Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D), Preaching

Program Overview

Anderson University's online Ph.D. in Preaching equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in biblical interpretation, sermon preparation, and delivery. Through guided seminars, individualized reading courses, and a culminating dissertation, graduates are prepared for leadership roles in ministry, academia, and beyond. The program emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, fostering spiritual growth and development alongside academic rigor.

Program Outline

This online program combines seasoned full-time faculty members and academically qualified pastor-scholars to facilitate guided seminars. The program's objective is to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in biblical interpretation, theological reflection, sermon preparation, and delivery. It emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, fostering spiritual growth and development alongside academic rigor.

Outline:

The Ph.D. in Preaching program comprises 48 credit hours, categorized into the following components:

• Initial Seminar (3 credit hours): This introductory seminar lays the foundation for the program, establishing a theoretical framework for preaching and exploring the historical development of the field.
• Colloquium (6 credit hours): This ongoing forum provides a platform for students to discuss current issues in preaching, share their own homiletical experiences, and receive feedback from faculty and peers.
• Directed Reading Seminars (9 credit hours): Individualized reading courses allow students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest related to preaching, guided by faculty mentors.
• Required Seminars (9 credit hours): These core courses cover essential topics such as biblical interpretation, homiletical theory, and preaching across various contexts.
• Seminar Choice (9 credit hours): Students can select elective seminars from a range of offerings, tailoring their program to their individual interests and career goals.
• Required Capstone (3 credit hours): This culminating project provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their mastery of preaching by preparing and delivering a sermon informed by their research and theological reflection.
• Dissertation (9 credit hours): The dissertation is the cornerstone of the program, requiring students to conduct original research on a chosen topic related to preaching and present their findings in a publishable scholarly work.

Assessment:

Student progress in the Ph.D. in Preaching program is assessed through various means, including:

• Active participation in seminars and discussions: Engagement in classroom activities and dialogue with faculty and peers contributes significantly to the learning process.
• Written assignments and essays: Students regularly complete written assignments that demonstrate their understanding of course material and their ability to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations.
• Presentations and sermons: The program emphasizes the development of oral communication skills through presentations and the delivery of sermons in various settings.
• Dissertation research and writing: The dissertation process involves rigorous research, critical analysis, and clear communication of findings, culminating in a comprehensive and original scholarly work.

Teaching:

The Ph.D. in Preaching program at Anderson University benefits from a distinguished faculty composed of experienced scholars and practitioners in the field of preaching. The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive lectures and discussions: Faculty members present key concepts and engage students in active dialogue, fostering critical thinking and collaborative learning.
• Guest lectures and workshops: The program invites renowned preachers and scholars to share their expertise and insights with students.
• Individualized mentorship: Students receive personalized guidance and support from faculty mentors throughout their academic journey.
• Online learning platform: The program effectively utilizes technology to deliver high-quality instruction and facilitate interaction between students and faculty, regardless of location.

Careers:

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Preaching program at Anderson University are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in various ministry settings, including:

• Lead pastor: Equipping churches with inspiring and insightful preaching.
• Professor or teacher: Sharing their expertise and passion for preaching with future generations of students.
• Writer or editor: Contributing to theological journals, books, or online publications focused on preaching.
• Public speaker or conference presenter: Sharing their insights and engaging audiences on topics related to preaching and faith.
• Denominational leader: Contributing to the development and implementation of preaching initiatives within church organizations.

Other:

• The program is offered entirely online, allowing students to pursue their studies with flexibility and convenience, regardless of their location.
• The program incorporates regular synchronous sessions every other week for each class, fostering a sense of community and interaction among students and faculty.
• Anderson University is recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, utilizing innovative technology to enhance the learning experience.
• The program emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, fostering spiritual growth and development alongside academic rigor.
• The program prepares graduates to be effective communicators of the Gospel, empowering them to make a significant impact in their chosen ministry fields.