Christian Education

Credential: Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Degree Level: Doctoral Degree

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

School: School of Divinity

Program Overview

The Doctoral Program in Christian Education is designed for leaders who form believers through teaching, curriculum, discipleship systems, schools, churches, and ministry training programs. Christian education is more than transferring information. It is the work of shaping biblical understanding, Christian character, spiritual practices, theological imagination, and lifelong discipleship. Students study biblical foundations of teaching, educational leadership, curriculum design, catechesis, spiritual formation, adult learning, child and youth discipleship, assessment, online learning, and the organization of educational ministries. The program is suited for Christian school leaders, church education directors, seminary instructors, discipleship pastors, curriculum writers, and ministry trainers. Graduates are prepared to design learning systems that help believers know Scripture, love Christ, serve the church, and live faithfully in the world. The doctoral project allows students to address a real educational need: a discipleship pathway, catechesis program, leadership training model, online course system, or curriculum framework for church or school contexts.

Core Courses

  • CED 801 — Theological Foundations of Christian Education (6 credits)
  • CED 812 — Curriculum Design for Biblical and Theological Formation (6 credits)
  • CED 824 — Learning, Formation, and Human Development (6 credits)
  • CED 836 — Leadership of Educational Ministries and Schools (6 credits)
  • CED 848 — Digital and Online Theological Education (4 credits)
  • DOC 860 — Doctoral Research in Christian Education (4 credits)
  • DOC 899 — Doctoral Project in Christian Education (24 credits)

Admission Requirements

  • Master's degree in theology, biblical studies, ministry, education, or a closely related field
  • Substantial Christian ministry, teaching, leadership, or research experience
  • Statement of purpose describing calling, doctoral goals, and intended ministry or scholarly contribution
  • Current resume, ministry profile, or curriculum vitae
  • Official transcripts from prior institutions when available
  • Writing sample, sermon manuscript, ministry portfolio, or research paper when requested

Degree Levels in Christian Education