Following extensive consultation and a multi-year review process, ATS members approved revisions to the Standards of Accreditation at the 2026 ATS/COA Biennial Meeting in Chicago. The updates reflect the changing landscape of theological education while affirming the strengths of the 2020 Standards. Revisions also addressed emerging topics such as digital learning, artificial intelligence, competency-based education, institutional partnerships, and regulatory requirements.

The revised Standards of Accreditation took effect on July 1, 2026, and will guide member schools as they pursue educational excellence and mission-focused innovation in theological education