Doctor of Philosophy
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is an advanced academic degree designed to prepare students to teach at higher education institutions, engage in deep research and to contribute academically to their chosen field.
World-Class Faculty
Top scholars from Gateway Seminary and affiliated faculty from around the world teach and mentor students.
Flexible Delivery
Ph.D. students are only required to be at the Los Angeles campus three times a semester.
Scholarship in Community
Students are trained to be leaders in the church, the academy, and the community through intensive seminars and mentoring.
Meet the Faculty
We work hard to give the next generation of Christian scholars access to experts from around the world.
Application Information
Areas of Study
Biblical Studies
A student pursuing a biblical studies major will do creative, contemporary research founded on the historical, philosophical, theological and methodological issues of the Old Testament or the New Testament using appropriate research languages extensively. This research will culminate in a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the chosen field of study.
Theology
A student pursuing a theology major will develop a deep understanding of the history of theology by studying historical, contemporary and systematic works. The student will produce an innovative and substantive dissertation that demonstrates awareness of primary historical, philosophical, theological and methodological issues in the specific field of study.
Minors
Students must also choose a complementary minor to support their major. Topic areas for minors include Old Testament, New Testament, Theology and Church History. Students cannot choose a minor topic area in the same field as their major.
More Information
Length of Program
The Ph.D. requires 42 hours of course work in seminars and independent studies. Students typically spend two years in seminars and two years writing their dissertation. Special permission is required for students who wish to continue pursuing the Ph.D. after six years of coursework.
Ministry Path
A graduate of the Ph.D. program will be prepared to teach in higher education institutions, serve as teaching pastors and engage in further research in their field.