Welcome

Andover Newton, the oldest graduate school in the nation, formally affiliated with Yale Divinity School in 2017, though the mutual history of these two institutions can be traced back much farther. From the beginning, Andover Newton’s mission has been to educate learned clergy, particularly those who serve in the family of locally-governed, “small c” congregational traditions, such as the United Church of Christ and the American Baptist Churches (USA).  As an embedded institution within Yale Divinity School, Andover Newton is  able to offer the unique benefits of a tradition-specific seminary with the unparalleled resources of a great university.

Andover Newton promotes love for congregations in the entire YDS community, provides specific programs for those exploring or living into such a call, and creates new knowledge about the art and craft of congregational ministry. Andover Newton Seminary’s programs and missional distinctiveness rely on faculty and staff who embrace the seminary’s commitment to educating clergy for pastoral leadership in locally-governed congregations. Staff and faculty employed by or affiliated with Andover Newton Seminary offer their gifts to the Seminary’s programs specifically, and they embody its values throughout Yale Divinity School.

Students enrolled at YDS through Andover Newton can earn a diploma certifying their preparation for ministry in addition to their Yale degree. Through YDS, Andover Newton funds certain American Baptist and United Church of Christ faculty and programs and offers scholarship support to students. All admissions to Andover Newton are administered through YDS. Applicants interested in pursuing the program at Andover Newton Seminary should use a YDS application for admission, indicating their desire to enroll in the Andover Newton Seminary Program. 

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Photo credits: © 2021-2022 Mara Lavitt, Samara Sorce, Spencer Law

For over 200 years Andover Newton has educated clergy and other religious leaders dedicated to serving the church.

Andover Newton Seminary focuses on preparing religious leaders for service in locally-governed faith communities, including (but not limited to) United Church of Christ and American Baptist Churches (USA) congregations.

Andover Newton remains rooted in its faithful devotion to the study and practice of worship as it has been passed down through local congregational communities.