1. Vision and Planning:
* Define your mission and purpose: What theological tradition will you emphasize? What will be your unique contribution to theological education? Who is your target student population?
* Develop a curriculum: Create a robust and rigorous curriculum that meets scholarly standards and prepares students for various ministries and vocations. This requires careful consideration of required courses, electives, field education, and potential specializations (e.g., biblical studies, systematic theology, pastoral ministry, missiology).
* Secure legal structure: Determine your legal status (e.g., non-profit corporation, association). This involves navigating legal requirements, including tax-exempt status (501(c)(3) in the US).
* Faculty recruitment: Assemble a highly qualified faculty with appropriate theological expertise, teaching experience, and scholarly credentials (terminal degrees, publications, etc.).
* Financial planning: Develop a comprehensive financial plan that includes startup costs (facilities, technology, salaries), operating budget, and long-term sustainability strategies (endowment, fundraising, tuition revenue).
* Facilities and resources: Secure suitable facilities including classrooms, library, offices, and technological infrastructure. A robust library collection is essential.
2. Initial Development and Program Implementation:
* Secure initial student enrollment: Begin offering courses and build a student body. This might initially involve smaller, pilot programs.
* Develop assessment mechanisms: Establish methods for evaluating student learning and program effectiveness. Accreditation agencies require evidence of program quality and student success.
* Establish internal governance: Develop clear governance structures, policies, and procedures, including an effective board of directors or trustees.
3. Accreditation Process:
* Choose an accrediting agency: Research and select the appropriate accrediting agency for theological education. The choice depends on your theological tradition and geographic location. Major agencies in the US include the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and regional accrediting bodies. Other countries have their own accrediting bodies.
* Meet accreditation standards: Thoroughly review the agency's standards and prepare your school to meet all requirements. This is a demanding process requiring meticulous documentation and self-study.
* Submit the application: Prepare and submit a comprehensive application to the accrediting agency. This will include detailed information about your mission, curriculum, faculty, finances, facilities, and assessment methods.
* Site visit: The accrediting agency will conduct an on-site evaluation of your school, involving interviews with faculty, staff, and students, and a review of all aspects of the institution.
* Achieve accreditation: After the site visit and review of your application, the accrediting agency will make a decision regarding your accreditation status (candidacy, provisional, or full accreditation).
4. Ongoing Maintenance of Accreditation:
* Regular self-study: Conduct periodic self-studies to assess your institution's continued compliance with accreditation standards.
* Periodic review: Undergo periodic reviews by the accrediting agency to maintain your accreditation status.
Key Considerations:
* Legal compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations regarding higher education and non-profit organizations.
* Fundraising: Secure sufficient funding to support the school's operations and growth.
* Marketing and recruitment: Develop effective strategies to attract students and faculty.
* Community engagement: Build relationships with local churches, denominations, and other community organizations.
This is a simplified overview. The specific requirements and processes vary depending on the accrediting agency and the location of the school. It's strongly recommended to consult directly with potential accrediting agencies early in the planning process to understand their specific requirements and timelines. The process is rigorous, but achieving accreditation significantly enhances the credibility and legitimacy of your School of Theology.