Statement of Educational Effectiveness
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary (WLS) conducts yearly and longer-term assessments of courses and curricula in its MDiv and STM programs to ensure faithfulness and effectiveness in carrying out its mission.
In addition, in line with its accreditation by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), WLS shares the following statistics regarding educational effectiveness.
Retention, graduation, and placement
- Most recent retention rate: Of the 49 first-year students who enrolled in 2024, 44 (90%) returned for their second year in 2025.
- Completion rate: Of students who enrolled in the five-year span of 2016–20, 81% (141 of 175) went on to graduate; 96% of these (135 of 141) did so in four years of study.
- Placement rate: Since at least 2006, 100% of graduates recommended by the faculty have been assigned into ministry within one year.
Student satisfaction from 2025-26 course surveys
- 91% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the surveyed course met their expectations.
- 98% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the professor demonstrated his love of the ministry and concern for each student.
- 95% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the professor demonstrated advanced knowledge of the subject matter.
- 95% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that the course made them more knowledgeable on the subject.