Grace College

49 Programs 2 Degree levels
PhD

Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Spiritual Formation and Soul Care

Offered at Grace College
DegreePhD
FieldTheology & Religious Studies

A professional doctoral programme that prepares experienced ministry leaders to deepen personal spiritual formation and to provide soul care within Christian communities. Best for pastors, discipleship leaders, chaplains, and academic ministers seeking advanced theological grounding and practical skills for guiding sanctification and communal spiritual growth.

What you'll study

  • Core themes: constructs of Christian orthodoxy, orthopraxy, and orthopathos; doctrines of regeneration and sanctification; the value of the soul and stewardship of the soul.
  • Personal formation: investigation of life experiences shaping relational patterns with God, self, and others; constructing a biblically informed personal narrative.
  • Historical and practical practices: application of historical Christian practices to promote leader growth and self-stewardship.
  • Soul care skills: theological and theoretical frameworks for shepherding those who struggle to trust God; development of relational maturity, emotional intelligence, and attunement for discipling others.
  • Community and methodology: theology of the Triune God as basis for a philosophy of relationships and community; designing an ethos of biblical spirituality for congregational life; exploration of methodologies including interpersonal neurobiology for facilitating transformational, culturally sensitive communities.
  • Curriculum examples and courses: Biblical Spirituality and Soul Care; Christian Spirituality and the Soul of the Leader; Shepherding the Soul of Others; Soul Care in Spiritual Community.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a Master of Divinity and have at least three years of ministry experience. Those with a Master of Arts in a theological or ministry field may apply but could require additional ministry experience. Admissions materials include official transcripts (or unofficial while completing a degree), a spiritual life reference, and for international applicants TESOL scores and a financial certificate demonstrating sufficient funding. Prospective students are advised to contact the Admissions Department for further details.

Career prospects

  • Pastor or Director of Discipleship
  • Pastor of Soul Care/Discipleship
  • Senior Pastor
  • Spiritual Formation Professor
  • Director of Small Groups
  • Chaplain in a Christian college or university

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme page directs applicants to contact the Admissions Department for more information about application requirements and related matters; prospective students should inquire with admissions about financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and documentation required for international funding certification.

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Programme details are indicative and may change — always verify current information with the official university website before applying.