PhD in Divinity/Ministry (PhD)

For PhD Divinity/Ministry, tuition is Tuition for the Doctor of Ministry program is $875 per credit hour..

The Doctor of Ministry program is grounded in theological research and practical ministry application. Students engage in advanced study of Scripture, theology, and ministry through structured coursework and scholarly inquiry. The program emphasizes the integration of academic rigor with real-world pastoral and leadership practice. It is designed for experienced ministers seeking to deepen their theological and practical expertise.

Focus areas include Biblical Exegesis, Theology, Ministry Practice, Church Leadership, Mission, Christian Formation.

The program requires completion of a 18-credit Advanced Certificate in Scripture, Theology & Ministry before admission to the D.Min. The D.Min. itself includes coursework, a dissertation, and a final project focused on practical ministry research.

Graduates typically serve in senior pastoral roles, denominational leadership, theological education, or specialized ministry settings.

Applicants must hold a Master of Arts or Master of Divinity from an accredited theological school. Those with non-theological master's degrees may qualify with an 18-credit certificate in Scripture, Theology & Ministry. Required documents include transcripts, recommendations, and an application essay.

The programme totals about 60 credit hours. Online, part-time or full-time, typically completed over 3 to 5 years. For international students, tuition is well below the median for US programmes.

Northeastern Seminary operates as an embedded school of Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, New York. Its theological education is connected to Free Methodist and Wesleyan traditions while welcoming students from numerous Christian denominations. The seminary brings together students, faculty, alumni, and ministry leaders from different geographical locations, ages, ethnicities, denominations, and ministry contexts.

Academic work centers on Scripture, biblical studies, theology, spiritual formation, Christian ministry, and leadership. Students can begin with stackable certificates in areas such as chaplaincy, spiritual direction, biblical interpretation, or Black Church Studies, then build toward a Master of Arts, Master of Divinity, or Doctor of Ministry. The seminary also offers an online associate degree in Biblical Studies and bachelor's degrees in Ministry, Biblical Studies, or Religion and Philosophy through its partnership with Roberts Wesleyan University. Graduates pursue chaplaincy, church ministry, Christian education, nonprofit work, community advocacy, and academia.

International students should know that fully online study is a central part of the seminary's model, while in-person courses are available in Rochester. The flexible curriculum supports students who are working or serving in ministry and allows them to complete degrees at a chosen pace. The student community includes people from six nations and 26 US states, creating opportunities to learn alongside classmates from varied Christian traditions and life circumstances.