Advanced Degree Programs
Doctor of Philosophy The purpose of the Seminary’s Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program is to prepare men and women for service in ministries of teaching and academic research. The program also meets the needs of pastors who serve in settings that demand specialized training. The Ph.D. degree at Southeastern is an advanced academic research degree in the major areas of Biblical Studies, Theological Studies, Applied Theology, or Cross-Area Disciplines. In the area of Biblical Studies, students concentrate in Old Testament or New Testament. In the area of Theological Studies, students concentrate in Systematic Theology, Philosophy of Religion, Church History, or Christian Ethics. Applied Theology includes the areas of Preaching, Evangelism, Christian Missions (residence and modified residency formats), Christian Leadership (modified residency format), and Counseling. Concentrations in the Cross-Area Disciplines Biblical Theology, Hermeneutics, and Women’s Studies are available as well. In those concentrations the student’s choice of major professor determines his or her concentration. The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of three academic years (6 semesters) to complete. The program requires a twoyear residency (4 semesters) prior to the dissertation stage. One full year is assumed as a minimum for post-residence dissertation work. Continuous enrollment is required with fees paid each semester (Fall and Spring) until graduation. Continuous enrollment may be waived for international-field-based missionaries under career appointment through the International Mission Board. The Ph.D. in Applied Theology offers several concentrations in a modified residency format: IMB, North American Missiology, and Christian Leadership. The concentrations with modified residency will progress on a two-year schedule of coursework, followed by the comprehensive exam and the writing of a successful dissertation. All seminar and degree requirements for the students in the concentrations with modified residency are identical to the standard residency requirements. Students enter the program as a community of scholars and will normally remain together through a series of seminars that meet twice annually at various times throughout the year. This format allows students to remain in their current position while engaging in Ph.D. studies.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary | Academic Catalog 2012–2013 | Advanced Degree Programs | 150