Christian Apologetics

Credential: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Level: Doctoral Degree

Credits: 69 total, with up to 0 transfer credits accepted

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Christian Apologetics at Abide University is designed for Christian leaders who defend the faith with intellectual seriousness, biblical conviction, and pastoral clarity. Apologetics is not merely debate technique. It is the disciplined work of giving a reasoned answer for Christian hope while understanding Scripture, doctrine, philosophy, culture, and the questions real people bring to faith. Students engage classical and contemporary arguments for Christian belief, philosophy of religion, worldview analysis, historical apologetics, ethics, science and faith questions, cultural criticism, and the pastoral use of apologetics in preaching, teaching, evangelism, and discipleship. The program is especially suited for pastors, teachers, writers, campus ministers, evangelists, and ministry leaders who address skepticism, doubt, pluralism, secularism, and intellectual objections to Christianity. Graduates are prepared to teach apologetics, write persuasive Christian materials, lead apologetics ministries, train churches for public witness, and contribute to thoughtful Christian engagement in academic, church, and public settings. The doctoral work emphasizes careful research, charitable argument, theological fidelity, and communication that serves both truth and people.

Core Courses

  • APL 801 — Foundations of Christian Apologetics (6 credits)
  • APL 812 — Philosophy of Religion and Christian Theism (6 credits)
  • APL 824 — Scripture, History, and the Reliability of Christian Claims (6 credits)
  • APL 836 — Worldviews, Culture, and Contemporary Objections (6 credits)
  • APL 848 — Apologetics for Evangelism, Teaching, and Public Witness (4 credits)
  • DOC 860 — Doctoral Research Design in Apologetics (4 credits)
  • DOC 899 — Doctoral Dissertation in Christian Apologetics (24 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • Master's degree in theology, apologetics, philosophy, biblical studies, ministry, or a closely related field
  • Substantial Christian ministry, teaching, evangelism, writing, or public communication experience
  • Statement of purpose describing apologetic calling, doctoral goals, and intended contribution
  • Current resume, ministry profile, or curriculum vitae
  • Official transcripts from prior institutions when available
  • Writing sample, apologetics article, sermon manuscript, teaching outline, or research paper when requested

Degree Levels in Christian Apologetics