Hi Everyone! I am finally at the point where I can start to seriously consider a doctoral program. A little history: my BA is in philosophy from a State University in California. I also possess an M.Div from Westminster in Philadelphia and, in the spring, I will be graduating with a ThM from Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids. I am interested in a doctoral program that is either in philosophy and religion, Biblical studies, or church history (though I am not sure I have the pre-reqs for such a program). What I would like to find is a traditional-type program that is offered either online, distance, or in modular format. What I mean by traditional is a program that has coursework, languages, comps, and then a dissertation. My limiting factor is money. I am looking for a program that is under $20,000 total and accredited. I don't want to waste my money on a degree from a distance place that is not recognized in any way. I know that this might be a debatable point but it's what I am looking for. I think that my criteria also excludes schools overseas since those are dissertation only (though if I am wrong then someone please let me know). I have looked at programs offered by Liberty, SBTS, and Talbot...but they are all WAY over the $20K mark since I am not a member of the SBC. Thank you, in advance, for any advice you can offer. Blessings, ehenes
I'm sorry to sound a discouraging note but I don't think you're going to find a program such as you've described for the money that you've mentioned. Typically a traditional (coursework + dissertation) doctoral program takes 5-6 years to complete and I don't think you're going to find an accredited doctoral program at a price of 4K USD per year.
Thank you for your quick reply. What amount of money would you think is necessary for such a program? Also, do you know of programs that would it the rest of my criteria? Would I need to raise the money by just a few thousand or a significant amount?