Berkeley School of Theology

BST’s curriculum blends evangelical roots with progressive praxis, offering degrees like the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and a unique Master of Arts in Community Leadership. Programs are organized around four thematic pillars:

• Creative Church and Community
• Spirituality and Resilience
• Justice and Reconciliation
• Biblical and Theological Literacy

As part of the GTU consortium, students access cross-registration at UC Berkeley and other seminaries. The school’s reputation leans progressive-intellectual, with Reddit users noting its ‘ecumenical partnership’ ethos and Yale Divinity School comparisons. The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) caters to working clergy.

With just 108 students, BST fosters tight-knit cohorts. The school promises ‘academic, personal, financial, and spiritual support’ from orientation onward, though concrete student-life details are scarce. Proximity to UC Berkeley and GTU seminaries offers access to broader events—like Pacific School of Religion’s ‘Annual Prom’ or Jesuit School of Theology’s community gardens. Yelp reviews describe a ‘European university’ vibe where ‘student life isn’t separated from ordinary life.’ Housing appears decentralized, with no on-campus residences mentioned.

Data is sparse, but one source cites a 14% graduation rate—likely skewed by part-time clergy students. Median earnings aren’t reported, though UC Berkeley’s broader data suggests theology graduates earn less than bachelor’s degree holders ($80k vs. $48k for high school grads). The school’s focus on ministry implies non-traditional ROI: vocational fulfillment over salary premiums. Loan repayment rates and job placement stats are unavailable.

Tuition is $2,856 annually, but total cost estimates (including living expenses) reach $28,088. BST encourages scholarship searches beyond institutional aid, though specifics are vague. A net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator is available, but the school’s small scale means aid packages likely vary widely. Notably, costs are far below UC Berkeley’s averages, aligning with BST’s mission to serve lower-income ministry students.

BST is a paradox: a theologically evangelical school in hyper-progressive Berkeley, with Ivy-adjacent academic ties (via GTU) but near-open admissions. Its Master of Arts in Community Leadership is a rare hybrid of theology and grassroots activism, while the D.Min. caters to practicing clergy. The 4:1 student-faculty ratio ensures mentorship, and the GTU consortium unlocks UC Berkeley libraries and courses. Ideal for non-traditional students seeking low-cost, high-flexibility theological training—with a side of Bay Area activism.