Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
2025 USNews Best Colleges Ranking: 342(↓46) (Click for schools/majors ranking)
Abbreviation/Alias: SEBTS
School Characteristics: Private, non-Profit (4-Years)
Calendar systerm: Semester
Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist
School Chief: Daniel Akin (President)
Website: www.sebts.edu/; Phone: 9197612100
Location: 120 S. Wingate Street, Wake Forest, NC, 27587-1889
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Important Facts
Analysis of Key Metrics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The data for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals several critical trends in areas such as tuition, student demographics, retention, and graduation rates, essential to understanding the institution's educational landscape.
Over the years, undergraduate and graduate tuition have shown an upward trajectory, with tuition for in-state undergraduate students rising from approximately $7,016 in 2014 to $10,516 by 2024. This increase raises concerns about the affordability of education, especially as student debt levels remain high nationwide, affecting potential enrollments. Making education accessible should be a priority, particularly for a private institution striving to attract a diverse student body.
Additionally, the graduation rates indicate fluctuations, with only 14.7% of undergraduate students graduating on time in 2024. This marks a significant decline compared to earlier years, such as 2016 when the percentage was 36.1%. The challenges students face during their studies can further discourage future enrollment and retention, emphasizing the need for improved academic support services or mentoring programs.
Moreover, the student retention rates have retained a relatively stable figure around 80%, indicating that once students enroll, many find the environment conducive enough to continue. This stability will be critical for maintaining healthy enrollment levels, as high retention often correlates with student satisfaction.
Lastly, the gender ratio in the undergraduate program has shifted over the years, with men constituting about 57.8% of the student body in 2024. This trend towards a more balanced gender representation is promising as institutions strive for diversity, yet it also suggests that efforts must continue to engage female students in theological studies more effectively.
In summary, while Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary demonstrates stability in areas like retention and increasing gender balance, significant challenges related to rising tuition and declining graduation rates must be addressed to enhance the school's offerings and sustain its appeal to future students.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Degrees and Majors
Analysis of Graduate Trends in Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (2023)
The data from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary for 2023 indicates a significant focus on advanced theological education, as evidenced by the substantial number of master's and doctorate graduates in various theological disciplines. Notably, the programs related to divinity, counseling, and religious education show a committed output of graduates, with the highest numbers found in master's degrees. This is indicative of a growing demand for professionals equipped to address spiritual and pastoral needs in society.
Interestingly, despite the strong presence of theological programs, the data reveals a lack of international students graduating in these areas. This may signal an opportunity for the seminary to enhance its outreach and marketing strategies to attract more global talent into its programs, particularly given the interconnected nature of today's societal challenges.
The findings also include a noteworthy number of graduates in interdisciplinary studies, reflecting an institutional acknowledgment of the value in blending various academic perspectives. The two students graduating in the associate degree program, while small in number, demonstrates that there is an interest in foundational theological and educational studies, which could potentially be expanded to cultivate a broader base of future leaders.
Overall, while Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary continues to uphold its traditional strengths in theology and ministry training, it may benefit from diversifying its offerings and recruitment strategies to further enhance its academic community and broaden its global impact.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Ranking and Admission
Analyzing Admission Trends at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The admission data from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary presents an intriguing picture of trends over the years, particularly highlighted by the latest ranking for 2025, which stands at 342. This represents a notable decline from the previous year, indicating potential challenges the institution may be facing in its appeal and competitiveness among other educational institutions. Looking at the acceptance rates, it is evident that the seminary has been relatively accommodating, particularly in earlier years. For instance, in 2016, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 97.4%, while females were accepted at a rate of 100%. However, by 2024, the acceptance rates had dropped to about 69.3% for males and 87.8% for females. This downward trend raises questions about strategic admissions practices and whether the seminary is becoming more selective in response to its changing circumstances or perhaps a shift in student interest. The numbers of enrolled students also tell an interesting story. In 2019, the seminary had an impressive enrollment of 140 students, but numbers have fluctuated significantly since then. The total enrollments dipped to just 33 by 2023, suggesting that further analysis is needed to understand the factors influencing student attraction and retention. Examining the cases of applicants denied admission, a consistent number has been observed across the years, with the lowest being 2 in 2016 and the highest hitting 48 in 2015. The fluctuation in these figures is essential for gauging the institution's outreach and the effectiveness of its admission strategies. Overall, while Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary remains committed to its mission, the admissions and ranking data indicate a time for reflection and strategy realignment to enhance its appeal to prospective students moving forward.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Admission Score Requires
*Numbers at left represent SAT/ACT submitting percentage, numbers on blue blocks represent 25%-75% admission scores
**Drag green block to check data for different years, click blue block to check scores trends
Analysis of Admission Scores at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The data from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary presents a compelling narrative of admissions metrics over several years, particularly from 2014 onwards where consistent scores for SAT and ACT submissions are recorded. Notably, the 25th and 75th percentile scores suggest a moderately competitive applicant pool, especially given the range of scores for programs that likely emphasize both academic and faith-based criteria.
Beginning in 2014, the SAT reading sections reflect a performance range that extends from 500 to 580, illustrating a steady benchmark that applicants seem to meet. As time progresses to 2023, scores rise significantly, peaking at 550 for the lower quartile and 670 for the upper quartile, indicating an upward trend in applicant qualifications or perhaps changes in outreach strategies. Conversely, in 2024, this seems to shift slightly down to a range of 480 to 630, which may reflect fluctuations in applicant quality or changes in admissions strategies as the institution adapts to a more diverse student population.
Moreover, the percentage of applicants submitting either the SAT or ACT fluctuates, with 49% consistently participating in SAT submissions in the years observed. However, the number of participants notably drops to 16 and 14 in 2023 and 2024 respectively. This could suggest a shift in the applicant pool's perception of standardized testing, which aligns with national trends where many colleges and universities have gone test-optional in recent years.
Overall, the trends observed in these scores and participation rates provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of theological education, particularly in adapting to changing student demographics and educational attitudes toward standardized tests. The institution’s responses to these trends will be crucial for maintaining its relevance and accessibility moving forward.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Students Diversity
Analysis of Student Demographics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary for 2024
The composition of students at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2024 presents a diverse landscape, particularly in terms of gender and racial representation. With a total of 2,480 students in various categories, it is noteworthy that the majority group consists of graduate students, followed by undergraduates. The male-to-female ratio across the different classifications shows a tendency towards a more male-dominated environment, particularly among graduate students, where 73% of the population is male. This trend may reflect broader patterns in theological seminaries, which often see higher enrollment of males in advanced theological education.
For undergraduates, the numbers reveal an interesting contrast; while undergraduate freshmen demonstrate a male ratio of about 59.7%, it is among undergraduates overall that we observe a notable count of female students, especially in the older undergraduate category, where females comprise 31.6% of the population.
The racial demographics indicate that the majority of students identify as White, with a significant portion of both graduate and undergraduate representatives coming from this group. The presence of diverse ethnicities, such as Hispanic, Asian, and African American students, is fundamental for enriching the academic environment and promoting inclusivity within theological discussions.
As the institution continues to shape future leaders in ministry, understanding these demographic trends becomes essential. The gender and racial diversity context mirrors ongoing conversations in sociocultural settings about representation, equality, and the need for inclusivity in religious education. The evolving dynamics within the student body may influence the institution’s educational approaches and outreach strategies moving forward.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Students Age Distribution
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The age distribution among students at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals intriguing insights into the demographic makeup of the student body. Notably, the largest cohort is between the ages of 22 to 24, which comprises a significant portion of the graduate males and females. This age group reflects a trend observed in many modern educational environments, where students often delay entering professional life to pursue advanced degrees.
Undergraduates aged under 18 also represent a sizable segment, primarily consisting of younger males and females. This finding indicates a robust interest in early theological education, which may be influenced by religious upbringing or community engagement. Conversely, students aged 25-29 showcase a striking number of graduate males, suggesting that many individuals in this cohort are returning to academia after gaining some professional experience. This aligns with broader trends where individuals seek to advance their knowledge and qualifications later in life.
Furthermore, the representation of older age groups, such as those 40 and above, continues to support the notion that theological education is not just for the young but draws individuals from varied life stages. Overall, while the seminary attracts a diverse range of students, the data suggests a strong emphasis on graduate education, particularly among those in their 20s to 30s. This demographic trend could be indicative of societal shifts towards lifelong learning, particularly in fields where continuous spiritual and educational growth is vital.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary International Students Trends
Declining International Student Enrollment at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The data from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary reveals a concerning trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. While the total number of undergraduate students fluctuated, the proportion of international students has significantly declined, dropping from 4.76% in 2005 to only 0.13% by 2024. This sharp decrease reflects a broader trend observed in many educational institutions, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted global mobility and international recruitment strategies.
In the graduate segment, the situation is similarly grim, with international student representation decreasing from 8.36% in 2005 to a mere 0.18% in 2024. This decline raises questions about the university's appeal to global students amidst a competitive educational landscape. Factors such as immigration policies, rising tuition costs, and the availability of online education could all be contributing to this downturn.
The shrinking diversity within the student body can affect not only the educational experience for all students but also the institution's global outreach and reputation. In a culturally rich learning environment, diverse perspectives enhance discussions, prepare students for a global workforce, and foster inter-cultural understanding.
Addressing these challenges may require explicit strategies from the seminary to boost international engagement, such as targeted marketing campaigns, partnership programs with overseas institutions, and support services specifically tailored for international students. The long-term sustainability and growth of the seminary may very well depend on its ability to attract and retain a multifaceted student body.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Campus and Safety
Nearby Top Colleges
Here are some notable universities surrounding Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary:
Duke University - Ranked 6th in the 2025 US News rankings, Duke is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and strong research output.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Ranked 27th, this public university is famous for its strong liberal arts curriculum and vibrant campus life. It is one of the oldest public universities in the United States.
Wake Forest University - Holding the 46th position, Wake Forest is a private university that provides a distinctive liberal arts education combined with a strong focus on professional programs.
University of Richmond - This private liberal arts university, ranked 22nd, is known for its small class sizes and excellent faculty. It combines a strong academic curriculum with a commitment to student involvement and community service.
William & Mary - Ranked 54th, this public research university is one of the oldest in the country. It offers a strong emphasis on undergraduate education and a comprehensive liberal arts experience.
Washington and Lee University - With a rank of 19, this small liberal arts college is known for its strong programs in law, business, and the humanities, fostering close relationships between students and faculty.
These institutions not only provide diverse educational opportunities but also enrich the cultural and academic environment of the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary area.
Campus Safety
Trends in Campus Crime at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
The statistics from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary reveal a fluctuating landscape of crime rates over the years. From 2013 to 2022, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students demonstrated variability, with some noticeable peaks and valleys. In particular, 2017 recorded the highest crime rate at 2.85 per 1,000 students, which indicates a period of concern regarding campus safety.
Interestingly, the years 2014 and 2021 showed very low crime rates, with 0.00 and 0.66 respectively, suggesting effective crime prevention measures or a possible lack of reporting. The most recent data from 2023 notes a crime rate of 2.17 per 1,000 students, indicating a resurgence in incidents after a relatively quieter period.
A deeper look into specific crime types reveals that instances of carrying firearms and drug-related arrests have occurred sporadically. Nevertheless, the consistent absence of violent crimes such as murder, rape, or robbery is a positive sign for the campus community. Notably, the trends suggest that while some years present higher risks, predominantly the seminary maintains a relatively safe environment.
In context, these statistics are not only reflective of campus life but also resonate with broader national trends of crime in educational institutions. As more universities are scrutinized for campus safety, institutions like the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary must remain vigilant in their policies and student support systems.
For those interested in understanding how to calculate crime rates, more detailed information can be found at the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Reference
- Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Official Website
- USNews Best Colleges Ranking
- USNews Bset Global Universities Ranking
- THE World University Ranking
- QS World University Ranking
- ARWU World University Ranking
- US Department of Education College Scorecard
- National Center for Education Statistics
- Forward Pathway US College Ranking Database
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Important Facts Trends
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary degrees/majors
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary major details
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2023 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 |
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Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||||
Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
Religious Education. | - | ||||
Worship Ministry. | - | ||||
Theology/Theological Studies. | $54,863 | ||||
Divinity/Ministry. | $54,863 | ||||
Pre-Theology/Pre-Ministerial Studies. | $54,863 | ||||
Youth Ministry. | - | ||||
Women's Ministry. | - | ||||
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - | ||||
Ethics. | - | ||||
Christian Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies. | - | ||||
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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Organizational Leadership. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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History, General. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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Ancient Near Eastern and Biblical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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General Studies. | - |
Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
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English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Schools/Majors Ranking
Under Ranking (2025)
- No Ranking
Grad Ranking (2025)
- No Ranking
*Rankings have been updated to 2025USNews schools/majors ranking, rankings are for reference only
*numbers in bracket represent rankings change compare to last version
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Varsity Athletes
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Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS), located in Wake Forest, North Carolina, is a prestigious institution offering theological education with a deep commitment to the Baptist faith. Established in 1950, SEBTS is well-known for its focus on training leaders for ministry and service within the Southern Baptist Convention and beyond. Its campus boasts modern facilities that enhance student learning and engagement, including well-equipped classrooms, the beautiful Mackie Library, and the new Learning Resources Center. The seminary's vibrant campus culture encourages students to build community and engage in spiritual formation, creating an environment where future leaders can thrive.
The seminary emphasizes a holistic approach to education, combining rigorous academic training with practical ministry experiences. Students benefit from a diverse range of programs, including Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, and Doctoral degrees, allowing them to tailor their studies to their calling, whether in pastoral ministry, missions, or counseling. With a faculty comprised of experienced scholars and practitioners, SEBTS is dedicated to providing high-quality instruction grounded in Scripture. The institution's commitment to the Great Commission and its emphasis on evangelism and church planting resonates strongly within its curriculum. This dedication to biblical teaching and practical application equips students to make a significant impact in their communities and globally. Graduates of SEBTS have gone on to fill influential roles in churches, mission organizations, and various ministries, further extending the seminary's positive influence in the world.