Mount Angel Seminary logo

Mount Angel Seminary

Saint Benedict, OR

private nonprofitgraduate

About Mount Angel Seminary

A leading seminary and theology school, Mount Angel is home to the West Coast's largest free-swinging bells.

Mount Angel Seminary stands as a cornerstone for priestly formation and theological study in the western United States, serving numerous dioceses with its rich Benedictine heritage. Founded by Swiss Benedictine monks who established Mount Angel Abbey in 1882, the institution evolved from Mount Angel College, with the seminary itself being established in 1889. This deep historical root provides a unique blend of tradition and forward-thinking education.

Today, Mount Angel Seminary offers comprehensive academic programs for both those discerning a call to the priesthood and lay students seeking deeper theological understanding. The undergraduate program focuses on a robust liberal arts curriculum, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors available in Philosophy, Philosophy and Literature, or Philosophy and Religious Studies. This foundational education prepares students for advanced studies and meaningful contributions to their communities.

The Graduate School of Theology further expands these offerings, providing advanced degrees such as the Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Arts (MA in Theology), Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology (STB), and Doctor of Ministry (DMin). With approximately 170 students, the seminary fosters a close-knit academic and spiritual community. Beyond its academic prowess, Mount Angel Seminary is notable for its commitment to sustainability, evidenced by a new seminary building that received a Best Sustainable Award for Oregon and Washington in 2006, and its impressive church tower housing the largest free-swinging bells on the West Coast.

Students at Mount Angel Seminary become part of a vibrant tradition, learning within a supportive environment that emphasizes intellectual rigor, spiritual growth, and service. Whether pursuing a path to the priesthood or a deeper engagement with theological studies, students will find a challenging and rewarding experience rooted in centuries of Benedictine wisdom.

Key Highlights

  • Serves numerous western dioceses for priestly formation.
  • Home to approximately 170 students.
  • Features the largest free-swinging bells on the West Coast in its main church tower.
  • New seminary building received a Best Sustainable Award for Oregon and Washington in 2006.
  • Offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in Philosophy, Literature, and Religious Studies.
  • Provides graduate degrees including MDiv, MA (Theology), STB, and DMin.
  • Academic programs are open to both lay students and those studying for the priesthood.

Timeline

1882
Mount Angel Abbey founded by Benedictine monks from Engelberg, Switzerland.
1887
Mount Angel College opened by the monks.
1889
Mount Angel Seminary established in conjunction with the college.
2006
New seminary building received a Best Sustainable Award for Oregon and Washington.
2007
A new bell tower was erected to commemorate the Abbey's 125th anniversary.

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Mount Angel Seminary

🏫

Mount Angel Seminary

A theological institution serving numerous western dioceses, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees for priesthood formation and lay theological studies.

🎭

Liberal Arts College

Part of Mount Angel Seminary, offering a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in Philosophy, Literature, or Religious Studies.

✝️

Graduate School of Theology

Part of Mount Angel Seminary, offering MDiv, MA (Theology), STB, and DMin degree programs.

Find Scholarships at Mount Angel Seminary

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search