Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Nestled on the campus of Northwestern University in Evanston, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary stands as a beacon of theological education with a rich history deeply interwoven with the fabric of Methodism and social justice. Founded in 1853, Garrett-Evangelical is dedicated to preparing insightful and compassionate leaders for congregational ministry, public service, and academic scholarship. Its enduring motto, "Let there be light," reflects its commitment to illuminating minds and spirits for impactful service in a complex world.

The seminary's vibrant legacy is a result of the strategic union of three influential institutions. It began with Garrett Biblical Institute, the Midwest's first Methodist seminary, established by the same visionaries behind Northwestern University. This commitment to accessible higher learning for church and civil society leaders deepened with the 1934 merger of the Chicago Training School – a pioneering force for women in ministry and social advocacy for Chicago's most vulnerable populations. Later, in 1974, Garrett Theological Seminary merged with the Evangelical Theological Seminary, which had a strong heritage of serving German-speaking immigrant communities, to form the present-day Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.

Today, Garrett-Evangelical continues its pioneering spirit, particularly in preparing women for leadership roles in ministry and beyond. Students benefit immensely from its unique location and affiliations. Sharing a campus with Northwestern University provides a dynamic academic environment, while its membership in The Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS) offers unparalleled academic resources. As one of 11 member schools in this renowned cluster, Garrett-Evangelical students gain access to a network boasting over 350 faculty, more than 1,000 courses annually, and an impressive 1.7 million library volumes across the ACTS consortium, making it a global hub for theological education and a truly enriching student experience.