Program Overview

The Doctor of Christian Education program is designed for experienced educational leaders and ministry professionals who wish to achieve the highest level of expertise in biblically-grounded educational theory and practice. This program prepares scholars and practitioners to lead, innovate, and conduct advanced research in Christian educational settings, including churches, schools, colleges, and para-church organizations. Graduates will be equipped to develop transformative curricula, mentor future educators, and address complex educational challenges through a Christian worldview, fostering spiritual formation and intellectual growth in diverse contexts.

Key Highlights

At a Glance

Program Outcomes

Immediate Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Doctor of Christian Education, graduates will achieve an advanced understanding of the most complex principles in Christian education, integrating diverse educational theories with a profound biblical worldview. They will be able to critically analyze and interpret advanced theological and educational concepts to inform comprehensive educational strategies. Graduates will master the application of highly specialized pedagogical techniques, effectively addressing a broad spectrum of learning styles and developmental stages in various educational settings. Furthermore, they will develop the ability to conduct rigorous scholarly research in Christian education, contributing original insights to the field, and adeptly lead and administer in various professional and ministry settings, demonstrating ethical excellence and inspiring leadership in complex educational environments.

Lifelong Learning Outcomes

Beyond immediate professional competencies, this doctoral program fosters a commitment to continuous growth and transformative impact. Graduates will cultivate a practice of ongoing spiritual and personal formation, maintaining resilience and ethical integrity in their demanding roles. They will be prepared to innovate and adapt educational methodologies in response to emerging societal and theological needs, serving as thought leaders in the field. This includes demonstrating proficiency in multicultural competence, ensuring inclusive and effective education for diverse populations. Graduates will also be equipped to mentor and educate future generations of Christian educators and ministry leaders, extending their influence through teaching, supervision, and publishing. Ultimately, they will make lasting contributions to the spiritual and intellectual development of individuals and communities, embodying the transformative power of Christian education through their advanced practice and scholarly pursuits.

Career Prospects

The Doctor of Christian Education program prepares graduates for the highest levels of leadership, administration, and scholarship in faith-based education. This advanced degree equips individuals to shape the future of Christian learning with profound spiritual insight and professional excellence. Potential career paths include:

• Christian School Administrator/Principal: Leading and managing Christian educational institutions.
• Seminary Professor / Dean: Teaching Christian education, theology, or biblical studies at higher education institutions.
• Curriculum Development Specialist: Designing and implementing faith-based educational curricula for various organizations.
• Denominational Education Director: Overseeing educational programs and initiatives for Christian denominations.
• Ministry Consultant: Advising churches and non-profits on educational strategies, spiritual formation, and leadership development.
• Author / Publisher: Creating and disseminating Christian educational resources.
• Director of Christian Education: Leading educational ministries within large churches.
• Educational Researcher: Conducting original research in Christian educational theory and practice.

Future Academic Paths

The Doctor of Christian Education provides the highest level of professional preparation, often serving as a terminal degree for practice-oriented roles. For those interested in further academic specialization beyond this degree, opportunities primarily exist in highly focused research doctorates or post-doctoral work. Possible academic paths include:

• Post-Doctoral Fellowships: Engaging in advanced research or specialized projects in educational leadership or religious education.
• Ph.D. in related fields: Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in fields such as Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, Theology, or Philosophy for highly specialized academic or research careers (may require additional foundational coursework).
• Specialized Certifications: Continuously pursuing and maintaining professional certifications in educational administration, leadership, or specific instructional areas.

This degree empowers graduates to be leaders and innovators in the field, capable of both advanced educational practice and significant contributions to the body of knowledge in Christian education.

Courses for this Program (36 credits)

Total Credits: 36 Credit hrs