Northern Baptist Theological Seminary

Lisle, Illinois, United States · Est. 1913 · Seminary / Theological School

Baptist seminary in Illinois training Christian leaders for 113 years through biblical, theological education.

  • Founded 1913 by Second Baptist Church of Chicago as Northern Baptist Theological Seminary
  • Private nonprofit seminary affiliated with American Baptist Churches USA
  • Located in Lisle, Illinois; moved there in 2017
  • 297 postgraduate students (2020); 28 academic staff (2024)
  • Accredited by Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
  • Offers master's and doctoral programs in theology, ministry, and biblical studies

Academics

Northern Seminary offers graduate-level theological education through multiple master's and doctoral programs, including Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Christian Ministries, Master of Arts in Theology and Mission, and specialized tracks in New Testament, Old Testament, and Christian Community Development. The seminary also offers Doctor of Ministry degrees in contextual theology, New Testament context, Christian community development, and pastoral theology & practice, along with graduate certificates. Faculty include experienced practitioners engaged in church ministry, church planting, and community work.

Mission and Values

Northern Seminary educates Christian leaders to be spiritually mature, biblically grounded, and theologically competent. The institution delivers a multi-denominational, international, interracial, and intercultural educational experience. Core values emphasize diverse calling, educational excellence, scriptural leadership, innovative mission, relational community, and economic affordability. The seminary maintains centers for Black Church Studies and Women in Ministry.

Campus and Student Life

The seminary operates on a hybrid model combining online and in-person instruction. The campus is located at 410 Warrenville Road, Suite 300, in Lisle, Illinois. Students benefit from a diverse, relational community with access to the Northern Seminary Library, supervised ministry opportunities, and job listings. The institution emphasizes community formation and peer mentorship as integral to theological education.

Admissions and Support

Northern Seminary accepts applications for master's and doctoral programs through an online application process. The institution serves both domestic and international students and offers federal student loans, scholarships, financial aid, and payment plans. Admissions inquiries can be directed to admissions@seminary.edu or (630) 620-2180.

Founded
1913
Type
Seminary / Theological School
Courses
15
Total intake
Not yet verified
AffiliationAmerican Baptist Churches USA
Websitehttps://www.seminary.edu/
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
15
Avg career outcomes
Not yet verified
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources