Program Requirements

Ordinarily, at least two academic years of full-time (three courses a semester) residency. Continuous registration in a “continuation” status from completion of course work to completion of dissertation.
Twelve courses: ordinarily, at least six courses related to a primary concentration and at least three courses related to a secondary concentration.
A core seminar that may count as one of the primary or secondary concentration courses.
The student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0. A student who falls below this level is terminated.
Demonstrated competence in two modern languages other than English; additional proficiencies may be required in light of the student's particular research interests. Students whose work focuses on Scripture will also be required to demonstrate proficiency in Hebrew and Greek.
Written preliminary examinations (including at least one in the primary area, one in the secondary area, and a dissertation exam).
An oral preliminary examination in which members of the student's preliminary examination committee will ask the student to discuss the issues treated in the written examinations.
Completion and defense of an academic dissertation that demonstrates the student’s ability to contribute to scholarly discourse and to bring that discourse to bear on the ministries and practices of Christian communities.