Doctor of
Eldership Studies (D.ES.)
Equipping Faithful Elders for Biblical Leadership and Lasting Kingdom Impact
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 Eldership Studies (D.ES.) is an advanced doctoral program designed to prepare experienced Christian leaders for biblical eldership, pastoral oversight, theological leadership, and servant-centered governance within the Church. The program integrates rigorous biblical scholarship, theological research, pastoral ministry, and practical leadership to equip graduates for effective elder ministry, church administration, leadership development, and mentoring future generations of faithful Christian leaders.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Biblical Eldership Principles
Pastoral Leadership Excellence
Church Governance Skills
Spiritual Shepherding Competence
Advanced Ministry Research
COURSE STRUCTURE
YEAR
01
CORE FOUNDATIONS
(18 Credits)
Semester 1
- DES 701
- DES 702
- DES 703
- Advanced Biblical Theology of Eldership (3)
- Elder Leadership and Church Governance (3)
- Advanced Research Methodology in Elder Studies I (3)
Semester 2
- DES 704
- DES 705
- DES 706
- Historical and Contemporary Models of Eldership (3)
- Elder Preaching, Teaching, and Pastoral Oversight (3)
- Advanced Qualitative Research and Resource Analysis in Elder Studies II (3)
YEAR
02
SPECIALIZATION & MINISTRY PRACTICE
(18 CREDITS)
Semester 1
- DES 711
- DES 712
- DES 713
- Conflict Resolution and Decision-Making in Elder Boards (3)
- Elder Leadership in Intercultural and Global Contexts (3)
- Contemporary Challenges to Elder Leadership (3)
Semester 2
- DES 714
- DES 715
- DES 716
- Elder Spiritual Formation and Ministerial Ethics (3)
- Elder Leadership Practicum I (Supervised Church Governance) (3)
- Elder Leadership Practicum II (Community and Congregational Engagement) (3)
YEAR
03
Dissertation & Advanced Seminars
(24 Credits)
Semester 1
- DES 801
- DES 802
- DES 803
- DES 804
- Advanced Seminar in Elder Leadership (3)
- Theological and Practical Colloquium on Eldership (3)
- Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3)
- Comprehensive Exam (3)
Semester 2
- DES 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: Eldership Studies
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Applicant must hold a Master of Eldership Studies, or an equivalent degree from an approved institution.
PROGRAM FEES
Per Semester
USD $1800
CAREER & MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
- Church Elder
- Senior Pastor
- Seminary Professor
- Church Consultant
- Ministry Director
- Leadership Mentor
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of 60 credit hours.
- Passing of comprehensive examination.
- Completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation (50,000–70,000 words).
- Demonstrated elder leadership impact project (church governance reform, elder training network, or community transformation 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.
