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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Fuller Theological Seminary

Pasadena, California · www.fuller.edu

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About

Fuller Theological Seminary, located in Pasadena, California, is known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual formation within a diverse and welcoming environment. Established in 1947, Fuller is the largest multidenominational seminary in the United States, offering a broad range of theological education aimed at preparing leaders for various ministry contexts. The seminary's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "The Whole Gospel for the Whole World," emphasizing a holistic approach to theology that addresses both spiritual and social dimensions of life.

Fuller boasts a distinguished faculty comprised of scholars and practitioners who are leaders in their respective fields, providing students with rich insights and mentorship. The seminary offers various degree programs, including master's and doctoral degrees in theology, ministry, psychology, and intercultural studies, among others. This diverse academic offering attracts students from various backgrounds and denominations, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. Additionally, Fuller is dedicated to practical ministry training, integrating classroom learning with real-world application through internships and field education opportunities. The campus also features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, a library with extensive theological resources, and spaces for community engagement, enhancing the overall student experience. Fuller Theological Seminary continues to be a leading institution in shaping future leaders for the church and society, with a focus on innovative scholarship and transformative ministry.

Analysis of Tuition Trends and Gender Ratios at Fuller Theological Seminary

The data reveals significant trends in tuition fees and gender ratios among graduate students at Fuller Theological Seminary over the past decade. Tuition for graduate programs has steadily increased from $17,628 in 2014 to $24,084 in 2024, marking an overall increase of approximately 37% within just ten years. This trend raises concerns about affordability and access to theological education, particularly as many students may face financial challenges in pursuing advanced degrees.

In parallel with rising tuition costs, the enrollment figures for graduate students have shown a concerning decline. The number of graduate students decreased from 2,828 in 2013 to just 2,089 in 2023, indicating a 26% drop in enrollment over the decade. This decline may be linked to the increasing financial burden of tuition, which can deter potential students from pursuing their studies at Fuller.

Moreover, the gender distribution among graduate students reflects a consistent trend, with male students consistently representing a larger proportion than female students. In 2013, males comprised approximately 64.8% of the graduate population, declining slightly to 53.9% by 2023. While this suggests a gradual increase in female representation, the overall male dominance in the graduate cohort raises questions about the inclusivity and appeal of the seminary's programs to women.

These trends underscore critical challenges that Fuller Theological Seminary faces in balancing educational costs with student retention and diversity. As tuition continues to rise, it is imperative for the seminary to explore strategies that enhance financial support and create an environment that attracts a broader demographic of students. Addressing these issues will be vital for maintaining the institution's relevance and mission in the contemporary educational landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Midsize city
Nearest major city
Los Angeles, about 20 mi
Nearest international airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about 20 mi
Pasadena, California
Academic calendar
Quarter
Religious affiliation
Multiple Protestant Denomination
President
David E. Goatley (President)
Phone
6265845200
City
Pasadena, California
Address
135 N Oakland Ave, Pasadena, CA 91182

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Master's31767 international (21.1%)
Doctoral12540 international (32.0%)

Popular graduate programs

  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's88 (23% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's77 (23% international)
  • Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling · Master's61 (16% international)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Doctoral52 (27% international)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's47 (15% international)
  • Missions/Missionary Studies · Master's44 (27% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Fuller Theological Seminary

The graduation data from Fuller Theological Seminary reveals some intriguing trends, particularly within the doctoral programs. Notably, the highest number of graduates is seen in the field of Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other, with 38 doctoral graduates, indicating a robust interest and commitment to advanced theological education. This is complemented by 11 international students, highlighting the global appeal of this program.

Conversely, it is striking that no bachelor or master-level degrees were awarded across all programs. This absence may suggest a concentrated focus on graduate-level studies at Fuller, perhaps reflecting a strategic positioning of the institution as a leader in advanced theological education. This trend aligns with broader patterns in higher education, where many institutions are seeing increased enrollment at the graduate level as students seek specialized knowledge and credentials.

In the realm of psychology, particularly in Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy, there are also notable doctoral graduates (11 and 6, respectively). This reflects the growing importance of mental health training within theological contexts, as many churches and ministries recognize the need for trained professionals to support their communities.

Overall, the data underscores Fuller Theological Seminary's strong emphasis on doctoral education, especially in theological studies, while also acknowledging the emerging role of psychology within ministry fields. As societal needs evolve, institutions like Fuller are adapting their programs to prepare leaders who can address both spiritual and psychological dimensions of community life.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Theology has 350 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryMasterDoctor
Missions/Missionary Studies.$55,410
Theology/Theological Studies.$60,357
Divinity/Ministry.$60,357
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.$60,357
Health professionshas 69 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryMasterDoctor
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.$46,662
Psychology has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryMasterDoctor
Clinical Psychology.$72,240

Students

1,890 students in 2025

Data insights

Demographic Insights of Fuller Theological Seminary in 2023

The student demographic composition at Fuller Theological Seminary in 2023 reveals notable trends in diversity and gender representation among its graduate students. With a total of 2,089 graduate students, the gender distribution shows a slight male majority, with 53.9% identifying as male and 46.1% as female. This ratio indicates a relatively balanced gender representation, which is important in fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Examining the ethnic breakdown of students, the majority of graduate students are white, comprising 836 individuals. This figure represents approximately 40% of the total graduate student population. The presence of diverse ethnicities, including Asian, Latinx, Pacific Islander, African American, and international students, is crucial in enriching the educational experience and promoting cross-cultural understanding among students.

In recent years, many theological institutions have been striving for greater inclusivity, both in terms of gender and ethnicity. Fuller Theological Seminary appears to be on a similar path, as the slight male predominance among graduate students does not overshadow the significant number of female students. Moreover, the representation of various ethnic groups underscores the institution's commitment to diversity, aligning with broader societal movements advocating for equity in education.

Overall, the demographic data from Fuller Theological Seminary reflects a growing awareness and responsiveness to diversity and inclusion in theological education, which is essential for preparing future leaders in a multicultural society. As institutions continue to evolve, monitoring these trends will be vital for fostering an environment that supports all students in their academic and spiritual journeys.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Fuller Theological Seminary

The age distribution data from Fuller Theological Seminary reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of its student body for 2023. Notably, the majority of students fall within the 40-49 age range, with a total of 555 students, comprising 309 male and 246 female students. This substantial representation could be indicative of a trend where individuals seek advanced education later in life, possibly due to career changes or a desire for deeper theological understanding.

In the younger categories, specifically the 20-21 age group, there is a stark contrast with only five students in total, highlighting a potential gap in attracting younger individuals to theological study. This could suggest that the seminary's programs are perceived as more suitable for those who are further along in their personal or professional journeys.

The 30-34 and 35-39 age brackets also show significant enrollment, with a combined total of 505 students. The steady increase in numbers as students age may reflect a growing interest in theology among mid-life professionals.

Interestingly, the data indicates a consistent female presence across all age groups, particularly in the 22-24 and 25-29 categories, where female enrollment exceeds that of males significantly. The trend of women pursuing theological education is becoming increasingly prominent, aligning with broader societal changes regarding gender roles in religious leadership.

Overall, the demographic landscape at Fuller Theological Seminary suggests a robust, mature student body with a notable female presence, while also pointing to a potential need for strategies to engage younger students and diversify the age spectrum further.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Graduate students26.8%

507 in 2025 · 15.0% in 2016

0% 15% 30% 2016: 15.0%2017: 15.0%2018: 15.3%2019: 13.2%2020: 13.9%2021: 15.8%2022: 7.4%2023: 26.3%2024: 25.9%2025: 26.8%
2016Peer median 3.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Data at Fuller Theological Seminary

The data on international students at Fuller Theological Seminary reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of graduate students over the years, while information on undergraduate students remains absent. Notably, the percentage of international graduate students saw a remarkable increase in 2023, reaching 26.33%. This surge indicates a growing interest in Fuller as a destination for international students, potentially reflecting the institution's commitment to diversity and global engagement.

The data shows that between 2004 and 2022, the percentage of international graduate students generally hovered between 11.68% and 19.27%. However, the substantial drop to 7.44% in 2022 suggests that external factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or geopolitical tensions, may have impacted international enrollment. The subsequent rebound in 2023 could imply a recovery phase as global travel and education normalize.

It's also essential to consider that the U.S. higher education landscape has been increasingly competitive, with various institutions vying for international talent. Fuller's ability to attract a more significant number of international graduate students in 2023 could be attributed to strategic initiatives or programs that cater specifically to this demographic.

In summary, while the undergraduate international student data is unavailable, the trends within the graduate program suggest a positive trajectory and a potential shift toward a more diverse academic community at Fuller Theological Seminary. Continued monitoring of these trends will be crucial in understanding how the institution adapts to the changing landscape of higher education.

Cost

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$70.5M

Gifts and private grants
$20.5M29.1%
Investment return
$19.2M27.3%
Tuition and fees
$18.0M25.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.6M17.8%
Government grants and contracts
$153K0.2%

Expenses$58.0M

Instruction
$13.7M23.7%
Institutional support
$12.4M21.3%
Public service
$12.3M21.3%
Academic support
$7.3M12.6%
Student services
$6.3M10.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.1M7.1%
Research
$278K0.5%
Other
$1.6M2.7%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

All faculty
$74,031peers $51,151
Professor
$82,368peers $65,885
Associate professor
$70,707peers $62,250
Assistant professor
$64,512peers $57,312
Instructor
$59,940peers $41,066

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools around Fuller Theological Seminary:

  1. California Institute of Technology (加州理工学院) - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Caltech is a prestigious research university known for its strong emphasis on science and engineering.

  2. University of California-Los Angeles (加州大学洛杉矶分校) - UCLA is ranked 15th and is known for its diverse programs, vibrant campus life, and strong research initiatives.

  3. University of Southern California (南加州大学) - With a rank of 28, USC is renowned for its film school and business programs, along with a strong alumni network.

  4. Pomona College (波莫纳学院) - Ranked 4th, Pomona is a leading liberal arts college, known for its rigorous academics and beautiful campus.

  5. Claremont McKenna College (克莱尔蒙特麦克纳学院) - With a rank of 11, this liberal arts college emphasizes economics and government studies, providing students with a strong analytical foundation.

  6. Harvey Mudd College (哈维穆德学院) - Ranked 16th, Harvey Mudd is known for its engineering and science programs, promoting a strong interdisciplinary approach.

  7. Scripps College (斯克里普斯学院) - This women's college is ranked 35th and is known for its commitment to the liberal arts and its beautiful campus.

These institutions offer a range of programs and have strong academic reputations, contributing to a rich educational environment near Fuller Theological Seminary.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.0 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Burglary
11
Motor vehicle theft
4
Stalking
4
Aggravated assault
3
Drug arrests
2
Dating violence
2

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Fuller Theological Seminary

The crime data from Fuller Theological Seminary over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in criminal activity within the campus community. From 2013 to 2023, the average number of crimes per 1000 students has shown significant variations, with notable spikes in 2017 and 2022, where the rates reached 5.75 and 5.02 respectively. This indicates a concerning increase in criminal incidents during those years.

The most alarming aspect is the range of offenses recorded, particularly in 2017 when the number of reported crimes rose dramatically to 14. This year saw a combination of various offenses, including arrests for drug-related issues and instances of domestic violence, which highlight the need for enhanced campus safety measures. The increasing rates of crime can have a profound impact on the campus environment, affecting student morale and the overall sense of security.

It is also worth noting that the data shows fluctuations in crime rates, suggesting that while some years experience higher incidents, others may see a decline. For instance, 2019 recorded a relatively low rate of 0.85. This inconsistency may reflect broader societal trends or specific campus initiatives aimed at reducing crime.

In summary, while Fuller Theological Seminary has experienced periods of increased criminal activity, ongoing monitoring and proactive measures are essential to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. Awareness and prevention strategies should be a priority for the institution to address these challenges effectively. For further insights into crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Fuller Theological Seminary include Rick Warren (Pastor, author and founder of Saddleback Church), John Piper (Reformed Baptist theologian and pastor) and John C. Maxwell (Leadership author, speaker and pastor).

More alumni (14, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

Arts and media

Other fields

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.