Emmanuel Christian Seminary has become part of Milligan College, a Christian institution "located across a highway from its campus," Inside Higher Ed reported.

The graduate-level theological seminary is now part of Milligan's School of Bible and Ministry, one of five schools comprising the college's academic structure.

Fifty years ago, Emmanuel Christian Seminary began operations on Milligan College's campus before relocating to its present location across the highway from Milligan a few years later.

"This is a historic day for Milligan and Emmanuel," Milligan president Dr. Bill Greer said in a statement. "It is more important than ever for us to prepare faith-driven servant leaders; therefore, we welcome Emmanuel to join us on this mission that has guided Milligan over the past 150 years."

The merger was approved by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS). They also approved Milligan College's reclassification as a level 5 institution, allowing the school to award degrees at doctoral level.

Since the summer of 2012, Milligan College has helped the Seminary overcome significant financial issues and prepare for its eventual integration into Milligan. With the merger, Emmanuel will continue its academic work, while enabling Milligan to add important new programs to its curriculum.

Milligan's School of Bible and Ministry is one of five schools comprising the college's new academic structure, which also includes The Schools of Science and Allied Health, Arts and Humanities, Social Science and Education and The William B. Greene Jr. School of Business and Technology.