D. Advanced Program for Theological Research and Teaching I

 D.1. Purpose of the Program

This degree aims to provide students with advanced competency in a specific area of theological discipline. The program is a preparatory degree for further graduate study at the doctoral level or for academic research and teaching that focuses on one area of discipline.

D.2. Primary Goal of the Program

The goal of the program is to provide the students with expertise for academic research, the ability to integrate what has been studied, and the skills to relate their studies to their contexts.

D.3. Expectations/Learning Outcomes

The students show advanced knowledge, mastery of a specific area of theological discipline, and competence in academic research.

D. 4. Evaluation/Assessment of the Degree Program

The school shall conduct a regular assessment of the degree to evaluate the extent of the alignment of the goals of the degree program to student learning outcomes. The assessment shall also determine the effectiveness of the degree program in terms of the percentage of graduates and their placements.

D.5. Curriculum

The curriculum requires regular coursework and faculty-directed independent study and research, including an ancient language appropriate to the area of specialization. A minimum of 30 credit hours with a comprehensive exam and thesis are required to determine the student’s academic and research competence.

D.6. Duration

The program requires completion within two (2) years of full-time study, including thesis.

D.7. Admission

Admission to the program requires a recognized MDiv or MA academic degree which will be determined by the institution and evidence of the applicant’s capacity for advanced theological study.

 D.8. Faculty

In order to operate the master’s degree programs, a minimum of five (5) full-time teachers with PhD/DTheol degrees shall be required.

 D.9. Library

A combination of onsite and access to online databases of not less than 15,000 usable titles shall be required.