Doctor of Philosophy Programs
 Dr. Perry Downs Associate Dean for Doctoral Education |
Purpose of the PhD Programs
Trinity’s three academic doctoral programs, the Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies (PhD/THS), the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies (PhD/EDS), and the Doctor of Philosophy in Intercultural Studies (PhD/ICS), are specifically designed for those who have completed a master’s degree and who wish to pursue advanced study and research in their field of interest.
PhD (Intercultural Studies)
The PhD (Intercultural Studies) Program provides an opportunity for those with significant intercultural ministry experience to develop research and leadership skills in the field of evangelism, missions, mission education, and missiology through intensive resident course work and research. The program trains evangelists, missionaries and world leaders for significant leadership positions in global ministries. Our mission is to help leaders develop their God-given abilities to serve Christ by proclaiming his gospel to every nation.
PhD (Educational Studies)
The PhD (Educational Studies) Program is designed to further the development of leaders already serving in organizations such as higher education institutions, mission agencies, congregations, parachurch agencies, and relief and development agencies. The PhD/EDS supports an interdependent learning community comprised of leaders from a variety of cultures, countries, and backgrounds.
PhD (Theological Studies)
The Doctor of Philosophy (Theological Studies) Program is an advanced graduate degree primarily intended to prepare students for academic teaching and research in the fields of Church History/Historical Theology, New Testament Exegesis and Theology, Old Testament Exegesis and Theology, and Systematic Theology. Students choose one of these fields as a major concentration in which they will take comprehensive examinations and write a dissertation. Students should also be theologically informed and, in particular, be able to relate their work to the field of Systematic Theology. This special emphasis is placed on Systematic Theology because of its central role in the development of doctrine and practice in the life of the church and because of its widespread neglect in theological education today.