Applying for the Ph.D. and Th.M. in Biblical Interpretation and Theology Program

In this 60-hour academic degree program, you will attend one-week intensive modules in February, June (1^st full two weeks), and October.

• Academic: Baccalaureate degree or the equivalent from an accredited college or university and an accredited MDiv or MTh/ThM, MPhil or STM with a focus on biblical and theological studies, with a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. Other Master-level (MA, MATS, MACM, MAR, etc.) degrees will be considered if the student can demonstrate aptitude for advanced study.
• Test Scores: GRE (Graduate Record Exam) is required (school code 3355).
• Writing: Submission and approval of a writing sample that demonstrates graduate-level research and writing skills.
• Vocational Essay: A 2000-word Vocational Essay is required that details: A) The applicant’s personal testimony and spiritual journey; B) His or her personal sense of vocation to academic and ministry leadership; C) Professional goals; and D) Plans to make original contributions to his or her field.
• Biblical Languages: One full year each (2 semesters) of biblical Hebrew and New Testament Greek. Students lacking coursework for this entrance requirement may demonstrate competency in a biblical language by taking a proficiency exam. Students planning to concentrate in either the Old Testament or the New Testament must have a second full year (2 semesters) of either Hebrew or New Testament Greek, corresponding to their concentration (theology students must take a second year of a biblical language, but which one is up to the student).
• Research Language Proficiency: The program requires research proficiency in English as the primary research language and a second modern research language (usually German or French). Competency in a modern research language must be demonstrated during the first two years of the program before beginning work on the dissertation. Competency can be demonstrated in one of two ways:
  1. successful completion of a modern language course that facilitates and measures translation skill, or
  2. taking and successfully completing a modern language translation exam offered through the PhD BTH program.

  Note: Additional ancient and modern languages may be required as needed for the completion of dissertation research. OT and NT disciplines require extra work in their respective languages. Other linguistic skills may be required depending on one’s dissertation topic and the modern language most germane to the field of study. For example, a student doing a dissertation on a Latin American Liberation theologian would need to translate Spanish. A dissertation on a Western church father of the 4th century would likely require translation facility in Latin.

• Recommendations: Three completed Letters of Recommendation are required.
• Technology: Adequate computer competencies and internet access.

After Admission

1. Upon admission, you will receive an email with instructions on how to sign into your student portal. All pre-enrollment steps can be completed online through your student portal. You can also click here for instructions on setting up your student portal. Questions? Connect with your admissions counselor for assistance.
2. When planning to utilize federal financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using Evangel’s code 002463 as soon as possible after it becomes available.
3. Review your financial aid offer and respond promptly to financial aid requests for additional information and/or paperwork.
4. Finalize financial aid and payment prior to beginning class.