Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
OPEN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY / DOCTORAL SCHOOL
Strengthening biblical ministry, faithful leadership and accountable Christian service.
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AWARD DMin
CREDITS 60
NORMAL DURATION 24-48 months
MODE Online / correspondence
Programme overview
Programme overview
The Doctor of Ministry is a professional doctorate for experienced pastors, ministers, evangelists, chaplains, educators and other Christian servants. It combines biblical teaching, theological reflection, supervised ministry and evidence-based improvement. It does not require a conventional research dissertation or a peer-reviewed journal article, but it requires original, critically evaluated ministry practice.
Programme structure
Programme structure
Candidates complete nine distinct approved activities: three in teaching and discipleship, three in public witness, and three in pastoral, mission or community service. Activities require appropriate evidence, feedback, and critical reflection. The final 8,000-12,000-word portfolio integrates the activities, biblical foundations, evaluated improvement, ethical considerations and future service.
Assessed components
Assessed components
DM01 Ministry Formation Plan and Covenant (10 credits)
DM02 Biblical Teaching and Discipleship Practicum (15 credits)
DM03 Public Witness and Media Ministry Portfolio (15 credits)
DM04 Pastoral, Mission and Community Engagement Practicum (10 credits)
DM05 Final Ministry Impact Portfolio and Completion Review (10 credits)
TOTAL Total (60 credits)
Admission and assessment
Admission and assessment
Applicants normally need a relevant master's degree, at least three years of verified substantive ministry or closely related service, two examples of ministry work, a ministry reference and a suitable practice setting. Exceptional practitioners may be considered through formal master's-level equivalence assessment, ordinarily supported by at least five years of ministry.
The final portfolio and a separate completion review must both pass. The review may be live, recorded with follow-up questions, or structured in writing with questions. Earliest normal submission is at 18 months; programme activities require prior plan approval and applicable safeguarding clearance.
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: Matthew 28:18-20 (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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