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Talbot School of Theology at ��ݮ��Ƶ is in the top 3 largest multi-denominational seminaries and in the top 10 largest seminaries in the world, according to this year’s annual report from the (ATS). The report is determined by enrollment at each school, with Talbot landing at 753 students in a full time equivalent course load.

“I’m thrilled that Talbot is now the third-largest multi-denominational seminary on the list, because I think we’re offering a uniquely helpful educational experience,” said Dr. Ed Stetzer, dean of Talbot School of Theology. “We take our role as a global provider of theological education very seriously.”

Out of the top 10 schools, six identify with the Southern Baptist Convention and only two are in California, with the rest being in the south or midwest. However, of the three multi-denominational schools in the top 10, or seminaries that do not identify with a specific denomination of Christianity, Talbot is only behind Dallas Theological Seminary in Texas which enrolls 1,361 students and Asbury Theological Seminary in Kentucky, enrolling 888 students.

“I love celebrating the story of the non-denominational seminaries, because it demonstrates how evangelical Christianity is a wider, cooperative movement rather than simply a collection of siloed denominations,” said Stetzer.

Talbot School of Theology integrated Biola’s former Cook School of Intercultural Studies last year, which now places a higher emphasis on mission work in Talbot’s curriculum. Talbot also houses a degree-granting seminary program in New York City, NY and is celebrating the start of cohorts in Seattle, WA, Phoenix, AZ, Las Vegas, NV, Portland, OR, the Bay Area of California, and other locations. Seminaries, much like the rest of higher education, are in a constant state of growth and decline.

“While these are challenging times for seminaries, this year’s ATS report shows encouraging signs of vitality for the future of seminary education in the United States,” said Stetzer. “We need flourishing, gospel-focused seminaries to train pastors for ministry and mission, for the sake of the mission, the good of the church, and the glory of God. I’m encouraged by many of the positive signs of growth from the ATS report, and I’m praying for the areas of decline and discouragement.”

In the spirit of growth, Stetzer is currently embarking on the Talbot School of Theology Lead the Way Tour across the U.S., speaking at a variety of churches on topics such as research on the state of the church in today’s society, perspectives on how to do ministry in 2025 and insights on how to think biblically about important cultural issues.

Talbot School of Theology prepares students for a lifetime of gospel-centered, Spirit-led ministry. Learn more and apply today.

Written by Sarah Dougher, media relations specialist. For more information, email media.relations@biola.edu.