Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Acceptance rate
57.7%
2025
Tuition per year
$11,934
$21,974 with room and board
Undergraduates
354
Student-faculty ratio 20:1
Graduation rate
24.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 37.3%
About
The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, located in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the largest seminaries in the United States, known for its commitment to theological education and church leadership training. Established in 1908, the seminary has a rich history of providing rigorous academic programs rooted in the Baptist tradition. Its mission is to prepare leaders for the church and the world, emphasizing the importance of biblical fidelity, student development, and a commitment to the Great Commission. The seminary's motto, "The Whole Gospel for the Whole World," reflects its dedication to spreading the Christian message globally.
The seminary boasts a diverse array of programs, including degrees at the master’s and doctoral levels, which cover various areas such as theology, ministry, and missions. With a strong faculty comprised of experienced scholars and practitioners, students receive an education that is both academically challenging and practically applicable. The campus itself features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Smith-Baptist Church, a library with extensive theological resources, and spaces for community engagement and worship. The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary also emphasizes student life, providing numerous opportunities for fellowship, spiritual growth, and involvement in local churches. Through its commitment to excellence in education and vibrant campus culture, the seminary continues to shape the future of Christian leadership.
Analysis of Key Trends at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has shown significant fluctuations in various metrics over the years. One of the most notable trends is the change in tuition fees, which have a direct impact on accessibility for students. In 2022, the in-state undergraduate tuition dropped to $6,585, which could suggest an effort to attract more students during a financially challenging period. However, in 2023, tuition surged to $9,910, indicating a significant increase that may raise concerns about affordability for prospective students.
Moreover, the retention rate has demonstrated a positive trajectory, soaring from approximately 66% in 2020 to about 82% in 2023. This increase is a promising sign, suggesting that more students are choosing to continue their education at the seminary, likely due to improved support systems or a more engaging academic environment.
Another critical factor is the gender ratio among students. In 2020, 73% of undergraduate students were male, but this figure decreased to 63% by 2023. This shift towards a more balanced gender ratio among undergraduates is indicative of changing demographics and could reflect broader societal trends in higher education where more women are pursuing theological studies.
Lastly, the graduation rates reveal that only 26% of undergraduates graduated on time in 2022. This low figure is concerning and suggests that the seminary may need to focus on improving its academic support and resources to boost student success rates. Overall, while there are positive developments in retention and gender balance, the tuition increases and low graduation rates present challenges that need addressing to ensure the institution's long-term viability and appeal.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- Dallas, about 35 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 25 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Southern Baptist
- President
- David Dockery (President)
- Phone
- 8179231921
- City
- Fort Worth, Texas
- Address
- 2001 W. Seminary Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76115
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 100.0%, women 100.0%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The admission data for Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals intriguing trends over the years. In 2020 and 2022, the institution maintained a 100% acceptance rate for both male and female applicants, indicating a highly inclusive admission policy during those years. This level of accessibility can be appealing to prospective students, particularly in an era where many institutions are becoming increasingly selective.
However, the data for 2023 presents a different picture. The acceptance rates dropped significantly, with male applicants receiving an acceptance rate of approximately 85.4% and female applicants at about 52.6%. This shift suggests a potential tightening of admission standards or a strategic decision to limit enrollment numbers in response to various factors, such as institutional capacity or resource allocation.
The number of enrolled students also saw an increase, with 103 students admitted in 2023 compared to 43 in 2020, reflecting a growing interest in the seminary's offerings. However, the denial of 41 applicants in 2023 indicates that the institution is becoming more discerning, which could be attributed to a rising number of applications or a desire to enhance the overall quality of the student body.
Overall, these trends illustrate the dynamic nature of admissions at the seminary, highlighting a shift from total inclusivity to a more selective process, reflecting broader patterns observed in higher education institutions across the country. As the seminary navigates these changes, it will be essential to balance accessibility with maintaining academic standards, ensuring that it continues to attract and retain a diverse and talented student population.
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 Scores at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The data from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary presents an intriguing snapshot of the admissions landscape over the years. While the majority of the years listed, from 2007 to 2021, show no reported scores or percentages, the years 2022 and 2023 provide a glimpse into the academic profiles of admitted students.
In 2022 and 2023, students who submitted SAT scores demonstrated a range of reading and math performance, with the 25th percentile scores for reading and math both starting at 510 and reaching up to 610 for the 75th percentile. This range indicates that there is considerable variability in the academic readiness of students, with a clear expectation for a foundational level of competence in both areas.
Moreover, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores was relatively low, around 11% in both years. This suggests that many prospective students may be opting to apply without standardized test scores, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly moving towards test-optional admissions policies. This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a reevaluation of the role of standardized testing in the admissions process.
Overall, while the limited data makes it challenging to draw comprehensive conclusions, the available information indicates that Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is adapting to changing dynamics in college admissions, potentially broadening access for students from diverse academic backgrounds. As more institutions reconsider the emphasis on standardized testing, it will be essential to monitor how these changes impact student demographics and academic success in the long term.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
279 applicants in 2025, 57.7% admitted
161 admitted 118 not admitted Yield 62.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Regional Studies (U.S., Canadian, Foreign) · Master's361 (29% international)
- Regional Studies (U.S., Canadian, Foreign) · Doctoral30 (17% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The graduation data from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for 2023 reveals interesting insights, particularly in the area of doctoral programs. Notably, the program in Regional Studies (U.S., Canadian, Foreign) stands out with a significant number of doctoral graduates. A total of 52 individuals earned their doctorate in this field, which indicates a strong commitment to advanced studies in cultural and regional analysis.
Interestingly, the number of international students achieving a doctorate in this program is also noteworthy, with 14 graduates, representing approximately 27% of the total doctoral graduates. This highlights the program's appeal and its capacity to attract international scholars, which is essential in fostering a diverse academic environment.
Despite the absence of graduates in the bachelor's and master's programs for this specific field, the robust doctoral output suggests that students may be choosing to enter directly into advanced studies, potentially driven by a desire to engage in in-depth research and contribute to academic discourse. This trend may reflect broader patterns in higher education where students seek specialized knowledge and advanced qualifications.
As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the focus on doctoral programs, particularly in culturally significant fields, may align with the growing demand for expertise in global studies. This trend is particularly relevant in today's interconnected world, where understanding diverse cultural contexts is crucial for effective engagement on both national and international stages. The data indicates that Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is successfully contributing to this need by producing a significant number of qualified professionals in regional studies.
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Studies (U.S., Canadian, Foreign). | - |
Students
2,850 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 65:35 · Freshman retention 83.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 224
- First-year undergraduates 69
- Graduate students 2,496
- Transfers and others 61
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (354)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2023
The student demographic data from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for the year 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the composition of the student body. With a total of 2,285 students, the breakdown reflects a diverse range of backgrounds and gender distributions across different categories of students.
Undergraduate freshmen represent a significant segment, numbering 103, with a notable male majority of 74.8%. This strong male presence may suggest an attraction to the seminary's programs that align with traditional roles in ministry. In contrast, undergraduate juniors showcase a more balanced gender distribution, with males making up 57.8% of the 185 students, indicating a shift as students progress through their academic journeys.
The graduate student population is the most substantial, totaling 1,977 individuals, with a male percentage of 68.6%. This indicates a continued trend of male dominance in graduate theological education, which may raise questions about inclusivity and the barriers that women face in pursuing advanced theological studies.
Interestingly, there exists a small group of students classified as "non-degree," totaling 21, where females slightly outnumber males. This may reflect a growing trend of women seeking theological education outside formal degree programs.
Overall, the data highlights the need for ongoing discussions about gender representation and diversity within theological education. As societal norms evolve, seminaries must adapt to ensure equal opportunities for all students, fostering an environment that reflects the diverse body of believers in contemporary society.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The age distribution of students at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals significant trends in the demographics of its student body. Notably, the most substantial group comprises students aged 22 to 24, where there are 180 male students and 90 female students. This indicates a strong enrollment of traditional-age students who often pursue higher education immediately after completing their undergraduate studies.
Interestingly, the age group of 25 to 29 also shows robust numbers, particularly in the male graduate category, with 232 males enrolled. This suggests that many students are returning to academia to further their education after a brief period in the workforce, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where adult learners are increasingly common.
Furthermore, the data shows that the number of female students in graduate programs is considerably lower compared to their male counterparts across various age groups. For instance, in the 30-34 age range, there are 192 male graduate students compared to only 67 female graduate students. This disparity may reflect ongoing challenges related to gender equity in advanced academic pursuits, echoing national conversations about women's representation in higher education.
Lastly, the data indicates a small but notable presence of students over the age of 50, particularly in graduate programs. This demographic shift towards older students may be indicative of a growing recognition of lifelong learning as essential in today’s rapidly changing job market. Overall, the age composition at the seminary illustrates not only the diversity within the student body but also aligns with broader societal trends in education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
28 in 2025 · 6.1% in 2020
580 in 2025 · 20.8% in 2020
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The enrollment data for international students at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals a significant trend in the recent years. In 2020, the percentage of international undergraduate students was relatively low at 6.14%, with 28 out of 456 total undergraduate students. However, by 2022, this number rose noticeably to 15.50%, indicating an increasing interest from international students, with 40 out of 258 undergraduates. This upward trajectory highlights the seminary's growing appeal to a global audience, likely influenced by various factors such as enhanced outreach efforts and the increasing recognition of its academic programs.
In contrast, the percentage of international graduate students remains notably higher, starting at 20.83% in 2020 and reaching 24.05% in 2022, before slightly declining to 18.92% in 2023. This fluctuation may suggest a dynamic response to global events, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and changing visa regulations, which have affected student mobility worldwide.
The seminary's ability to attract a diverse international graduate cohort suggests a robust reputation in graduate-level education, as graduate programs often cater to a more globalized academic market. The decline in the percentage of international graduate students in 2023, despite a total increase in overall graduate enrollment, may warrant further analysis to understand the underlying causes and to strategize on maintaining or enhancing international recruitment efforts.
Overall, this data reflects both challenges and opportunities for Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in its mission to foster a diverse and inclusive educational environment, while also responding to the evolving landscape of international education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$21,974
- Undergraduate tuition
- $11,934
- Room and board
- $10,040
- Graduate tuition
- $7,272
Tuition rose 33% from 2020 to 2025; room and board rose 272%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$53.2M
Expenses$38.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
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
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 2.2 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 14.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 34.7 mi
U.S. News #85
-
University of North TexasDenton · 38.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 40.6 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 79.5 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 142.7 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 154.5 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 167.3 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary:
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Texas Christian University - Ranked 98th in the 2024 US News rankings, TCU is a private university known for its strong programs in business, education, and fine arts.
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Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89th, SMU is a private research university that offers a vibrant campus life and is recognized for its business and law programs.
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Baylor University - Baylor is ranked 93rd and is a private Christian university renowned for its comprehensive academic programs and strong emphasis on research.
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The University of Texas at Austin - One of the leading public universities in the country, UT Austin ranks 32nd and is known for its diverse range of programs, including engineering, law, and business.
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Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47th, Texas A&M is a prominent public research university that offers a wide array of programs and has a strong tradition of leadership and service.
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Rice University - With an impressive rank of 17th, Rice is a prestigious private research university known for its small class sizes, strong programs in science and engineering, and vibrant campus culture.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students in the surrounding area.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
The provided data from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary indicates a notable absence of reported crimes over a span of eleven years, from 2013 to 2023. During this period, the crime rate has consistently been recorded at zero, reflecting an environment that may be perceived as exceptionally safe for students and faculty alike. The absence of incidents, including serious offenses such as armed arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests, showcases a commendable track record in campus safety.
This lack of reported criminal activity can be attributed to various factors, including effective campus security measures, a strong community culture that discourages misconduct, and possibly the demographics and lifestyle of the student body. In recent years, many educational institutions have focused on enhancing safety protocols and fostering an inclusive atmosphere, which may have contributed to such low crime rates.
It is also essential to consider the broader context of campus safety in higher education. Nationally, many colleges and universities have faced challenges with student safety, leading to increased scrutiny and measures to address crime. However, the data from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary stands out as a positive example, potentially serving as a benchmark for other institutions striving to maintain safe environments.
Overall, while the data reflects a remarkable achievement in campus safety, continuous efforts to uphold and improve these standards remain crucial. Institutions must remain vigilant and proactive to ensure that such positive trends continue, thus preserving the well-being of their communities. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary include Mike Huckabee (US ambassador to Israel, former Arkansas governor), Rick Warren (Pastor, author and founder of Saddleback Church) and James Lankford (US senator from Oklahoma).
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Mike Huckabee 1955–
US ambassador to Israel, former Arkansas governor
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Rick Warren 1954–
Pastor, author and founder of Saddleback Church
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James Lankford 1968–
US senator from Oklahoma
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Bill Moyers 1934–2025
Journalist and White House Press Secretary under Johnson
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Jody Hice 1960–
Former U.S. Representative from Georgia and radio host
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Paul Washer 1961–
Reformed Baptist evangelist and author
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Robert Jeffress 1955–
Pastor of First Baptist Church of Dallas
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Ed Young 1961–
Founding senior pastor of Fellowship Church
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Robert P. Taylor 1909–1997
3rd Chief of Chaplains of the US Air Force
More alumni (2, by field)
Arts and media
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Yip Wai-hong 1930–2024
Hong Kong composer, conductor and music educator
Other fields
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Miguel Núñez 1958–
Theologian, pastor and founder of Wisdom & Integrity Ministries
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.