The purpose of Baptist International University from its start in 1977 is to train faithful servants of God for the work of the ministry. This purpose we have fulfilled and will continue to do so by the grace of God.
Because of the unique education we provide, and our strong belief in the separation of powers, we have not invited government oversight or approval of our programs. Even though we are not government accredited, we hold to the highest standards of academic integrity.
The seminary does have accreditation through ACI (Accrediting Commission International) in respect to the curricula standards and the university's administration standards. ACI is the largest non-governmental accrediting commission.
The school offers as its core curricula the Baptist International School of the Scriptures, and according to the curricula, offers degrees from Associates to Doctorate.
The curricula were developed and approved after twenty years of work and study under Baptist Christian University International, in Bowie, Texas, under the leadership of Donald M. Fraser, Ph.D.; and commissioned by J. G. Tharpe, Ph.D., Th.D., of Baptist Tabernacle of Shreveport, Louisiana. The curricula were transferred to Rhode Island Baptist Seminary in 1991. Baptist Tabernacle in Shreveport, LA, has several schools under its umbrella, including Louisiana Baptist University and Baptist Christian University. However, R.I.B.S. is independent from Baptist Tabernacle and not directly affiliated.
Besides the University locations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Jauja, and many other places, the University was also made available in Pachacamac, Peru, in 2024 under the leadership of Pastor Desent.
Under the leadership of its President, N. Sebastian Desent, Ph.D., Th.D., D.D.; and its Vice President, Francisco Guerrero, Ph.D. (who are both graduates of schools under the authority of Baptist Tabernacle); R.I.B.S. meets all conventional standards for class credits and credit hours and practicum work. Rhode Island Baptist Seminary is under the authority of Historic Baptist Church in North Kingstown, Rhode Island.
Because of our high standards and initial connection to Baptist Tabernacle, R.I.B.S. contributes to the public good through effective teaching and learning that are biblically sound, academically rigorous, socially engaged, and culturally relevant; and its educators embody a biblical worldview, engage in transformational teaching and discipling, and embrace personal and professional growth.
Download Rhode Island Baptist Seminary Letter in respect to Accreditation here:
