Current Doctoral Students

Charles Savelle (Ph.D. student) - I chose to pursue a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition at DTS for three basic reasons. First, I believe that this program best fits my interests in exploring the Scriptures at a broad biblical-theology level. Second, I believe that a Bible Exposition degree will best equip me for future ministry. And third, DTS is one of only a handful of seminaries that offer the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition.

Rick Dodson (D.Min. student) - Since I received my Th.M. from DTS, many people advised me to pursue my D.Min. from some other seminary. They suggested it would be more beneficial to be exposed to a different educational “culture” offered by another institution. Although their argument seemed plausible, the positive experience during my Th.M. days made me question whether that so-called “different culture” would be worth it. After investigating DTS’s program, I was impressed by its flexibility. I could get all the benefits of a known/proven educational experience along with the flexibility/diversity one might want. So far, it has been just that.  The care and personal attention I received during my Th.M. days are still present at DTS! The quality of the DTS faculty makes my D.Min. experience a solid/unmatched investment. After all….I don’t care how “good” some other institution might be…where else can you get a Howard Hendricks, Bill Lawrence, and John Reed?

As I near the end of my course work, the aspect that I most appreciate about pursuing a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition has been the opportunity to interact closely with seasoned professors who have encouraged me to be academically minded and yet spiritually sensitive.

I believe that my studies here prepare me for ministry by deepening my knowledge of the Scriptures, sharpening my ability to think critically, honing my desire to study carefully and research competently, all while developing the skills necessary to clearly communicate the eternal truths of God’s Word.

Daniel Elliot (D.Min. student) - I selected the D.Min. program because it allowed me to be creative with my education. I had a project in mind when I applied for the program and was able to complete it in my dissertation. The classes are very practical and rubbing shoulders with others in full-time ministry provided a wealth of ideas that could be utilized in my ministry.

Carisa Ash (Ph.D. student) - I believe theology is responding rightly to God's revelation. I desire to encourage the next generation to understand and value theology as it pertains to all of life.  Resultantly, I'm trying to get the best training I can in preparing me to teach the next generation. I have benefited greatly from the mutual support of the fellow students, the intellectual challenges from the professors and the discussion format of the classes.

Richard Ferris (D.Min. student) Pastor and Teacher, Faith Community Church - I’ve chosen the D.Min. to further hone ministry skills while continuing to serve. Each professor has expected the work to focus upon my church. As a result, the degree has benefited the congregation as much as it has benefited me. I have enjoyed discussing and brainstorming solutions to ministry problems with other men who are in similar situations.

The degree is enhancing my ministry. The foundation was laid in the masters program but the development of practical ministry is the focus of the D.Min.

Joel Thomas (Ph.D. student) - I chose the Ph.D. program at DTS because I believe that God has called me to teach at the Bible College or Seminary level.   I have particularly enjoyed the academic challenge that Dallas Seminary has presented me and feel that when I complete my degree I will be thoroughly prepared to teach at the post secondary level.

Scott Wooddell (D.Min. student) Pastor, Redeemer Bible Church - When I completed the Th.M. program in 1990 I eagerly jumped into the pastorate, but after 14 years of pastoral work, I had fallen into a rut. Enrolling in the D.Min. program re-sharpened and re-energized my ministry.
 
The D.Min. program offered practical course work which I was able to immediately apply to my ministry. The small classes gave me the opportunity to interact with some of today's best church leaders. Dr. Bruce Ewing helped me develop a discipleship course for my church, Dr. Bill Donahue guided me in crafting a small groups ministry and Dr. Ken Gangel's class on "Writing for Publication" enabled me to publish several articles.  However, the best class was the week I spent in Israel with Dr. Doug Cecil. I now preach about places I've visited, adding vivid color to my sermons.
 
The D.Min. program has given me fresh ideas from some of today's best church leaders.