The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University for 10 more years, until July 31, 2031.
The decision came during the June 7-8, 2021, ATS Board of Commissioners meeting. The board also recognized Wesley Seminary’s “distinctive strengths” including the seminary’s:
- Ongoing implementation of its vision to be global, accessible, transformational and comprehensive.
- Attention to diversity.
- Emphasis on integrating the classical and practical disciplines in contextually appropriate ways in all its degrees.
- Strong financial situation.
“Wesley is thankful for this excellent report from The Association of Theological Schools,” said Rev. Dr. Colleen Derr, Wesley Seminary president. “It reflects the hard work and dedication of the seminary team to the mission of Wesley and our continued commitment to providing an excellent, transformational and practically beneficial educational experience. ATS has affirmed Wesley’s mission to prepare Christian leaders to engage in missional ministry and has affirmed our unique approach to theological education — seminary for the church, in the church, with the church.”
“We are excited about the affirmation we have received from The Association of Theological Schools. Our goal is to continue to find innovative ways to make theological education accessible and relevant to those who have received God’s call to ministry. We go into the next 10 years fully committed to fulfill our mission in ways that honor God and serve his people,” said Dr. Abson Joseph, Wesley Seminary vice president of Academic Affairs.
More than 1,000 students have graduated since Wesley Seminary was founded in 2009. Enrollment is currently 534 including 71 Doctor of Ministry students and 265 Master of Divinity students (130 of which are studying in Spanish). The current student body includes 50 percent who identify as people of color, 40 percent are female and 170 are Wesleyans.
The next comprehensive evaluation visit by ATS will occur in the spring of 2031.
