Doctor of
Discipleship Studies (D.D.S.)
Advancing Biblical Scholarship for Transformational Discipleship
Study from anywhere at your own pace.
Conduct original scholarly research.
Receive guidance from experienced scholars.
Access premium academic resources.
Influence the Church and the world.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Doctor of Discipleship Studies (D.D.S.) is an advanced doctoral program designed to develop Christian scholars, educators, and ministry leaders with expertise in biblical discipleship, spiritual formation, leadership development, and disciple-making ministries. Through rigorous theological research, biblical reflection, and practical ministry application, students are equipped to advance discipleship movements, strengthen the Church, mentor future leaders, and contribute to global Christian mission through scholarly excellence and faithful servant leadership.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Advanced Discipleship Leadership
Biblical Research Excellence
Spiritual Formation Development
Theological Reflection Skills
Disciple-Making Strategies
COURSE STRUCTURE
YEAR
01
CORE FOUNDATIONS
(18 Credits)
Semester 1
- DDS 701
- DDS702
- DDS703
- Advanced Theology of Discipleship (3)
- Biblical Models of Disciple-Making and Leadership (3)
- Advanced Research Methodology in Discipleship Studies I (3)
Semester 2
- DDS 704
- DDS 705
- DDS 706
- Discipleship and Global Mission Movements (3)
- Teaching and Preaching for Transformational Discipleship (3)
- Advanced Qualitative Research & Resource Analysis in Discipleship Studies II (3)
YEAR
02
SPECIALIZATION & MINISTRY PRACTICE
(18 CREDITS)
Semester 1
- DDS 711
- DDS 712
- DDS 713
- Church-Based Discipleship Strategies (3)
- Discipleship in Intercultural and Digital Contexts (3)
- Contemporary Challenges in Global Discipleship (3)
Semester 2
- DDS 714
- DDS 715
- DDS 716
- Spiritual Formation and Ethical Leadership in Discipleship (3)
- Discipleship Leadership Practicum I (Supervised Ministry) (3)
- Discipleship Leadership Practicum II (Community Engagement) (3)
YEAR
03
Dissertation & Advanced Seminars
(24 Credits)
Semester 1
- DDS 801
- DDS 802
- DDS 803
- DDS 804
- Advanced Seminar in Discipleship Leadership (3)
- Discipleship Theology Colloquium (3)
- Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3)
- Comprehensive Exam (3)
Semester 2
- DDS 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: Missiological Studies
Faculty: Discipleship Studies
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Applicants must hold a Master of Discipleship Studies or an equivalent degree from an approved institution.
PROGRAM FEES
Per Semester
USD $1800
CAREER & MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
- Discipleship Professor
- Seminary Lecturer
- Ministry Consultant
- Church Leadership Trainer
- Christian Researcher
- Discipleship Director
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of 60 credit hours.
- Passing of comprehensive examination.
- Completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation (50,000–70,000 words).
-
Demonstrated discipleship ministry impact project, such as:
o Establishment of a discipleship movement or training center.
o Development of a curriculum or leadership pipeline for disciple-making.
o Launch of a community or intercultural discipleship 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.
