Accreditation agencies
Luther Seminary is accredited through the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Luther Seminary was reaccredited by both agencies in 2015 with our next reaccreditation cycle scheduled for 2025.
The Association of Theological Schools
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
Phone: 412-788-6505
Fax: 412-788-6510
Website: www.ats.edu
The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1411
Phone: 800-621-7440 / 312-263-0456
Fax: 312-263-7462
Email: info@hlcommission.org
Ecclesiastical commitments
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
As the sole member of the corporation, the ELCA and its policies govern Luther Seminary. Luther trains and prepares students for ministry in the ELCA and coordinates with ELCA bodies in the endorsement, candidacy, and assignment processes.
United Methodist Church (UMC)
The University Senate of the UMC reviews and approves theological schools for the education of persons preparing for United Methodist ordination. Luther was last approved in 2019 and will again complete the process in 2024.
State and federal compliance
Luther Seminary conducts its operations in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations:
Luther Seminary is incorporated as a 501(c)3 organization as a part of the ELCA. The Board of Trustees is a separate 501(c)3 organization (see standard 7 for complete description of governance and structure).
As a non-profit educational organization Luther Seminary follows federal, state and local laws in several broad categories:
- In relationship to students: Financial Aid, FERPA, ADA, Minn. state health laws
- Academics: textbook, copyright, many sections in Title IV
- Facilities: Inspections and licenses from local authorities (State of Minn., City of St. Paul, Ramsey County) in relation to fire, health, safety and food handling
- Development and fund raising
- Tax-exempt status (federal and state of Minn.)
Observation and compliance with federal and state laws related to the operation of a 501(c)3 organization are of critical importance. Other significant federal laws which apply to Luther Seminary are the Department of Education Title IV; employment and anti-discrimination legislation such as the American with Disabilities Act and the US Department of State authorization to sponsor international students and scholars.
Luther Seminary participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
Enrolled and prospective students can request a copy of the accreditation reports that includes documentation of the above mentioned commitments by contacting the Office of the President at presoff@luthersem.edu or 651-641-3215.