18 Months
3 Semesters
9 Subjects
+ Dissertation
Original Research
Published Quality
Terminal Degree
Doctoral Level
Program Overview
The Doctor of Ministry (D.Min) is the terminal professional degree in theological education, designed for experienced ministry leaders who desire doctoral-level expertise in biblical interpretation and exposition. This 18-month intensive program combines advanced academic study with original research and practical ministry application.
Specializing in Biblical Exegesis and Dispensational Hermeneutics, this program equips scholars and practitioners to handle Scripture with the highest level of interpretive skill. Students engage deeply with hermeneutical principles, develop advanced preaching methodologies, and produce original research through a dissertation or ministry project.
The D.Min prepares graduates to serve as senior church leaders, seminary-level educators, published authors, and influential voices in evangelical theological discourse. This is the highest qualification offered by GNBCS and positions graduates for maximum kingdom impact.
Doctoral Curriculum - 18 Months
Semester I - Foundations
Introduction to Hermeneutics
Principles and methods of biblical interpretation
Research & Writing
Advanced academic research and dissertation preparation
Bible Exposition
Methods of expository preaching and teaching
Semester II - Development
Dissertation/Project I
Begin original research project or ministry dissertation
Homiletics & Pedagogy
Advanced preaching techniques and theological education
Mentored Apprenticeship
Supervised ministry practice and leadership development
Semester III - Completion
Textual/Topical Sermon
Develop and deliver advanced sermon series
Advanced Hermeneutics
Specialized interpretation methods and dispensational study
Dissertation/Project II
Complete and defend original research project
Doctoral Competencies
Master advanced hermeneutical principles and methods
Conduct original biblical research and scholarship
Develop and defend a doctoral dissertation
Lead with doctoral-level theological expertise
Teach seminary-level courses in biblical studies
Publish scholarly articles and theological works
Apply dispensational hermeneutics to contemporary issues
Train and mentor the next generation of leaders
Engage in high-level theological discourse
Serve as subject matter expert in biblical interpretation
Dissertation Requirements
Research Focus: Students develop an original dissertation or ministry project focused on biblical exegesis, dispensational hermeneutics, or practical theology applications.
Length: 15,000-25,000 words demonstrating doctoral-level scholarship and original contribution to the field.
Defense: Oral defense before a panel of qualified examiners, including external reviewers.
Publication: High-quality dissertations are encouraged for journal publication or book format.
Who Should Apply?
Senior Pastors
Lead pastors seeking the highest level of theological education and credibility
Bible College Faculty
Educators desiring doctoral credentials for seminary-level teaching
Ministry Leaders
Experienced leaders in missions, parachurch, or denominational roles
