Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary stands as a vibrant hub for theological education, deeply committed to shaping leaders for the church and society. Born from the rich legacies of three historic institutions, Garrett-Evangelical is renowned for its pioneering spirit, particularly in preparing women for ministry and public leadership, and its unwavering dedication to social justice.

The seminary's journey began in 1851 with the founding of Garrett Biblical Institute, the Midwest's first Methodist seminary, established by the same visionaries who created Northwestern University. This shared heritage means Garrett-Evangelical has always been intertwined with a major university campus, fostering an environment of intellectual inquiry and spiritual growth. The institution expanded its mission significantly with the 1934 merger of the Chicago Training School, an influential force since 1885 in empowering women for ministry, social service, and global missions, especially among immigrant and formerly enslaved communities in Chicago.

Further solidifying its comprehensive approach, Garrett-Evangelical was formed in 1974 through the merger of Garrett Theological Seminary with the Evangelical Theological Seminary, itself founded in 1873 to serve German-speaking immigrant communities. This unique history underscores a profound commitment to making higher learning accessible and relevant to diverse populations, bridging theological study with practical engagement in the world. Today, the seminary continues to specialize in preparing pastoral leaders, emphasizing an educated clergy capable of shaping both mind and spirit.

As one of 11 esteemed member schools within The Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS), Garrett-Evangelical offers an unparalleled educational experience. Students benefit from a vast network of resources, including access to over 350 faculty, more than 1,000 courses annually, and library collections totaling 1.7 million volumes and nearly 5,000 periodical subscriptions across the ACTS consortium, making it a global center for theological scholarship.