Pentecostal and Charismatic Theology

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Pentecostal and Charismatic Theology studies the movement that has reshaped world Christianity within living memory. From the revivals of the early twentieth century, Pentecostal and charismatic Christianity has grown into a presence of hundreds of millions across every continent and every major tradition, carrying a distinctive theology of the Spirit, a distinctive worship, and a distinctive expectation that God acts now. Students examine the historical roots in Wesleyan holiness, the revivals and their competing origin accounts, the classical Pentecostal denominations, the charismatic renewal within historic churches, and the neo-charismatic and independent movements of the global South. Doctrinal study covers pneumatology, Spirit baptism and the initial-evidence debate, spiritual gifts and their discernment, healing and its theology, prophecy and its governance, eschatology, and the relationship between experience and Scripture as sources of authority. The programme is candid about the movement's pathologies — prosperity teaching, unaccountable leadership, manipulative practice, and the abuse of prophetic claims — and treats the internal critics of these as primary theological voices rather than outsiders. The dissertation makes an original contribution on the movement's history, theology, or practice. Graduates teach pneumatology and renewal studies, lead denominational and educational institutions within the tradition, advise churches on charismatic practice and governance, and write for both scholarly and congregational audiences.

Core Courses

• PNT 801 — Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (6 credits)
• PNT 812 — Origins and History of the Movement (6 credits)
• PNT 824 — Spirit Baptism, Gifts, and Discernment (6 credits)
• PNT 836 — Healing, Deliverance, and Suffering (6 credits)
• PNT 848 — Global Renewal and Its Critics (5 credits)
• PNT 860 — Research Design in Renewal Studies (4 credits)
• PNT 899 — Doctoral Dissertation in Renewal Theology (24 credits)

Admission Requirements

• Master's degree in theology, missiology, world Christianity, worship, or a related field
• Cross-cultural ministry, mission, or ecumenical experience, or equivalent research preparation
• Statement of purpose naming the region, movement, or question your research will address
• Academic writing sample
• Current curriculum vitae or ministry profile
• Official transcripts from prior institutions when available