Southern Baptist seminary preparing ministry leaders since 1917 with scholarly, practical, and accessible theological education.
NOBTS offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees through Leavell College (undergraduate) and graduate programs. Master's degrees include MDiv and MA; professional doctorates include DMin and DEdMin; research doctorates include ThM, PhD, DMA, and EdD. The seminary provides over 40 degree plans and multiple delivery methods: on-campus classes (day, evening, weekend), fully online programs, extension centers across the Southeast, and short-term academic workshops. Faculty includes 70 full-time and 100+ adjunct members with diverse ministry experience.
The main campus occupies 70+ acres in the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans, featuring 70+ buildings including academic facilities, faculty and staff housing, and student housing. Affordable on-campus housing is available for single students, couples, and families at rates typically half the cost of city living. The seminary operates a chapel, library (John T. Christian Library), writing center, counseling services, and recreational facilities. Students are encouraged to engage in community service and hands-on ministry through mentoring, serve days, and mission opportunities in New Orleans and globally.
Undergraduate applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, be a Christian for at least one year, and be recommended by a local church. Application requirements include a $40 fee, church statement, two character references (pastor and one other), immunization records, background check ($29), and official transcript. Graduate applicants follow a similar process with additional academic requirements. The seminary accepts applications year-round for various start dates and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working students and those in ministry.
NOBTS emphasizes preparing servants for ministry across diverse callings: pastors, missionaries, counselors, youth ministers, educators, worship leaders, and apologists. The seminary has established six prison ministry campuses since 1995, contributing to reduced violence rates in correctional facilities. Notable alumni include former presidents of the International Mission Board, Southern Baptist Convention, and Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, as well as university presidents and political figures. The institution's mission centers on equipping leaders to walk with Christ, proclaim biblical truth, and fulfill the Great Commission globally.