Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies (Systematic Theology)

Campus
Main Campus
Level
PhD
Method
Lecture
School
NEGST

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.

  • Program Learning Outcomes
  • Growth in discipleship and Christian spiritual maturity and integrity
  • Develop potential for growth in leadership in a specific theological and religious discipline and demonstrate competency in advanced knowledge, teaching, and skills in a specialized area
  • Develop creative competencies as innovative and critical thinkers to address the key issues and subject matter of the student’s area of concentration
  • Competency in primary research and effective teaching within a chosen area of theological and religious studies.
  • Acquire superior knowledge, broad-based competencies and skills in their areas of concentrations
TimePlaceSemester Range
9:00am – 5:00pmPHD Seminar RoomsJan, May & Sept

Entry requirements


The applicant must hold a MA or MDiv degree from an academic institution recognized by the Commission for University Education of the government of Kenya, or by ACTEA or ICHE, in one of the following disciplines: Theology, Church History, Bible, Religion, Missions, Translation and Pastoral.


Grade point average of MA-level work: Applicants must have a cumulative grade point average for prior graduate level academic work of at least 3.0 or higher on a 4-point scale.


In exceptional cases, Senate, on the recommendation of any of the schools, may admit to the doctorate program, applicants who do not hold a Master’s degree, provided that such candidates, on the basis of the research, professional and academic work they have done, can demonstrate that they are well qualified to undertake doctoral work. This is so long as it is in line with the relevant regulatory bodies.

Mode of study


Remote Teaching & Learning via Microsoft Team-Semester

Evening classes- Monday to Friday

Modular classes for 2 weeks( April, August, Nov/Dec

PHD Programs

The NEGST programmes prepare students for pastoral, teaching carriers in theological institutions, NGOs, and other Para-Church institutions in Africa and abroad.