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Doctorate · School of Pastoral Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care

Research doctorate in Christian chaplaincy and spiritual care.

school60 semester credits schedule3–4 years (online, part-time) languageOnline

Programme overview

This PhD programme develops advanced research in Christian chaplaincy and spiritual care. Students complete a defended dissertation and an original contribution to the field.

What you'll gain

check_circle A Christ-centred academic foundation in your field
check_circle Practical skills you can apply immediately in ministry or work
check_circle Mentorship from experienced, global faculty
check_circle A clearly documented programme with published semester credits

Credit structure

Component Semester credits

Advanced Christian discipline courses

Doctoral-level discipline study

 24

Research methods

Quantitative, qualitative and theological research methods

 9

Specialist electives

Electives aligned with the dissertation topic

 9

Comprehensive examination / research proposal

Comprehensive exam and defended proposal

 3

Dissertation research and writing

Original doctoral dissertation

 15
Total 60

Total programme requirement: 60 US semester credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree, including doctoral research and dissertation requirements. Normal duration: three to four years part-time online.

One semester credit equals at least 15 hours of instruction plus preparation, or an equivalent amount of properly planned and assessed online learning. Read our credit-hour policy.

Curriculum & modules

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care 10 modules expand_more

  • Introduction to Biblical Studies

    Introduction to Biblical Studies

  • Christian Theology and Doctrine

    Christian Theology and Doctrine

  • Church History and Tradition

    Church History and Tradition

  • Hermeneutics and Scripture

    Hermeneutics and Scripture

  • Foundations of Christian Ministry

    Foundations of Christian Ministry

  • Spiritual Formation and Discipleship

    Spiritual Formation and Discipleship

  • Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care

    Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care

  • Pastoral Counselling

    Pastoral Counselling

  • Pastoral Theology and Care

    Pastoral Theology and Care

  • Christian Ethics and Morality

    Christian Ethics and Morality

Entry requirements

  • task_alt A relevant master's degree (or equivalent).
  • task_alt An outline research proposal aligned with our faculty’s areas of expertise.
  • task_alt Academic references and a sample of written work.
  • task_alt Proficiency in English (the language of instruction).

Unsure if you qualify? Talk to admissions — we assess experience as well as qualifications.

Where this can take you

trending_up Pastoral ministry & church leadership
trending_up Chaplaincy — hospital, prison or education
trending_up Missions & cross-cultural work
trending_up Theological teaching & training
trending_up Christian writing, media & discipleship

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Foundational training for chaplains in hospitals, prisons, schools and organisations.

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Diploma in Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care

Applied chaplaincy skills for pastoral care in secular and sacred environments.

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Ready to answer the call?

Begin your GDCU journey today

Join a global learning community in affordable, flexible, Christ-centred study — wherever your calling takes you.

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