Online Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies
Program Overview
Faulkner University's online Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies program provides a comprehensive foundation in biblical studies, preparing students for advanced academic study and careers in ministry, non-profits, and academia. The program emphasizes practical application, faith-centered learning, and individualized support from experienced faculty. Students complete coursework in biblical history, theology, languages, and interpretation, culminating in a dissertation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies program at Faulkner University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous academic foundation in biblical studies, preparing them for advanced academic study and a variety of careers in ministry, non-profit organizations, and academic and research institutions.
Objectives:
- Prepare moral and ethically driven scholars for advanced academic study of the Bible.
- Equip graduates to enter or continue careers in biblical teaching, academics, and diverse ministry opportunities.
- Provide students with the knowledge and analytical capabilities needed for teaching or research positions in various fields.
Program Description:
The program is conducted entirely online, allowing students to continue with their current work and family obligations while studying on their own time. It is designed to bestow knowledge and analytical capabilities in key areas of biblical studies, including religious and biblical history, theology, archaeology, biblical and related languages, and biblical interpretation.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Biblical Scholarship and Christian Ministry
- Advanced Studies in Biblical Hermeneutics
- Six core courses providing a broad range of academic biblical studies experience and skills
- Six course electives from a choice of advanced seminars in primary biblical text (Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek)
- Dissertation modules
Course Schedule:
Students must earn 54 semester hours of credit at the doctoral level, which includes:
- Two required courses
- Six core courses
- Six course electives
- Four dissertation modules
- Dissertation and defense
Individual Modules:
Dissertation Modules:
- Four modules required after completing coursework
- Focus on research and writing skills necessary for the dissertation
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Exams covering biblical languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek)
- Exam in a secondary research language (German, French, Spanish, Latin)
- Comprehensive exams prior to dissertation modules
- Dissertation proposal defense
- Dissertation defense
Assessment Criteria:
- Mastery of biblical languages
- Proficiency in secondary research language
- Demonstrated understanding of biblical studies content
- Strong research and writing skills
- Successful completion of dissertation
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Online classes and asynchronous learning
- Discussion boards and interactive exercises
- Virtual office hours and online support
Faculty:
- Experienced and knowledgeable professors in biblical studies
- Scholars with expertise in various areas of biblical research
Unique Approaches:
- Faith-centered approach that encourages a deep understanding and respect for the Bible
- Emphasis on practical application of biblical knowledge
- Individualized guidance and support from faculty mentors
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Biblical teaching
- Academic research
- Ministry leadership
- Non-profit management
- Postdoctoral research
Opportunities and Outcomes:
- Advancement in current ministry or teaching roles
- Preparation for leadership positions in religious organizations
- Enhanced skills for research and writing in various fields
- Expanded job opportunities in academic and non-profit sectors
Tuition $575 per semester hour General Fee $350 per semester ($250 if 11 hours or less) Online Course Fee $75 per semester hour Applicable Course Fees see full tuition and fee schedule
Faulkner University
Overview:
Faulkner University is a private, Christian liberal arts university located in Montgomery, Alabama. It is known for its small campus size, family-like atmosphere, and dedicated professors. The university emphasizes a holistic education that focuses on intellect, character, and service.
Services Offered:
Faulkner University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic advising:
Students receive personalized guidance and support in choosing their academic path.Career services:
The university provides resources and assistance to help students find internships, jobs, and career opportunities.Financial aid:
Faulkner offers various financial aid options to help students afford their education.Student life:
The university provides a vibrant campus experience with clubs, organizations, and events.Online learning:
Faulkner offers a variety of online degree programs for students who prefer flexible learning options.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Faulkner University prides itself on its close-knit community and family-like atmosphere. Students can expect:
Small class sizes:
This allows for personalized attention from professors and fosters a strong sense of community.Dedicated faculty:
Professors are known for their commitment to student success and their willingness to go the extra mile.A variety of student organizations:
Students can join clubs and organizations that align with their interests and passions.A vibrant campus culture:
Faulkner hosts various events and activities throughout the year, creating a lively and engaging campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
Christian worldview:
Faulkner University integrates faith into its curriculum and campus culture, providing a supportive and values-based environment for students.Holistic education:
The university focuses on developing the whole person, emphasizing intellectual growth, character development, and service to others.Small campus size:
This fosters a close-knit community and allows for personalized attention from faculty and staff.Flexible learning options:
Faulkner offers both on-campus and online degree programs, providing students with a variety of learning choices.Academic Programs:
Faulkner University offers over 60 on-campus majors and over 23 online majors. It also offers master's, law, and doctoral degrees in various formats, including on-campus, online, and hybrid. The university's academic strengths include:
Business:
Faulkner's business programs are highly regarded and prepare students for successful careers in various industries.Nursing:
The university's nursing program is accredited and provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to become registered nurses.Education:
Faulkner's education programs prepare students to become effective teachers and leaders in various educational settings.Theology:
The university's theology programs provide students with a deep understanding of Christian faith and practice.Other:
Entry Requirements:
- Earned a biblical-studies master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Maintained at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point in a master’s degree program.
- Delivery of official transcripts, from all the colleges and universities attended, directly from the school’s Registrar’s Office to Faulkner’s Office of Graduate Enrollment. (Hand delivered copies, photocopies, and printouts of grade reports are not acceptable.)
- Submitted three letters of recommendation with specific comments regarding the applicant’s academic work, ability to successfully complete graduate study, and any relevant professional experience. (Letters of recommendation should, if possible, include a letter from a faculty member who taught master’s classes for the applicant and a letter from a work supervisor who is familiar with the applicant’s degree-related work.)
- A goals statement of approximately 1500 words specifying the applicant’s degree-related goals and stating ways in which the PhD from the Kearley Graduate School of Theology will contribute toward achieving those goals. (Include in this goals statement: (1) background preparation for the degree; (2) basis for the choice of the KGST; (3) spiritual and academic goals; (4) impact of the degree sought on financiers and personal, employment, and family time. Obtaining a score of 40 or above qualifies the applicant for an interview with the PhD faculty.)
- Submitted a copy of a graduate research paper or thesis previously accepted in a graduate-level biblical studies program.
- Participated in an interview with the dean, KGST director, and the graduate committee.
- Received approval for admission from the KGST director.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
A student whose first language is not English must also submit a TOEFL score of at least 500.
