The Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies subscribes to the AIU philosophy of education. However, the distinct needs of doctoral students require additional approaches to learning. Learning is at best holistic, collaborative, personal, sustained development that is contextualized in its matrix culture; in African Society, since group consensus is frequently valued higher than individual opinion, reflection needs to seek new consensus, and the learning community is the natural locus for this to occur. This program seeks to maximize these characteristics of learning.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies curriculum applies this philosophy to the programme. Individual students pursue their learning within a learning community. Students may be admitted in cohorts or as individuals and each cohort, and individuals together with the faculty will form a collaborative learning community during the period of study. Students’ ideas and reflections on issues are discussed and sharpened as they plan and do the research and dissertation during the dissertation cycle.
Given the mission of AIU, the program seeks to cultivate and form leaders who engage in theological reflection integrated with social sciences so that theory may inform practice and vice-versa. This integration of theology and social sciences empowers the learners to be able to scrutinize contemporary theological discourses and help African Christians to developed contextual theologies and theological models that fit their contexts, respond to them constructively, and suggest alternatives rooted in fresh examinations of the biblical and theological texts and analysis of African realities in order to be relevant.
| Time | Place | Semester Range |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00am – 5:00pm | PHD Seminar Rooms | Jan, May & Sept |
The NEGST programmes prepare students for pastoral, teaching carriers in theological institutions, NGOs, and other Para-Church institutions in Africa and abroad.