The John Leland Center for Theological Studies is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (COAATS) and is approved to offer the following degrees: Master of Christian Leadership (MCL), Master of Divinity (MDiv), and Master of Theological Studies (MTS). Leland is also approved by COAATS for comprehensive distance (online) education. COAATS is the premiere accrediting body for theological schools in the United States and Canada.

The following extension sites are approved by COAATS to provide up to 49 percent of the following degree programs but not complete degrees:

• First Baptist Church of Newport News, VA (MDiv, MCL)

• Bonsack Baptist Church, Roanoke, VA (MCL)

The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275 USA
Telephone: 412-788-6505
Fax: 412-788-6510 
Website: www.ats.edu

Statement of Educational Effectiveness

The John Leland Center for Theological Studies is a seminary of Baptist tradition that welcomes students and teachers of all church denominations. Leland’s purpose is to serve in the Kingdom of God through accessible, accredited theological education that equips its students to become transformational leaders in the global ministry of Jesus Christ. Leland is accountable to its supporting churches and institutional partners in the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. region and the state of Virginia. Leland’s goal is to educate and form students in Christ- like character, spiritual discipline, and compassion, with the benefit of biblical knowledge and skills which produce pastors and lay leaders who can serve in diverse ministry settings. While providing a high-quality online instruction to supplement and extend its mission, Leland puts its priority on in-person, community building instruction which enables Leland to implement its motto to its seminary constituency, “Leland: Your Local Seminary.” Leland graduates from 2021 were serving in various areas within six months of graduation as reflected in the graphs above.

The John Leland Center for Theological Studies is a religious institution exempt from the requirements of state regulation and oversight in the Commonwealth of Virginia.