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Ph.D. (Ministry) is a third cycle academic degree which is aimed at a higher level of education in the field of ministry, theology, and practical theology. A Ph.D. Ministry program takes between 3-5 years to complete for full time students while part-time student may take up to 8 years. The advanced program curriculum covers subjects such as the Bible, church history, theology, ethics, in ministry leadership, and quantitative and qualitative research analysis. For the award of a Ph.D. in Ministry, a student has to undertake massive research and write a dissertation that adds a wealth of knowledge to the existing knowledge in the field.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test that have been accepted for admission into Ph.D. Ministry programs of different institutions is another standardized test that assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning and analytical writing skills. Some schools may also offer consideration for the Miller Analogies Test (MAT) which measures the ability to analyze relationships through ability to identify similarities between concepts. Standard requirements include minimum score on entrance tests such as the GRE or MAT, coupled with a high grade point average that is usually demanded before one can be considered for admission to doctoral programs in the ministry area.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Doctor of Philosophy (Ministry) |
| Also Known As | Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) |
| Duration | 3-5 years (full-time), may vary depending on the university |
| Course Level | Doctoral Level |
| Eligibility | Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (MTS), or a related Master's degree in a theological field, with a minimum GPA and strong pastoral experience |
| Top Universities (US) | Fuller Theological Seminary, Princeton Theological Seminary, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Azusa Pacific University |
1. A graduate degree in theology, divinity or religious studies from a recognised accredited university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or its equivalency.
2. Proven ability to read biblical languages or take further language study to gain skills in this area.
3. Letters of recommendation discussing academic performance and ministerial skills.
4. A brief and concise explanation of purpose in writing and research and the overall aims and objectives of the degree and the prospective ministerial call.
5. Standard performance on an entrance test such as the one required for graduate school (GRE).
6. A meeting with the department faculty in order to determine the preparedness of their individual academic background and suitability for the program. Satisfy any other requirements that may be stipulated regarding the award of the degree by the awarding institution.
| Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Theology and Biblical Studies | Advanced studies in biblical interpretation, theological ethics, practical theology, missiology (missions), homiletics (sermon development) |
| Ministry Leadership and Administration | Church leadership principles, church governance models, financial management in ministry, conflict resolution in church settings, church growth strategies |
| Contextual Theology | Theology and ministry in specific cultural contexts (urban, rural, global), Ministering to diverse populations, Integration of faith and social justice issues |
| Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Care | Spiritual disciplines and practices for ministry leaders, Pastoral counseling theories and techniques, Grief and loss counseling, End-of-life care |
| Research Methods and Thesis Development | Quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, Research design and proposal writing, Data collection and analysis techniques, Dissertation writing and defense |
| Elective Courses (Depending on the University) | Christian Education, Worship and Liturgy, Youth Ministry, Family Ministry, Digital Ministry and Technology |
| Specialization | Job Title | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Pastoral Leadership | Senior Pastor, Church Administrator, Denominational Leader | $60,000 - $120,000+ |
| Christian Education | Director of Christian Education, Professor (Christian Education), Curriculum Developer | $50,000 - $80,000 |
| Counseling and Care | Chaplain (Hospital, Hospice, Military), Pastoral Counselor, Director of Spiritual Formation | $55,000 - $90,000 |
| Missions and Global Ministries | Missionary (International/Domestic), Missions Director (Denomination/Organization), Professor (Missions) | $45,000 - $80,000+ |
| Non-Profit Leadership | CEO/Executive Director (Faith-Based Non-Profits), Program Director (Social Service Organizations), Advocacy Leader | $60,000 - $100,000 |
