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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 faith and scholarship.

Step into a legacy spanning centuries at New Brunswick Theological Seminary, one of the oldest seminaries in the United States. Established in 1784, this private institution, deeply rooted in the Reformed Church in America (RCA) tradition, stands as a beacon of Christian education. It's more than just a place of study; it's an inter-cultural, ecumenical hub dedicated to preparing leaders for a diverse world, engaging deeply with its metro-urban and global contexts.

The seminary's journey began in New York City with John Henry Livingston instructing aspiring ministers in his home. Faced with the challenge of adequately trained clergy, the Dutch Reformed Synod sought to establish its own theological training. While initially linked with the founding of Queen's College (now Rutgers University), the seminary charted its independent course, eventually establishing its main campus in New Brunswick, New Jersey, by 1810 and its own dedicated campus in 1856. This rich history reflects a continuous commitment to theological education and ministerial formation.

Today, New Brunswick Theological Seminary continues its mission by offering a robust array of professional and graduate degree programs, including Masters and Doctoral degrees, for those pursuing ministry, academia, or other theological fields. It also provides vital certificate and training programs for lay church leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of theological studies and church leadership. With a student body of 170 (as of 2023), NBTS fosters a vibrant, ecumenical learning environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to explore Christian faith, scholarship, and service, grounded in the Reformed tradition while embracing a broad Christian perspective.

Key Highlights

  • One of the oldest seminaries in the United States, founded in 1784.
  • Affiliated with the Reformed Church in America (RCA), following Calvinist theological tradition.
  • Offers comprehensive Masters and Doctoral degree programs for ministry, academia, and theological fields.
  • Provides certificate and training programs tailored for lay church leaders.
  • Committed to being an "inter-cultural, ecumenical school of Christian faith, learning, and scholarship."
  • Main campus located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, situated in an urban environment.
  • Student enrollment of 170 as of 2023, fostering a diverse and engaging community.

Timeline

1766
Queen's College (later Rutgers University) chartered, with divinity education as part of its purpose.
1784
John Henry Livingston begins theological instruction in his home; Synod decides to support theology studies.
1792
Synod identifies high costs in New York as a barrier, deciding to move seminary outside the city.
1795
Queen's College closes temporarily due to financial difficulties, making New Brunswick unviable for the seminary.
1796
Livingston's theological classes relocate to Flatbush, New York.
1810
The seminary establishes its presence in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
1856
Establishes its own dedicated campus in New Brunswick, becoming fully independent.

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