Doctor of
Religious Studies (D.R.S.)
Advancing Scholarly Excellence in Religion and Theology
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Conduct original scholarly research.
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Influence the Church and the world.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Doctor of Religious Studies (D.R.S.) is an advanced doctoral program designed to develop exceptional scholars, researchers, educators, and ministry leaders with a comprehensive understanding of religion, theology, ethics, history, and the role of faith in contemporary society. The program integrates rigorous academic research with biblical and interdisciplinary scholarship, equipping graduates to contribute to higher education, religious institutions, public discourse, and global ministry through critical thinking, ethical leadership, and original research.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Advanced Religious Research
Missiological Leadership Development
Biblical Theological Integration
Ethical Leadership Development
Scholarly Writing Excellence
COURSE STRUCTURE
YEAR
01
CORE FOUNDATIONS
(18 Credits)
Semester 1
- DRS 701
- DRS 702
- DRS 703
- Comparative Theories of Religion (3)
- Advanced Philosophy of Religion (3)
- Advanced Dynamic Research Methodology in Religious Studies I (3)
Semester 2
- DRS 704
- DRS 705
- DRS 706
- Global History of Religions and Civilizations (3)
- Religion and Society: Culture, Politics, and Ethics (3)
- Advanced Qualitative Research Method & Resource Analysis in Religious Studies II (3)
YEAR
02
SPECIALIZATION & MINISTRY PRACTICE
(18 CREDITS)
Semester 1
- DRS 711
- DRS 712
- DRS 713
- Interfaith Dialogue and Peacebuilding (3)
- Contemporary Issues in World Religions (3)
- Religion, Science, and Modernity (3)
Semester 2
- DRS 714
- DRS 715
- DRS 716
- Religion and Human Rights: Justice and Advocacy (3)
- Religious Leadership Practicum I (Supervised Research/Teaching) (3)
- Religious Leadership Practicum II (Community Engagement/Fieldwork) (3)
YEAR
03
Dissertation & Advanced Seminars
(24 Credits)
Semester 1
- DRS 801
- DRS 802
- DRS 803
- DRS 804
- Advanced Seminar in Religious Thought (3)
- Colloquium on Interdisciplinary Approaches to Religion (3)
- Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3)
- Comprehensive Exam (3)
Semester 2
- DRS 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: Religious Studies
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Applicants must hold a Master of Religious Studies, or an equivalent degree from an accredited/approved institution.
PROGRAM FEES
Per Semester
USD $1800
CAREER & MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
- Religious Scholar
- Seminary Professor
- Research Theologian
- Ministry Director
- Religious Author
- Faith-Based Advisor
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of 60 credit hours.
- Passing of comprehensive examination.
- Completion and defense of a doctoral dissertation (50,000–70,000 words).
- Demonstrated impact project in the field of religious studies (interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, policy engagement, or academic publication).
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.
