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New Brunswick Theological Seminary

New Brunswick, NJ

private nonprofitgraduate

About New Brunswick Theological Seminary

One of America's oldest seminaries, fostering inter-cultural Christian leaders since 1784.

New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) stands as a foundational institution, proudly holding its place as one of the oldest seminaries in the United States. Established in 1784, it serves as a seminary of the Reformed Church in America (RCA), a mainline Protestant denomination, offering a comprehensive Christian education rooted in the Reformed tradition. Beyond its rich heritage, NBTS is dedicated to being an "inter-cultural, ecumenical school of Christian faith, learning, and scholarship committed to its metro-urban and global contexts," preparing students for diverse ministries and academic pursuits.

The seminary's history is intertwined with the very fabric of early American theological education. Founded in New York City under the leadership of John Henry Livingston, who instructed aspiring ministers from his home, NBTS initially addressed the critical shortage of trained clergy in the colonies. Its early development in New Brunswick, where it moved its main campus in 1810, was closely connected with Queen's College (now Rutgers University), reflecting a shared vision for education before establishing its own distinct campus in 1856.

Today, NBTS offers rigorous professional and graduate degree programs, including Masters and Doctoral degrees, catering to individuals pursuing ministry, academia, or other non-theological fields. Additionally, it provides certificates and specialized training programs for lay church leaders seeking advanced theological studies or church leadership skills. With a student body of 170 as of 2023, NBTS continues its legacy of shaping thoughtful, engaged, and globally aware Christian leaders in an increasingly complex world.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1784, making it one of the oldest seminaries in the United States.
  • Affiliated with the Reformed Church in America (RCA), a mainline Protestant denomination.
  • Committed to being an "inter-cultural, ecumenical school of Christian faith, learning, and scholarship."
  • Offers professional and graduate degree programs, including Masters and Doctoral degrees.
  • Early development closely linked to Queen's College (now Rutgers University) in New Brunswick.
  • Located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, with a vibrant urban campus environment.
  • Supports a diverse student body, with 170 students enrolled as of 2023.

Timeline

1766
Queen's College (later Rutgers University) chartered in New Brunswick, with divinity instruction as a stated purpose.
1784
Founded in New York City as John Henry Livingston begins offering theological instruction in his home.
1792
The Synod notes high cost of living in New York City, prompting consideration for the seminary's relocation.
1795
Queen's College temporarily closes due to severe financial difficulties.
1796
Livingston's theological classes relocate to Flatbush, New York.
1810
The seminary establishes its permanent presence in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
1856
Establishes its own dedicated campus in New Brunswick, solidifying its institutional identity.

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