PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The PhD in Theological Studies degree is a four-year (4) program whose goal is the nurture and formation of theologians who demonstrate excellence in the church, the academy, and society. It strives to develop scholars who will integrate faith, life, and learning in every domain of society. It is designed to produce scholars who actively promote the Great Commission.
The program aims at producing scholars who engage in scholarly conversation, research and teaching while maintaining personal spiritual formation and renewal. This encompasses global and African contextual realities and engagement in practical ministry that takes into account changing societal trends. Christian values form the philosophical foundation of the PhD in Theological Studies program.
OFFERING WITHIN THE PROGRAM
The PhD in Theological Studies curriculum has 5 concentration areas administered under two broad umbrella disciplines:
A. Biblical and Theological Studies
1) Old Testament Concentration
2) New Testament Concentration
3) Systematic Theology
B. Intercultural Studies
4. Intercultural Studies.
5. Interreligious Studies
The mode of delivery will be blended/Hybrid learning as outlined below. This combination of face-to-face, modular and online learning will satisfy all the requirements of the program.
a. Face to Face learning (full time or part-time)
Students will be expected to attend a residency programme to familiarize themselves with their lecturers and the school environment. Some courses may also be offered during the Residency. Classes either on campus or online during weekdays and on Saturdays for a total of 45 contact hours. In addition to lectures and independent work, students will be expected to present papers, conduct peer evaluations, critique readings from selected texts and journal articles, and engage in group discussions.
b. E-learning
Lecturers will interact with their students online through the internet platforms. Students will be required to access course materials, upload assignments, and engage in peer discussions online via the ILU website. The lecturer will monitor, engage with, evaluate, and give feedback on students’ progress through an approved e-learning platform.
c. Modular learning
Each academic year is divided into three semesters: 1st Semester (September-December), 2nd Semester (January to April) and 3rd Semester (May to August).
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROGRAM
In addition to the minimum admission requirements for the PhD in Theological Studies, Applicants:
a. Should demonstrate the ability to integrate faith, learning, ministry, and contextual realities as evidenced through a written statement detailing their philosophy.
b. Should provide a personal statement describing his/her faith/spiritual journey.
c. Must show evidence of a call to ministry through a written statement describing one’s call.
d. Evidence of active ministry involvement and leadership in church or Para-church ministry along with a strong Christian character through references from the pastor and others who know the student well.
e. Agreement with the University’s Statement of Faith by signing the Statement of Faith form.
f. Students must be computer literate and have internet access and email, both of which are necessary for communication and research purposes.
University Minimum Admission Requirements
Common Admission Requirements
The common admission requirements of the International Leadership University (ILU) shall apply.
Applicants for PhD Degree
In addition to the common requirements the applicant should:
a. Possess an earned master’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B average) on a 4-point scale.
b. Potential students will be required to provide a research paper reflecting their research skills.
c. Students admitted to the PhD Program should have completed the M.Div. or equivalent degree, a master’s degree in biblical studies or theological studies or religion. Applicants who do not meet the minimum criteria for Theological Studies will be required to take prerequisite courses.