Doctor of Christian Studies (DCS)
Doctor of Christian Studies (DCS)
OPEN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY / DOCTORAL SCHOOL
Advanced Christian scholarship and its faithful application in professional practice.
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AWARD DCS
CREDITS 60
NORMAL DURATION 24-36 months
MODE Online / correspondence
Programme overview
Programme overview
The Doctor of Christian Studies is a professional doctorate for educators, ministers, apologists, authors and other Christian scholar-practitioners. It joins rigorous scholarly inquiry to original, critically evaluated applications of Christian knowledge. It is a complete professional doctorate, distinct from a PhD.
Programme structure
Programme structure
Candidates complete a 2,500-4,500-word research plan, at least one substantial peer-reviewed research output formally accepted or published, and an 8,000-12,000-word integration portfolio. The portfolio must develop and evaluate a meaningful professional application, such as a curriculum, ministry framework, policy proposal or governance tool, through at least two documented review stages.
Assessed components
Assessed components
CS01 Doctoral Research Plan and Scholarly Readiness Portfolio (10 credits)
CS02 Peer-Reviewed Research Output (20 credits)
CS03 Professional Doctoral Integration Portfolio and Completion Verification (30 credits)
TOTAL Total (60 credits)
Admission and assessment
Admission and assessment
Applicants normally need a relevant master's degree or approved equivalent, a scholarly writing sample, and a 1,000-2,000-word concept identifying a Christian Studies problem, proposed research approach and intended professional contribution. Prior publication is not required for admission.
The portfolio and separate completion verification must both pass. The verification can be conducted live, through a recorded explanation with individual questions, or by an approved written defence with follow-up. Earliest normal final submission is at 18 months. PhD advancement may be considered separately through individual assessment.
RECOGNITION AND FEES
RECOGNITION AND FEES
OCU does not guarantee employment, professional licensure, ordination, immigration outcomes, transfer credit, credential evaluation, admission elsewhere, or recognition by third parties. If you have a specific external requirement, please confirm it directly with the relevant authority before enrolling. Current charges are maintained separately on the Fees and Charges page.
Biblical foundation: 2 Timothy 2:15 (CSB)
Take the next step in your calling
Take the next step in your calling
Explore your research direction and prepare your application.
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