PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric

(Accepting Applications from May 1 – May 31, 2025 for Cohort 4)

42 Credit Hours

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric prepares practitioner-scholars to serve the church and the academy. This is the first PhD program in African American Preaching in the country. Practitioner-scholars engage in scholarship from the perspective of their location in ministry, pursuing deeper study of relevant topics through PhD-level research and analysis. The program also equips scholars for tenure track and fulltime professorships.

Thomas Endowed Chair Learn more

Program Highlights

The world’s first and only academic program of its kind where practitioner-scholars research, develop, and expose the untold treasures of the unique and indigenous American art form of African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric
Cohort-centered learning, with advisors assigned to each student
Academic rigor and innovative study at the highest level through courses that lift up the history of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric, theological exposition, and the gifts these traditions offer the global church
Practical experience and community impact in the field through a Teaching Assistantship, and two Community Teaching Assistantships
Writing development for potential publication through course writings, collaborative projects, and dissertation work
Affordable program costs: 3 year scholarship awarded to every PhD student in a commitment to help students avoid life-altering debt

PRE-REQUISITES

MDiv or educational equivalent from a theological school accredited by the Association of Theological Schools or its educational equivalent
Cumulative grade point average in all previous academic work of at least 3.5
GRE required