VTS doctoral programs begin with a question: What vision does God give us for transforming lives, communities, and cultures?
Because every baptized Christian carries out a distinct expression of that vision, the VTS doctoral programs offer varying program tracks oriented to varying ministries. Each track puts theological and biblical resources into conversation with developmental, organizational, and social scientific learning. Doctoral students focus on their specialized track while sharing knowledge across all tracks.
Like the Doctor of Ministry, there are three tracks* from which to choose:
*NEW Christian Formation track to be added in 2024.
The DEdMin requires four years of pre-thesis coursework across four summer residencies. Courses follow a hybrid learning model, combining online education with in-class time during summer residencies. The capstone of all doctoral programs is the thesis, a substantive work of action-reflection scholarship based upon rigorous examination of a ministry context and robust engagement with academic disciplines.
The Summer Residency begins with a preparation period April-June. Students may enroll in up to 3 intensive courses during the Summer Residency. For each intensive course, students participate in 3 weeks of preparatory work online (3 intensive courses = 9 weeks of preparation work April-June). This time is mostly asynchronous (on your own time) and consists of reading, online discussion, and short assignments.
Doctoral students come to campus each summer for course intensives. A typical day consists of coursework, meals, and connection with colleagues and faculty.
Typical day (Monday-Friday):
- 7-8am: Breakfast and Morning Prayer
- 8-noon: Intensive course
- 12-1pm: Lunch and Noon prayer/Eucharist
- 1-2pm: Break
- 2-5pm: Case Studies, Thesis Proposals, worktime/freetime
- 5-6pm: Dinner
- Most after dinner activities are social in nature and optional
Between residencies, 1st and 2nd year students participate in reading courses (“Visions of Transformation I-IV”), a Contextual Study, and additional Case Studies. Doctor of Educational Ministry students also participate in two sessions of “Biblical and Theological Studies”. These courses are fully online and mostly asynchronous.
Doctoral Library Services
Doctoral Library Services
Students enrolled in a degree program at VTS have access to all of the resources of the Bishop Payne Library, whether on campus or at a distance.
