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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Kansas City, Missouri · www.mbts.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

96.4%

2025

Peer median 81.8%

Tuition per year

$11,530

$21,501 with room and board

Peer median $11,500

Undergraduates

1,126

Student-faculty ratio 17:1

Peer median 12 : 1

Graduation rate

18.2%

4-year; 6-year rate 36.4%

Peer median 5.7%

“Peers” are all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MBTS), located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a prominent institution for theological education affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. Established in 1957, the seminary aims to equip men and women for effective ministry and service in various capacities within the church and society. One of the defining characteristics of MBTS is its commitment to the authority of Scripture, which is a foundational aspect of its educational philosophy. The seminary emphasizes a curriculum that is deeply rooted in biblical truths, fostering a rigorous academic environment that encourages students to engage with theological concepts critically and thoughtfully.

The campus boasts modern facilities that support a vibrant academic and community life. With a focus on pastoral training, the seminary offers a range of degree programs, from master's to doctoral levels, designed to prepare students for leadership roles in ministry. MBTS also places a strong emphasis on practical ministry experiences, providing students with opportunities to engage in local churches and communities. The seminary's commitment to community service and outreach is reflected in its various programs and initiatives aimed at equipping students to meet the needs of their communities effectively. Furthermore, the school promotes a rich student life that includes various extracurricular activities, student organizations, and athletic programs, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students as they pursue their theological education. Overall, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary stands out as a leading institution for those seeking to deepen their understanding of theology and enhance their ministerial skills.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals significant trends that merit discussion, particularly concerning tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates.

Firstly, tuition costs have shown a considerable increase over the years. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has risen from $6,270 to a projected $11,020, marking a staggering 76% increase. This escalation in costs can be attributed to various factors, including inflation and increased operational expenses. As tuition rises, prospective students may face a greater financial burden, which could influence their decisions regarding enrollment and potentially limit access to higher education.

Additionally, student enrollment has experienced a steady upward trend, with the number of undergraduate students increasing from 249 in 2013 to 1,009 in 2023. This growth suggests that the seminary is becoming more attractive to students, possibly due to its academic offerings, community engagement, or other factors. However, it is essential to consider whether the rising tuition may eventually deter this growth, especially if students feel that the return on investment is diminishing.

On the graduation front, the data presents a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was notably low in earlier years, with 0% graduation rates in several instances. However, by 2023, this rate improved to approximately 23.5%. This positive trend indicates that the institution may be implementing effective support systems to help students complete their studies on time, thus enhancing their academic reputation. Nonetheless, the 150% graduation rate remains at 41.2%, suggesting that there are still challenges that some students face in completing their degrees.

In conclusion, while the seminary is witnessing growth in student enrollment, the rising tuition costs pose a potential challenge for future sustainability. The improvement in graduation rates is a positive sign, reflecting enhanced student support, but continued focus on affordability will be crucial in maintaining and furthering this positive trajectory.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Large city
Nearest major city
In Kansas City
Nearest international airport
Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 10 mi
Kansas City, Missouri
Also known as
MBTS, MBC, MBC,SBC, Midwestern Baptist Seminary, Midwestern, Midwestern Baptist College, SBC, Midwestern Baptist College, MBCSBC, Spurgeon College
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Southern Baptist
President
Jason K. Allen (President)
Phone
8164143700
City
Kansas City, Missouri
Address
5001 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, MO 64118-4697

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 81.8% · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
95.8%
Women
97.7%

In 2020: men 100.0%, women 100.0%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The admission data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals a fluctuating landscape in terms of gender-specific acceptance rates and overall enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate showed significant variability, with a dramatic spike to 100% in 2013 and again in 2016, indicating a potential increase in the number of male applicants or a strategic shift in the admission approach during those years. Conversely, the female acceptance rates remained consistently high, often reaching close to full acceptance, which reflects an inclusive admission policy aimed at promoting gender diversity within the seminary.
The enrollment numbers exhibited notable growth, particularly in 2017, when 96 students were admitted, marking a significant increase from previous years. However, this surge in enrollment did not always correlate with a decrease in denial rates, as seen in 2014 and 2015, when high denial rates juxtaposed with relatively moderate enrollment figures. The data also indicates that the seminary has been managing its deferral rates effectively, with some years showing a substantial number of students choosing to defer their admission, which might suggest a strategic decision by applicants to prepare better for their theological studies.
Overall, this data not only highlights the seminary's evolving admission dynamics but also reflects broader trends in theological education, where institutions are increasingly focusing on diversity and adaptability to the changing educational landscape. As the demand for theological education continues to grow, institutions like Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary will need to remain responsive to the needs of their prospective students while maintaining academic rigor and community values.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals significant trends in the submission of standardized test scores over the years. Notably, there is a declining percentage of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores, with some years showing as low as 3% of applicants providing their scores. This trend raises questions about the changing landscape of college admissions, where standardized tests are increasingly viewed as less critical in evaluating a candidate's potential.

In terms of performance, the scores indicate a wide range of achievement among admitted students. For instance, the range for SAT reading and math scores has varied over the years, reflecting fluctuations in applicant quality and preparedness. The 25th percentile scores provide insights into the baseline competencies of admitted students, while the 75th percentile scores reveal the upper echelon of academic ability.

The decrease in the number of students submitting scores could suggest a shift towards a more holistic admissions process that considers various factors beyond test scores, such as personal statements, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. This is consistent with national trends in higher education, where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, aiming to diversify their student bodies and reduce the pressure associated with standardized testing.

Overall, the data underscores the evolving nature of college admissions, highlighting a potential pivot towards more inclusive and comprehensive evaluation methods while still maintaining academic standards among admitted students. As these trends continue, it will be interesting to observe how they impact the overall academic environment and student success at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 10 in 10

139 applicants in 2025, 96.4% admitted

134 admitted 5 not admitted Yield 70.9%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate80 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1200 international (0.0%)
Master's42712 international (2.8%)
Doctoral13111 international (8.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Bible/Biblical Studies
44
Divinity/Ministry
24
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
14
Missions/Missionary Studies
13
Pastoral Studies/Counseling
11
Business Administration and Management, General
9
Religious/Sacred Music
2
Communication, General
1
Religious Education
1
Theology/Theological Studies
1

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Theology/Theological Studies · Master's197 (2% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's174 (5% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Doctoral64 (14% international)
  • Bible/Biblical Studies · Doctoral38 (3% international)
  • Pastoral Studies/Counseling · Master's29 (0% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Doctoral13 (8% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The graduation data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals some intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various theological and interdisciplinary programs in 2023. Notably, the doctoral programs, particularly in Theology and Divinity, have produced a significant number of graduates, with 73 and 47 respectively. This indicates a strong emphasis on advanced theological education, likely catering to the growing demand for leaders in ministry and academia.

Interestingly, the data shows a complete absence of bachelor's and associate degrees awarded in most programs, suggesting that the seminary may be focusing on graduate-level education, which aligns with broader trends in theological education where institutions are increasingly prioritizing master's and doctoral programs over undergraduate offerings.

The international student representation is noteworthy in the doctoral category, particularly in Theology, where 7 out of 73 doctoral graduates are international students, and 15 out of 47 in Divinity. This highlights the seminary's appeal to a global audience, which could enrich the learning environment through diverse perspectives.

On the other hand, several programs such as Religious Education and Bible Studies did not graduate any bachelor's or master's students, which may reflect shifts in curriculum focus or demand. The singular award in Clinical Pastoral Counseling indicates a specialized niche that the seminary is addressing, possibly in response to rising mental health awareness within pastoral care.

Overall, this data suggests that Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is strategically positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of religious education and pastoral leadership, with a particular emphasis on advanced degrees and international representation.

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 651 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.$49,351
Missions/Missionary Studies.$36,544
Religious Education.-
Religious/Sacred Music.-
Theology/Theological Studies.$55,399
Divinity/Ministry.$55,399
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Educationhas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Businesshas 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication, General.-

Students

3,945 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 62:38 · Freshman retention 81.5%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,126)

White
814 · 72.3%
Hispanic
127 · 11.3%
Unknown
55 · 4.9%
Asian
47 · 4.2%
Black
46 · 4.1%
Two or more races
24 · 2.1%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2023

The student demographic data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for 2023 reveals notable trends in enrollment and diversity. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 61 students, with a significant male representation of 78.7%. This suggests a strong inclination towards male enrollment in this category, which may reflect broader societal trends in theological education.

In terms of undergraduate juniors, the total number rises dramatically to 667, with 64.9% being male. The figures for undergraduate transfer students also indicate a male majority at 66.2%. This consistent pattern of higher male enrollment in undergraduate programs raises questions about the factors influencing these trends and whether they reflect the overall gender dynamics within theological studies.

The graduate student population stands out with an impressive total of 2,763 students, showing a striking male representation of 86.6%. This overwhelming majority could indicate an ongoing trend of male dominance in graduate-level theological education, which may be a reflection of historical patterns in the ministry and pastoral roles traditionally held by men.

Moreover, the data highlights the need for increased diversification within the student body. The representation of various ethnic groups is essential for fostering a more inclusive environment in theological education. As the institution continues to evolve, it will be crucial to address these disparities and promote a more balanced gender and ethnic representation among its students to better reflect the society it serves. Overall, the demographic landscape at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary presents both challenges and opportunities for growth and transformation in the years to come.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The age distribution of students at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals a diverse and mature student body, particularly among graduate students. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets, with 459 and 425 students respectively, showcasing that many individuals pursue theological education later in life, often after gaining personal and professional experiences.

Notably, the 40-49 age group has the highest overall enrollment, totaling 669 students, which suggests that this demographic is increasingly seeking advanced education in theology. This trend aligns with broader patterns observed in higher education, where adult learners are returning to school for various reasons, including career changes or deepening their spiritual commitments.

The gender distribution also warrants attention. While male students dominate in graduate programs, with a total of 591 in the 40-49 age range, female representation remains robust across undergraduate levels, particularly in the younger categories. This balance reflects ongoing efforts in seminaries to encourage female participation in theological studies, an essential aspect of the evolving landscape of church leadership.

In contrast, the under-18 category has a relatively small representation, suggesting that the seminary attracts older students who may have already decided on their vocational paths. Overall, the age dynamics at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary illustrate a commitment to fostering a rich, diverse educational environment that accommodates both younger and older students, while encouraging both genders to engage with theological education actively.

International Students

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

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 0.2%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.2%2022: 0.3%2023: 1.0%2024: 1.6%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.9%2025
Graduate students2.9%

83 in 2025 · 8.3% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 8.3%2017: 7.1%2018: 8.1%2019: 6.4%2020: 4.9%2021: 8.3%2022: 12.6%2023: 19.1%2024: 18.9%2025: 2.9%
2016Peer median 3.2%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The data from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals significant trends in the enrollment of international students over the years. Notably, the total number of undergraduate students has increased from 54 in 2004 to 1,009 in 2023. However, the percentage of international students within this group remains relatively low, peaking at just 0.99% in 2023. This indicates that while the overall student body has grown, the representation of international students in undergraduate programs has not kept pace.

In contrast, the graduate program shows a more robust engagement of international students. The percentage of international students in graduate programs reached 19.07% in 2023, a considerable increase from only 1.93% in 2004. This trend suggests that the seminary is becoming a more attractive option for international graduate students, possibly due to the reputation of its programs or an increasing global interest in theological studies.

The fluctuations in the number of international students, particularly in graduate programs, highlight the impact of broader socio-political factors and trends in higher education. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced international student mobility, affecting enrollment figures. However, the recovery and subsequent growth in 2022 and 2023 indicate a resilience and potential for continued growth in this demographic.

Overall, while the seminary has made strides in attracting international graduate students, there remains a significant opportunity to enhance diversity in its undergraduate programs. Addressing barriers to international undergraduate enrollment could foster a more global perspective within the institution, enriching the educational experience for all students.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$21,501

Undergraduate tuition
$11,530
Room and board
$9,971
Graduate tuition
$8,477
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $18,400 · all 235 private faith-related institutions in the U.S.

Tuition rose 69% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 79%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$40.7M

Tuition and fees
$18.6M45.6%
Gifts and private grants
$14.2M35.0%
Investment return
$4.1M10.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.2M7.9%
Government grants and contracts
$250K0.6%
Other
$339K0.8%

Expenses$26.6M

Institutional support
$9.2M34.7%
Instruction
$6.2M23.3%
Academic support
$4.7M17.6%
Student services
$3.3M12.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.2M11.9%

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
$68,361peers $51,151
Professor
$90,686peers $65,885
Associate professor
$56,053peers $62,250
Assistant professor
$57,581peers $57,312

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCCAA
2025
NCCAA Division II MENWOMEN
Soccer2324
Basketball17-
Volleyball-12
Cross Country55
2024
NCCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Soccer2116
Basketball17-
Volleyball-10
2023
NCCAA Division IIMENWOMEN
Soccer1514
Volleyball-13
Basketball12-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary:

  1. University of Kansas (堪萨斯大学) - Ranked 151 in 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives.

  2. University of Missouri-Columbia (密苏里大学) - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university is recognized for its strong academic programs, particularly in journalism and health professions.

  3. Creighton University (克赖顿大学) - Ranked 124, this comprehensive university in Omaha, Nebraska, is known for its commitment to health sciences and liberal arts education.

  4. Iowa State University (爱荷华州立大学) - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is well-regarded for its engineering and agriculture programs.

  5. Washington University in St. Louis (圣路易斯华盛顿大学) - Ranked 24, this prestigious comprehensive university is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus community.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape of the Midwest.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
2

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

Data insights

Crime Trends at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

The crime statistics from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary over the years present a varied picture of campus safety. From 2013 to 2023, the average crime rate per 1,000 students shows fluctuations that merit attention. Notably, the year 2014 and 2020 recorded zero incidents, indicating periods of heightened safety. However, other years, such as 2015 and 2019, witnessed spikes in crime rates, with notable incidents including arrests related to weapons and drugs.

The increase in crime rates in 2015, with an average of 2.92 incidents per 1,000 students, highlights the potential challenges that the institution faced during that time. The data indicates that the majority of incidents reported are not severe, as there are no records of violent crimes like murder or rape during the observed years. This suggests that while there are instances of crime, they may not be indicative of a larger pattern of violence on campus.

Additionally, the overall trend appears to show a decrease in crime rates in recent years, particularly from 2021 to 2023, where the rates dropped to 0.87, 0.85, and 0.27 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. This decrease can be indicative of effective safety measures or a change in campus culture towards a more secure environment.

In conclusion, while there are periods of heightened crime rates, the overall trend suggests an improvement in campus safety at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures will be essential in maintaining this positive trajectory. For more insights into crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.

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.