Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Christian Education

Lead and Transform Through Biblical Education and Christian Counseling

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Christian Education and Counselingat Eldermont Universityis designed for scholars, educators, ministry leaders, and biblical counselorswho seek to make a profound impact in Christian education, pastoral care, and faith-based mental health services. This dissertation-based doctoral programchallenges students to conduct advanced theological research, develop innovative approaches to Christian education and counseling, and integrate biblical wisdom with modern academic scholarship.

Through our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) and Dissertation-Based model, students earn 30 credits through PLA(recognizing prior experience in ministry, education, and counseling) and complete a 30-credit Doctoral Dissertation, contributing original research to the field of Christian education and biblical counseling.

Program Features

✅100% Online, Self-Paced Format–Study at your convenience.
✅Earn 30 Credits Through PLA–Credit for prior ministry, education, and counseling experience.
✅30-Credit Doctoral Dissertation–Conduct in-depth theological research.
✅Faith-Based & Research-Driven Curriculum–Biblical integration in education & counseling studies.
✅Accelerated Completion in as Little as 90 Days–Most students finish in 6-12 months.
✅No Semester Deadlines–Progress at your own pace.

What Will You Study?

This doctoral programequips students with theological expertise, research proficiency, and advanced leadership skillsin Christian education and counseling.
Biblical Foundations for Christian Education–Explore pt ’s f t h & d s p sh p.
Christian Counseling & Pastoral Care–Apply biblical principles to spiritual guidance & counseling.
Faith-Based Pedagogy & Curriculum Design–Develop effective Christian education programs.
Spiritual Formation & Discipleship Models–Study strategies for mentoring & pastoral leadership.
✍ Christian Counseling Ethics & Biblical Psychology–Examine faith-based approaches to mental health.
Leadership in Christian Schools & Seminaries–Prepare for administrative & academic roles.

Degree Structure

The 60-credit programconsists of:
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) –30 Credits
Students earn credit through a comprehensive PLA portfolio, including:
✅Experience in Christian education, theological instruction, counseling, or pastoral ministry.
✅Work in faith-based schools, seminaries, Christian counseling centers, or church leadership.
✅Completion of ministry certifications or biblical counseling training.
✅Published works, developed curricula, or leadership in Christian education programs.
PLA allows students to accelerate degree completionbased on prior academic and professional experience.
Doctoral Dissertation –30 Credits
Students complete an original research dissertation, making a substantial contribution to Christian education, counseling, and pastoral care.

Career Paths with a Ph.D. in Christian Education and Counseling

Graduates are prepared for senior leadership roles in Christian academia, counseling ministries, and faith-based organizations.
Christian University or Seminary Professor
Pastoral Counselor or Church-Based Therapist
Director of Christian Education or Theological Studies
President, Dean, or Administrator in Faith-Based Institutions
Biblical Family, Marriage, or Youth Counselor
International Missionary & Christian Leadership Trainer
This program is designed for academic, ministry, and counseling leadership roles. It does not lead to state licensurein clinical counseling.

Doctoral Dissertation –Your Research Focus

Students conduct independent researchon a specialized topicin Christian education or biblical counseling, contributing new insights to the field.
Examples of Ph.D. Dissertation Topics:
Biblical Models of Discipleship in Christian Education
Faith-Based Counseling Approaches for Trauma and Emotional Healing
The Role of Christian Schools in Spiritual and Academic Development
Integrating Theology with Psychology in Christian Counseling
Church Leadership and Christian Counseling for Congregational Care
Your dissertation positions you as a scholar, thought leader, and expertin Christian education and counseling

Admission Requirements

Master’s Degree in a Related Field(Theology, Ministry, Education, Counseling, etc.)
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Submission (Resume/CV + Supporting Documentation)
Doctoral Dissertation Proposal Submission
Eldermont University offers a streamlined admissions processand does not require standardized test scores.

Why Choose Eldermont University?

100% Online & Self-Paced–Study at your own pace, from anywhere.
Faith-Centered & Research-Driven–Rooted in biblical truth and scholarly excellence.
✍ Dissertation-Based Program–No traditional coursework, just impactful research.
Earn Credit for Ministry & Teaching Experience–Maximize PLA credits.

⏳Flexible Completion Timeline–Graduate in 6-12 months, or accelerate to finish in as little as 90 days.
At Eldermont University, we prepare Christian scholars, educators, and counselorsto lead, teach, and ministerthrough academic excellence and biblical wisdom.

Take the Next Step in Your Christian Education & Counseling Journey

Apply Now–Begin your Ph.D. in Christian Education and Counselingtoday.
Request More Information–Speak with an advisor about PLA + Dissertation.
Explore Our Programs–See how Eldermont University equips leaders in Christian education and counseling.
Would you like additional guidance on dissertation research, faculty mentorship, or available student resources?