Doctor of Ministry

Doctor of Ministry

3 Years / 60 Credit Hours

A Doctor of Ministry is a doctoral-level degree program that prepares students for leadership roles in various ministry settings, including churches, non-profit organizations, and higher education also advanced leadership roles in ministry and to equip their advanced knowledge and skills in theology, biblical studies, pastoral ministry, and leadership. Here is a general outline of the topics that may be covered. The D.Min. program is typically practice-oriented and focuses on equipping experienced ministers with the tools, insights, and strategies to enhance their effectiveness in real-world ministry contexts.

1. Advanced Ministry Study: D.Min. programs typically include advanced coursework in various areas of ministry, including pastoral care, preaching, leadership, counseling, and church administration. These courses often explore cutting-edge theories, practices, and methodologies relevant to contemporary ministry.

2. Contextual Ministry Engagement: One of the distinguishing features of D.Min. programs is their emphasis on contextual ministry engagement. Students are encouraged to reflect on their own ministry contexts and apply what they learn directly to their current ministries. This may involve conducting research, implementing new strategies, or addressing specific challenges within their congregations or organizations.

3. Research Component: While the D.Min. is a practice-oriented degree, it often includes a research component. Students are typically required to complete a substantial research project or thesis that addresses a specific ministry-related issue or question. This research project should be directly applicable to their ministry context and contribute to the field of practical theology.

4. Cohort-Based Learning: Many D.Min. programs are structured as cohort-based programs, where a group of students progresses through the program together. This cohort model encourages peer learning, collaboration, and support throughout the program.

5. Spiritual Formation: Some D.Min. programs include a spiritual formation component, which focuses on the personal and spiritual growth of ministers. This may involve retreats, seminars, or courses on topics related to spirituality and self-care.

6. Ministry Mentoring: Students often work closely with faculty advisors or mentors who provide guidance and support as they engage in their ministry projects and research. Mentors help students integrate academic knowledge with practical ministry experience

.7. Duration: D.Min. programs typically take two to four years to complete, depending on the program structure and the student's pace. Some programs offer flexible formats to accommodate working ministers.

8. Career Impact: A D.Min. degree can enhance a minister's effectiveness in various ministry roles, including pastoral leadership, counseling, chaplaincy, and teaching. It can also open doors to leadership positions within denominational bodies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions.

9. Admission Requirements: Admission to D.Min. programs typically requires a master's degree in divinity or a related field, significant ministry experience (usually several years), and letters of recommendation. We require a statement of purpose and an interview as part of the application process. D.Min. programs are offered by a variety of seminaries, divinity schools, and theological institutions.

1. Foundations of Christian Ministry: 

This course provides an overview of the history, theology, and philosophy of Christian ministry. Students learn about different models and approaches to ministry and how to apply them in contemporary ministry settings.

2. Biblical Studies:

 This course covers the advanced study of biblical texts, including exegesis, hermeneutics, and biblical theology. Students learn how to apply biblical principles to contemporary ministry issues and how to interpret and apply biblical texts to ministry practice.

3. Theology and Ethics:

 This course covers the advanced study of Christian theology and ethics, including systematic theology, ethics, and apologetics. Students learn how to apply theological principles to contemporary ministry issues and how to address ethical issues that arise in ministry practice.

4. Leadership and Administration:

This course covers leadership theory and strategies for leading and managing ministry organizations. Students learn how to develop strategic plans, lead teams, and manage resources in ministry settings.

5. Preaching and Teaching:

 This course covers the advanced study of homiletics and teaching methods for communicating biblical truth. Students learn how to prepare and deliver sermons and lessons that are biblically grounded and culturally relevant.

6. Spiritual Formation: 

This course covers spiritual disciplines and practices for personal and corporate spiritual growth. Students learn how to lead and facilitate spiritual formation in ministry settings and how to address spiritual issues that arise in counseling and pastoral care.

7. Cross-Cultural Ministry:

 This course covers cross-cultural communication, contextualization, and missiology. Students learn how to work effectively in cross-cultural ministry settings and how to address the unique challenges that arise in cross-cultural ministry.

8. Research Methods:

This course covers research design, methodology, and statistical analysis. Students learn how to conduct research in ministry settings and how to evaluate and apply research findings to ministry practice

1. Biblical Studies and Theology

- Biblical hermeneutics and exegesis

- Biblical languages (Hebrew and Greek)

- Old and New Testament theology

- Systematic theology

2. Leadership and Management

- Leadership theory and practice

- Management principles and techniques

- Organizational behavior and change

- Strategic planning and implementation

3. Research Methods and Design

- Quantitative and qualitative research methods

- Statistical analysis and data interpretation

- Research design and ethics

- Writing and publishing research papers

4. Ministry Practice and Context

- Understanding ministry contexts and cultures

- Developing and implementing effective ministry programs

- Pastoral counseling and care

- Preaching and teaching the Bible

1. Ministry in a Global Context

- Cross-cultural communication and ministry

- Missiology and evangelism

- Interfaith dialogue and cooperation

- Global leadership in ministry

2. Theological Ethics

- Christian ethics and social justice

- Bioethics and medical ethics

- Environmental ethics

- Ethics of war and peace

3. Research in Ministry

- Developing a research question and hypothesis

- Literature review and methodology

- Data collection and analysis

- Writing and publishing research papers

4. Dissertation Proposal

- Formulating a research question and hypothesis

- Literature review and methodology

- Data collection and analysis

- Dissertation defense preparation

1. Spiritual Formation and Discipleship

- Spiritual disciplines and practices

- Personal and corporate worship

- Discipleship and mentoring

- Spiritual direction and counseling

2. Ministry and the Arts

- Worship and the arts

- Visual arts and ministry

- Drama and ministry

- Music and ministry

3. Pastoral Leadership and Administration

- Leading and managing a congregation

- Church governance and decision-making

- Conflict resolution and mediation

- Financial management and stewardship

4. Dissertation Writing and Research

- Conducting research and data analysis

- Writing and revising dissertation chapters

- Seeking feedback and guidance from faculty

- Preparing for dissertation defense

2. Career Development and Ministry Opportunities

- Career opportunities in ministry and leadership

- Networking and professional development

- Leadership in academia and research

- Entrepreneurship and innovation in ministry