Prospective Students

The Northwest House of Theological Studies (NHTS) is an ecumenical venture that provides a center for theological study and reflection and a resource for churches within the context of the Northwest USA. It serves in partnership with regional judicatories of the American Baptist Church, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Episcopal Church, the Lutheran Church (ELCA), the United Church of Christ, and the United Methodist Church. We also work closely with and enroll students from others, such as the Metropolitan Community Church, Presbyterian Church USA, and Unitarian Universalist.

NHTS is a member institution of the Northwest Consortium, together with American Baptist Seminary of the West, Church Divinity School of the Pacific, ILIFF School of Theology, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, and Pacific School of Religion. This Northwest Consortium was formed--at the initiative of NHTS, for the purpose of providing an extension program of theological study within the region of the Northwest USA. An Academic Council, consisting of representatives of each of the member institutions, oversees the academic program (approving all course syllabi and instructors). This Oregon-based extension program is approved by the Accrediting Commission of the Association of Theological Schools.

Students are admitted to one of the four accredited seminaries, and that school holds official transcripts. They may complete up to 49% of the M. Div. or other masters degree in theological studies through the curriculum administered by NHTS. Students who wish to earn a degree will then complete the program at one of the member seminaries--or have their credits transferred to another seminary. Not all students at the House will complete a degree program. Some are laypersons looking for personal or professional enrichment. Others will take the courses required for a professional certification. For many, NHTS offers an intentional process of discernment.

The Board of Directors has been committed to providing low cost theological education. Since we have not been in a position to provide a program of financial aid, tuition costs have been set at about half of the more typical rates, thus building financial aid into the tuition charges. This contributes in another way to our goal of enhancing theological study in this region.

Classes are held on weekends (Friday evening and Saturday) to accommodate the work schedules of students and to reach a geographically dispersed population. Spiritual formation is an intentional part of the total curriculum of the House, forming a part of the schedule each weekend. On Saturday mornings, Eucharist is celebrated by clergy from partner denominations.

From the beginning, NHTS has sought to work in close alliance with churches and judicatories. The goal is to be a resource within the region, providing lifelong learning opportunities, special lectures and workshops, speakers, and materials to assist churches in their explorations of the theological issues and implications in policy discussions.

NHTS also seeks to be a center of theological inquiry, especially as it relates to understanding the dynamics of religious life in the Northwest USA and as it engages critical issues facing church and society.