collageThe Church and society needs leaders who want to think more deeply, see more clearly, and be formed more fully, if we wish to leave a legacy of a vibrant, culture-engaging world for the next century. That’s why we’ve created the Evangelical Seminary Doctor of Theology program! This program is for reflective practitioners of ministry, taught by experienced and wise scholar-practitioners, with the intent that fresh forms and expressions of ministry will emerge through this collaborative learning process.
The program includes traditional components (a series of core courses, taken as a cohort, as well as a dissertation) and nontraditional aspects (a series of specialized readings-and-research courses, supervised by a track mentor, in a fashion similar to the British doctoral system). It requires roughly the same number of credits and time frame as a typical Doctor of Ministry but with richer theological reflection and greater academic credibility. Its hybrid delivery provides both accessibility from a distance and the opportunity to utilize local resources for knowledge discovery.
Doctor Of Theology Or PhD In Theology?
When it comes to doctoral degrees, there are two general types: academic degrees, and professional degrees. Professional degrees are those focused on educating a professional to the highest level of skill and knowledge, to be put into direct practice. Think of a Doctor of Medicine, or a Doctor of Law – they earn their degree to practice medicine and law. The religious equivalent is a Doctor of Ministry. An academic doctorate, on the other hand, is focused on research, and is intended for professionals to master all there is to know about their subject so they can pass it on as educators, researchers, and writers. The PhD is the most common academic doctorate, and it’s the usual degree of university and college professors.
Knowing that, the difference between a Doctor of Theology (ThD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theology may be a bit confusing, but rest assured – they are virtually the same thing. The Doctor of Theology is the terminal degree for schools of theology, and is primarily intended for students who want to work as educators. However, the ThD may also be a good choice for pastoral ministers who want to focus on an educational approach to ministry.
In most cases, whether a college or seminary offers a ThD or a PhD in Theology simply comes down to what they’re officially approved to offer, and whether they have a dedicated School of Theology. Many schools offer both; the ThD may be slightly cheaper, or have a few less required credits, because it is more narrowly focused on theology than the PhD. But on the job market, and in the minds of the education system, they’re equivalent degrees.
What is a Doctor of Theology degree?
Originally, the ThD was the sister and equivalent of the PhD. Both are research-oriented degrees, with the ThD being focused on the theological disciplines (although some ThD programs, like some PhD programs, direct research toward practice). The Association of Theological Schools still considers these degrees as equivalents, even though they are each targeting different doctoral outcomes.
What’s The Benefits Of An Online TH.D.?
Online degrees have taken off in the 21st century for two main reasons: convenience and affordability. Those are both very good reasons to get a ThD online, rather than a traditional residential on-campus degree program. Most people looking for a doctor of theology degree are going to be working in ministry as pastors, missionaries, counselors, chaplains, or in some other capacity. They have a job, a family, a congregation that depends on them, and can’t afford to uproot and move to earn a degree. Online ThD programs let working adults earn their degree where they are, on their own time, working around their own current schedule, so they can fulfill their current responsibilities and prepare for the future at the same time.
On the other hand, face-to-face interaction with peers and instructors has a lot of value for motivation, encouragement, and development. That’s why many doctor of theology programs are presented in a hybrid or modular format, combining online coursework with limited on-campus residencies – sometimes a few days, sometimes as much as a week or two. While these are still much more convenient than relocating for a residential program, prospective students should consider the demands of the program they’re thinking of applying to.
Online PhD Degrees has done the research on the most affordable online Doctor of Theology degree programs – both fully online, and in hybrid or module form. From our results, we’ve named the Top 10 Most Affordable Doctor of Theology Programs in the US. Programs come from regionally-accredited colleges and universities, as well as smaller seminaries. The Most Affordable Ranking is presented in order from the lowest price to the highest.
What’s the difference between a ThD, DMin, and PhD degree?
Although the ThD and PhD were once regarded as equivalent degrees, the ThD is largely regarded now as a middle ground between the PhD and DMin, drawing on the strengths of both. The PhD is research-oriented and intensive; the DMin is practice-oriented and less intensive. The ThD sits between them– research-oriented toward improvement of practice.
Cheap Accredited Online Doctor Of Theology
1. Northwestern Theological Seminary
Based in Fort Richey, FL, Northwestern Theological Seminary was founded in 1980 by Christian Alliance Ministries of the Worldwide Church of Jesus Christ (which is unrelated to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints). Northwestern Seminary is an evangelical, non-denominational seminary guided by the leadership of Dr. Samuel Galloza, bishop of the Worldwide Church and president of Northwestern Seminary. Accredited by the International Association for Christian Educational Accountability (IACEA), NTS provides degrees in areas including theology, ministry, and divinity that are recognized by the Florida Department of Education.
The Northwestern Theological Seminary Doctor of Theology online degree provides students with the highest credential in the study of theology. NTS’s online ThD degree program is specialized in Apologetics, the organized, systematic defense of Christian faith and theology to secular culture. Experts in apologetics use theological knowledge and reasoning to construct logical arguments in favor of Christian beliefs. As a terminal degree in Theology, NTS’s Doctor of Theology online prepares students for teaching, research, and writing in theology. A fully online program allows working adult to pursue the degree at their convenience, and Northwestern Theological Seminary has the lowest tuition of any online ThD program in the US.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
2. Colorado Theological Seminary
Colorado Theological Seminary’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality Christian education to believers who want to serve Christ, with Biblically-based undergraduate and graduate programs. CTS began as a labor of love, with the Church of the Holy Cross Bible College, founded in 1996, and the Colorado Theological Seminary, founded in 1999. The merger of the two schools helped make CTS an emerging leader in online Christian education, recognized by the state of Colorado’s Degree Authorization Act, the Florida Council of Private Colleges, and the the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE).
Colorado Theological Seminary’s Doctor of Theology online program focuses on Christian Counseling, preparing pastors with a theologically-based, Biblically sound basis for counseling their congregations and other people in need. In addition to a theoretical foundation for Christian spiritual and psychological therapy, the online ThD program from CTS prepares students for the National Christian Counselors Association (NCCA) licensure exams. The full 40-credit ThD program can be completed entirely online, so dedicated pastors can complete their training in Christian counseling without having to leave their churches, and the tuition is intentionally kept affordable.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
3. Trinity College Of The Bible &Theological Seminary
Trinity College of the Bible & Theological Seminary was designed as a different kind of Christian educator – even back in 1969, when it began, Trinity was focused on distance education, helping busy pastors and lay leaders earn their degrees in a mail correspondence format. That mission, to give church leaders the education they need while still leading their church, remains central to Trinity, but today, it’s all done online. Trinity is dedicated to flexibility and convenience, providing generous credit transfers and experience credits, as well as keeping tuition costs low and admissions open, so students can enroll and start any time and learn at their own pace.
Trinity College’s School of Biblical Thought and Theological Studies offers two PhD in theology online degree programs: the PhD in Biblical Studies, and the PhD in Biblical Theology. Both programs are designed as primarily academic programs, intended to strengthen the student’s formal skills in writing and research on theology and the Bible. The School of Integrated Apologetics offers two Theology PhD programs as well: Christian Apologetics and Philosophy, and Christian Apologetics and Theology. These focus on the history and practice of defending and arguing for the Christian faith. Students will complete 49 credits, including a dissertation, for all Trinity College PhD programs, and all coursework can be completed fully online. Graduates are prepared for careers in teaching, church leadership, and writing, and a low tuition rate makes for an affordable education.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
4. Liberty University
Few evangelical Christian universities have the international name recognition of Liberty University, but then again, there is no other Liberty University. Founded in 1971 by evangelist Jerry Falwell, Liberty University spent most of its early years as a small Bible college, but Falwell’s ambition for changing the world with the Gospel made sure Liberty would not stay small. Liberty’s major growth came with the establishment of Liberty Online in 2009, helping turn Liberty into a global institution with well over 100,000 online students. Liberty is not only regionally accredited; it’s widely recognized as one of America’s top online educators.
Liberty’s online PhD in Theology and Apologetics program is designed for students called to ministry through writing and teaching. The Liberty Theology PhD uses online coursework and an on-campus intensive to immerse students in the Bible, theology, church history, and apologetics, preparing experts who can promote and defend Christian faith. As the highest academic achievement, the PhD in Theology qualifies graduates for teaching at the college level, but also for pastoral ministry, administration in Christian education settings, and careers in writing and research. As the most advanced online Christian educator, Liberty sets standards in quality and affordability.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
5. Faulkner University
Faulkner University was founded in 1942 as the Montgomery Bible College in Montgomery, AL, by the Churches of Christ; it was renamed in honor of Dr. James Faulkner, philanthropist and longtime supporter of the school. Faulkner is dedicated to holistic education, not only intellectual, but the development of character in Christian service, and Faulkner’s curriculum and programs combine academic rigor with a commitment to Christian ideals and morals. Recognized as one of Alabama’s finest regional colleges, Faulkner is regionally accredited, and a candidate for accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools.
Faulkner University’s online Biblical Studies PhD program is intended to train scholars to understand the Bible through the lens of Christian morality and ethics. By bringing together theology, church history, archeology, Biblical languages, and more in an interdisciplinary degree, Faulkner’s Biblical Studies PhD offers a wider focus than a conventional Theology PhD. This fully online program is designed to be completed in 4-5 years, including a dissertation. With a wide range of career options, from teaching to ministry, and affordable tuition, Faulkner’s online PhD is a trusted choice for Alabama and elsewhere.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
6. Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster Bible College is a nondenominational, evangelical Christian school dedicated to training and educating servant leaders for Christ. Founded in 1933, Lancaster has made the most of its eight decades, spreading to five locations throughout the East – not only two campuses in Pennsylvania, but locations in Florida, Tennessee, and Maryland. Lancaster has earned regional accreditation as well as Association for Biblical Higher Learning (ABHL) accreditation, demonstrating its quality in both secular and religious circles. A Christ-centered, Bible-based college, Lancaster Bible College has earned its reputation.
Lancaster Bible College’s online PhD in Biblical Studies brings students to the highest level of Biblical scholarship, focusing on Bible languages, hermeneutics, and theological history. For the convenience of working ministers, the LBC program is designed along a hybrid format, with 3 short on-campus intensives throughout the year, and fully online coursework. Students work through the program in a cohort format, providing support and encouragement to one another through 40 credits of coursework and 20 dissertation credits. The full program can be completed in just 3 and a half years to provide a theology PhD focused on using Bible knowledge to spread the Gospel.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
7. Clarks Summit University
Clarks Summit University makes its home in the picturesque foothills of the Endless Mountains of Northern Pennsylvania, in the borough of Clarks Summit. However, its beginnings in 1932 happened at the First Baptist Church of Johnson City, NY, and Clarks Summit’s commitment to Baptist faith and heritage has never wavered in all of its growth and changes. Today, from a small church-based seminary, Clarks Summit has grown into a comprehensive, regionally-accredited university, and is also accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) Commission on Accreditation. Clarks Summit is a trusted name in the Northeast, and its online programs extend that reach even farther.
The Baptist Bible Seminary comes from Clark Summit’s original seminary, and through the BBS Clark Summit’s online PhD in Theology provides students with a flexible, convenient way to earn the highest degree in the field. The Theology PhD is designed for students who want to teach theology at the college level, or work as writers and researchers, and consists of 60 credit hours culminating in a dissertation. Students who already hold an MTh degree can complete the program with just 38 credit hours. All coursework is online, but students must come to campus for one week each in October, February, and June.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
8. Regent University
Regent University, as its motto says, is dedicated to Christian Leadership to Change the World, and that has been its mission since its founding in 1977. With the leadership of Rev. Pat Robertson, the Christian Broadcasting Network University (as Regent was originally called) focused on harnessing communication and liberal arts education to train a new generation of evangelistic leadership. Today, as one of the fastest-growing regionally-accredited universities in the nation, Regent is committed to making its educational opportunities available to as many students as possible, including its online degree programs.
Regent University’s PhD in Theology is offered in an online modular format, combining a 2-week on-campus residency each semester with fully online coursework, providing students with the flexibility of online learning and the accountability and support of on-campus learning. With a concentration in Renewal Theology, Regent’s Theology PhD focuses on pentecostal renewal, combining the study of theology and church history with a commitment to revival and evangelism. Regent’s reputation is on the rise, just like its student body, and an online theology PhD from Regent University can have a major impact on the lives of pastors, missionaries, and Christian educators from all denominations.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
9. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
The oldest and most prestigious seminary in the Southern Baptist Convention, the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary dates back to 1859, when it was founded in Greenville, SC. Moving to Louisville, KY, in 1877, Southern Seminary established a reputation as a pioneer in religious education. Southern was the very first seminary to offer a PhD program, and today stands as one of the largest seminaries in the world, with more than 5000 students. Southern Seminary is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), and regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), the highest levels of theological and secular accreditation.
Southern Seminary’s theology PhD program is designed on a modular format, combining online coursework with on-campus seminars to provide both face-to-face guidance and convenient, self-scheduled online work. For the PhD, Southern requires a major and a minor (which provides a Master of Theology in addition to the PhD); numerous concentrations are available, including Pastoral Theology, Christian Apologetics, and Christian Missions. Students must complete a dissertation at the end of their coursework, and the entire program can be completed in just 4 years. With a focus on Christian scholarship, used in the service of ministry, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary’s online PhD in Theology keeps Southern’s heritage firmly in the present.
Cost Per Credit: $$$$$
10. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Southwestern Seminary’s Flex Access PhD program allows the most possible flexibility and convenience for students who want to earn an online Theology PhD from Southwestern. Students can choose residential, online, or hybrid options, with live, online attendance available for all PhD classes and seminars. Multi-media courses give opportunities for learners of all kinds, all over the world. Students have no need to attend at Southwestern’s Fort Worth, TX, campus, except for two 3-day orientations, and the Flex Access program allows students to learn from the same material as on-campus students, on their own time. It’s a convenient option that Southwestern argues works better than conventional fully online or modular programs for working church leaders and ministers.
What kind of student is right for a ThD program?
An experienced practitioner who wants to reflect more fully on the theological foundations of ministry and/or to innovate and lead significant improvement in practice in the next generation. Some ThD students are in or seek positions of denominational, academic, or other organizational leadership.
What are the prerequisites for a Doctor of Theology program?
Prerequisites are very institution-specific. Here at Evangelical, the main qualifier is an accredited master’s degree in theology or a related discipline. Unlike the DMin (and some PhD programs in theology), an MDiv is not required.
Do I need to know Greek or Hebrew to apply?
It depends on the institution and the field of study. Most ThD programs would assume that incoming students possess a master’s degree in theology that would have acquainted them with biblical or other languages, that it is not true across the board. (At Evangelical this is only a requirement for the Biblical track within the ThD program).
Do I need a Masters in Theology to apply?
It depends on the institution. Most would prefer to see a master’s in a theological discipline or something closely related.
What can you do with a Doctor of Theology after you graduate?
Some want to teach. It is more difficult to attain a tenure-track, full-time teaching position with a ThD than with a PhD, although some seminaries and Bible colleges would be open to a candidate with a ThD. Those who wish to teach part-time in other contexts usually find it a helpful credential, as do those in administrative positions in higher education or denominations. Many simply want to improve ministry practice and/or establish credibility for having done so.
Can I teach at a seminary or university with a ThD degree?
It is more difficult to attain a tenure-track, full-time teaching position with a ThD than with a PhD, although some seminaries and Bible colleges would be open to a candidate with a ThD. Those who wish to teach part-time in other contexts usually find it a helpful credential.
How long does it take to get a Doctor of Theology?
It depends on the institution. Those that still regard it as a sister to the PhD may require several years of full-time coursework and several years for the completion of a dissertation. Institutions that situate it between a PhD and a DMin may provide a 3- or 4-year plan. (At Evangelical, our 78-credit ThD program is designed to completed in as few as 3 years.)
What are the most important accreditations for a Doctor of Theology program?
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association for Theological Schools (ATS) is the primary and premier accreditor for theological education in North America. Other accreditors, such as the Association of Biblical Higher Education, have been focused primarily on undergraduate biblical education and have therefore not yet developed quality standards at the doctoral level. (At Evangelical, all of our programs are ATS-accredited, including those our hybrid and fully-online offerings).
Should I choose a ThD program based on my denomination?
If seeking assignment, advancement, or leadership roles within a particular denomination it is always wise to ascertain if there are particular institutions that are formally approved or even informally preferred. Otherwise, since there are very few ThD programs in North America, one might choose depending on other factors (theological affinity, delivery method, learning philosophy, cost, etc.).
How can I afford a ThD program?
There are four basic funding models for Christian doctoral programs in the US:
1) High tuition programs that offset the cost by offering teaching or research fellowships to elite students. These programs usually require students to be full-time in the program and accessible geographically.
2) High tuition programs that offset the cost somewhat by providing tuition discounts (in the form of scholarships and other aid) somewhat across the board. Each student ends up with his/her own unique financial aid package.
3) High tuition programs that are intended to generate revenue for the rest of the institution. Students are expected to find their own funding.
4) Low tuition programs intended for working professionals. A low, flat fee for tuition is established, without fellowships, scholarships, or the need for the student to find offsetting tuition assistance.
What financial aid is available for ThD students at Evangelical Seminary?
Evangelical uses the fourth funding model identified above (low tuition programs intended for working professionals). Its tuition is kept quite low, compared to other PhD and ThD programs, and the course load qualifies the student for federal loans. Students are informed of additional opportunities for financial assistance and some are able to secure funding from other sources.
What does “evangelical” mean at Evangelical Seminary?
The word “evangelical” has many connotations, depending on who is using it. Our name is derived not from the current cultural/political movement of evangelicalism but from our founding denomination, which was established over 200 years ago as the Evangelical Association. Then and now, it means to us an approach to life in which our faith in Christ is pervasive and holistic–our faith is integrated into “head, heart, and hands.” We therefore speak of being “boldly, broadly, and beautifully Evangelical”–bold in things that matter (like the lordship of Christ and the authority of Scripture), but broad in our embrace of those who share those common foundations, and beautiful in how we live out the kingdom of God in this world.
What does the dissertation process look like at Evangelical?
We regard the dissertation less as a burden to write a very long paper and more as an invitation to become one of the world’s experts on a particular topic about which a student is passionate. Students identify a dissertation topic early in the program (or even before they arrive), present a proposal before their second year is complete and, if approved, can complete the dissertation in two terms in their third year. Longer timeframes are also possible, and there is opportunity to apply for an exception that would allow for a more creative delivery/presentation than the traditional dissertation.
Which ThD track should I choose?
First, answer the “why?” question as comprehensively as possible. That is, why would I do this program? Why am I called to richly reflect on practice? Why do I think I might have something to contribute to the Church? When you answer the “why” question we can help you discern which of our tracks might best support you in that… or even whether there is another program elsewhere that would serve you better.
How many credits is the ThD program at Evangelical?
The Evangelical ThD consist of 39 credits, as follows: 15 core credits (5 core courses that all students take) + 15 track credits (5 readings-and-research courses that you take with other members of your track) + 9 credits of dissertation.
What does your ThD curriculum look like?
There are three components of the Evangelical ThD, as follows:
1) Core Courses–All students take these courses, and take them with a cohort of students who start at the same time. There are 5 of these, and each one provides a broad context for each student’s more focused study on ministry practice.
2) Track Courses–All students take 5 more courses with others in their track. Each of these is a readings-and-research course under the direction or supervision of a track mentor. Students take one core course and one track course each term for the first five terms.
3) Dissertation–Following the fifth term students take their comprehensive exams and then enter the dissertation phase, which can be completed in as little as one year.
Can you earn a Doctor of Theology online at Evangelical?
Most of the coursework for the Evangelical ThD program is done online, and therefore the program can be completed from anywhere in the world. However, three times a year, once each term, students gather for a residency. That residency is two and a half days while during coursework and one day while in dissertation phase.
How much does a ThD degree cost at Evangelical?
The current cost is $28,881– which includes a 10% discount for students who stay enrolled and on track with the program schedule, including the dissertation phase. Check this page for the most up-to-date tuition rates.
What is a residency and is it required part of the program?
There is a residency each term, in which all students come together for joint learning with their core instructor and track mentors, and to build supportive relationships with each other. One residency will be held off-site, probably in an overseas location; such to be decided by the track mentor with his/her students.
Who are the ThD faculty at Evangelical and what are their areas of expertise?
Follow this link to meet the track mentors of the program, who constitute the majority of the instructors. They are supported by others within the Evangelical network of faculty. Our faculty include both visiting professors, such as Leonard Sweet, who has an international reputation as a scholar and semiotician, and local faculty with long and extensive expertise in the fields in which they teach, as both academics and practitioners.
The primary objectives of this Doctor of Theology online degree program are:
- To present the Word of God in such a manner that you can understand it with clarity and depth.
- To help you develop a deeper relationship with God.
- To assist you in gaining wisdom on how to apply the Bible to your everyday life.
- To equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to communicate God’s Word.
- To help you mature in your walk with God, discover your ministry and calling and prepare you for Christian service and leadership.
“Can I really hear the voice of God as I study for my Doctorate of Theology online?”
Absolutely.
You are completely, 100% guaranteed to do so, otherwise we have not done our job and you have missed out on the single most valuable tool we can offer you.
The Lord earnestly desires to speak directly to you and teach you more about Himself. He wants to be intimately involved in the process of shaping your theology, and He will give you a true, burning desire to read His Word and know His truth.
You don’t have to settle for a distance learning Doctorate of Theology program that merely increases your head knowledge about God. You shouldn’t feel compelled to use nothing but your own intellect while working your way through volumes of information about the history of what God has done. When the voice of God is central to the process, it becomes truly exciting!
You won’t ever get bored working toward this Doctorate of Theology
Online theological doctoral degrees are offered by a diverse array of Christian colleges. You needn’t look far to discover that you can obtain a quality education in biblical theological principles from just about any Christian university.
The difference is that at CLU, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of receiving divine revelation and allowing God to shape your theology. How often does that happen to you now? You don’t have to settle for occasional divine insight. These Christian theology courses will ensure this happens for you all the time.
The voice of God is the central focus of everything we do here at CLU. You are invited to join us in acknowledging the Author of the Scriptures as the primary teacher throughout your theological education. Find out exactly what we mean by this.
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