Landon Dowden
The Doctor of Philosophy with
Pastoral Theology
The Pastoral Theology specialization allows students to focus on advanced scholarship in the understanding and practice of the office and function of pastor/elder/overseer in the local church. Students research in the areas of ecclesiology, preaching, counseling, and leadership in relation to pastoral ministry. Graduates are prepared to serve as pastor-theologians or scholars contributing to the church’s understanding of pastoral ministry.
Ways to Study
-
Modified Residency
-
Residential
Some people describe seminary as a hoop to jump through, but I found my time at Southeastern to be a life-giving, spiritually edifying experience. Southeastern encouraged in me an undeniable love for God’s word. No amount of effort is too great to understand it or communicate it to someone else. What I saw, exemplified both in the classroom and even just in the culture of Southeastern, is the non-negotiable nature of the Great Commission. Southeastern emphasized that all of us are called to go in some capacity, and that we are most like Christ when we go to hard places.
Program Design
What Types of Seminars Will I Take?
-
Worship Leadership
-
Biblical and Theological Foundations for Counseling
-
Care and Counseling for Pastoral Theology
-
Foundations and Current Trends in Pastoral Theology
-
Historical Readings for Pastoral Theology
Admission to the Pastoral Theology
Students applying for the Pastoral Theology PhD will need a strong background in biblical and theological studies. Prerequisites for admission include:
- MDiv or MA in biblical or theological studies.
- At least six hours each of New Testament, Old Testament, and Systematic Theology.
- At least three hours of Church History.
- At least three hours each of Greek and Hebrew.
- A 3.5 GPA in all graduate work
Applicants will need the following: Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate degrees, a writing sample that demonstrates proficiency in thesis-driven research and writing, personal and academic references, agreement from a Major Professor at Southeastern, and a personal statement about commitment to Christian theological education. As you consider the PhD, go ahead and connect with a potential Major Professor to discuss your application. Visit apply.sebts.edu to begin an application. You can add required elements along the way. Once you submit your completed application, the PhD Admissions Committee will assess your application and return an answer in approximately 5-6 weeks.
