Doctor of
Christian Counseling (D.C.C.)
Advancing Biblical Counseling for Healing, Hope, and Transformation
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Influence the Church and the world.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Doctor of Christian Counseling (D.C.C.) is an advanced doctoral program designed to prepare Christian leaders, counselors, pastors, and educators for excellence in biblical counseling, research, and therapeutic ministry. Grounded in Scripture and informed by sound counseling principles, the program equips students to address spiritual, emotional, relational, and psychological challenges from a Christ-centered perspective. Through advanced research, practical counseling training, and theological reflection, graduates are prepared to provide compassionate care, strengthen individuals and families, equip churches for counseling ministries, and contribute to the advancement of biblical counseling through leadership, teaching, and scholarly research.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Biblical Counseling Foundations
Advanced Counseling Skills
Christian Care Leadership
Research Competency Development
Ethical Ministry Practice
COURSE STRUCTURE
YEAR
01
CORE FOUNDATIONS
(18 Credits)
Semester 1
- DCC 701
- DCC 702
- DCC 703
- Advanced Biblical Foundations of Christian Counseling (3)
- Counseling Theories and Faith Integration (3)
- Advanced Dynamic Research Methodology in Counseling Studies I (3)
Semester 2
- DCC 704
- DCC 705
- DCC 706
- Cross-Cultural and Intercultural Counseling (3)
- Psychology of Human Development and Spiritual Growth (3)
- Advanced Qualitative Research Method & Resource Analysis in Counseling Studies II (3)
YEAR
02
SPECIALIZATION & MINISTRY PRACTICE
(18 CREDITS)
Semester 1
- DCC 711
- DCC 712
- DCC 713
- Marriage, Family, and Pastoral Counseling (3)
- Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Counseling (3)
- Contemporary Ethical Issues in Christian Counseling (3)
Semester 2
- DCC 714
- DCC 715
- DCC 716
- Spiritual Formation and Self-Care for Counselors (3)
- Counseling Practicum I (Supervised Clinical Ministry) (3)
- Counseling Practicum II (Community Engagement & Pastoral Care) (3)
YEAR
03
Dissertation & Advanced Seminars
(24 Credits)
Semester 1
- DCC 801
- DCC 802
- DCC 803
- DCC 804
- Advanced Seminar in Christian Counseling Leadership (3)
- Theological and Psychological Integration Colloquium (3)
- Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3)
- Comprehensive Exam (3)
Semester 2
- DCC 805
- Dissertation Research and Writing (12)
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
Program Duration: 3–5 years
Total Credit Hours: 60 (post-master’s level)
Delivery Mode: Coursework + Research + Ministry Practicum
Teaching System: Semester system (Distance Learning)
Session Begin: 1st March and 1st September every year
Medium of Instruction: English
Department: Ecclesiastical Leadership and Applied Ministries
Faculty: Christian Counseling
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Applicant must hold a Master of Christian Counseling or an equivalent degree in counseling, psychology, or theology from an approved institution.
PROGRAM FEES
Per Semester
USD $1800
CAREER & MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
- Biblical Counselor
- Pastoral Counselor
- Counseling Professor
- Clinical Ministry Director
- Family Ministry Consultant
- Christian Counseling Researcher
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of 60 credit hours.
- Passing of comprehensive examination.
- Completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation (50,000–70,000 words).
- Demonstrated counseling ministry impact project (e.g., counseling center, community healing program, or church-based counseling initiative).
Shape the Future. Lead with Scholarly Excellence.
Develop advanced scholarship, original research, and transformational leadership through our doctoral degree programs, designed to prepare Christian scholars, educators, researchers, and ministry leaders for global influence, academic distinction, and lasting Kingdom impact.
