Claremont School of Theology (CST) Reviews

The reviews of Claremont School of Theology (CST) reflect a range of experiences that highlight both the institution's strengths and areas for improvement.

1. Academic and Intellectual Environment: One reviewer praised CST for its transformative educational approach, stating that the seminary is designed to teach students "how to learn." Their personal journey, extending a three-year degree into five years, was described as a fantastic experience filled with personal and intellectual discoveries. CST's commitment to a spirituality that engages with history and embraces diverse religious traditions stood out, creating a warm and supportive community for students. This highlights the seminary's strength in fostering a holistic, exploratory learning environment that values spiritual and intellectual growth.
2. Campus Experience: Another reviewer, Noa Park, remarked on the beauty of the campus, noting its outdoor amenities like chess tables, mini-gardens, and green spaces. This suggests that CST offers an aesthetically pleasing and peaceful environment, which likely contributes to the overall student experience. The attention to creating a welcoming physical space complements its educational mission, providing students with both mental and physical spaces conducive to reflection and study.
3. Community and Resources: Ekaputra Tupamahu, who pursued a Master of Arts in New Testament at CST, had a very positive experience, particularly noting the school's robust community and supportive environment for theological discussion, debate, and research. He emphasized the strength of CST’s library, with its vast collection of books and periodicals, as well as the friendliness and supportiveness of the faculty. These aspects indicate that CST provides an excellent academic infrastructure and fosters a collaborative, scholarly atmosphere.
4. Positive Overall Experience: Another student, Kafa Doufash, described their time at CST as a “positive and unforgettable experience in every aspect.” While details of their specific experience are not provided, the strong endorsement suggests that the overall experience at CST can be highly fulfilling for many students, particularly those who resonate with the institution’s values and community.
5. Admissions Issues: Not all reviews were completely positive. Ray Robison had a negative experience with CST’s admissions department, describing the staff as rude and unhelpful during his application process. He expressed frustration over losing his application fee without receiving adequate support. This points to a potential area for improvement in terms of customer service and administrative support, which could detract from an otherwise positive experience.

In summary, most reviewers speak highly of CST’s academic rigor, interfaith openness, and supportive community, with particular praise for the faculty, campus environment, and library resources. However, there may be room for improvement in the admissions process, as noted by one reviewer’s negative experience. Overall, CST appears to be a welcoming and intellectually stimulating place for students who seek to engage in deep theological study and spiritual growth.