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Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) | Preaching

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Preachings is crafted to elevate your homiletical potential to preach with greater impact as well as mentor others to preach and teach more effectively. The Ph.D. in Preaching at Clamp Divinity School prepares scholars to impact homiletics through preaching, writing, and teaching. Students will naturally improve as preachers while they expand their knowledge of homiletics and discover how to coach others in the practice of preaching. 

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Program Overview

This 48-hour program incorporates seasoned full-time faculty members of the Clamp Divinity school as well as academically qualified pastor-scholars to facilitate guided seminars.

To overview a list of seminars you will be taking in the Doctor of Philosophy in Preaching, visit Anderson University (Course Requirements). 

Online courses typically meet once a week or bi-weekly via Zoom. You will find opportunities to engage scholarship and research and develop professional competencies related to...

Preaching and
Scripture

Preaching and
Church Life

Historical and Theological Considerations for Preaching

Development and Delivery
of Expository Sermons

Teaching Biblical
Exposition

Advancement of the
Field of Homiletics

Each seminar requires a substantial amount of preparation, including reading and completion of written assignments.

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Admissions and Requirements

Anderson University accepts students on the basis of academic qualification, character and evidence of the potential to benefit from the university experience. Each applicant’s record will be examined for evidence reflecting potential for intellectual and social growth, strength of character, and seriousness of purpose. The University considers all qualified applications without regard to race, religious creed, place of national origin, sex, disability, or ethnic group. Admission will be on a competitive basis, with the best qualified students receiving priority.

Academic Requirements

  • A Master's degree in Ministry, Divinity, or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning or one accredited by ATS, ABHE, or TRACS.

  • You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale with at least one 3hr graduate course in preaching (leveling courses are available, should you not meet this standard).

  • Official transcripts from all baccalaureate and graduate degrees.  Official transcripts are sealed and sent directly from one school to another. 

  • An academic recommendation possibly from a former professor who can vouch for your academic ability. If you need assistance with this requirement, we will be happy to help give you more guidance. This component will become available electronically during the application process.

Send official transcripts to Admission Operations, 316 Boulevard Box 1127, Anderson, SC 29621

Professional Requirements

  • A minimum of three years of experience in a ministry vocation.
  • Students applying for the Ph.D. should be serving in a ministry position that offers consistent preaching opportunities.
  • A ministry resume including places of employment, philosophy of ministry, and academic background.

  • Applicants should provide a link to a sermon (digital file, DVD, or equivalent) recorded in the applicant’s local context.

Writing Sample

  • Provide an 800-1000 word essay examining the preachers or writers on preaching who have most influenced homiletics since 1965. 

  • Explain the rationale for your selections. 

  • The essay should include a minimum of five external sources. 

  • Provide a one-page description of your potential research interests in the field of homiletics.

Tuition

U.S. News & World Report for 2023 named Anderson University as one of the “Best Value” schools among regional universities in the South, and the Wall Street Journal for 2022 named Anderson #25 for best student engagement among all universities in the United States. Clamp Divinity School seeks to offer you the highest quality education at the greatest value. For the most current tuition and fee information, visit andersonuniversity.edu/tuition-fees

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Preaching Events

Clamp Divinity School hosts two annual events on Preaching: The Clamp Preaching Lectures on the  Anderson University campus each Fall and the National Conference on Preaching in a major American city each May. 

The Clamp Preaching Lectures
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Embedded Dissertation

At Clamp Divinity School, we transformed the dissertation process from an isolated experience into one of relationship. Other programs require students to complete their dissertation after they have left the learning environment of the seminary or divinity school. Is it any wonder that most students (56% on average) get to this point and give up? At Clamp Divinity School, we will partner with you during your second year of the program to guide you through the entire process.
Dissertation