Berkeley School of Theology

History: Established in 1871 as California College, BST has undergone several transformations and mergers, adopting its current name in 2020. Affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA, it is a member of the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley, California. BST's mission is to prepare innovative leaders for ministry in a multicultural and multiracial world.

Faculty: BST boasts a diverse and experienced faculty committed to academic excellence and spiritual formation. Key faculty members include:

LeAnn Snow Flesher, Academic Dean and Professor of Old Testament
Valerie Miles-Tribble, Professor of Ministerial Leadership and Practical Theology
Sangyil Sam Park, Professor of Preaching
Eric J. Sias, Director of Latina/o Programs & Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies
A. Brian Leander, Associate Professor and Director of Intercultural Leadership

Programs and Courses: BST offers a range of programs designed to equip students for various ministry roles:

Master of Divinity (MDiv): A professional degree preparing students for church ministry, chaplaincies, or specialized ministries.
Master of Theological Studies (MTS): A 100% online academic program for those seeking in-depth theological reflection.
Masters in Community Leadership (MCL): Prepares individuals for leadership roles in community and church settings.
Doctor of Ministry (DMin): An advanced degree focusing on the practice of ministry in urban multicultural settings.
Certificate Programs: Including Training in Christian Leadership and Public Theology Certificate.

Courses cover areas such as biblical studies, theology, pastoral care, preaching, and intercultural studies.

Tuition and Fees (2024-2025 Academic Year):

Master's Programs (MDiv, MCL, MTS): $17,640 per year (based on 24 units).
Certificate Programs: $2,856 per year (based on 24 units).
Doctor of Ministry: $1,836 per 3-unit course.
Additional Fees: Student Association Fee ($15 per semester), Education Fees ($250 per semester), Application Fee ($40 domestic, $80 international), Graduation Fee ($200).

Location: BST is located at 2606 Dwight Way, Berkeley, California, within walking distance of the GTU Library and the University of California, Berkeley. The campus includes Hobart Hall, designed by architect Julia Morgan, housing faculty offices, classrooms, and a student computer lab.

Denominational Affiliation: BST is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA but actively welcomes students from all Christian traditions, fostering an ecumenical learning environment.

Additional Information: BST is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and offers cross-registration opportunities with other GTU member schools and UC Berkeley, providing a rich academic and interreligious resource environment. The seminary emphasizes social justice, public witness, and the centrality of the Word in its programs.

For prospective students, BST offers support in academic, personal, financial, and spiritual aspects, guiding them from orientation to graduation. International students are welcomed, with some classes taught in Korean and Spanish to accommodate diverse backgrounds.

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