Seminary

A seminary is a specialized university-like institution for the purpose of instructing students in theology, often in order to prepare them to become members of the clergy. This usually, though not always, applies to Christian and Jewish education. These institutions may also be known as theological colleges. Where they are part of another tertiary education institution they are typically called a school of theology, or divinity school. Bible colleges tend to provide a similar but more evangelical or fundamentalist education, and may also focus more on lay education.

Teaching seminaries

In many countries, the term seminary is also used for secular, mostly state-owned schools that train teachers, While the function of the teaching seminaries and religious seminaries is different, the terminology has not changed (compare the use of "dean" in education and the use of the term "dean" in religion). Teacher seminaries of the 19th century also employed strigent discipline and required impeccable behavior. In Nordic countries with a Lutheran state religion, there was little ambiguity, as the training of Lutheran priests was the duty of theology departments of the state universities.

Related Topics:
Secular - Dean - Dean - 19th century - Nordic countries - Lutheran - State religion - Theology - Universities

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When founded in the 19th century, teacher seminaries enrolled primary school graduates, but gradually the requirements were increased until, in the middle of the 20th century, the requirement was raised to high school diploma. At the same time, most teacher seminaries in the Nordic countries were incorporated into universities as part of their education colleges. Some–most notably the Seminary of Jyväskylä, Finland–formed the basis of entire universities.

Related Topics:
20th century - High school - Diploma - Education - Jyväskylä - Finland

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