Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

What is the history of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary?

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary is a graduate theological school whose roots reach back to the founding of Garrett Biblical Institute in 1853. Its history reflects the development of Methodist theological education in the Chicago area rather than that of a conventional undergraduate college.

The present seminary took shape when Garrett Biblical Institute and Evangelical Theological Seminary joined in 1974. The combined name preserves both institutions' histories. Garrett's long relationship with neighboring Northwestern University also helps explain its location in Evanston, although the seminary is a distinct institution with its own admissions process and degrees.

What are the faculties and departments at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary?

Garrett-Evangelical is organized around graduate theological education, not separate undergraduate colleges or a broad catalog of majors. Its degree offerings include the Master of Divinity, other master's-level theological study, and doctoral study.

Students may pursue areas such as ministry, biblical studies, theology, ethics, and spiritual formation, depending on the degree and current course schedule. A prospective applicant should compare programs by purpose: a Master of Divinity is commonly associated with preparation for ordained or other professional ministry, while a research-focused degree may better fit an academic goal. Denominational ordination requirements are set by the relevant church body, not by the seminary alone.

What is the location of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary?

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary is in Evanston, Illinois, alongside Northwestern University's campus and north of Chicago. Its suburban setting offers access to the Chicago metropolitan area without placing students in a downtown campus environment.

Evanston is served by Chicago-area public transit, including CTA rail and Metra commuter rail. Those connections can matter to students arranging field placements, commuting from elsewhere in the region, or traveling to congregations and community organizations. Travel time will depend on where a student lives and when courses or placements meet.

What is the mission and vision of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary?

Garrett-Evangelical describes its purpose in terms of theological education, leadership, and service in the church and wider world. It is affiliated with the United Methodist tradition, while its academic community and potential applicants are not limited to one denomination.

That identity is relevant to course content and community life: religious practice, theological inquiry, and questions of justice and public responsibility are part of the institution's stated educational approach. Applicants from other traditions should examine their intended program's curriculum and any requirements established by their own denomination or employer.