BITS ACADEMICS

Location: Online

Credits: 30

Overview

This doctorate program prepares Christian educators to lead, reform, and innovate educational systems using biblical pedagogy, research, and academic leadership.

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

EDU800 - Biblical Philosophy of Christian Education (3 Credits)

This course provides an advanced exploration of the biblical, theological, and philosophical foundations of Christian education. Students examine how Scripture shapes the aims, content, and practice of educational ministry. Emphasis is placed on the development of a coherent educational philosophy that integrates biblical worldview, spiritual formation, and pedagogical theory. Learners will evaluate contemporary models of Christian education and design frameworks that address the needs of diverse learning communities.

EDU810 - Advanced Curriculum and Instructional Design (3 Credits)

This course focuses on the theory and practice of designing effective curriculum for Christian schools, churches, and theological institutions. Students analyze various instructional models and assess their relevance for holistic Christian formation. Topics include learning theories, curriculum mapping, assessment strategies, and contextualized learning environments. Participants will create a comprehensive curriculum project demonstrating competence in instructional design at the doctoral level.

EDU820 - Educational Leadership and Academic Administration (3 Credits)

An advanced study of leadership theories and administrative practices relevant to educational institutions and ministries. Students engage topics such as organizational governance, staff development, strategic planning, accreditation standards, and change management within academic settings. The course emphasizes leadership that is biblically grounded, ethically responsible, and effective in guiding institutions toward excellence and mission fulfillment.

BITS - Thesis - Project - 9 Credits

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

The Doctor of Christian Education Thesis–Project is an applied research initiative addressing a practical educational or discipleship challenge in Christian schools, churches, or ministry settings. Students analyze curriculum, formation practices, and learning environments to design educational systems rooted in Scripture and sound pedagogy. The final project includes a written dissertation and a formal oral defense demonstrating mastery of Christian educational theory and practice.