The Doctor of Philosophy in Missiology is the highest academic degree in the theory and practice of missions. The Ph.D. program integrates biblical-confessional theology with a study of the social contexts in which theological reflection and Christian witness take place. Missiology, as a discipline, is rooted in theology, which forms the foundational understanding of the message and meaning of the Gospel. It also, however, includes research and reflection on the various languages, world religious belief systems, cultures and customs so that the Gospel may be faithfully communicated in all of its truth and power.

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1. To engender a mature understanding of the missiological nature of the Christian faith, the missionary character of the church, and the individual believer’s place in the mission of God.
2. To enable students to articulate a coherent missiological perspective that is informed by the Scriptures and the confessional heritage of the Christian church.
3. To develop an understanding of the anthropological and sociological dynamics that affect the work of mission outreach and the ability to communicate in cross-cultural and multi-cultural settings.
4. To engender the ability to discern missiological problems and issues, pursue independent missiological research, and formulate missiological answers and strategies.
5. To develop the ability to engage in appropriate original research around a pioneering missiological issue, problem or opportunity. Such research will be based upon a thorough study, comprehension and evaluation of the body of existing relevant knowledge, and by conducting further field and/or library research that results in a contribution to the body of knowledge, with generalizable conclusions, presented through effective academic writing.
6. To develop the ability to teach others what has been learned and experienced through formal, informal and non-formal methodologies.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Missiology degree program is suitable for theological educators, mission executives, field missionaries, church planters, pastors and international church leaders from around the world who are in other ways active in the ministry of missions. Men and women with requisite qualifications are welcome. The classroom and dissertation requirements will provide the student with a variety of opportunities for research, study and peer group interaction, a high degree of personal faculty consultation, and the opportunity to develop missiological research that will inform strategies and approaches to mission and ministry.