We live in a world and culture full of competing arguments and claims about the nature of reality and the existence of God. The call and need for faithful men and women equipped with a solid foundation of philosophical, theological, and apologetic understanding are greater than ever.
The 60 hour Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion program at Southern Evangelical Seminary will prepare you with experience and credentials for teaching at a university or Bible college, and it can be completed via our immersive digital campus. Many graduates also go on to write, speak, and engage in public debate and discourse. Whatever your future plans or calling might be, this program will refine your thinking, writing, and ability to engage in conversations at the very heart of our faith. As an example, take a moment to read the blog post “Why Philosophical Proofs for God are Better Than Scientific Proofs for God” by Dr. Brian Huffling, the director of the SES Ph.D. program.
Students in the Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion Program Will:
How and why does evil exist in a world in which a God of infinite power and goodness rules? In this class, you will explore classic philosophical arguments on the subject and examine your own positions.
This course deals with the most common tenets of contemporary atheism’s arguments and assumptions. You will be equipped to better understand and defend your own positions and arguments for the Gospel.
Delve deeply into the major streams of both disciplines that have shaped doctrine and the direction of the church. We will look at contemporary implications and applications of classical theism to prepare you for further study and ministry.
I had high hopes when I applied for this program, but they have been far exceeded. Thank you so much for putting together a program that is both intellectually challenging and applicable in the contemporary landscape. Joining SES has been the highlight of my academic career!
Current Student
If you’re wondering if the Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion program could be a good fit for your interests and calling, take a program preview with you today. With it, you will discover:
Admissions at SES is a simple, four-step application process, and it begins with an online application. Prospective students such as yourself generally have questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our admissions staff. We very much want to hear about your priorities and give you all the information you need as you consider seminary training.
One of the most remarkable benefits of an education at SES is our affordability. Discover our highly competitive current tuition rates as well as our financial aid opportunities.
The following specific requirements are necessary for admission to the Ph.D. program (students lacking these specific requirements may complete courses in the appropriate areas to qualify):
Provisional Acceptance
Applicants who do not meet the requirements for provisional acceptance must be admitted to other graduate programs to complete recommended and required work to remove deficiencies. Such students will be required to maintain a 3.5 GPA and demonstrate superior research skills. Such students may be required to submit an acceptable thesis prior to acceptance as a Ph.D. student.
Full Acceptance
In so many ways, apologetics stands out as one of the hallmarks of our entire curriculum. Along with our other academic and theological pillars, we work hard to give students the equipment they need for proclaiming and defending the Gospel in the midst of a hostile culture. Before you go, take a copy of a thoughtful resource for prospective students. It underscores the critical importance of advanced apologetics training for anyone writing, teaching, or involved in ministry. Download your copy now: 3 Reasons for Seminary.
REQUIRED COURSES
SEMINARS – 6 hours
SM1005 Reading Seminar I (3)
SM1006 Reading Seminar II (3)
PHILOSOPHY – 21 hours
PH1010 Problem of Evil (3)
PH1012 Philosophy of Science (3)
PH1015 Religious Epistemology (3)
PH1016 Thomistic Philosophy (3)
PH1017 Contemporary Atheism (3)
PH1018 Philosophical Theology (3)
PH1020 Problems in Philosophy (3)
BIBLICAL STUDIES – 3 hours
BS1001 Biblical Criticism
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION – 3 hours
CE1005 Teaching Theory & Practice (3)
ELECTIVES – 12 hours
EXAMINATIONS & DISSERTATION – 15 hours
LC1001 First Research Language Competency (0)
EX1000 Comprehensive Exam Preparation (0)
EX1001 Comprehensive Exam (written) (2)
EX1002 Comprehensive Exam (oral) (2)
DS1000 Dissertation Proposal Preparation (2)
DS1001 Dissertation Research (9)
TOTAL HOURS: 60 hours