and maintained vital relationships with other partner schools. More recently, the school has embraced the future of learning, expanding its online and hybrid programs to reach a broader audience, demonstrating its agility and forward-thinking approach.

CST's journey has also been marked by significant campus transformations. After decades in Claremont, and even exploring a merger with Willamette University, the school has ultimately chosen to maintain its strong Southern California presence. In 2023, it made a strategic move to a new, more sustainable Los Angeles campus at the Westwood United Methodist Church, positioning itself in a vibrant urban center. This adaptability ensures that CST continues to provide relevant and accessible theological education, preparing students for leadership in diverse faith communities and society at large. Its legacy as the original home of the Center for Process Studies, now an independent entity with joint faculty, further underscores its intellectual contributions to process thought and relational theology.