Program Objectives
Integrate Theory and Praxis: To synthesize cultural studies methodologies with theological frameworks to analyze the modern religious landscape.
Contribute to Interdisciplinary Knowledge: To produce original research that addresses the role of faith in culturally diverse and rapidly changing global societies.
Master Advanced Research Methods: To acquire expertise in qualitative, interpretive, and ethnographic methodologies for both cultural and theological study.
Prepare for High-Level Leadership: To equip candidates for university professorships, high-level administrative roles in religious institutions, and public policy advocacy.
Foster Global Engagement: To critically examine how faith communities navigate power dynamics, social justice, and representation in the 21st century.
Curriculum Structure & Expected Courses
Doctoral Core & Research Foundation (39 Credits)
CTS 701: Foundations in Cultural Theory & Theology (3)
CTS 705: Advanced Methods: Ethnography & Theological Inquiry (3)
CTS 710: Theology, Culture, & Social Change (3)
CTS 715: Global Christianity & Cultural Dynamics (3)
CTS 720: Seminar in Ministry & Public Identity (3)
CTS 725: Ethics, Representation, & Ecclesiology (3)
CTS 730: Critical Issues in Modern Religious Movements (3)
CTS 735: Scholarly Writing, Publication, & Peer Review (3)
CTS 740: Doctoral Qualifying Examinations (3)
CTS 745: Directed Independent Research (9)
CTS 729: Dissertation Proposal Defense (3)
CTS 799: Comprehensive Exam (0)
Research & Dissertation Phase (21 Credits)
CTS 801: Dissertation Seminar II: Interdisciplinary Synthesis (6)
CTS 803: Dissertation Writing & Development (3)
CTS 805: Dissertation Research & Completion (6)
CTS 807: Dissertation Final Defense & Publication (6)
Areas of Specialization & Career Pathways
Academia: Professor of Theology, Cultural Studies, or Practical Ministry.
Ecclesial Leadership: Senior administrative roles in denominations, missiological institutes, or global church organizations.
Faith-Based Advocacy: Director of social justice initiatives, policy analyst, or humanitarian leader.
Consultancy: Advisor on intercultural engagement for diverse religious and community organizations.
Research Areas
Cultural Hermeneutics: Re-evaluating traditional theological frameworks through the lens of contemporary cultural and sociological shifts.
Ministry in Pluralistic Contexts: Analyzing the practical challenges and opportunities of ministry in secular and multi-faith societies.
Social Justice & Faith: Investigating the intersection of liberation theology, cultural identity, and public advocacy.
Media & Religion: Critically exploring how digital media, film, and art shape the public perception of faith communities.
Learning Outcomes
• Demonstrate mastery of core theories in both cultural studies and systematic/practical theology.
• Execute a dissertation that provides a significant, original, and evidence-based contribution to the interdisciplinary field.
• Apply advanced research methods to interpret the complex interplay between cultural identity and faith-based practice.
• Display proficiency in communicating interdisciplinary insights to academic, professional, and public audiences.