BITS ACADEMICS

Location: Online

Credits: 30

Overview

This program enhances pastoral ministry skills in preaching, counseling, discipleship, and leadership, integrating theology with practical application.

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

DPT800 - Advanced Pastoral Care and Congregational Health (3 Credits)

This course examines the theological foundations of the church’s ministry, drawing from Scripture, historical theology, and global Christian traditions. Students evaluate the nature of the church, sacramental life, mission, leadership, and pastoral identity. Emphasis is placed on integrating theological reflection with the day-to-day realities of ministry practice.

DPT810 - Preaching, Worship, and Spiritual Formation (3 Credits)

A practical and theological study of core ministry practices. Topics include worship leadership, spiritual formation systems, pastoral care, crisis response, liturgical rhythms, and congregational life. Students develop a holistic ministry framework that integrates theology, tradition, innovation, and cultural awareness.

DPT820 - Applied Research in Practical Theology (3 Credits)

An advanced exploration of leadership within specific ministry contexts. Students study congregational systems theory, organizational culture, change dynamics, community engagement, conflict transformation, and leadership sustainability. The course equips ministers to lead congregations wisely in complex and rapidly changing environments.

BITS - Thesis - Project - 9 Credits

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

The Doctor of Practical Theology Thesis–Project is an applied research project that addresses a real ministry or congregational challenge. Students integrate biblical exegesis, theological reflection, and practical ministry analysis to design effective pastoral or ecclesial interventions. The final project includes a written dissertation and a formal oral defense demonstrating mastery of practical theology and ministry innovation.