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Revised 5/2015
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
HANDBOOK
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
School of Theology
2015-2016
Associate Dean, PhD Program
Terry L. Wilder
CONTENTS
PURPOSE OF THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY HANDBOOK ................................................. ii
PREFACE ...................................................................................................................................... iii
Purpose of the PhD Program...................................................................................................... iii
Accreditation .............................................................................................................................. iii
PhD Program Majors ................................................................................................................. iii
PhD Program Minors ................................................................................................................. iv
Establishment of Majors and Minors ......................................................................................... iv
Time Limit ................................................................................................................................. iv
Appeals Process ......................................................................................................................... iv
ADMISSION TO THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY PROGRAM ............................................. 1
Admission to the Seminary ......................................................................................................... 1
Prerequisites for Admission to the PhD Program ....................................................................... 1
PhD Application Process ............................................................................................................ 2
Fall Matriculation Time Line ...................................................................................................... 3
Spring Matriculation Time Line ................................................................................................. 3
Academic Requirements ............................................................................................................. 3
Research Language Requirements .............................................................................................. 4
Admissions Decisions ................................................................................................................. 6
Post-Notification Procedures ...................................................................................................... 7
New Student Orientation............................................................................................................. 7
TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM ................................................................................... 9
Leave of Absence ...................................................................................................................... 10
Withdrawal from the PhD Program .......................................................................................... 10
COST OF THE PROGRAM ......................................................................................................... 11
SEMINARS .................................................................................................................................. 12
General Information .................................................................................................................. 12
Faculty Supervisors ................................................................................................................... 12
Registration ............................................................................................................................... 13
Grading ..................................................................................................................................... 13
Focused Field Study .................................................................................................................. 13
Seminar Requirements .............................................................................................................. 13
Recommended Seminar Sequence ............................................................................................ 14
Transfer Credit .......................................................................................................................... 16
Special Categories of Seminar Participation ............................................................................. 16
Research Standards for Seminar Papers ................................................................................... 16
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATIONS ..................................................................................... 17
Comprehensive Bibliographies ................................................................................................. 17
Comprehensive Examination .................................................................................................... 17
THE PROSPECTUS ..................................................................................................................... 19
General Information .................................................................................................................. 19
Selection of Dissertation Supervisor ......................................................................................... 19
Writing the Prospectus .............................................................................................................. 20
Submission of the Prospectus ................................................................................................... 20
THE DISSERTATION ................................................................................................................. 22
Student Progress in Dissertation Stage ..................................................................................... 22
Writing the Dissertation ............................................................................................................ 22
Format of the Dissertation Defense Draft ................................................................................. 22
Abstract ................................................................................................................................. 22
Arrangement of Dissertation ................................................................................................. 22
Style ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Length ................................................................................................................................... 23
Printing .................................................................................................................................. 23
Evaluation of the Dissertation Defense Draft and Oral Defense .............................................. 23
Dissertation Grading ................................................................................................................. 24
Dissertation Evaluation Timetable ............................................................................................ 25
The Preservation and Use of Dissertations ............................................................................... 26
APPENDIX A: PHD OFFICE RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................. 27
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION ..................................................................... 29
APPENDIX C: PHD SEMINAR TIMESLOTS ........................................................................... 33
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC .......................................................................... 34
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC ........................................................................... 39
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC .............................................................................. 44
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC .................................. 50
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC................................................ 55
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS ............................................................................................ 61
ii
PURPOSE OF THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY HANDBOOK
The Doctor of Philosophy Handbook serves only as a guide and in no way functions as a
contract. The PhD student acknowledges that the requirements for the program and the
evaluation of the student’s work lie solely with Southwestern Seminary and its personnel.
Moreover, the Doctor of Philosophy Handbook is subject to periodic revision. PhD students must
follow the guidelines of the current revision of the Handbook.
The Doctor of Philosophy Handbook also provides faculty with information necessary to fulfill
their teaching and supervisory responsibilities for PhD students.
iii
PREFACE
Purpose of the PhD Program
The PhD program prepares persons of exceptional ability to serve as teachers in specialized areas
of theology and as pastors, chaplains, denominational leaders, or authors. The PhD program
emphasizes the attainment of expertise in a theological discipline, resting upon competence in
both biblical and non-biblical languages through quality research and critical evaluative skills,
resulting in a significant contribution to the student’s field. PhD study requires a high degree of
originality, independence, analytical research, judgment, and skill in articulating research
findings.
Accreditation
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award degrees at the Masters and Doctoral
levels. Additionally, Southwestern Seminary and the Doctor of Philosophy degree are accredited
by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.
PhD Program Majors
The School of Theology PhD program offers the following areas of study (majors) within its
divisions:
Biblical Studies Theological Studies
Old Testament Systematic Theology
New Testament Church History & Historical Theology*
Archaeology**
Ethics and Philosophical Studies Preaching and Pastoral Studies
Christian Ethics Preaching
Philosophy of Religion Pastoral Studies
Faculty availability and specializations determine seminar offerings and dissertation supervision.
*All Church History & Historical Theology majors must choose one of the following
specializations in lieu of a minor:
Early Church Studies
Reformation Studies
Baptist and Free Church Studies
Modern Church Studies
**For more details about the development of the Archaeology major, please contact Dr. Steve
Ortiz ([email protected]).
iv
PhD Program Minors
PhD students in the School of Theology may apply to a minor in any area in which the seminary
offers minors.
All PhD applicants must declare their intended minor at the time of application. Applicants may
petition their supervisor and the PhD Office to minor in their major field. Please contact the PhD
Office for further information.
The School of Theology PhD program offers the following minors within its divisions:
Biblical Studies Theological Studies
Old Testament Systematic Theology
New Testament Church History & Historical Theology
New Testament Theology Early Church Studies
(New Testament majors only) Baptist and Free Church Studies
Archaeology Reformation Studies
Biblical Theology Modern Church Studies
Ethics and Philosophical Studies Preaching and Pastoral Studies
Christian Ethics Preaching
Philosophy of Religion Pastoral Studies
Students must complete the comprehensive bibliography, reading seminars in the minor, and the
comprehensive exam in their minor area.
Establishment of Majors and Minors
New PhD majors and minors must be approved by the supervisors overseeing the proposed field,
the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, the Dean, and the Provost.
Time Limit
The PhD must be completed within seven years from matriculation to the doctoral program.
Extensions may be granted to students who are serving on an international mission field or in
cases of extenuating circumstances.
Appeals Process
Student appeals of academic decisions flow sequentially first to the supervisor, then the
Associate Dean for the PhD Program, the Dean, the Provost, and finally the President. A request
to appeal to a higher level does not guarantee that the question will be entertained further.
1
ADMISSION TO THE DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY PROGRAM
Admission to the Seminary
Applicants who have not previously attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary must
submit a complete application for general admission to the seminary through the Office of
Admissions. General admission application forms can be found online at www.swbts.edu. All
applicants must gain admission to the seminary prior to receiving admission to the PhD program.
Current students or alumni of SWBTS who have graduated within the last three years must
complete a Continued Studies Request or a Former Student Enrollment Update Request. These
forms are available from the Office of the Registrar. Those alumni or former students who have
not attended SWBTS within the last three years must reapply for admission.
Prerequisites for Admission to the PhD Program
Applicants must hold a master’s degree in biblical and theological studies from a regionally
accredited college, university, or seminary. Acceptable degrees for entrance into the PhD
program include the Master of Theology (ThM) and the Master of Divinity (MDiv). The Master
of Arts in Theology (MATh) may be acceptable for some majors depending on the overall
content of the degree curriculum in relationship to the desired area of study.
All applicants to the program must possess exegetical competence in Biblical Hebrew and Greek.
Exegetical competence in the biblical languages minimally includes the following:
1. Appreciation of the basic structure and features of the biblical languages.
2. Capability of analyzing syntax at both the level of word and clause.
3. Ability to discern the meaning of a biblical word in context by using primary sources,
while avoiding common fallacies
4. Facility in using the best critical resources, including lexicons, technical commentaries,
historical and other specialized sources.
5. Awareness of basic hermeneutical conventions.
6. Understanding of the basic text critical issues in both testaments.
7. Ability to determine the central point and purpose of a passage in context.
8. Reasonable reading skills in Greek and Hebrew as appropriate.
Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.3 or higher in graduate studies in Bible and
theology. If an applicant has not completed the degree program, transcripts verifying the
possibility of attaining a 3.3 must be submitted before an application will be considered.
2
PhD Application Process
Application for admission to the PhD program is made through the PhD Office.
International applicants must submit their transcripts to the World Education Services
(www.wes.org; P.O. Box 745, Old Chelsea Station, New York, NY 10113-0745; 800-937-3895;
fax: 212-739-6100) for evaluation. The evaluation service sends evaluation results directly to the
PhD Office.
Each applicant must submit scores from the Graduate Record Exam Standard Examination
(GRE). The GRE should be taken at least four months prior to the entrance examination and
must have been taken no more than five years prior to applying for admission to Southwestern’s
PhD program. Applicants must take the GRE at a testing center, since Southwestern Seminary
does not administer the GRE. The GRE may be taken more than once, but only one score will be
considered with the application. Each applicant must take the Verbal, Quantitative, and
Analytical Writing portions of the General Test.
International applicants must complete the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with
a minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test or 250 on the computer-based test. Students
who do not complete the internet-based TOEFL must also complete the TSE (Test of Spoken
English). International applicants who have successfully completed an accredited English-
language based degree may petition the PhD Office to have this requirement waived.
Each applicant must submit a substantial research paper on a subject in the student’s chosen
major representing the applicant’s best research and writing. The use of primary sources and the
biblical languages (where applicable) will be examined carefully. The argumentation of the
paper, including the clarity of the thesis, evaluation of evidence, and exercise of critical thought
(as opposed to descriptive treatments), plays an essential role in the faculty’s assessment of
research papers. The form and style should follow the Southwestern Seminary Manual of Style.
Each applicant must provide three confidential recommendations by former graduate level
professors. Reference forms are distributed by the PhD Office directly. These forms must be
submitted separately by the professors electronically or in sealed envelopes over which the
professor has signed his or her name across the seal.
Applicants whose application form, research document, and standardized test scores are posted
by the deadline may be invited for an interview and asked to write an examination in their major
field. The entrance examination probes the applicant’s knowledge in the major field and tests the
ability to organize and express those thoughts logically and clearly. Entrance examinations
require two hours. Those who have completed their application requirements will be notified by
the PhD Office of the time, date, and place for the examination. Study aids for this exam are
available from the office of the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. Professors in the major
division will interview qualified applicants.
3
Fall Matriculation Time Line
Timeframe Action
Preliminary Step
Academic year prior to the intended beginning of PhD
studies.
Applicant requests application materials (applications
forms, including a list of required documents to
support the application).
Application deadline
By the last Friday in January. Items mailed must be
postmarked by the last Friday in January.
Applicants must submit to the PhD Office: PhD
application, official transcripts, GRE scores, WES (if
applicable), TOEFL (if applicable), and substantial
research paper.
Intent to sit for Entrance Exams
2nd Friday in February
Applicants invited to take the entrance exams must
confirm by returning the reservation form sent with
the invitation.
Entrance Exams and Interview
1st Monday in March
Major Exam: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
As scheduled
Applicants write the entrance exam in their major
field.
Applicants interview with the major field faculty.
Spring Matriculation Time Line
Timeframe Action
Preliminary Step
Academic year prior to the intended beginning of PhD
studies.
Applicant requests application materials (applications
forms, including a list of required documents to
support the application).
Application deadline
By the last Friday in August. Items mailed must be
postmarked by the last Friday in August.
Applicants must submit to the PhD Office: PhD
application, official transcripts, GRE scores, WES (if
applicable), TOEFL (if applicable), and substantial
research paper.
Intent to sit for Entrance Exams
2nd Friday in September
Applicants invited to take the entrance exams must
confirm by returning the reservation form sent with
the invitation.
Entrance Exams and Interview
1st Monday in October
Major Exam: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
As scheduled
Applicants write the entrance exam in their major
field.
Applicants interview with the major field faculty.
Each applicant will be contacted by the PhD Office to arrange the faculty interview. The faculty
in the area of the intended minor may wish to interview the applicant.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have completed elective work in their desired field of study beyond the
introductory courses required in a standard MDiv degree. Each applicant’s portfolio will be
evaluated by potential faculty supervisors. Admission decisions rest totally on the strength of the
complete portfolio. Those deemed insufficiently prepared will be denied admission.
In addition to exegetical competence in both Biblical Hebrew and Greek, each division of the
School of Theology requires graduate-level preparation that applicants must complete prior to
4
beginning seminars. PhD supervisors in the applicant’s major field, in consultation with the
Associate Dean for the PhD Program, determine what focused field study course work must be
completed on the basis of the applicant’s graduate transcripts.
Research Language Requirements
Each major in the School of Theology requires two research languages as research tools and
determines specific research language competencies. Applicants who must complete equivalency
work should pursue research language studies while doing equivalency work, provided that
taking electives in the major and minor remains the priority.
The applicant’s major supervisor normally assigns two research languages, related to the
dissertation thesis, in which the student must attain competency. English may not serve as one of
the two research languages. Students are strongly encouraged to follow the “Recommended
Seminar Sequence” (p. 12), completing their research languages at the end of the first year of
seminar study. For those who anticipate taking more than three years to complete their seminars,
the first research language must be completed at the end of the first year of seminars and the
second research language by the conclusion of the second. Normally, students may not enroll in
research seminars in the major until both research languages have been completed. Students must
document competency either by transcripted hours (in Rhetoric, Intermediate Logic, and/or
Arabic) or a letter from the Research Language Examiner verifying that the student has
successfully passed competency examinations (in German, French, and/or Latin). Failure to
meet the division’s required research language competencies may result in the student’s
termination from the program.
Southwestern Seminary no longer provides tuition-based elementary or intermediate language
instruction in German, French, and Latin (except as undergraduate-level courses in Latin are
taught in the College at Southwestern). Southwestern will provide graduate-level courses in
Rhetoric, Intermediate Logic, and Arabic, as well as access to Rosetta Stone instructional
materials in German and French through the Roberts Library, under the supervision of Roberts
librarians. The following policies will apply to PhD student use of Rosetta Stone materials
through the Roberts Library:
Designated librarians will manage and monitor enrollment of students in Rosetta courses.
Students enrolled but with no activity within the first two weeks will be automatically
dropped. Students who are inactive for a period of one month will be warned and
subsequently dropped after another two weeks (six weeks total) of non-activity. Students
dropped by the Rosetta program will not be able to retrieve any previous work and will
be required to complete the whole level in its entirety.
A limited number of licenses are available in any given year and PhD students have first
opportunity to use these instructional language programs on a first-come, first-served basis. The
use of Rosetta Stone materials will be at no cost to the PhD student.
Beginning with the 2015-16 academic year, PhD students who have not yet attained competency
in research languages (according to the policy in place prior to Fall 2015) will need to do so by
means of passing competency exams in the chosen languages. Students must score 85 or higher
5
in order to pass a research language competency exam. Those exams will be administered by the
PhD Office after students complete one of the following prerequisites:
1. Completion of 10-12 hours of transcripted college hours in German (two years of
college study) or 5-6 hours of transcripted college hours in French or Latin (one year
of college study).
2. Completion of Rosetta Stone German Level 5 (Reading and Writing Optimized) or
Rosetta Stone French Level 3 (Reading and Writing Optimized).
3. Independent study. Students should consult with the Research Language Examiner
for assistance with independent study.
The basic design of the exam is the successful translation of a text presented to the student within
a set time period. The student may have an unmarked dictionary, such as German-English,
without grammatical aids during the timed exam. Research language competency exams will be
offered at stated times in the academic year. Please check with the PhD Office regarding the
language exams and the times at which they will be offered. Generally, competency exams will
be administered three times a year, once in the Fall, once in the Spring, and once in the Summer.
Students will be assessed a $50 fee for each research language competency exam, each time an
exam is taken.
Southwestern Seminary recommends that all students seeking to qualify for competency in
German or French, or those who have already qualified as competent, enroll in the Reading
Seminar in Theological German or Reading Seminar in Theological French that will be offered
in the Spring or Fall semester of each year. In order to qualify for these seminars, one of the
following requirements must be met:
1. Successful completion of the competency exam in the requisite language—German or
French.
2. Completion of 10-12 hours of transcripted college hours in German (two years of
college study) or 5-6 hours of transcripted college hours in French (one year of
college study).
3. Completion of Rosetta Stone German Level 5 (Reading and Writing Optimized) or
Rosetta Stone French Level 3 (Reading and Writing Optimized).
Major Field Research Language Competencies:
Biblical Studies
Old Testament and New Testament
German
French
Archaeology *
Arabic Modern Greek
French Modern Hebrew
German Turkish
Italian
6
Theological Studies
Systematic Theology, Church History and Historical Theology German
Latin
Ethics and Philosophical Studies
Christian Ethics, Philosophy of Religion Intermediate Logic**
German, French, or Latin
Preaching and Pastoral Studies
Preaching, Pastoral Ministry
Division approved graduate-level courses in rhetorical theory
Intermediate Logic**, German, French, Latin, or other approved research
language
*For specific direction about research languages for Archaeology, please contact Dr. Steve Ortiz
**To meet this requirement, students must show proficiency in Modal, Symbolic, and
Quantification Logic. Critical Thinking, or an equivalent introductory class in Logic, is a
prerequisite for Intermediate Logic.
Incoming students who are missionaries may petition their supervisor and the Associate Dean for
the PhD Program to use an appropriate language from their mission field as a research language,
provided that the language will serve as a research tool during doctoral studies. Language
substitution petitions require the approval of the major supervisor and the Associate Dean for the
PhD Program.
Minor Field Research Language Competencies:
PhD program minors do not require additional language competencies.
PhD Students should check with the PhD Office and with their supervisors regarding which
research languages will be required for their program of study. Incoming students who are
missionaries may petition their supervisor and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program to use an
appropriate language from their mission field as a research language, provided that the language
will serve as a research tool during doctoral studies. Language substitution petitions require the
approval of the major supervisor and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
Admissions Decisions
The applicant’s admission to the PhD program does not rest on a single factor but on the strength
of the entire portfolio, demonstrating readiness for PhD work. PhD program faculty in the
applicant’s major and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program evaluate the applicant’s fitness
for doctoral studies. Students will be notified by mail after taking the entrance examinations
whether they have been accepted into the PhD program. PhD applicant decision letters are
7
generally sent out in mid to late April for fall matriculation, and mid to late November for spring
matriculation.
After all admissions materials have been compiled, the Department Chair calls a meeting of all
faculty supervisors in the applicant’s major. After carefully reviewing all documents in an
applicant’s portfolio, faculty supervisors in the student’s major field recommend admission or
rejection to the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. While the supervisors’ recommendation is
normally accepted, should the Associate Dean reject their recommendation, he will do so only
after further consultation with the supervisors and the approval of the Dean.
Applicants denied admission to the PhD program may reapply only once. All application
materials are confidential. The Associate Dean for the PhD Program and faculty have no
obligation to divulge information regarding admission decisions.
Students admitted to the PhD program who do not begin seminar studies within two semesters
from the time of admission must submit a new application both for PhD study and for general
admission to the seminary.
Prior to beginning seminars, newly admitted PhD students may opt to defer their doctoral studies
for one or two semesters by giving written notice to the PhD Office. Failure to matriculate within
one year of acceptance to the PhD program will necessitate reapplication to the PhD program.
Post-Notification Procedures
Upon admission to the program, the student will be assigned a major and a minor supervisor, in
consultation with the major supervisor and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. The
supervisors will be members of the Southwestern faculty who specialize in the student’s areas of
research. The student will schedule a meeting with the major supervisor to determine the
student’s area of specialization within the major. The major and minor supervisors constitute the
student’s Seminar Supervisory Committee.
After being admitted to the program, the student will receive seminar information for the next
academic year. With the approval of the major and minor supervisors, the student will register
for seminars during a registration period posted by the PhD Office. Newly admitted students also
receive comprehensive bibliographies in their major and minor areas. Students should begin
reading from the bibliographies immediately and continue to do so until completing their
comprehensive exams.
New Student Orientation
PhD students must attend and complete a three-year orientation format that meets Monday-
Wednesday the week of the first day of Fall classes. Incoming ThM and MATh students who
have completed the Graduate Research Seminar will not be required to attend the Graduate
Research Seminar portions of the PhD Orientation. The tentative schedule for PhD Orientation
is as follows:
8
Orientation 1 (Year 1)
Orientation 2 (Year 2)
Orientation 3 (Year 3)
Monday AM Welcome Message from the Dean Perspectives on PhD Studies Student Services Financial Aid PhD Program Expectations Technology Training
Supervisor Meetings
Library Research Method
Monday PM Technology Training
Library Research Method PhD Program Updates The Research Process
Prospectus Development with Supervisor
Tuesday AM Library Research Method Supervisor Meetings
Anatomy of Good Arguments, and Formatting your Research Papers*
PhD Program Updates Roberts Library Research
Tuesday PM Introduction to PhD Study in Major & Minor Fields
Library Research Method
The Writing Process* Roberts Library Research
Wednesday AM Introduction to PhD Comprehensive Bibliographies, Reading Seminars
Comments on Preparing for Comprehensive Exams Roberts Library Research
Editing Your Work* Roberts Library Research
Wednesday PM Introduction to Graduate Research, Reading Strategies, Looking Ahead*
Roberts Library Research Roberts Library Research
*These components comprise the Graduate Research Seminar requirement.
9
TERMINATION FROM THE PROGRAM
Termination from the program may occur for the following reasons:
Failure to meet research language competencies during the first two years of seminar work.
Failure to complete the program in the allotted time. Students have seven years to complete
the course of study, calculated from the first semester of enrollment in seminars and
terminating on the last regular business day of August in the seventh year. The time
missionaries serve on foreign fields does not count against their seven-year deadline.
Failure to maintain continuous enrollment. Each student must enroll in the fall and spring
semesters each year and pay the required fees from the time seminars begin until graduation.
The seminary grants exceptions to missionaries serving on foreign fields who must enroll and
pay fees when on stateside assignment. If a missionary wishes to work on a dissertation with
faculty supervision while abroad, the student must pay the continuous enrollment fee while
doing so, and the time will be counted among the seven years allowed to complete the
program. No PhD research seminars are offered during summer sessions. Consequently, no
continuous enrollment fee is required during those sessions. Failure to pay enrollment fees
results in termination from the program.
Failure at any stage of the program. Failure of seminar work, the oral comprehensive
examination, or dissertation stage work results in termination from the program. See
information elsewhere in the Doctor of Philosophy Handbook regarding grading at each
stage.
In case of failure at the comprehensive examination or dissertation stages, the
Associate Dean for the PhD Program may recommend to the faculty the awarding of
a Master of Theology degree upon the request of the student and the major supervisor.
Decisions regarding a student’s continuance in the program will be made according to the
policies of the PhD program in the School of Theology. The Associate Dean for the PhD
Program and the faculty of the School of Theology reserve the right to decline admission or
continuance to those failing to meet the established criteria, including those who conduct
themselves in ways inconsistent with a calling to Christian ministry.
Ethical and moral concerns, as determined by the Associate Dean for the PhD Program in
consultation with the Supervisory Committee, will be referred to the Vice President for Student
Services for disposition.
Academic concerns, as determined solely by the program faculty and Associate Dean for the
PhD Program, will be addressed by the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, in consultation
with the Supervisory Committee. The Associate Dean for the PhD Program makes the final
decision according to policy.
10
Matters that are in the judgment of the Associate Dean for the PhD Program neither solely
ethical and moral nor solely academic will be addressed by the Associate Dean for the PhD
Program in consultation with the appropriate seminary officer(s). The Associate Dean for the
PhD Program, in consultation with the Supervisory Committee and the Dean, will make the final
decision on such matters.
Leave of Absence
PhD students who face personal crises may petition the Associate Dean for the PhD Program to
take a one-semester leave of absence to address their problems. The Associate Dean for PhD
Program, in consultation with the student’s major (and minor) supervisor(s), approves or denies
requests for a leave of absence. Students normally do not receive more than a single, one-
semester leave of absence during their doctoral programs. Receiving a leave of absence does not
extend the deadline for completing PhD studies. A leave of absence exists solely for emergency
situations.
Withdrawal from the PhD Program
PhD students in good standing may withdraw from the PhD program by notifying the Associate
Dean for the PhD Program in writing of their intent. Students who withdraw from the PhD
program may subsequently apply for readmission. However, readmission cannot be guaranteed.
Students who have withdrawn from the PhD program must first gain readmission to
Southwestern Seminary. The Associate Dean for the PhD Program and the applicant’s former
major (and minor) supervisor(s) make readmission decisions. If readmitted, the student’s
deadline remains the same as if no withdrawal occurred. The current Doctor of Philosophy
Handbook governs all PhD students, including those returning to the program after a hiatus.
11
COST OF THE PROGRAM
Each PhD student is required to pay the general matriculation fee and all student fees of the
institution as well as the PhD studies fee each semester until the degree has been completed. Fees
are established by the seminary administration, not by the PhD Office, and are subject to change.
Tuition* - Southern Baptist (per semester, Cooperative Program Scholarship) $3,080.00
Tuition* - Non-Southern Baptist (per semester) $5,600.00
*Research language courses are not included in this amount. These courses will be billed at the
hourly rate for masters courses.
Financial assistance is not available through the PhD Office. However, a Research Doctoral
Grant is provided to PhD students of good standing during the first eight semesters of their study
at Southwestern Seminary. All inquiries regarding the grant or any other financial assistance
should be made through the Student Financial Aid office of the seminary
(http://www.swbts.edu/index.cfm?pageid=720).
12
SEMINARS
General Information
At the beginning of seminar studies, PhD students may request a carrel in Roberts Library. The
Coordinator for Doctoral Carrels in Roberts Library makes carrel assignments annually,
renewable upon student request. PhD students must follow all Roberts Library regulations,
including those pertaining to carrel use.
Each PhD student must attend the PhD Orientation in the Fall semester for three years to
complete the Graduate Research Seminar components, four reading seminars in the major field,
two reading seminars in the minor field, four research seminars in the major field, two research
seminars in the minor field, and the Teaching in Higher Education Seminar. Completion of the
Master of Theology at Southwestern Seminary may reduce seminar requirements.
Students can access seminar sessions in person or remotely from a distance. In order to access
seminar sessions remotely, students must be granted permission by their major and minor
supervisors (noted on their registration forms) and have completed the required technology
training during the PhD orientation process.
A student may not enroll in the DMin degree while studying for the PhD degree.
For general information concerning the scheduling of reading seminars and research seminars,
see APPENDIX C.
Faculty Supervisors
Each seminar stage student will be assigned a Supervisory Committee comprising two professors
who guide the student’s study in the major and minor areas. Faculty supervisors give counsel
concerning study programs, approve seminar selection, as well as prepare and evaluate the
comprehensive examination at the conclusion of seminars. The faculty supervisor in the major
requires his PhD students to pursue the field of study in which he researches. Should beginning
PhD students desire to pursue another area within their major, they may petition the Associate
Dean for the PhD Program to change supervisors. Students who have been in the PhD program
for some time should not normally seek to change supervisors.
PhD supervisors may determine that a student lacks doctoral level competence in English, the
Biblical languages, or other areas of such significance that the student’s academic progress is in
jeopardy. In such cases the supervisor, in consultation with the Associate Dean for the PhD
Program, will require the student to complete remedial studies in the area(s) of weakness.
The major supervisor usually guides students throughout the entire PhD program. The
Supervisory Committee guides students through the seminar stage and the oral comprehensive
examination and differs in composition and purpose from the Dissertation Supervisory
Committee.
13
Registration
The PhD Office schedules seminar registration approximately four months prior to the beginning
of the academic year. Each student receives an email with seminar schedules, exact dates for
registration, and other information. All registration decisions require the approval of the
student’s supervisors. After receiving registration forms from students’ supervisors, the PhD
Office then enrolls students for their chosen seminars through the Office of the Registrar. The
Office of the Registrar distributes official schedules and fee statements.
Since professors structure seminar requirements to the individual members of their seminars and
give advance assignments, students are not allowed to drop or add seminars after the conclusion
of the registration period unless compelling reasons for an exception exist. Exceptions require
the approval of the professor(s), supervisor, and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
Students who do not complete the drop process and do not participate in a seminar in which they
are enrolled will receive a failing grade for the seminar and will be placed on probation.
Entrance into any PhD seminar outside the major or minor disciplines requires the approval of
the seminar professor and the major or minor supervisor.
Grading
Each professor determines the requirements and method of evaluating students in the seminar.
Any grade lower than “B” is a failing grade (i.e. “B-” and below). Any student who fails a
seminar may be dismissed from the program or placed on academic probation and closely
monitored until such time as the Associate Dean for the PhD Program removes the probation.
Failure of any two seminars results in immediate dismissal from the PhD program.
The Associate Dean for the PhD Program reviews the progress of each student based upon
reports from the Supervisory Committee. Students may be terminated from the program if the
reports indicate that their work, in the judgment of the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, in
consultation with the Supervisory Committee, does not merit continuing in the PhD program.
Focused Field Study
All incoming PhD students will enroll in two semesters of Focused Field Study, advanced
master’s electives in the student’s major field, during the first year of PhD studies. Faculty from
the student’s major field and the PhD Office will determine the Focused Field Study coursework
for each incoming PhD student. If deemed exceptionally prepared by the faculty from the
student’s major field and the PhD Office, students may be exempted from this requirement.
Seminar Requirements
At least four research seminars (four hours each) and a major area reading seminar (eight hours:
two hours per semester for two consecutive semesters and the first and second summer of PhD
studies) in a particular area of study constitute a major. Two research seminars (four hours each)
and a minor field reading seminar (four hours: two hours per semester for two consecutive
semesters) in an area of study distinct from the major constitute a minor.
14
PhD students must also attend the PhD Orientation in the Fall semester for three years to
complete the Graduate Research Seminar components, unless they have already taken the
Graduate Research Seminar as part of master’s level study. The Graduate Research Seminar
components in the PhD Orientation probe the nature and methods of research as well as
argumentation.
The Teaching in Higher Education Seminar (two hours) falls at the conclusion of the seminar
stage. This seminar introduces the standard organization and policies at institutions of higher
education.
Students must complete all seminars prior to taking comprehensive exams (with the possible
exception of the Teaching in Higher Education Seminar). Students must successfully complete
their comprehensive exams before submitting a dissertation prospectus.
The Supervisory Committee must approve the selection of all seminars.
Once accepted into the PhD program, a student may change majors only in exceptional
circumstances with the approval of the student’s Supervisory Committee, the supervisor in the
intended major, and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. The student must pass the
entrance exam of the proposed major before changing majors. Students who change majors must
complete all requirements of their new major irrespective of work completed in the old major
and retain the original deadline for completion of PhD studies. Changing majors is tantamount
reapplying to the PhD program.
Students desiring to change minors must obtain the approval of the major supervisor, faculty in
the minor field, and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
Recommended Seminar Sequence
Prior to Matriculation: Research Language Study/Competency Exam*
First Year
PhD Orientation, Training, and Graduate Research Components**
Fall Semester / Hours Spring Semester / Hours Focused Field Study Focused Field Study
Major Field Reading Seminar I (2) Major Field Reading Seminar II (2)
Minor Field Reading Seminar I (2) Minor Field Reading Seminar II (2)
Research Language Study/Competency
Exam*
Research Language Study/Competency
Exam*
Summer of First Year: Reading Minor Field Comprehensive Bibliography
Major Field Reading Seminar III (2)
Research Language Study/Competency Exam
Second Year
PhD Orientation, Training, and Graduate Research Components**
15
Fall Semester / Hours Spring Semester / Hours Research Seminar in Major Field (4) Research Seminar in Major Field (4)
Research Seminar in Minor Field (4) Research Seminar in Minor Field (4)
Summer of Second Year: Reading Minor Field Comprehensive Bibliography
Major Field Reading Seminar IV (2)
Third Year
PhD Orientation, Training, and Graduate Research Components (2)**
Fall Semester / Hours Spring Semester / Hours Research Seminar in Major Field (4) Oral Comprehensive Exam
Research Seminar in Major Field (4) Submission of Dissertation Prospectus
Teaching in Higher Ed. Seminar (2)
*Research language study is required but not credited as hours toward the PhD degree.
**Students will be awarded two hours credit towards the PhD degree at the completion of all
three PhD Orientation, Training, and Graduate Research Components.
16
Third Year
Fall Semester / Hours Spring Semester / Hours Research Seminar in Major Field (4) Comprehensive Exams
Research Seminar in Major Field (4) Submission of Dissertation Prospectus
Teaching in Higher Ed. Seminar (2)
Transfer Credit
No credit toward the PhD degree will be given for work done at another institution unless the
student has already been admitted to the PhD program at Southwestern Seminary and directed to
do work at another institution by the student’s Supervisory Committee and the Associate Dean
for the PhD Program. The maximum amount of external study that may be credited to a student’s
program is the equivalent of two research seminars (eight hours).
Special Categories of Seminar Participation
Currently enrolled PhD students may take more seminars than their course of study requires. The
additional seminars may be taken either before or after the comprehensive exam. Additional
seminars also require full participation in the seminar and completion of all requirements.
No auditors may enroll in PhD seminars without the approval of the professor, the supervisor,
and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. The seminar professor determines the
requirements for auditors in seminars.
Visiting scholars whose status is approved by the Provost may attend seminars as space allows,
with the approval of the seminar professor and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
Research Standards for Seminar Papers
The purpose of the seminar determines the nature of the seminar paper. Each seminar paper
must comply with the Southwestern Seminary Manual of Style. The preparation of seminar
papers allows students to prepare to write their dissertation. Each seminar paper should thus
uphold the same high standards as the dissertation itself.
Seminar papers must rely on primary sources and must give evidence of meticulous research,
incorporating non-English sources where appropriate.
Seminar papers must reflect formal English style, suitable as a typescript for publication.
Any seminar paper that falls short of PhD program standards will be failed (see Appendix F).
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COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATIONS
Comprehensive Bibliographies
The comprehensive bibliography has been defined by the faculty as the “canon” of literature in a
field with which any mature scholar in that discipline would be conversant. Comprehensive
bibliographies should include older works which have defined the discipline as well as more
contemporary works which direct present discussions in the field. When a field regularly
incorporates biblical material, the bibliography must include required readings from the Hebrew
Old Testament and the Greek New Testament. The length of the bibliography should allow
students to complete the readings after three academic years of aggressive effort, including the
works completed in the reading seminar, research seminars, and all other occasions when
seminars are not in session, particularly summers. Comprehensive bibliographies should be
revised regularly to reflect developments in the discipline. Comprehensive exams are based on
the body of material contained in the comprehensive bibliography, not solely on the content of
seminars.
Please implement the following procedure for revising comprehensive bibliographies:
1) The department chair distributes electronic copies of the comprehensive bibliography
to all faculty who teach in the major, requesting that they note entries they want to delete
and others to add;
2) The department chair collates faculty recommendations and distributes them to the
department members prior to a departmental meeting;
3) The department chair calls the necessary departmental meeting(s) to finalize the
current edition of the comprehensive bibliography; and
4) The department submits the approved version of the comprehensive bibliography to
the PhD Office for final review and implementation.
Oral Comprehensive Examination
The oral comprehensive examination requires mastery of the field bibliographies distributed at
the beginning of the student’s program. The major and minor supervisors may make minimal
alterations to their respective bibliographies throughout the seminar stage, but no later than four
months prior to the oral comprehensive examination. Any change to a comprehensive
bibliography must be communicated both to the student and to the PhD Office in writing.
The Supervisory Committee guides the student in finalizing preparation for the oral
comprehensive examination.
The entirety of the field bibliography must be read prior to the student notifying the Supervisory
Committee and the PhD Office in writing of readiness to take the oral comprehensive
18
examination. The Supervisory Committee must grant its approval for the PhD Office to schedule
the student’s examination.
Supervisors prepare the comprehensive examination questions. The supervisor must draw
comprehensive exam questions from the field bibliography. Student responses to comprehensive
exam questions must interact with works found in the field bibliography.
The oral comprehensive examination for the major and the minor lasts three hours. The PhD
Office schedules the times and locations of oral comprehensive examinations.
Students may not use study aids during the oral comprehensive examination. Oral
comprehensive examinations will receive a grade of Excellent, High Pass, Pass, Fail (Retake
Permitted), or Fail (No Retake Permitted) with the supervisor’s recommendation that the student
be terminated from the program (see Appendix G).
A student who fails the oral comprehensive examination may receive one additional opportunity
to pass the examination upon the recommendation of the Supervisory Committee and the
Associate Dean for the PhD Program. Students who do not pass their oral comprehensive
examination may petition to be considered for a Master of Theology degree in recognition of
their seminar work.
19
THE PROSPECTUS
General Information
The student may submit a dissertation prospectus only after successfully completing the
comprehensive examination. The major supervisor directs the preparation of the prospectus.
The student should discuss dissertation topics with the faculty throughout the seminar stage of
the program. As soon as a viable topic is identified, the student should begin to conduct initial
research to test its potential. The student should report the results of such research to the
supervisor.
After completing the oral comprehensive examination, the student must register for Dissertation
Research and Writing while conducting research on a topic suitable for a dissertation. When the
major supervisor approves the prospectus, the student submits the prospectus for evaluation by
the departmental faculty and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
Dissertations must make original contributions to knowledge in their field. The student should
determine that no other dissertation has been written about the proposed topic, has treated the
topic in the same way, and has drawn similar conclusions. The student should complete a
dissertation search using Dissertation Abstracts, in addition to the normal processes of building a
bibliography using indexes, catalogs, and the bibliographies and footnotes of works consulted.
The student may need to use other resources to discover dissertations completed abroad. For
more information about researching dissertations, contact the Reference Librarian in Roberts
Library.
The student who does not complete the prospectus by the end of the first semester of Dissertation
Research and Writing may register for Dissertation Research and Writing for a second semester.
Selection of Dissertation Supervisor
Normally, the major supervisor during seminars also serves as the first reader on the dissertation
and head of the Dissertation Supervisory Committee. To change the first supervisor requires the
approval of the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
The first supervisor and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program identify a second dissertation
supervisor, normally also from the same general field as the major supervisor. The first and
second dissertation supervisors compose the Dissertation Supervisory Committee. The
Dissertation Supervisory Committee guides the student throughout the preparation of the
dissertation and must approve written work before submission to other readers or to the PhD
Office. The Dissertation Supervisory Committee, along with a third reader appointed by the
Associate Dean for the PhD Program, have the responsibility to evaluate the dissertation.
20
Writing the Prospectus
The student begins by identifying the research question, followed by the establishment of the
method of research and resulting thesis statement (proposed answer to the research problem).
Out of the thesis statement flow the dissertation’s argument, structure, and title.
The title of the dissertation should be concise and clear.
The prospectus must carefully communicate the purpose and methodology of the investigation.
The student may make some minor modifications later as the dissertation develops, in
consultation with the Dissertation Supervisory Committee. However, any change in the title or
major points of the outline or any major change in approach or methodology requires prior
approval of the Dissertation Supervisory Committee and the Associate Dean for the PhD
Program.
The prospectus includes proposed chapter divisions, detailing each chapter’s subheadings.
A working bibliography will receive careful scrutiny. The bibliography should be sufficiently
detailed to indicate that enough material exists to develop the dissertation. Primary sources
should receive special attention. Students must not overlook foreign sources in the preparation of
the bibliography. The prospectus should give the faculty confidence that the student has read
widely from the bibliography and possesses sufficient maturity to articulate the general direction
of the research.
The prospectus must adhere to the Southwestern Seminary Manual of Style.
The body of the prospectus should not exceed 26 pages double spaced, using Times New
Roman 12 point font.
The prospectus must include the proposed title page.
Submission of the Prospectus
With the approval of the student’s dissertation supervisor, the student bears the responsibility to
submit both five (5) paper copies of the prospectus and a .pdf copy by email to the PhD Office.
The student’s dissertation supervisor may recommend readers for the student’s prospectus to the
department chair in the student’s major field.
Four (4) copies of the prospectus go to the student’s Department Chair for distribution to the
departmental faculty. One (1) copy remains with the Associate Dean for the PhD Program for
evaluation.
The Department Chair in the student’s major calls a departmental faculty meeting to assess the
prospectus. The departmental faculty decline, return for further development, or approve the
prospectus. If the prospectus is approved, departmental faculty recommend a second reader for
the student’s dissertation to the PhD Office.
21
The supervisor sends letters to the student, the PhD Office, and the Division Chair, outlining the
departmental faculty’s decision. The supervisor meets with the student to explain the faculty’s
decision.
The supervisor works with the student to make any changes desired by the faculty, and if
required by the departmental faculty, the student resubmits both five (5) paper copies of the
revised prospectus and a .pdf copy by email to the PhD Office by the end of the semester (a one-
semester extension may be granted).
Students attain PhD candidacy status upon the approval of the prospectus by the divisional
faculty and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program.
22
THE DISSERTATION
Student Progress in Dissertation Stage
The student preparing a dissertation must enroll each semester in Dissertation Research and
Writing. Each semester the supervisor sets objectives by which the student’s work will be
graded. If the work fails to meet expectations, the supervisor notifies the PhD Office which
places the student on probation. Normally, two successive semesters on probation result in
termination from the program.
Writing the Dissertation
The PhD dissertation must argue for a clearly articulated thesis which constitutes a contribution
to scholarship in its field. It should demonstrate the candidate’s ability to design a viable research
project, pursue the research in relative independence, and write with clarity and force (see
Appendix H).
No dissertation may be dedicated to a member of the faculty of Southwestern Seminary.
The student works with the Dissertation Supervisory Committee throughout the preparation of
the dissertation. The Dissertation Supervisory Committee must approve the student’s
Dissertation Defense Draft prior to formal submission to the PhD Office. The Dissertation
Supervisory Committee and the PhD Office identify the third reader for the student’s dissertation
no later than the submission of the student’s dissertation defense draft. The Dissertation Defense
Draft forms the basis for the dissertation defense.
Submitting the draft does not guarantee that the dissertation will pass.
Format of the Dissertation Defense Draft
Abstract
An abstract, 350 words in length (double-spaced), must accompany the dissertation. It should
include the following:
Purpose of the dissertation
Direction taken in developing the thesis
Principal conclusions
Arrangement of Dissertation
The arrangement of the dissertation follows:
Front Blank page (required) Not counted, no page number
Title page (required) Counted, but not numbered
Copyright page (required) Counted, but not numbered
Approval Sheet (required) Counted, but not numbered
Dedication page (not required) Counted, but not numbered
Abstract (required) Counted, but not numbered
23
Table of Contents (required) Numbered, roman numerals
List of Abbreviations (if used) Numbered, roman numerals
List of Figures (if used) Numbered, roman numerals
List of Tables (if used) Numbered, roman numerals
List of Plates (if used) Numbered, roman numerals
Preface (required) Numbered, roman numerals
Body of Text (required) Numbered, arabic numerals
Appendixes (if used) Numbered, arabic numerals
Bibliography (required) Numbered, arabic numerals
Back Blank page (required) No page number
Style
The dissertation must adhere to the Southwestern Seminary Manual of Style. On matters not
specifically addressed by the seminary style manual, the dissertation should adopt a clear and
consistent style.
Length
Dissertations must be a minimum of 150 pages in length and may not exceed 250 pages without
the approval of the Dissertation Supervisory Committee and the Associate Dean for the PhD
Program. This page limitation applies to the body of the dissertation and excludes bibliography
and appendices (if any).
Printing
The four copies of the dissertation draft may be submitted on 20 lb. copy paper. The four copies
submitted for binding must be printed on 24 lb. weight, 100% cotton rag paper.
Evaluation of the Dissertation Defense Draft and Oral Defense
The PhD Office distributes the Dissertation Defense Draft to the Dissertation Supervisory
Committee and a third reader appointed by the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, in
consultation with the supervisor. Students must also submit a draft dissertation abstract for
distribution to those from the faculty and student body of Southwestern Seminary who will
observe the oral defense.
Readers have 45 days to evaluate the dissertation. Each faculty reader will return the graded
dissertation along with evaluative comments directly to the PhD Office. Normally, no
dissertation will receive a passing grade if one of the three readers assigns a failing grade. In the
unlikely event that a question arises about the equitableness of a grade given by a faculty reader,
the Associate Dean for the PhD Program will bring the issue to the Dean. If assigned a failing
grade, the student must revise the dissertation according to the recommendations of the three
faculty readers. Dissertation drafts which fail the evaluation of their readers do not proceed to an
oral defense. The revised dissertation may not be submitted to the PhD Office until the
Dissertation Supervisory Committee gives its approval.
24
After the three dissertation readers recommend the dissertation for oral defense, the PhD Office
schedules the defense. Faculty and students of Southwestern Seminary may observe the oral
defense.
If the dissertation is not successfully defended, the student may be given one final opportunity to
rewrite the defense draft with a deadline set by the Dissertation Supervisory Committee. In this
case the student must defend the dissertation again. If the committee determines that the student
has failed a second time to defend the dissertation successfully, a Master of Theology degree will
be awarded to the student.
The PhD Office has the responsibility to communicate the outcome of the faculty evaluation of
the dissertation, including the dissertation defense. Students will not learn the grades assigned by
individual faculty members from the Dissertation Supervision Committee. The student will have
up to four weeks to complete these revisions. After the first supervisor verifies that the final
revisions are complete, the student must submit four copies of the defended and revised
dissertation to the PhD Office no later than two weeks before the next scheduled
commencement. All four copies of the revised, approved dissertation that has been successfully
defended should be submitted to the PhD Office on paper that is 24 lb. weight, 100% cotton
content.
Dissertation Grading
Dissertations will be evaluated with reference to style and content by the two faculty members
comprising the Dissertation Supervisory Committee and one additional faculty member chosen
by the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, in consultation with the supervisor. The faculty
members will complete their evaluation without benefit of consultation with each other.
At the conclusion of the dissertation defense, the Dissertation Supervisory Committee grants a
grade to the dissertation, contingent upon the completion of final revisions. The potential grades
are:
Excellent: A rare grade, awarded in recognition of exceptional research and
argumentation. The oral defense identifies various matters which the student
must correct before the final copy of the dissertation will be accepted.
Pass: Solid research and argumentation. The oral defense identifies various matters
which the student must correct before the final copy of the dissertation will be
accepted.
Fail: Unacceptable research and/or argumentation. The oral defense identifies
(Revision various matters of such gravity that the dissertation must be rewritten. The
Permitted) student has an opportunity to revise and resubmit the dissertation.
Fail: Unacceptable research and/or argumentation. The student may not revise and
(No resubmit the dissertation.
Revision)
25
Dissertation Evaluation Timetable
Fall Deadlines
2nd Friday in August Oral defense draft of dissertation due
2nd Friday in October Evaluation of dissertation by three readers and convening
oral defense (8 weeks)
2nd Friday in November Revisions made (3 weeks)
3rd Friday in November Major supervisor checks final revisions (1 week)
4th Friday in November Final draft due in PhD Office, approved by supervisor
(2 weeks) Modify slightly for Thanksgiving
2nd Friday in December Graduation
26
Spring Deadlines
2nd Friday in January Oral defense draft of dissertation due
2nd Friday in March Evaluation of dissertation by three readers and convening
oral defense (8 weeks)
1st Friday in April Revisions made (3 weeks)
2rd Friday in April Major supervisor checks final revisions (1 week)
3rd Friday in April Final draft due in PhD Office, approved by supervisor
(2 weeks)
1st Friday in May Graduation
The Preservation and Use of Dissertations
The graduation fees cover the cost of binding the four copies of the dissertation—one copy for
the student, one copy for the main dissertation supervisor, one copy for the reference section of
Roberts Library, and one copy for the Roberts Library Archives.
The copyright to the dissertation belongs to the student. The student may bind extra copies at
personal expense.
Every dissertation should carry the notation that no portion of the dissertation may be reproduced
without prior written permission from the copyright owner.
Roberts Library has the authority to make copies for accredited institutions.
The Associate Dean for the PhD Program may consider other requests.
The PhD Office limits the number of extra copies of dissertation projects and those received in
the library for binding to two (2) beyond those required by each program.
APPENDIX A: PHD OFFICE RESPONSIBILITIES
27
APPENDIX A: PHD OFFICE RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibility for implementing policy decisions and administering the PhD program rests with
the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, under the supervision of the Dean of the School of
Theology.
The responsibilities of the Associate Dean for the PhD program include:
1. Establishing the annual calendar for the PhD program.
2. Preparing and distributing application materials to prospective PhD students.
3. Administering the entrance examinations in consultation with the faculty supervisors.
4. Assessing the exegetical competence of prospective PhD students.
5. Receiving, processing, and forwarding application materials to the appropriate faculty.
6. Revising faculty recommendations regarding admission to the PhD program.
7. Orienting new students into the PhD program.
8. Overseeing the preparation of comprehensive bibliographies in each major and minor
area, maintaining current files for each bibliography. The Associate Dean for the PhD
Program works directly with faculty supervisors in the preparation of these
bibliographies.
9. Administering the comprehensive examination in consultation with the faculty
supervisors.
10. Receiving dissertation prospectuses and distributing them for evaluation to the
appropriate departmental/divisional supervisors.
11. Appointing the third reader for the student’s dissertation in consultation with the
student’s Dissertation Supervisory Committee.
12. Receiving the dissertation defense draft and scheduling the oral defense, in consultation
with the appropriate supervisors.
13. Considering requests and appeals from students in the program, in consultation with the
appropriate faculty supervisor.
14. Maintaining accurate and complete files on students in the program.
15. Recommending candidates for the PhD degree to the School of Theology faculty.
APPENDIX A: PHD OFFICE RESPONSIBILITIES
28
16. Encouraging placement of PhD graduates with the assistance of the seminary’s
placement office.
17. Assessing the PhD program continually, recommending any changes to the
Administrative Council and the School of Theology faculty which are beneficial to the
program.
18. Assisting the Dean in evaluating faculty, especially in relation to faculty qualification
for and participation in doctoral level supervision.
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION
29
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION
I. Admissions
a. Complete transcript evaluation for applicants.
b. Faculty members agree to serve as major and minor supervisors for each applicant
recommended for admission. If no faculty member agrees to serve as supervisor,
the applicant will not receive an invitation to enter the PhD program.
c. At matriculation, the student’s major and minor supervisors sign the Supervisory
Committee form.
d. Both major and minor supervisors approve the seminars their student takes and
sign the annual registration form.
II. Seminar Stage Supervision
a. Supervisors must help their supervisees plan their entire seminar stage course of
study, including granting formal approval for all seminar selections and Focused
Field Studies.
b. Supervisors review their supervisees’ unofficial transcripts through WebAdvisor
each semester to help monitor academic progress.
c. Supervisors may determine that a student lacks doctoral level competence in
English, the Biblical languages, or other areas of such significance that the
student’s academic progress is in jeopardy. In such cases the supervisor, in
consultation with the Associate Dean for the PhD Program, will require the
student to complete remedial studies in the area(s) of weakness.
d. Supervisors may slightly modify the official bibliography for each supervisee on
the basis of individual research goals.
i. Supervisors notify the PhD Office in writing of all changes made to the
bibliography and for whom the changes apply.
ii. Supervisors may modify the comprehensive bibliography up to five
months prior to the student’s comprehensive exam.
e. Supervisors monitor their student’s preparation for their comprehensive exams.
f. Supervisors consult with their students regarding possible dissertation topics.
g. Supervisors evaluate student requests for a leave of absence (subject to final
approval by the Associate Dean for the PhD Program).
III. Oral Comprehensive Exam
a. Supervisors guide their students’ final preparation for their oral comprehensive
exams.
b. Supervisors prepare oral comprehensive exam questions, drawing all oral
comprehensive examination questions from the field bibliographies.
i. The student notifies the Supervisory Committee and the PhD Office in
writing of readiness to take the oral comprehensive exam.
ii. The Supervisory Committee grants written approval for the PhD Office to
schedule the oral comprehensive exam.
iii. The major and minor supervisors and an additional member of the major
department make up the Oral Comprehensive Exam Committee.
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION
30
iv. The oral comprehensive exam requires three hours. The PhD Office
schedules the time and location of the exam with the Oral Comprehensive
Exam Committee.
v. Students may not use study aids, but the PhD Office makes available
reference tools (such as Hebrew and Greek texts) as specified by the
supervisors.
vi. The supervisors evaluate the oral comprehensive exam and assign a grade.
IV. Submission of the Prospectus
a. The student submits his prospectus to his Dissertation Stage Supervisor.
b. When the supervisor determines that the prospectus is acceptable, the student
submits the prospectus to the PhD Office.
i. The student submits 5 paper copies of the prospectus and a PDF copy of
the prospectus to the PhD Office
ii. The Dissertation Stage Supervisor submits a copy of the Prospectus
Supervisor Approval form via SharePoint.
iii. The PhD Office sends 4 copies of the prospectus to the Department Chair
over the student’s major field. Additionally, the PhD Office emails the
prospectus evaluation memo to the Department Chair (copying the
department faculty) that contains instructions for the evaluation of the
prospectus, a link to the evaluation form, and a due date for the evaluation
forms.
iv. After the departmental faculty make their recommendations, the
Department Chair submits the Department Action Form to the PhD Office.
The PhD Office sends an official letter to the student stating the results of
the departmental meeting.
1. If the prospectus is denied, the student consults with his supervisor,
makes the required revisions, and resubmits the prospectus for
departmental review.
2. If the prospectus if approved with amendments, the student
consults with his supervisor, makes the required revisions, and
resubmits the prospectus to his supervisor. No further
administrative action is required.
a. If the supervisor approves the required revisions, the
supervisor sends the completed forms to the PhD Office.
b. The department recommends the second reader for the
student’s dissertation.
V. Submission of Dissertation Draft
a. When completed, the student submits the dissertation draft to his Dissertation
Supervisory Committee. The Dissertation Supervisory Committee and the PhD
Office determine the third reader for the student’s dissertation, if the
determination has not yet been made.
b. The Dissertation Supervisory Committee determines if the draft merits
submission for formal evaluation.
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION
31
i. If approved, the supervisor signs the Dissertation Supervisor
Acknowledgement of Dissertation Draft Submission form.
ii. If declined, the supervisor returns the dissertation draft to the student with
instructions for revision. Once corrected, the student again submits the
draft to his Dissertation Supervisory Committee. For review.
c. Once approved for formal evaluation, the student submits four copies of the
dissertation draft to the PhD Office.
VI. Evaluation of Dissertation Draft
a. The supervisor and second reader comprise the Dissertation Supervisory
Committee, plus one additional reader assigned by the Associate Dean for the
PhD Program in consultation with the supervisor.
b. The PhD Office provides each reader with one copy of the dissertation draft and
emails a link to the evaluation form, including the deadline for submitting the
completed evaluation to the PhD Office.
c. The Associate Dean for the PhD Program compiles the grades for review and
confirmation.
i. If the dissertation draft passes, the PhD Office contacts the supervisors to
confirm the Oral Defense.
ii. If the dissertation draft fails, two options exist:
1. Fail with revisions permitted: The supervisor provides the student
with the required revisions. The student completes the revisions
and resubmits the dissertation draft the following semester,
following the procedures outlines previously.
2. Fail without revisions permitted: The PhD Office notifies the
student in writing of the failure and that they will be awarded a
ThM degree.
VII. Oral Defense
a. Scheduling
i. When the student submits the dissertation draft to the PhD Office with the
approval of the Dissertation Supervisory Committee, the office sets a
tentative oral defense date.
ii. When the dissertation draft is approved, the oral defense date is
confirmed.
b. Presentation of Oral Defense
i. Active Participants
1. The Associate Dean for the PhD Program chairs the oral defense.
The Dissertation Supervisory Committee, plus the third reader,
actively participate in examining the student.
2. Other faculty and students are invited to the oral defense and may
participate in the defense as time permits.
ii. Evaluation
1. At the conclusion of the oral defense, the Associate Dean for the
PhD program briefly dismisses the student and other attendees.
APPENDIX B: PHD PROGRAM SUPERVISION
32
2. The Dissertation Supervisory Committee and the third reader
evaluate the dissertation and the defense, and assign the final grade
to the dissertation.
3. The student returns to learn the outcome of the oral defense.
a. A Passing Grade
i. The faculty evaluating the dissertation notify the
student of any required revisions which must be
completed within three weeks.
1. The student must obtain the supervisor’s
written approval that the necessary revisions
have been made.
2. The student submits four (4) copies (on 24
lb., 100% cotton paper) of the defended and
revised dissertation to the PhD Office no
later than two (2) weeks prior to the next
scheduled commencement.
ii. The student completes all necessary paperwork for
graduation.
iii. The student submits the forms and copies of the
dissertation to the library by the published deadline.
b. A Failing Grade
i. The faculty evaluating the dissertation notify the
student of the failure and instruct the student to
rewrite and resubmit the defense draft with a
deadline set by the Dissertation Supervisory
Committee.
ii. A second oral defense is scheduled upon the
recommendation of the Dissertation Supervisory
Committee.
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC
34
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC
Student: Intended Major:
Evaluator:
Clarity & style of writing:
1 2 3 4 5
No clarity at macro
or micro levels, full of
errors
Lacks clarity &
coherence, numerous
errors
Readable but lacks
clear organization,
frequent errors
Organized, clear,
limited number of
errors
Well-organized,
careful & clear
presentation, virtually
free of errors
Comments
Interaction with Hebrew & Greek (includes lexicography, syntax & structure) if applicable:
N/A 1 2 3 4 5
Not Applicable Failure to interact
with original
language
Severely limited &/or
erroneous interaction
Insufficient
interaction &
understanding
Careful but less than
complete interaction
Competent & careful
interaction at all
levels
Comments
Interaction with assigned sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC
35
Comments
Adherence to assigned topic
1 2 3 4 5
No conformity Minimal conformity Limited conformity Substantive
conformity
Virtually complete
conformity
Comments
Critical Analysis
1 2 3 4 5
Descriptive study,
failure to employ
critical analysis
Generally descriptive,
severely limited
critical analysis
Minimally acceptable
evidence of critical
analysis
Reasonable evidence
of critical analysis
Careful critical
analysis
Comments
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC
36
Mastery of the field:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to understand
crucial issues in the
field
Severely limited
understanding of
issues in the field
Minimally acceptable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Reasonable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Mature
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Comments
Originality of scholarship
1 2 3 4 5
No contribution to the
field
Severely limited
contribution to the
field
Minimally acceptable
contribution to the
field
Reasonable
contribution to the
field
Significant
contribution to the
field
Comments
Integrity of research & writing:
1 2 3 4 5
Evidence of
misrepresentation of
sources and/or
plagiarism
Responsible use of
sources with
appropriate citation
APPENDIX D: ENTRANCE PAPER RUBRIC
37
Comments
Overall Grade:
H: Outstanding, exceptional
S: Acceptable, reflecting no major problems
L: Poor, deficient
F: Not acceptable
Please note additional comments below as appropriate.
Professor Name Date
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC
39
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC
Student: Intended Major:
Evaluator:
Clarity & style of writing:
1 2 3 4 5
No clarity at macro
or micro levels, full of
errors
Lacks clarity &
coherence, numerous
errors
Readable but lacks
clear organization,
frequent errors
Organized, clear,
limited number of
errors
Well-organized,
careful & clear
presentation, virtually
free of errors
Comments
Interaction with Hebrew & Greek (includes lexicography, syntax & structure) if applicable:
N/A 1 2 3 4 5
Not Applicable Failure to interact
with original
language
Severely limited &/or
erroneous interaction
Insufficient
interaction &
understanding
Careful but less than
complete interaction
Competent & careful
interaction at all
levels
Comments
Interaction with assigned sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC
40
Comments
Adherence to assigned topic
1 2 3 4 5
No conformity Minimal conformity Limited conformity Substantive
conformity
Virtually complete
conformity
Comments
Critical Analysis
1 2 3 4 5
Descriptive study,
failure to employ
critical analysis
Generally descriptive,
severely limited
critical analysis
Minimally acceptable
evidence of critical
analysis
Reasonable evidence
of critical analysis
Careful critical
analysis
Comments
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC
41
Mastery of the field:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to understand
crucial issues in the
field
Severely limited
understanding of
issues in the field
Minimally acceptable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Reasonable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Mature
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Comments
Originality of scholarship
1 2 3 4 5
No contribution to the
field
Severely limited
contribution to the
field
Minimally acceptable
contribution to the
field
Reasonable
contribution to the
field
Significant
contribution to the
field
Comments
Integrity of research & writing:
1 2 3 4 5
Evidence of
misrepresentation of
sources and/or
plagiarism
Responsible use of
sources with
appropriate citation
APPENDIX E: ENTRANCE EXAM RUBRIC
42
Comments
Overall Grade:
H: Outstanding, exceptional
S: Acceptable, reflecting no major problems
L: Poor, deficient
F: Not acceptable
Please note additional comments below as appropriate.
Professor Name Date
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
44
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
Student: Professor:
Seminar: Term:
Clarity & style of writing & adherence to Southwestern Manual of Style:
1 2 3 4 5
No clarity at macro
or micro levels, full of
errors
Lacks clarity &
coherence, numerous
errors
Readable but lacks
clear organization,
frequent errors
Organized, clear,
limited number of
errors
Well-organized,
careful & clear
presentation, virtually
free of errors
Comments
Precision & originality of thesis:
1 2 3 4 5
No thesis or goals
stated
Not clear, specific, or
manageable
Lacking in precision
but manageable &
understandable
Reasonably precise &
manageable
Well focused, clearly
stated & reasonable
Comments
Interaction with Hebrew & Greek (includes lexicography, syntax & structure) if applicable:
N/A 1 2 3 4 5
Not Applicable Failure to interact
with original
language
Severely limited &/or
erroneous interaction
Insufficient
interaction &
understanding
Careful but less than
complete interaction
Competent & careful
interaction at all
levels
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
45
Comments
Interaction with primary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
Interaction with non-English works (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
46
Interaction with secondary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
Adherence to assigned topic
1 2 3 4 5
No conformity Minimal conformity Limited conformity Substantive
conformity
Virtually complete
conformity
Comments
Strength of reasons & evidence supporting thesis:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to recognize
& present reasons &
evidence
Severely limited
presentation
Minimally acceptable
presentation
Reasonable but
limited presentation
Clear, careful
presentation
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
47
Comments
Mastery of the field:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to understand
crucial issues in the
field
Severely limited
understanding of
issues in the field
Minimally acceptable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Reasonable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Mature
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Comments
Originality of scholarship:
1 2 3 4 5
No contribution to the
field
Severely limited
contribution to the
field
Minimally acceptable
contribution to the
field
Reasonable
contribution to the
field
Significant
contribution to the
field
Comments
APPENDIX F: SEMINAR PAPER RUBRIC
48
Integrity of research & writing:
1 2 3 4 5
Evidence of
misrepresentation of
sources and/or
plagiarism
Responsible use of
sources with
appropriate citation
Comments
Please note additional comments below as appropriate.
Professor Name Date
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC
50
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC
Student:
Major:
Major
Supervisor
(Committee
Member 1):
Minor:
Minor
Supervisor
(Committee
Member 2):
Supervisory
Committee
Member 3:
Clarity of responses:
1 2 3 4 5
No clarity at macro or
micro levels, full of
errors
Lacks clarity &
coherence, numerous
errors
Understandable but
lacks clear
organization, frequent
errors
Organized, clear,
limited number of errors
Well-organized,
careful & clear
presentation, virtually
free of errors
Comments
Adherence to assigned questions
1 2 3 4 5
No conformity Minimal conformity Limited conformity Substantive conformity Virtually complete
conformity
Comments
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC
51
Interaction with primary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited range
& interaction with
sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources but
lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
Interaction with Hebrew & Greek (includes lexicography, syntax & structure) if applicable:
N/A 1 2 3 4 5
Not Applicable Failure to interact
with original
language
Severely limited &/or
erroneous interaction
Insufficient interaction
& understanding
Careful but less than
complete interaction
Competent & careful
interaction at all
levels
Comments
Interaction with secondary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited range
& interaction with
sources
Minimally acceptable
sources & interaction
Reasonable sources but
lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC
52
Comments
Critical analysis
1 2 3 4 5
Descriptive study,
failure to employ
critical analysis
Generally descriptive,
severely limited
critical analysis
Minimally acceptable
evidence of critical
analysis
Reasonable evidence of
critical analysis
Careful critical
analysis
Comments
Mastery of the field:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to understand
crucial issues in the
field
Severely limited
understanding of
issues in the field
Minimally acceptable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Reasonable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Mature understanding
of crucial issues in the
field
Comments
APPENDIX G: ORAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION RUBRIC
53
Overall Grade:
Excellent
High Pass
Pass
Fail (Retake Permitted)
Must take another oral exam
Recommended
Date:
Fail (No Retake Permitted)
Recommend termination from the PhD Program
Please note additional comments below as appropriate.
Major Supervisor Name
Minor Supervisor Name
Committee Member 3 Name
Associate Dean for Doctoral Programs Name
Date
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
55
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
Dissertation
Title:
Student:
Supervisor:
2nd Reader:
3rd Reader:
Clarity & style of writing:
1 2 3 4 5
No clarity at macro
or micro levels, full
of errors
Lacks clarity &
coherence, numerous
errors
Readable but lacks
clear organization,
frequent errors
Organized, clear,
limited number of
errors
Well-organized,
careful & clear
presentation,
virtually free of
errors
Comments
Precision & originality of thesis:
1 2 3 4 5
No thesis or goals
stated
Not clear, specific,
or manageable
Lacking in precision
but manageable &
understandable
Reasonably precise
& manageable
Well focused, clearly
stated & reasonable
Comments
Strength of reasons & evidence supporting thesis:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to recognize
& present reasons &
evidence
Severely limited
presentation
Minimally
acceptable
presentation
Reasonable but
limited presentation
Clear, careful
presentation
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
56
Comments
Interaction with Hebrew & Greek (includes lexicography, syntax & structure) if applicable:
N/A 1 2 3 4 5
Not Applicable Failure to interact
with original
language
Severely limited
&/or erroneous
interaction
Insufficient
interaction &
understanding
Careful but less than
complete interaction
Competent & careful
interaction at all
levels
Comments
Interaction with primary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally
acceptable sources
& interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
57
Interaction with non-English works (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally
acceptable sources
& interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
Interaction with secondary sources (range & quality):
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to use
appropriate sources
Severely limited
range & interaction
with sources
Minimally
acceptable sources
& interaction
Reasonable sources
but lacking range &
thorough interaction
Clear, careful, &
critical interaction
with appropriate
sources
Comments
Mastery of the field:
1 2 3 4 5
Failure to
understand crucial
issues in the field
Severely limited
understanding of
issues in the field
Minimally
acceptable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Reasonable
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
Mature
understanding of
crucial issues in the
field
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
58
Comments
Originality of scholarship:
1 2 3 4 5
No contribution to
the field
Severely limited
contribution to the
field
Minimally
acceptable
contribution to the
field
Reasonable
contribution to the
field
Significant
contribution to the
field
Comments
Integrity of research & writing:
1 2 3 4 5
Evidence of
misrepresentation of
sources and/or
plagiarism
Responsible use of
sources with
appropriate citation
Comments
APPENDIX H: DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT RUBRIC
59
Overall Grade:
Excellent
A rare grade, awarded in recognition of exceptional research and argumentation. The
oral defense identifies minor corrections that the student must address before the final
copy of the dissertation will be accepted. The supervisor will delineate corrections for
the student.
Pass
Solid research and argumentation. The oral defense identifies various matters which the
student must correct before the final copy of the dissertation will be accepted. The
supervisor will delineate corrections for the student.
Fail (Revision Permitted)
Unacceptable research and/or argumentation. The oral defense identifies various matters
of such gravity that the dissertation must be rewritten. The student has a one-semester
opportunity to revise and resubmit the dissertation. The supervisor will delineate
revisions required.
Rewrite Due by:
Fail (No Revision)
Unacceptable research and/or argumentation. The student may not resubmit the
dissertation.
Recommend awarding Master of Theology degree
Please note additional comments below as
appropriate.
Professor Name Date
Additional Comments
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION TO THE PHD PROGRAM SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
61
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary School of Theology PhD Program P.O. Box 22448 Fort Worth, TX 76122-0448
Phone: (817) 923-1921 x. 4650 Email: [email protected]
Application Instructions
1. Please type in the appropriate fields. Provide all information requested on this application form. 2. Application to the PhD Program is a two-step process. First, you must apply for general admission to
Southwestern Seminary. Former students who have not attended Southwestern for three years must reapply for general admission. You may acquire the forms for general admission on the Southwestern Seminary website, www.swbts.edu. Please contact the Southwestern Seminary Admissions Office if you have any questions relating to general admission requirements ([email protected]). Second, you must also apply to the PhD program through the School of Theology PhD Office.
3. Submit this completed application form and all PhD application materials to the PhD Office by the last Friday in January preceding the fall semester for which you seek admission, and by the last Friday in August preceding the spring semester for which you seek admission.
4. If you are not a current student or graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, request all transcripts from your undergraduate program(s) and your graduate study program(s) to be sent directly to the Associate Dean for the PhD Program (address above).
5. Submit a substantial research document, using the Southwestern Seminary Manual of Style form and style, on a topic in your desired major field.
6. Submit GRE and TOEFL (if applicable) scores by the last Friday in January preceding the fall semester for which you seek admission, and by the last Friday in August preceding the spring semester for which you seek admission. (See the program information packet for specific test requirements.)
7. Qualified applicants will be invited to take an entrance exam and interview with faculty in the proposed PhD major.
Current Date: Applying for Semester and Year:
First Name: Middle Name: Last Name:
Mailing Address:
City, State, Zip:
Phone Number: Email Address:
Date of Birth: Occupation:
Marital Status (Spouse’s Name): # of Children:
Denominational Affiliation:
Present Church Membership:
Present Ministry Role:
Are you an International Student?
If you are a former SWBTS student, have you updated the personal information on your student records through the seminary Registrar’s office?
Yes Yes
No No
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION TO THE PHD PROGRAM SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
62
Schools Attended* Degree Earned &
Date of Graduation Major
Additional Studies
*Applicants from institutions outside the United States must submit their transcripts to the World Education Services (P.O. Box 745, Old Chelsea Station, New York, NY 10113-0745; www.wes.org; 1-800-937-3895; fax: 212-739-6100) for evaluation. The WES evaluation service sends evaluation results directly to the PhD Office.
1. Desired PhD major:
Research Interest:
2. Desired PhD minor/ CHAHT specialization:
3. What are your goals for doctoral study? (150 words or less)
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION TO THE PHD PROGRAM SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
63
4. What are your future vocational plans? (200 words or less)
5. Name, school, and phone number/email address of your academic references:
Name School Email address
Please inform each of your academic references that they will be receiving a confidential reference form from the PhD Office by email.
It is my desire that these letters of reference be written in confidence. I therefore waive any rights of access I have to these letters of reference.
___________________________________________________ ____________________________ Applicant Name Date
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
64
PhD Program Letter of Reference School of Theology
SEND TO: Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary School of Theology PhD Program P.O. Box 22448 Fort Worth, TX 76122-0448
Applicant Information
NAME (Please print or type) PhD Major:
Last First Middle
ACADEMIC EVALUATION TO BE COMPLETED BY RECOMMENDER
The Associate Dean for the Doctor of Philosophy Program would appreciate a statement from you concerning the applicant named above. Please use an attached sheet to comment in detail concerning the applicant’s accomplishments, abilities, character, and capacity for success
in our program. Please list the name and address of any person who may give us additional information. In addition to your written statement, please indicate below how you would rate the applicant.
How long have you known the applicant?
In what relationship?
Reference Recommendation Please check one
I recommend with enthusiasm. I recommend with some reservation.
I recommend with some confidence. I do not recommend admission.
Superior
Above Average
Average Below
Average Unable to
Answer
Intellectual ability to do Ph.D. work
Work ethic and perseverance
Knowledge of chosen field of study
Intellectual creativity
Critical judgment
Ability to write cogently
Ability to speak logically and clearly
Spiritual vitality and maturity
Emotional stability
Social skills
Potential as a minister of the Gospel
Potential as a teacher
Potential as a research scholar
Signature: Date:
Printed Name: Position:
Institution or Organization:
Address:
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
65
PhD Program
Major Supervisor Agreement Form
I, , agree to serve as major supervisor for
.
____________________________________
(Supervisor signature)
_____/_____/_____ (Date)
Major:
Minor:
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
66
PhD Program
Minor Supervisor Agreement Form
I, , agree to serve as minor supervisor for
.
____________________________________
(Supervisor signature)
_____/_____/_____ (Date)
Major:
Minor:
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
67
SOUTHWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
RESEARCH DOCTORAL STUDIES GRANT
DEADLINE: AUGUST 10TH FOR FALL
JANUARY 11TH FOR SPRING
NAME IN FULL____________________________________ STUDENT ID #______________
DEGREE: (Please Check Appropriate Line) ______PhD TH ______PhD ED ______DMA _____ PhD EVM
SEMESTER COMMENCING SEMINARS__________________ YEAR_______________
ANTICIPATED DATE FOR COMPLETION_______________________________________
PART I: PROCEDURES
The research doctoral grant is provided to PhD and DMA students of good standing during the first 8
semesters of their study at Southwestern Seminary. All research doctoral students in good standing may
receive the grant which is in the amount of $300 per semester. To receive the grant, a student must apply
using this form. Application need only be made once. The grant will automatically be applied to the
student’s account against tuition for up to 8 semesters. The following guidelines will apply:
1. The grant will only apply against tuition charges. Therefore the grant will not be given when a
student is on leave of absence or in any semester in which a student does not pay tuition. Should a
student's registration bill be paid in full by other sources (i.e. spousal benefit, outside foundations,
etc.) the doctoral grant will not be released for other use and will be forfeited.
2. The student must be in good standing in order to receive the grant. The grant will not be given when
a student is on probation. If a student is on probation, he or she will not receive the grant for
that semester and that semester will count against the 8 eligible semesters.
3. All seminary charges must be paid in full before the start of any semester in order to receive the
grant for that semester.
4. The student must at all times keep the doctoral office of his or her school informed of any change of
address or marital status.
5. The student must read completely the doctoral handbook from his or her school and verify the
reading by signing this application form in order to begin receiving the doctoral grant. If a student
forgoes the grant at the beginning of his or her program, subsequent application may be received, but
only for the remainder of the first 8 semesters of good standing in his or her program.
6. The Student Financial Aid Department must be contacted regarding changes in status, address, or
marital status.
PART II: PERSONAL DATA
HOME PHONE__________________________ WORK PHONE_________________________
For Office Use Only
Starting Semester of Seminars:___________________________
Approving Signature:________________________________________________
_____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________
_____________________ _____________________ _____________________ _____________________
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
68
CAMPUS EMAIL ADDRESS______________________________________
STREET ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________
CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE________________________________________________________
NAME OF SPOUSE_____________________________________________________________
NAME AND AGES OF CHILDREN________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
HOME TOWN___________________________________________________
HOME CHURCH AND ADDRESS_________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
PRESENT CHURCH AND ADDRESS______________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
PART III: PERSONAL AFFIRMATION
I have read the Procedures for receiving the Research Doctoral Studies Grant listed above. I understand that I
may receive the grant only for semesters in which I am registered and am a student in good standing. I
understand that I will forfeit the grant during any semester that I am on probation and that that semester will
count against the 8 eligible semesters for the grant.
______________________________________________________________________________
(Signature)
I have read in its entirety the doctoral handbook for my school and agree to abide by the policies and procedures
contained therein.
______________________________________________________________________________
(Signature)
Completed application must be returned to the doctoral
secretary of your school by the above deadline.
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
69
PHD STUDENT REGISTRATION, 2013–2014
SEMINAR STAGE REGISTRATION School of Theology
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary [email protected]
Instructions:
1. Please use ink, write legibly, and complete all blanks in first section completely.
2. Supervisors must give approval before the student can register.
3. Submit this form and any required attachments to the PhD Office during the registration period.
Student Name Student ID
Address City, State & Zip
Phone (home) Phone (mobile)
Major Field: Major Supervisor:
Minor Field: Minor Supervisor:
SEMINARS
FALL SEMINAR
NUMBER
SPRING SEMINAR
NUMBER SEMINAR TITLE
MAJOR/
MINOR/
FIRST YEAR STUDENTS must register for the Graduate Research Seminar unless already taken.
(RSTCH 7552 Fall Semester Monday, 10:30 am – 12:00 noon)
RESEARCH LANGUAGES (must be completed by the conclusion of the first year of PhD studies)
FALL COURSE
NUMBER
SPRING COURSE
NUMBER COURSE TITLE
DROP/ADD: Since professors structure seminar requirements for the individual members of their seminars and give advance assignments, students
are not allowed to drop or add seminars after the conclusion of the registration period unless compelling reasons for an exception exist. Exceptions
require the approval of the professor(s), supervisor, and the Associate Dean for the PhD Program. Students who do not complete the drop process and
do not participate in a seminar in which they are enrolled will receive a failing grade for the semester and will be placed on probation.
Student: I have read and fully understand the PhD program policy regarding dropping or adding seminars.
MAJOR AND MINOR SUPERVISORS: I have distributed the major and minor comprehensive bibliographies to my student and
explained their purpose.
Student Name Date Major Supervisor Approval Date Minor Supervisor Approval Date
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
70
PHD STUDENT REGISTRATION, 2013–2014
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION STAGE REGISTRATION School of Theology
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary [email protected]
Instructions:
1. Please use ink, write legibly, and complete all blanks in first section completely.
2. Supervisors must give approval before the student can register.
3. Submit this form and any required attachments to the PhD Office during the registration period.
Student Name Student ID
Address City, State & Zip
Phone (home) Phone (mobile)
Major Field: Major Supervisor:
Minor Field: Minor Supervisor:
COMPREHENSIVE EXAMINATION DATE (PROJECTED)
Date for Major and Minor Field Exam:
Student: I have read and fully understand the PhD program policy and I intend to complete my oral
comprehensive examination by the dates listed above.
MAJOR AND MINOR SUPERVISORS: I have distributed the major and minor comprehensive
bibliographies to my student and explained their purpose.
Student Name Date Major Supervisor Approval Date Minor Supervisor Approval Date
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
71
PHD STUDENT REGISTRATION, 2013–2014
DISSERTATION STAGE REGISTRATION School of Theology
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary [email protected]
Instructions:
1. Please use ink, write legibly, and complete all blanks in first section completely.
2. Supervisors must give approval before the student can register.
3. Submit this form and any required attachments to the PhD Office during the registration period.
Student Name Student ID
Address City, State & Zip
Phone (home) Phone (mobile)
Major Field: Dissertation Supervisor:
Second Reader:
Third Reader: (if assigned)
DISSERTATION DEFENSE DRAFT AND GRADUATION DATE (PROJECTED)
Prospectus:
(if applicable)
Dissertation
Defense Draft:
Graduation Date:
Student: I have read and fully understand the PhD program policy and I intend to complete my dissertation
defense draft and to graduate by the dates listed above.
DISSERTATION SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE: I have notified the PhD Office of my student’s
dissertation progress.
Student Name Date Dissertation Supervisor Approval Date Second Reader Approval Date
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
72
SUPERVISOR APPROVAL OF PROSPECTUS
School of Theology
TO: Terry L. Wilder, Associate Dean for the PhD Program
This is to certify that I have read and approved the dissertation prospectus by:
Print PhD Candidate’s Name
I recommend that the following faculty members to be given a copy of the prospectus for
review:
___________________________ ___________________________
___________________________ ___________________________
___________________________ ____________ Supervisor’s Signature Date
_________________________________________
Print Supervisor’s Name
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
73
Dissertation Defense Draft Submission
School of Theology
Instructions:
This form must accompany any dissertation defense draft submitted to the PhD program
office in the School of Theology. No dissertation may be submitted without the
signatures of the Dissertation Supervisory Committee.
Date: _____________________
Candidate’s Name: _________________________________________________
Under our supervision, this candidate has completed his or her dissertation, based upon
the division-approved prospectus. I affirm that any minor changes to the title or outline
have in no way substantively changed the thesis of the prospectus approved by the
division. The dissertation draft may now be submitted.
____________________________________ ______________________________ Major Supervisor Signature Secondary Supervisor Signature
___________________________________ _______________________________ Major Supervisor (Please print) Secondary Supervisor (Please print)
APPENDIX I: PROGRAM FORMS
74
SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
DISSERTATION SUPERVISOR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF
FINAL DISSERTATION SUBMISSION
Instructions:
This form must accompany any dissertation that is submitted to the PhD program office
in the School of Theology. No dissertation may be submitted without the supervisor’s
signature of acknowledgement below:
Date: _____/_____/_____
Candidate’s Name: _________________________________________________
Under my supervision, this candidate has completed his or her dissertation, based upon
the division-approved prospectus. I verify that all necessary revisions specified by the
readers have been made and affirm that any minor changes to the title or outline have in
no way substantively changed the thesis of the prospectus approved by the division. (See attached revision list and corrections as noted.)
Please check one:
The dissertation was successfully defended and no changes were required.
The dissertation was successfully defended with minor changes required. The
student has made the changes and I verify that the changes are correct and
appropriate.
The final dissertation may now be submitted.
____________________________________ (Print Supervisor’s Name)
_____________________________________ Acknowledgement Signature of Dissertation Supervisor