Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical and Theological Studies

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A contextually relevant and globally functional, scholarly program.

About the Programme

The PhD in Biblical and Theological Studies programme is solidly based on the Seventh-day Adventist philosophy of wholistic education, emphasizing the effective integration of faith and learning. The programme applies biblical, historical, educational, linguistic, theological, philosophical, ethical, missiological, pastoral, and evangelistic instruction to the academic research in the educational context. Practical scholarly experience is a vital part of this programme.

The foundations of the PhD programme are built on the principles taken from Scripture and world-class resources concerning the specializations of the given programme. It will promote sound methods of biblical, historical, missiological, theological and philosophical scholarship and spread these principles through publications, lectureships, conferences, and symposiums. This will equip the reflective practitioner and ground his/her knowledge to African realities without neglecting the competencies needed for global scholarship.

As the final result will be graduates, who are contextually relevant and globally functional. Such graduates will be able to share effective academic leadership on the local level in their communities and countries.

What You May Become?

  • Passionate Biblical scholar
  • Ethical Bible researcher
  • Professional Theological educator

Specializations

  • Old Testament
  • New Testament
  • Systematic Theology
  • Missiology

Duration of the Programme

    • Full Time – Four Years
    • Part Time – Four Years

  1. A Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies, Master of Divinity or Master of Arts in Missiology or their equivalency from an approved Seminary or University with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.33 a 4-point scale or its equivalency.
  2. Applicants with a CGPA of 3.00-3.32 may be admitted on probation status. After one session, if the student’s CGPA is 3.33 or above, they will be regularised; if the CGPA is less than 3.33, the student will have to discontinue the programme due to academic deficiency.
  3. Successful completion of at least six (6) credits of coursework in research at the postgraduate level. This requirement is in addition to the completed and accepted thesis/ project done at the postgraduate level.
  4. A minimum of 2 full years of relevant work/Church ministry experience.
  5. A statement of purpose, career goals and commitment to academic excellence is required. This statement should be a maximum of five (5) pages, typed, double-spaced. It should be submitted together with the other application materials.
  6. Have three Recommendations completed online (one professional recommendation, one academic recommendation, and one character recommendation). The applicant should seek the consent of the referees before submitting their details.
  7. Demonstrate proficiency in English.
  8. Meet any other requirements as shall be determined by the Admission Committee of the Seminary.
Prerequisites:
  1. Applicants with other degrees in Religious Studies/Religion/Theology (such as the MA in Pastoral Theology or Pastoral Studies and their equivalents) shall be required to take appropriate number of prerequisites in the chosen area of specialization, as shall be determined by the PhD programme Committee. The prerequisites shall be accepted from the area of concentration based on the courses taken at the graduate level based on the course code (NTST/OTST/THST/MSSN).
  2. Applicants must present the thesis written for that master’s programme for evaluation of research and writing skills. In case the previous university did not require a written thesis for the master’s programme, the applicant must demonstrate research and writing abilities by presenting an acceptable 80-page research paper as a thesis equivalent.
  3. Applicants must present proof of having successfully taken Intermediate Biblical Hebrew and Intermediate Biblical Greek in the Master’s transcript during a period of maximum 6 years before applying to the PhD programme. Alternatively, the applicant must demonstrate proficiency in Biblical Hebrew and Greek languages either by challenge examinations or by taking Intermediate Hebrew and Greek language courses as prerequisites.
  4. Modern languages (theological German or French): one for all programs.

Curriculum

GSEM 868
PhD Dissertation Research Methods and Proposal Seminar
3 Credits
This course intends to assist doctoral students in preparing a dissertation proposal to facilitate the transition from coursework to the dissertation. Its goal is to apply cumulative understanding and skills to the specific research situation. However, from the perspective of one’s program of study, this course poses a real test to make a realistic transition from coursework to the dissertation. This course reviews the essential proposal components, emphasizing research design and developing the literature review, dissertation format standards, etc.

 

GSEM 995
PhD Dissertation
16 Credits
As the culmination of the PhD in Religious Studies program, each PhD student must write and defend (by oral examination) a doctoral dissertation in the student’s field of specialization. The dissertation is the written culmination of the doctoral degree program, and it represents a contribution of original research to the chosen field of scholarly inquiry.

 

OTST/NTST/THST/MSSN 880 Seminar in OT/NT/ST/MS Studies
3 Credits
MSSN 880 Seminar in Social Sciences and Mission 3 Credits
Theology and the social sciences interface in the task of worldview transformation, which is the goal of missions. This course examines in seminar presentations and lectures discourses on how conversion may be achieved in the task of missions.

 

THST 880
Seminar in Theological Issues
3 Credits
This course purposes the study of issues such as Christology, anthropology, ecclesiology, contemporary theology, and Christian ethics.


NTST 880
Seminar in New Testament Studies and Methods
3 Credits
This is a course on advanced principles and methods of study, history, and research in the field of the New Testament.

 

OTST 880
Seminar on Textual Criticism
3 Credits
This textual criticism is a science of studying ancient manuscripts to determine the authentic text of the Bible. In addition, it involves a detailed comparative textual examination of challenging Old Testament passages involving the ancient versions and Qumran, using both text editions and manuscripts.


OTST/NTST/THST/MSSN 886 Directed Independent Research
3 Credits 


OTST/NTST/THST/MSSN 893 Interdisciplinary Seminar
3 Credits

Cognate 1: Old Testament
OTST 850 Exilic Prophets 3 Credits
OTST 870 Biblical Wisdom Literature 3 Credits
OTST 893 Interdisciplinary Seminar 3 credits

 

Cognate 2: New Testament
NTST 850 Exegesis: 1 & 2 Corinthians 3 credits
NTST 882 Advanced Studies in the Gospels 3 credits
NTST 893 Interdisciplinary Seminar 3 credits

 

Cognate 3: Systematic Theology – Biblical and Theological Studies
THST 862 Biblical Eschatology 3 credits
THST 887 Contemporary Theology 3 credits
THST 893 Interdisciplinary Seminar 3 credits

 

Cognate 4: Missiology
MSSN 885 Contemporary Issues in Mission 3 credits
MSSN 887 Mission Strategy Development 3 credits
MSSN 893 Interdisciplinary Seminar 3 credits

OTST 863
Advanced Old Testament Exegesis
3 Credits
Advanced work on selected Old Testament passages, building on other courses in Old Testament exegesis.

 

OTST 848
Advanced Hebrew Grammar
3 Credits
Advanced Biblical Hebrew Grammar is to reinforce the fundamental language competency gained in the intermediate Hebrew course by enforcing a review of all grammar covered (vocabulary, verbs, parsing, morphology, syntax, etc.), strengthening the student’s Hebrew vocabulary (down to words that occur ten times in the Old Testament), and gaining sight-reading capabilities of large portions of the Hebrew Old Testament.

 

OTST 861
Biblical Aramaic
3 Credits
The purpose of this course is to guide the student into developing knowledge and skills in the grammar and syntax of Biblical Aramaic as an exegetical tool for portions of the Old Testament Scriptures that are written in this language.

 

OTST 850
Exilic Prophets
3 Credits
This course explores the nature, function and message of major exilic prophets such as Ezekiel and Daniel. Key texts are studied considering their literary context and social, political, and historical setting. Close attention is given to prophetical message and their fulfilment in history as proof of their inspiration.

 

OTST 870
Biblical Wisdom Literature
3 Credits
A study of the distinctive features of Hebrew wisdom literature in its ancient Near Eastern context. The course consists of a selected study of the Wisdom Books of the Hebrew Bible: Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon, concentrating on the historical setting, literary structure, genre, and deep theological-exegetical analysis of the selected text.

 

OTST 882
Theology of the Old Testament Eschatology
3 Credits
A theological study of last-day events as presented in significant eschatological passages of the Hebrew Scriptures. The major focus of this course is a brief background introduction to the ANE contextual world of thought about the afterlife, along with a heavy emphasis on what the Old Testament eschatology teaches about the kingdom of God and His Anointed Messiah.

 

OTST 865
Historical Books
3 Credits
This course consists of an in-depth exploration of the selected passages from the following Historical books: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. As such, it provides a detailed look at roughly 1000 years in the life of God’s people spanning post-exodus through the return from exile leading us all the way through the last Old Testament narratives prior to the birth of Jesus Christ.

 

OTST 860
Theology of the Sanctuary
3 Credits
This course deals with selected themes related to the doctrine of the Sanctuary in the context of Seventh-day Adventist theology and teaching. It is a theological-exegetical study of the earthly and heavenly sanctuaries with special emphasis on the books of Genesis, Leviticus, Psalms, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hebrews, and Revelation.

 

GSEM 890
Course Development and Teaching Practicum
3 Credits
The course furnishes PhD students with insights into using basic techniques, tools, and procedures for meaningful instruction in the field of religion. In addition, it offers student instruction and supervision in course development, teaching, and evaluation for this purpose.

 

GSEM 950
Comprehensive Exams
0 Credit

NTST 848
Advanced Greek Grammar
3 Credits
This is an advanced course in Greek grammar, syntax, and readings of the Greek New Testament. The student will gain advanced knowledge of New Testament Greek Grammar and syntax for use in exegesis.

 

NTST 861
Reading in LXX
3 Credits
This is a Greek reading course based on passages from the LXX and other non-biblical Greek literature around the time of the New Testament (Greek Literature, Inscriptions, Apostolic Fathers). The course aims to familiarize the students with the Grammar, syntax, and words used in this literature for exegesis.

 

NTST 862
Studies in Christian and Jewish Writings
3 Credits
This is a study of extra-biblical Jewish writings (Second Temple period and rabbinic) which are relevant to the understanding of the New Testament. Topics include rabbinic writings and apocalyptic Jewish writings.

 

NTST 850
Exegesis: 1 & 2 Corinthians
3 Credits
This course is an exegetical study of Paul’s epistles to the Corinthians. The theological and practical relevance of these epistles for society and the church life, mission and leadership will be highlighted.

 

NTST 870
Prison Epistles of Paul
3 Credits
This course is an advanced expository study of the prison Epistles of Paul (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon), with emphasis on interpretive problems, the theological and practical relevance of these epistles for society and the church life, mission and leadership. Particular issues in these Epistles will be discussed.

 

NTST 860
Theology of the Sanctuary
3 Credits
This course is a theological study of the heavenly sanctuary with special emphasis on the books of Hebrews and Revelation.

 

NTST 865
Pastoral Epistles
3 Credits
This course is an advanced expository study of the Pastoral Epistles (1 and 2 Timothy and Titus), with emphasis on interpretive problems, the theological and practical relevance of these epistles for society and the church life, mission and leadership. Particular issues in the Pastoral Epistles will be discussed.

 

NTST 882
Advanced Studies in the Gospels
3 Credits
An exegetical study of a selected Gospel with a special focus on the historical, cultural archaeological and theological contexts.

 

GSEM 890
Course Development and Teaching Practicum
3 Credits
The course furnishes PhD students with insights into using basic techniques, tools and procedures for meaningful instruction in the field of religion. In addition, it offers student instruction and supervision in course development, teaching, and evaluation for this purpose.

GSEM 950
Comprehensive Exams
0 Credit

THST 861
Principles and Methods of Theology
3 Credits
This course purposes the study of the nature, function, methods, and practice of constructive theological activity. It also identifies the role of theology in the life of the Church, schools, and society.

 

THST 862
Biblical Eschatology
3 Credits
This course focuses on an Adventist approach to a Christ-centered interpretation of the end-time prophecies regarding the judgment, the second coming of Christ, the kingdom of God, and the millennium in the Old and New Testaments on the basis of biblical principles of interpretation.

 

THST 855
Early Christian Theology
3 Credits
This course purposes to study the doctrinal development of the Church from the close of the apostolic age to Augustine in such themes as heresy, ethics, salvation, authority, and ecclesiology.

 

THST 860
Contemporary Theology
3 Credits
This course aims at studying the major trends in 19th- and 20th-century theology, including liberalism and neo-orthodoxy, and such shapers of religious thought as Schleiermacher, Barth, and Bultmann viewed over the rise and development of Adventist theology.

 

THST 863
The Doctrine of God
3 Credits
This course purposes to study the nature and attributes of the Triune God and His relation to the world. Also, it deals with a consideration of divine foreknowledge, predestination, and providence.

 

THST 870
Protestant Theological Heritage
3 Credits
This course purposes an in-depth study of the most important positions of the great shapers of the Protestant tradition from the earliest times to the end of the Magisterial Reformation.

 

THST 881
History and Theology of Ecumenism
3 Credits
This course purposes to study the historical development, organizational structures, problems, implications, and theological foundations of the modern ecumenical movement, including evaluation and response from a Seventh-day Adventist perspective.

 

THST 882
Human Nature and Destiny
3 Credits
This course purposes to study the origin of humanity, the Fall, and sin with its nature and effects. Also, it deals with the nature of human beings and the doctrine of immortality.

 

GSEM 890
Course Development and Teaching Practicum
3 Credits
The course furnishes PhD students with insights into using basic techniques, tools and procedures for meaningful instruction in the field of religion. In addition, it offers student instruction and supervision in course development, teaching, and evaluation for this purpose.

GSEM 950
Comprehensive Exams
0 Credit

MSSN 870
Mission Strategy Development
3 Credits
An exploration of contextual and relevant strategies for the task of missions especially in the African setting is presented in this course. Perspectives of mission service within the context of the continent and the elements that shall foster effective growth of the Church are also considered.

 

MSSN 872
Contextualization
3 Credits
This course explores issues and methods in the process of contextualization of the gospel message. It examines how to present the unchanging truths of God’s Word in rapidly changing and culturally diverse milieus.

 

MSSN 881
Urban Missions
3 Credits
This course examines how urban contexts can become centres for mission and ministry. The nature of life and relationships in these contexts provide an occasion for the Church to see God at work in everyday lives.

 

MSSN 875
Anthropology for World Mission and Ministry
3 Credits
The course applies insights from social sciences, especially anthropology to understand human cultures and the challenge they present to discipling the nations. It also employs this knowledge as a tool to facilitate better cross-cultural mission strategies.

 

MSSN 860
Witnessing to Animistic Religions
3 Credits
The African ministry context is steeped in African Traditional religious practices. Effective ministry in such contexts demands a careful and comprehensive understanding of the significance and power of animistic beliefs in the lives of Africans. This course explores animistic beliefs and worldviews and how to lead to an authentic Christian faith experience.

 

*MSSN 869
Research Methods in Mission and Ministry
3 Credits
This specialized course is geared towards equipping the student with the field research component. It exposes students to the necessary social science tools and provides the skillset required for effective data collection and analysis.

 

MSSN 885
Contemporary Issues in Mission
3 Credits
This course investigates current issues encountered in the process of fulfilling the gospel mandate in the continent and approaches to resolving such contemporary issues in biblically appropriate ways.

 

MSSN 882
Islamic Culture and Society
3 Credits
This course explores the development of Islamic beliefs, communities, and practices. It focuses on how to relate, dialogue and witness to Muslim believers on the continent, especially the majority who practice folk Islam. Current trends and events in the Islamic world will also be studied to discover bridges for ministry opportunities.

 

GSEM 890
Course Development and Teaching Practicum
3 Credits
The course furnishes PhD students with insights into using basic techniques, tools and procedures for meaningful instruction in the field of religion. In addition, it offers student instruction and supervision in course development, teaching, and evaluation for this purpose.

 

GSEM 950
Comprehensive Exams
0 Credit

Programme Coordinator

feliks

Feliks Ponyatovskiy, PhD

Lecturer, Theological Seminary

Education

  • PhD in Religion, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Philippines (2012)

Areas of Expertise

  • Prophets, Historical books

Biography
Dr  Ponyatovskiy is an ordained minister of the gospel having served in Ukraine as a pastor Youth Director and Adventist Mission Coordinator. He also has over ten years experience in lecturing in Old Testament and as an administrator.

feliks

Feliks Ponyatovskiy, PhD

Lecturer, Theological Seminary

Education

  • PhD in Religion, Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Philippines (2012)
  • MA in Religion, Andrews University, USA (campus in Zaokski, Russia) (2005)

Areas of Expertise

  • Prophets, Historical books

Biography
Dr.  Ponyatovskiy is an ordained minister of the gospel having served in Ukraine as a pastor Youth Director and Adventist Mission Coordinator. He also has over ten years experience in lecturing in Old Testament and as an administrator.

Featured Alumni

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NATASHA WILLIAMS

2018 / Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical and Theological Studies

There are three important aspects of my experience at AUA that I want to highlight. One of the key moments in my learning can be distilled down to one session in which one of the professors invited students discuss the effects of the pandemic with us. That discussion challenged my thinking and provided me with a platform from which to  to evaluate my beliefs through the lens of critical thought. Today, I still consider that one of the most important turning points in my life.

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