Requirements and Opportunities
Languages–Most PhD programs in Theology and related disciplines require students to demonstrate competence in one or more foreign languages. In this ThD program language requirements are track- and topic-specific. That is, if you’re in the “Revelation and Redemption” (Biblical Theology) track, you’ll need to demonstrate knowledge of Greek and Hebrew by the end of the fourth term (and we have classes that can help you with that if you don’t have those languages already). Otherwise, language requirements (including software languages) will depend on what you want to do with your research. We’ll provide advisement up front to each admitted student regarding any required or recommended language skills.
Residencies–This program has one three day residency each term, and students are expected to be present at each one. See Calendar for specific dates for the next cohort. Those residencies may be on our Myerstown campus or on the Sioux Falls campus of our partnering seminary. Students are responsible for their own transportation and lodging.
Technology–Other than the residencies, much of the program is online, and utilizes both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (flexible) learning opportunities. Evangelical will provide high quality learning platforms to make that experience as intuitive and comfortable as possible. It would be wise, however, to make sure you have good internet access from wherever you plan to do most of your online learning, including enough bandwidth to accommodate video transmissions for your synchronous sessions with instructors and classmates. As many of the library and other resources we use will be online, you’ll also want to be able to download materials expeditiously. Privacy matters to us, so we’ll use protocols to keep your submissions and ruminations confidential as appropriate.
Support–We know that entering a doctoral program can feel like an intimidating experience for many. We are prepared to support you through your entire experience and particularly in the early months. Our program director, assistant director, track mentors, student services staff, IT staff, and others are prepared to help you on-ramp to a successful learning experience. We already have considerable experience with hybrid deliveries, and our team is very knowledgeable about their areas of expertise. All along the way, we’ll seek your input as to how we can best help you accomplish what God has called you to do, without needless distractions from your learning.