A blend of academic rigor and spiritual formation
As a graduate theological school with a mission-focused upon ministry and service, ESR bears the dual responsibility of accurately conveying the materials and movements that shape the Christian and Quaker religious heritages and of creating a learning environment in which students are formed for ministry that is relevant to the current era. Consequently, the academic programs at ESR intend to combine academic rigor with spiritual formation and value the inner transformation of the student as much as the outer preparation of the minister.
Find your program
Earlham School of Religion offers a range of educational opportunities, from master’s degrees to certificates and even opportunities to audit a class. No matter your path, you can expect a holistic approach to learning that addresses the mind, spirit and personal leadings to minister to the world.
What makes Earlham School of Religion unique?
ESR blends academic rigor with spiritual formation, in pursuit of a holistic education designed to lead our students and alumni/ae to lives of creative ministry. We are grounded in Christian belief with strong Quaker influences but serve the wider ecumenical community. We believe in the power of personalized attention within the classroom but weave experiential and technology-aided learning into the educational experience. And while we prepare students for traditional roles in churches and meetings, we recognize and support the many evolving forms of ministry and leadership.
Our faculty
Earlham School of Religion teaching faculty are scholars and researchers who make noteworthy contributions to our understanding of all the ways of ministering in today’s world. While each brings their own diverse perspective, all share a singular focus on equipping new generations of students for lives of active ministry.
Next steps
Ministry isn’t just a vocation or a calling—it’s a way of being in this world, seeking to make it whole. Earlham School of Religion is ready to support you in answering your own call to ministry, whatever shape it takes.