MPHIL + PHD Special Program

Program Overview

Course Introduction – MPhil/PhD in Charismatic and Pentecostal Theology

The MPhil/PhD in Charismatic and Pentecostal Theology at Kingdom Bible Institute and Theological Seminary (KBITS) is a research-intensive program designed for scholars, theologians, and ministry leaders seeking to deepen their understanding of Pentecostal and Charismatic Christianity. This four-year combined program integrates theological scholarship, historical analysis, and practical application, equipping students to engage critically with key doctrines, spiritual practices, and contemporary issues within the movement. The MPhil phase focuses on foundational coursework, research methodologies, and proposal development, while the PhD phase emphasizes advanced study, comprehensive exams, and original dissertation research. Graduates of this program will contribute to Pentecostal theological scholarship, ministry leadership, and global Christian discourse.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for the MPHIL/PHD program in Charismatic and Pentecostal Theology must hold either an MA in Charismatic and Pentecostal Theology or a first degree in any field with a strong interest in Charismatic and Pentecostal studies.

Course Objectives

By the end of the MPhil/PhD in Charismatic and Pentecostal Theology, students will be able to:

1. Critically analyze the historical and theological development of Pentecostal and Charismatic movements and their global impact.
2. Examine the biblical foundations and doctrinal significance of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and charismatic manifestations in Christian theology.
3. Conduct advanced theological research using qualitative and quantitative methodologies, contributing to academic and ministerial scholarship.
4. Engage with contemporary challenges in Pentecostalism, including leadership ethics, theological controversies, and socio-political engagement.
5. Produce and defend a scholarly dissertation that advances knowledge in Charismatic and Pentecostal theology and its application to Christian ministry.

Program Structure

Year 1: MPhil Phase

Core Courses (Compulsory)

1. History and Development of Pentecostal and Charismatic Movements
2. Theology of the Holy Spirit
3. Biblical Foundations of Charismatic Gifts
4. Pentecostal Hermeneutics
5. Research Methods in Theology (Expanded to include qualitative & ethnographic research in Pentecostal studies)

Electives (Choose 2)

1. Global Pentecostalism and Missionary Movements (Include a focus on the African, Asian, and Latin American Pentecostal growth)
2. Charismatic Worship and Liturgy
3. Healing, Deliverance, and Exorcism in Pentecostal Theology (Clarifying its theological and anthropological dimensions)
4. Pentecostal Eschatology and Prophetic Movements

Research Proposal Development
– Workshops on academic writing and dissertation structuring.
– Students develop and defend their MPhil research proposal before a faculty panel.

Year 2: Transition to PhD Phase

Advanced Courses (Compulsory)

1. Contemporary Issues in Pentecostal Theology (Addressing theological shifts, prosperity gospel debates, and Neo-Pentecostalism)
2. Charismatic Leadership, Church Growth, and Governance (Focus on church administration, leadership structures, and succession planning in Pentecostal settings)
3. Theological Ethics and Accountability in Pentecostal Practice (Addressing financial transparency, prophetic ethics, and ministerial integrity)
4. Pentecostalism and Social Justice (Exploring Pentecostal responses to poverty, gender issues, and political engagement)

Comprehensive Exams
– A written and oral exam covering Pentecostal Theology, Church History, and Research Methods.
– Students must demonstrate mastery before proceeding to the PhD phase.

Doctoral Research Begins
– Students begin PhD-level research, refining their dissertation focus.
– Engage in doctoral colloquiums and peer reviews for feedback.

Years 3-4: PhD Phase

Dissertation Research
– Students conduct original research with a strong theological, historical, or empirical foundation.
– Regular research seminars where candidates present progress.

Optional Practical Component (For students with a ministerial background)
– Church Planting Project (Launch a Pentecostal church based on researched models)
– Revival Leadership Initiative (Lead and document a revival movement based on theological study)
– Pentecostal Training Curriculum Development (Design a curriculum for Charismatic and Pentecostal theological education)

Writing and Defense
– Submission of dissertation.
– Oral defense before an expert panel.

FEES: GHC 9,000 PER YEAR