DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY

PURPOSE OF THE COURSE

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is designed for men and women capable of doing research at the highest level with a view to becoming scholars, teachers, and educational leaders. The degree provides students with opportunity for advanced preparation to teach in Bible colleges and seminaries or contribute in a theological research and writing ministry. Researchers acquire in-depth understanding and skills in theology, interpretation, and application of the Scriptures. PhD courses are taught by well qualified professors and visiting professors from America, Europe and Asia.

The program is designed to develop students’ ability to do competent biblical and theological research, to think critically, and to communicate effectively in an area of specialization. Course studies, seminar work, and research projects are part of the student’s supervised program, which culminates in the preparation of the doctoral dissertation.

OBJECTIVE OF THE COURSE

The candidate should anticipate a minimum of three and a half years of course work (approximately four courses per year) and one-year of writing the dissertation. Normally a student may complete the studies in four and a half years’ time. A maximum of seven years is allowed for the completion of all degree requirements, including the writing of the dissertation.

Two weeks of resident classes in January and June will be held every semester at University Campus. Reading and research works are required before and after resident classes. This will allow students to earn 6 credit hours per semester. A thorough preparation of students is required for academic research and writing for both the coursework and dissertation.

REQUIREMENTS

The PhD program will admit men and women who show evidence that they

(1) are born again;

(2) are of proven Christian character;

(3) are endowed with appropriate spiritual gifts; and

(4) adhere to the following doctrines: the authority and inerrancy of Scripture, the Trinity, the full deity and humanity of Christ, the spiritual lostness of the human race, the substitutionary atonement and bodily resurrection of Christ, salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone, and the physical return of Christ.

In addition, the following prerequisites apply to all PhD applicants.

A one-page letter of intent, giving reasons for desiring to study the PhD course.
A statement of agreement adhering to the University statement of faith.
Applicant’s education and ministry experience supported by official transcripts that the applicant is adequately prepared for doctoral work.
Holds a Master of Theology (ThM) degree from recognized College/Seminary/University.
Official transcripts of all the degrees completed from all the colleges/seminaries attended.
A minimum 3.0 GPA in all previous graduate work and/or degree programs.
Applicants must give evidence either by transcript or by examination of at least two years of study in biblical Hebrew and two and a half years of study in New Testament Greek.
Any deficiencies in these areas must be made up prior to admission to the PhD programs.
Letter of recommendation from a present Pastor written on the Church letterhead must be sent directly to the University office, clearly detailing the applicant’s Christian character, spiritual and ministerial gifts and experience.
Letter of recommendation from a current or former Professor written on the letterhead of the institution which details the applicant’s academic qualifications for doctoral level of study.
An applicant will not be accepted into the program until a candidate clears the PhD entrance examination. If an applicant fails the entrance examination, request may be made for a retake.
Admission interview both written and oral shall be conducted with the Director in case of enrolment in South Korea branch but in the case of applicants with the main campus in India the Director will conduct the interview along with two/three faculty members. Questions will be in relation to his Christian testimony, theological and philosophical positions, ministry experience, academic qualifications, and vocational goals. The applicant may be required to appear in person or interview may be conducted through the internet or phone, whichever is convenient for both parties.

Once the interview has been conducted, the applicant’s materials will be reviewed by the Doctoral Admission Committee. If the committee approves the application, it will be referred to the University Academic Council for a final decision. The Registrar will inform the applicant of the outcome of his application.