[3] The forerunner of Phillips Theological Seminary originated in 1906 as part of Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma, a liberal arts college and graduate school affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

The Articles of Incorporation for the proposed "Oklahoma Christian University" were executed on October 9, 1906, known as Founders Day.

The board of trustees voted to change the name to Phillips Theological Seminary in 1995.

Phillips Theological Seminary was approved to offer comprehensive distance education in 2009.

[4] The seminary's namesake, Phillips University, filed Chapter 11 Bankruptcy on April 1, 1998 and closed four months later.