Heidelberg Theological Seminary intends to seek accreditation from the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS). In August 2016, Heidelberg Seminary was received as an Affiliate Member of ARTS.
Mission
The mission of the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS) is to preserve and advance the academic quality, accountability, and improvement of seminaries committed to educating students in the tenets of Reformed Theology.
History
Created in 1999 to meet the need for an accrediting organization dedicated to Reformed theological education, ARTS accredits institutions granting graduate degrees in ministry-related fields.
Core Values
ARTS is committed to bringing glory to God by contributing to the building of the Church, the progress of God’s Kingdom, and the preservation and advancement of the Reformed tradition by providing a context where the Association and member institutions can hold one another accountable for fulfilling their individual purposes and commitments.
Tenets of Faith
Each member institution must profess adherence to one or more of the historic creeds of the Reformed tradition, namely, the Westminster Confession and Catechisms, the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, the Canons of Dordt, the First and Second Helvetic Confessions, or the Second London Confession of 1689.
Membership
Membership in ARTS is institutional and is open to United States-based seminaries that meet the qualifications and requirements of the Association.
Scope of Accreditation
ARTS accredits U.S. based seminaries that offer graduate degrees aimed at preparing students for Christian service through biblical and theological studies of Reformed traditions.