Trinity Western University (TWU) has become the new home of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), welcoming one of North America’s most respected theological schools into its academic community to serve the church locally and globally through seminary education.
Trinity Western University Receives New Divinity School
The move marks the culmination of a long-held vision at TWU and a significant new chapter in the 128-year legacy of TEDS, formerly associated with Trinity International University (TIU) in Chicago. Following a previous joint announcement on April 8, 2025, and a formal transfer of ownership in January 2026, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School now begins its next chapter as the official divinity school of Trinity Western University. Through the provisions of a signed joint agreement, Trinity Western has received ownership of TEDS free of any financial obligations—as a gift to be stewarded for local and global future generations seeking a Christ-centred education with firm evangelical roots.
“Trinity Evangelical Divinity School is among the world’s premier evangelical divinity schools, and what has unfolded is beyond anything we imagined: a strategic convergence of shared mission, shared values, and shared calling.”
Stewarding a Gift for Future Generations
“For decades, TWU has carried a vision for a divinity school—one deeply grounded in Scripture and oriented toward the global church,” said President Todd F. Martin. “Trinity Evangelical Divinity School is among the world’s premier evangelical divinity schools, and what has unfolded is beyond anything we imagined: a strategic convergence of shared mission, shared values, and shared calling.”
Building on this shared vision, University leadership emphasized the educational focus and contemporary relevance of the new divinity school. “Our purpose is to equip the church to fulfill its calling in today’s context,” said Provost Susan Wendel. “In an era of global and digital transformation, we are committed to providing theological education that is rooted in Scripture, shaped by practical application, and responsive to the multicultural realities of the local and global church.”
"In an era of global and digital transformation, we are committed to providing theological education that is rooted in Scripture, shaped by practical application, and responsive to the multicultural realities of the local and global church.”
A Legacy Continued and Expanded
Recognized internationally for its commitment to Scripture, rigorous scholarship, and pastoral formation, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School brings a distinguished faculty, global alumni network, and theological depth to TWU’s growing graduate and doctoral offerings.
Two senior academic leaders, Dean David W. Pao and Associate Dean John Simons, along with a group of TEDS faculty-scholars are joining TWU—contributing expertise across biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, pastoral theology, intercultural and educational studies. Together, they form the academic core of a divinity school designed to equip servant leaders for ministry, scholarship, and faithful witness worldwide.
“We are embarking on a new way of doing theological education,” said Dean David W. Pao, “one that is both local and global in reach, pastoral and academic in focus, and offered as a genuine gift to the worldwide church.”
Local and Global, Together
Positioned on Canada’s west coast, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU is intentionally global in vision. The school brings together students and faculty from diverse cultural, linguistic, and denominational contexts, creating a rich learning environment shaped by lived global Christianity.
Both institutions share a heritage in the Evangelical Free Church of America, a common statement of faith, and a commitment to theological education that is biblically grounded, academically rigorous, and spiritually formative. Today, TWU also maintains a close connection with the Evangelical Free Church of Canada, further strengthening its global evangelical network.
Flexible, Multilingual Programs for Today’s Church
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU offers a wide range of graduate programs launching in September 2026. Programs will be accessible through a combination of in-person, hybrid, and online formats to support students serving locally and internationally. Options include master’s and doctoral degrees designed for ministry leaders, scholars, and educators serving in diverse contexts:
- Master of Divinity (MDiv) with two choices for study pathways, offered in English, Mandarin, and Korean
- Master’s programs in Christian Ministries, Christian Studies, Theological Studies, Theology, and Linguistics & Translation, each with customizable tracks or concentrations
- Graduate certificate and diploma program options
- Four doctoral programs: PhD in Theological Studies, PhD in Theology & Culture, PhD in Educational Ministry Studies, and Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Additionally, TEDS at TWU will continue to provide church-based and online educational offerings for churches in North America.
TEDS Enrolment Now Open
Applications are now being accepted for the inaugural September 2026 intake to study from TEDS' new home in Langley, B.C., Canada. Prospective students are encouraged to explore programs and apply through TWU’s webpages, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU, or contact TWU Admissions at admissions@twu.ca.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.
About Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
Founded in 1897, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School is one of the world’s leading evangelical seminaries, known for its commitment to Scripture, rigorous scholarship, and global ministry impact. Now part of Trinity Western University, TEDS continues its mission of forming faithful servant leaders for the church worldwide.
Further Information for continuing students, alumni, and donors
Continuing students
Current students of ACTS Seminaries in Langley and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago can continue their studies seamlessly within the new Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU beginning this fall. Enrolment advisors are supporting each student in their continuing journey. Students with questions, please contact admissions@twu.ca.
Alumni
Alumni of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago and ACTS Seminaries in Langley are encouraged to stay engaged with Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU. Connect with your broader global alumni community at TWU Alumni or email alumni@twu.ca.
Donors
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School at TWU welcomes the continued investment of faithful supporters. Give towards the life of the local and global church through scholarships and planned gifts. Connect with TWU Giving or email giving@twu.ca.