February 17, 2021
The Board of Commissioners for the Association of Theological Schools voted to reaffirm Wesley Biblical Seminary’s accreditation for the next 10 years, at their February meeting.
“We celebrate this official affirmation of the health and momentum we are experiencing at WBS,” said Dr. Matt Ayars, president of WBS. “I am thankful for the students, faculty, staff, and supporters who continue to make WBS a seminary that remains faithful to God’s Word and produces well-prepared ministers of the gospel.”
A 10-year reaffirmation is the longest period of time granted by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. The reaffirmation for such a long period signifies the commission’s high level of confidence in the educational quality and institutional health of WBS.
In order to receive this reaffirmation, WBS conducted a year long self study that culminated in a campus visit from a team of accreditors. The final self study report, hundreds of pages in length, attested to the strength and vitality of WBS.
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools is the premier accrediting body for theological higher education. More than 260 theological institutions in the United States and Canada are accredited by the commission.
The report from the Board of Commissioners heralded WBS for several institutional achievements. The report highlighted a “culture of creativity and flexibility” that has resulted in a strong enrollment and healthy finances. The Board of Commissioners also commended WBS for “a clear sense of missional identity” and a “palpable feeling of unity.”
“It is gratifying to have the commission recognize the culture of excellence, innovation, and mission that we have at WBS,” Ayars said. “We are confident that our best days as a seminary are happening right now, by God’s grace.”