Claremont School of Theology (CST) is a private graduate theological school in Los Angeles that has been shaping leaders for the church, academia, and civil society for nearly 140 years. The institution blends academic rigor and spiritual tradition with a commitment to social transformation. While CST is one of the official theological schools of The United Methodist Church, it actively promotes interfaith dialogue and collaborates with a wide range of Christian denominations and diverse religious traditions. Discover more at losangeles1.one.
The School’s Founding
The history of Claremont School of Theology dates back to 1885, when Methodist minister and politician Charles Maclay established the Maclay School of Theology in San Fernando. The school was created to train clergy on the U.S. West Coast during a period of rapid regional expansion.
In 1900, the seminary became affiliated with the University of Southern California and relocated to the university’s campus. This partnership lasted until 1957, significantly strengthening theological education in Southern California. That same year, the school moved to the city of Claremont. Renowned American architect Edward Durell Stone designed the master plan for the new campus. Among the architectural landmarks of this period is the Kresge Chapel, which has been recognized as a historic site by the Los Angeles Conservancy.
In 2008, CST co-founded the Claremont University Project, an interreligious consortium that eventually became Claremont Lincoln University. However, in 2014, Claremont School of Theology withdrew from the project due to strategic differences, particularly after the partner institution transitioned to a secular educational model. In 2017, the school began negotiations for a potential merger with Willamette University in Oregon. Despite signing a memorandum of understanding in 2019, the process was never finalized, and in 2021, CST announced it would maintain its presence in Southern California.
Following the resolution of property-related legal issues in 2023, the school announced its move to a new Los Angeles campus located on the grounds of the Westwood United Methodist Church. In 2024, CST officially completed its relocation from Claremont to Los Angeles.
Academic Programs
Claremont School of Theology offers a variety of master’s and doctoral programs in theology, religious studies, and practical theology. Master’s degrees include the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, and Master of Theological Studies. Doctoral options cover the Doctor of Ministry, PhDs in Practical Theology and Religion, and a Doctor of Professional Counseling.
The curriculum is designed to prepare clergy, scholars, and professionals in counseling and community leadership. Research centers play a vital role in the school’s mission, including the Center for Engaged Compassion, the Center for Sexuality, The Clinebell Institute, and Process and Faith. Historically, the Center for Process Studies, which grew out of CST, was instrumental in the development of process theology. CST also hosts the Course of Study and Licensing School for the Western Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church.
The school’s modern educational model combines intensive in-person modules with online learning. This flexible approach makes quality education accessible to students balancing ministry, professional careers, and family life while maintaining the academic depth required at the graduate level.
Interreligious Dialogue
Claremont School of Theology intentionally positions itself as an interreligious institution. While rooted in the Methodist tradition, the school actively recruits students from various Christian denominations and other faith traditions. This inclusive environment prepares leaders to thrive in today’s multicultural and multi-religious world.
The school’s influence extends far beyond the United States. Its partnership with academic institutions in South Korea is particularly significant, fostering robust doctoral programs and a growing international alumni network.
CST graduates work in diverse fields, including immigration justice, climate resilience, anti-racism, gender equality, interfaith peacebuilding, and trauma therapy. Their work bridges theological reflection with practical community engagement. Claremont School of Theology continues to fulfill its mission: forming leaders who embody compassion, justice, and a culture of belonging in a globalized society.
Claremont School of Theology is an institution with deep historical roots and a forward-looking vision. It has demonstrated a unique ability to adapt to new challenges while remaining faithful to its spiritual and academic mission. By blending its Methodist heritage with interreligious dialogue and an innovative educational model, CST maintains a distinguished place among America’s theological schools.