Doctorate of Philosophy in Theology

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Theology program at Northeastern College of Theology (NCT) is designed to equip scholars and practitioners with advanced knowledge and skills in biblical studies and theology. This rigorous program combines academic excellence with practical application, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia, ministry, and research.

Key Program Features

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Program Objectives
To cultivate expertise in biblical languages, textual analysis, and historical-critical methods for interpreting Scripture.
To develop a comprehensive understanding of key theological doctrines and their biblical foundations.

To engage critically with theological literature, traditions, and contemporary theological debates.
To conduct original research, produce scholarly publications, and contribute to the advancement of biblical and theological knowledge.
To prepare graduates for leadership roles in teaching, ministry, counseling, writing, and academic research within the field of theology.

Program Structure

The Ph.D. in Theology program is structured around a combination of coursework, research seminars, comprehensive exams, and a doctoral dissertation. Students work closely with faculty mentors and advisors to tailor their studies to their research interests and career goals.
  1. Advanced Biblical Studies: Students engage in in-depth analysis and interpretation of biblical texts, exploring historical, literary, and theological dimensions. Emphasis is placed on exegetical methods, hermeneutics, and contextual understanding of Scripture.
  2. Systematic Theology: The program delves into the systematic study of Christian doctrine, covering topics such as God, Christology, soteriology, pneumatology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. Students critically engage with theological traditions and contemporary theological debates.
  3. Theological Research and Writing: Students develop advanced research skills, including scholarly writing, critical thinking, and theological argumentation. They conduct original research projects and contribute to the academic discourse in biblical and theological studies.
  4. Integration of Faith and Scholarship: The Ph.D. program at NCT emphasizes the integration of faith with rigorous academic scholarship. Students are encouraged to explore the intersection of biblical truth, theology, and contemporary issues, fostering a holistic approach to theological inquiry.
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Diploma included
This degree emphasizes the advanced academic and research-focused nature of the Ph.D. program at NCT, aligning with the institution's commitment to excellence in biblical and theological education.
Earn Your Degree in 9 months

What's included in this program?

Logos Academic Basic

  • Comprehensive Research Tools: Access to a suite of powerful research tools that facilitates in-depth study of biblical texts, commentaries, and related literature. 
  • Integrated Digital Library: Curated digital library containing essential academic resources,  ensuring students have a consistent, up-to-date repository of knowledge at their fingertips, anytime and anywhere.
  • Interactive Learning Experience: Logos Academic Basic offers features like visualizations, maps, infographics, and interactive media, making the learning process more engaging.
  • Seamless Synchronization & Portability:  Whether NCT students are working on a desktop at home, a laptop in the library, or a mobile device on the go, their notes, highlights, and bookmarks are consistently updated and available. 

NCT Mobile App

  • Instant Access & Flexibility: Instant access to essential resources, courses, and updates. Whether you're on the move, between classes, or in remote locations, the app ensures that the academic world of NCT is just a tap away, offering unprecedented flexibility in learning and communication.
  • Enhanced Student Engagement: Interactive  forums, quizzes, and multimedia lessons are seamlessly integrated into the mobile app.
  • Real-time Notifications: With the app, NCT sends real-time notifications about important dates, events, course updates, and other essential announcements.
  • Streamlined Administrative Functions: Besides educational content, the app integrates fee payment, course registration, scheduling, and feedback collection. This portability ensures uninterrupted study sessions and maximizes productivity.

Community Culture

  • Deep Theological Grounding: At NCT, students are immersed in a comprehensive and in-depth study of the Word of God. 
  • Holistic Ministry Preparation: Beyond academic rigor, NCT focuses on preparing students for real-world ministry challenges, ensuring they make a tangible difference in their communities and congregations.
  • Spiritually Enriched Community: Students have the opportunity to grow in their faith, engage in meaningful fellowship, and participate in community-building activities, all of which contribute to their personal and spiritual development.
  • Flexible Learning Opportunities: Recognizing the diverse needs of modern learners, NCT offers varied modes of study, including traditional classroom settings, online courses, and satellite extension programs. 

Note: You will receive a separate invoice for the balance of your enrollment fee, upon acceptance to NCT. 

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Policy Statements

Exemption Statement: The Policies of the Board of Governors requires all institutions conferred exemption with respect to religious education to prominently display the exemption statement in all relevant institutional publications. The statement should read: Degree programs of study offered by Northeastern College of Theology have been declared exempt from the requirements for licensure, under provisions of North Carolina General Statutes Section (G.S.) 116-15 (d) for exemption from licensure with respect to religious education. Exemption from licensure is not based upon assessment of program quality under established licensing standards.

Student Complaints: The State Authorization Unit of the University of North Carolina System Office serves as the official state entity to receive complaints concerning post-secondary institutions that are authorized to operate in North Carolina. If students are unable to resolve a complaint through the institution’s grievance procedures, they can review the Student Complaint Policy (PDF) and submit their complaint using the online complaint form at https://studentcomplaints.northcarolina.edu/form. For more information contact:

North Carolina Post-Secondary Education Complaints
223 S. West Street, Suite 1800
Raleigh, NC 27603
(919) 962-4550

To file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the North Carolina Department of Justice, please visit The State Attorney General’s web page at: http://www.ncdoj.gov/complaint. North Carolina residents may call (877) 566-7226. Outside of North Carolina, please call (919) 716-6000. En Espanol (919) 716-0058.

If you choose to mail a complaint, please use the following address:
Consumer Protection Division
Attorney General’s Office
Mail Service Center 9001
Raleigh, NC 27699-9001
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