BITS ACADEMICS

Location: Online

Credits: 30

Overview

This doctorate trains ministry leaders to design, implement, and evaluate strategic initiatives for churches, networks, and Christian organizations.

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

DSL800 - Strategic Planning and Organizational Systems (3 Credits)

A study of leadership theory, organizational strategy, and global ministry systems. Students examine challenges of leading churches, nonprofits, and movements in rapidly changing contexts.

DSL810 - Ministry Innovation and Transformational Leadership (3 Credits)

An exploration of organizational health, change theory, innovation, and ministry systems design. Students learn how to evaluate, strengthen, and expand ministry structures for long-term impact.

DSL820 - Change Management in Church and Ministry Contexts (3 Credits)

A doctoral-level study of character formation, ethical leadership, accountability structures, and spiritual disciplines. Students develop personal and institutional frameworks for sustainable leadership.

BITS - Thesis - Project - 9 Credits

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

The Doctor of Strategic Leadership & Ministry Thesis–Project is a research-based project focused on solving a real leadership or organizational challenge within ministry contexts. Students evaluate leadership systems, organizational dynamics, and ministry structures to design strategic solutions grounded in biblical leadership principles. The final project culminates in a written dissertation and oral defense demonstrating mastery of strategic leadership and ministry effectiveness.