RPTS is a ministry of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America and was founded in 1810, making it the fifth oldest seminary in the United States.

Soon after the organization in 1798 of what is now called the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America (in Philadelphia), steps were taken to establish a seminary for the education of its students of theology.

Classes commenced in 1810, making RPTS the fifth oldest seminary in the United States.

[1] All RPTS faculty have significant "field" experience in the church; therefore, classes are taught from the pastoral perspective.

RPTS also works closely with Kobe Theological Hall, its sister institution in Japan.