BITS ACADEMICS

Location: Online

Credits: 30

Overview

A rigorous academic doctorate designed for biblical scholars, theologians, and ministry leaders seeking advanced work in Scripture, theology, and hermeneutics.

Requirements

General Doctoral Core - 12 Credits

DMN701 - Hermeneutics: Biblical Interpretation and Society (2 Credits)

An advanced study of biblical interpretation with emphasis on how Scripture addresses the cultural, social, political, and economic realities of contemporary society. Students learn to integrate exegesis with social analysis, developing a hermeneutical framework that equips them to preach, teach, and lead with biblical depth in diverse contexts.

DMN702 - Advanced Homiletics: Preachers, Messages, and Audiences (2 Credits)

A doctoral-level exploration of sermon theory and practice. Students analyze preaching models, audience dynamics, contextual communication, and rhetorical strategies. The course strengthens the preacher’s theological vision, pastoral sensitivity, and communicative effectiveness for high-impact ministry.

DMN703 - Biblical Worldview (2 Credits)

An advanced seminar on Christian worldview formation for institutional and societal leadership. Students examine philosophical, theological, and cultural dimensions of worldview and apply biblical principles to complex real-world issues faced in ministry, public life, and organizational leadership.

DMN704 - Research Methods: Qualitative, Quantitative & Mixed Methods (2 Credits)

A doctoral-level introduction to research design, analysis, and project development. Students learn how to collect data, conduct case studies, integrate mixed methodology, and evaluate findings for ministry impact. Emphasis is placed on research rigor and preparing for the doctoral thesis-project.

DMN705 - Advanced Pedagogy: Methods of Learning and Teaching (2 Credits)

A study of advanced instructional design, adult education theory, transformational learning, and theological pedagogy. Students learn how to shape learning environments, mentor leaders, and design educational initiatives for churches, nonprofits, and academic settings.

DMN706 - Understanding Culture: Anthropological and Sociological Perspectives (2 Credits)

An in-depth exploration of cultural systems, worldview patterns, identity formation, and social structures. Students apply anthropological and sociological frameworks to ministry leadership, mission practice, and organizational development.

Concentration - 9 Credits

DBT800 - Advanced Biblical Exegesis and Theological Studies (3 Credits)

A doctoral seminar in advanced exegesis, hermeneutics, and theological interpretation. Students engage biblical texts in depth, integrating original languages, historical backgrounds, and theological reflection.

DBT810 - Contemporary Issues in Biblical Theology (3 Credits)

A study of current scholarly debates within biblical theology. Topics include canonical theology, typology, theological interpretation of Scripture, and hermeneutical trends in global scholarship.

DBT820 - Doctrine, Theology, and Interpretation (3 Credits)

An advanced survey of doctrinal development, systematic theology, and interpretive frameworks. Students examine classical and contemporary theological questions with application to preaching, discipleship, and ministry leadership.

BITS - Thesis - Project - 9 Credits

REC-Project 923 - Thesis - Project (9 Credits)

The Doctor of Biblical & Theological Studies Thesis–Project is an advanced research project addressing a significant doctrinal, exegetical, or theological issue shaping Christian belief or practice. Students engage in rigorous biblical interpretation, historical-theological analysis, and constructive theological reflection. The final project includes a scholarly dissertation and an oral defense demonstrating expertise in biblical theology and doctrinal development.