Friends University

What you'll study

Coursework is structured across three consecutive thematic years and a final project year:

• Year one: biblical theology focused on "awareness of God."
• Year two: self-knowledge and soul care framed as "knowledge of self."
• Year three: implications for mission and engagement with the world under "mission to others."
• Year four: preparation, writing and finalization of a doctoral project.

The program emphasizes a comprehensive vision of Christian formation, awareness of the Holy Spirit in the church's life, restoration and healing work, lifelong formation practices (especially spiritual direction), and critique of late-modern ideological pressures on the church.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an accredited Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Master of Theology (ThM), or an MA in Formation or a closely related field. Candidates should have at least three years of vocational or bi-vocational Christian ministry experience since earning their first graduate theological degree and be currently involved in an ongoing ministry setting. Academic records must demonstrate strong potential for doctoral study (minimum 3.25 graduate GPA). Students admitted with an MA are expected to show capacity to interpret scripture and theological tradition thoughtfully, adapt ministry to cultural contexts, and present a basic self-understanding of ministerial identity and calling.

Applications are being accepted for the Fall 2027 cohort. The first in-person residency will occur in June 2028. Application deadlines include November 1 (Priority), February 1 (Early), April 1 (Application), and June 1 (Final). For admissions queries, contact Kristin Wilson at kristin_wilson@friends.edu.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to continue or expand roles in congregational leadership, spiritual direction, pastoral care, formation ministries, and other practitioner-focused positions within the church. The program is oriented toward those who intend to serve as seasoned practitioners—often described as "doctors of the church"—tasked with restoration, formation and leadership in ministry settings rather than academic research careers.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The course page does not list specific scholarships or funding; prospective students should consult Friends University's financial aid office or the program contact for information about tuition support, institutional scholarships, employer sponsorship, or other funding avenues commonly used by professional doctoral candidates.