Doctor of Missiology or Doctor of Intercultural Studies

Program Description

The Doctor of Missiology (DMiss) or Doctor of Intercultural Studies (DIS) is a professional degree, consistently utilizing 700-level courses for the main purpose of equipping pastors, mission leaders/teachers, administrators, and other ministry professionals with advanced cross-cultural mission skills.

The purpose of this degree program is to form culturally sensitive leaders and enhance their level of ability in pursuing the mission of the Church. This higher level of education strengthens the individual’s spiritual life, sharpens missiological skills, equips leaders with the ability to relate theology to different cultural and social contexts, and prepares missionaries with mentoring abilities and refocused vision.

The DMiss/DIS is an In-Ministry program, and includes a significant research component. The degree is conferred only upon those who clearly demonstrate the ability to do independent research, and who have reached a high level of competency and expertise in their field of study. The program is cohort based and delivered as a blended program with on-site modules and online courses.

Program Length

4 years

When to Begin

To get the information about the next starting date contact the DMiss program director. All application materials must be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records no later than six months before the intended beginning of the program. The number of students who may enter the DMiss/DIS program in any given year is limited. Late applications are not guaranteed acceptance.

Areas of Emphasis

• World Religions (i.e., Buddhist, Chinese, Islam, Hinduism, Animism) 
• Urban Studies 
• Intercultural Studies 
• Postmodernism and Secularism

Completion

The DMiss/DIS is an In-Ministry based program and can be completed in approximately 4 years (but not less), if no remedial or pre-requisite courses are needed. 

Admission Requirements

1. A Master of Arts in Ministry (MA-Min), Master of Divinity (MDiv), a Master of Arts in Religion (MA-R), or an equivalent from an approved Seminary or University. 
2. A minimum GPA of 3.33 on a four-point scale or equivalent. 
3. A minimum of three years full-time cross-cultural ministry experience. 
4. The following additional documents and data submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records:
   1. Recommendations from the following, using the forms provided: an academic administrative officer of leader of the applicant’s employing organization in the last five years, and the school from which the applicant received the graduate degree, if other than AIIAS. 
   2. Personal statement of approximately 1000 words explaining the student’s purpose for seeking the DMiss/DIS degree, and his/her philosophical perspective and professional goals.
5. Demonstrated proficiency in English. 
6. A Research Paper with an original (20-page minimum), publishable-quality article (or thesis summary) in the area of interest.
7. An interview the candidate.

Prerequisites

1. At least 15 credits in a mission related area.
2. A pass (of B or above) in GSEM 630 Documentary Research and Writing or its equivalent.