Description of program: This program began in 1998. The objectives are to develop graduates who: 1) have the ability as pastoral theologians to conceptualize and articulate the dialogue on the critical and constructive boundary between the classical theological disciplines and the disciplines of the social and behavioral sciences; 2) are prepared at advanced levels in the theory and practice of pastoral care and pastoral counseling; and 3) contribute to the field through original research and writing. Each candidate, therefore, will learn theological methodology and research methods and develop skills in research and writing (publication will be encouraged); participate in clinical, supervisory, therapeutic and spiritual formation processes which facilitate growth and development; and participate in the administrative and teaching work of the department while developing pedagogical skills.

Faculty and faculty interests: Nancy Gorsuch, Ph.D. (theological anthropology, feminist theology, narrative therapy); Andrew Lester, Ph.D. (narrative/constructivist theory, theological anthropology, existentialism); Howard Stone, Ph.D. (brief counseling theories/therapies, marriage/family, quantitative research).

Admissions requirements: Admission decisions will be based on an applicant's total profile: 1) M.Div. degree or equivalent; 2) Miller Analogy Test; 3) GRE; 4) TOEFL for applicants whose primary language is other than English; 5) One unit of CPE or 30 hours of supervision in an AAPC approved training program; 6) Submission of a document which demonstrates applicant's abilities to conceptualize and communicate through the written word; 7) A statement describing experience in providing ministry; 8) Submission of a brief autobiography; 9) 3 letters of recommendation from professors and certified supervisors; and 10) Official transcripts of all previous academic work.

Program requirements: 48 credit hours including 11 academic seminars (33 hours) and 5 clinical seminars (15 hours); qualifying exams; a dissertation and oral examination; and language (demonstrated competence in Greek, Hebrew, German, Spanish, or French; competence in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies).

Clinical component: 15 hours of clinical seminars including work in the Pastoral Counseling Training Center (operated by Brite) under the supervision of our faculty.

Duration of program: 3 or 4 years (maximum 7 years with possible extensions).

Cost and financial aid: Every Ph.D. candidate receives 1) full tuition and fees scholarship guaranteed for 4 years; 2) other scholarships ranging from $2,000-$6,000 awarded on a competitive basis; and 3) research assistantships of $1,500 available for most candidates.

Graduate placement: No placements made yet.

Current students: 6 in pre-dissertation work.

Contact person: Dr. Toni Craven, Director of Ph.D. Studies. Call professors for more information. Box 298130, TCU, Fort Worth, TX 76129, 817-257-7575.

Back to Directory Page

Mission Statement

Annual Meeting

Publications

Membership

Study Groups

Contact Information

Society Bibliography

Other Resources