Doctor of Ministry (Church Vitality)

Overview of the Doctor of Ministry Program at BTS

Birmingham Theological Seminary's Doctor of Ministry program is tailored to suit both bi-vocational pastors and full-time ministry professionals, including those in church-based or non-profit organizations. Our program is designed to be flexible and relevant to those active in ordained ministry or full-time ministry roles.

Diverse Specialization Tracks

We offer four distinct tracks in our Doctor of Ministry Program:

• Pastoral Leadership
• Biblical Counseling
• Apologetics
• Church Vitality

Qualified Faculty and Mentorship

All faculty members in each track have obtained terminal, post-graduate degrees and are or have been full-time ministry practitioners. As “practical academicians,” they bring a wealth of experience in integrating biblical, historical, practical, and theological resources into successful ministries. They also serve as mentors, guiding students through the program.

Cohort-Based, Classroom-Oriented Learning

The BTS D.Min. program is cohort-based and classroom-oriented, focusing on educational innovation and community-driven learning. This approach encourages students to find a balance between academic content and professional application.

Doctor of Ministry in Church Vitality

The Church Vitality track of the BTS doctoral program is dedicated to studying the mission of the church and applying those principles to church multiplication and revitalization globally. This track emphasizes three key study areas:

• Church Planting
• Church Revitalization
• Coach/Mentor Training

The goal is to foster networks and denominations of healthy, gospel-centered churches that are actively involved in reproducing and revitalizing churches to expand God’s kingdom.

Program Structure and Coursework

Students in the Church Vitality track will:

• Be equipped to lead, plant, and revitalize churches, as well as coach churches and pastors through various challenges.
• Participate in the foundational Lampstand Conference at Briarwood Presbyterian Church.
• Engage in courses that are theologically and philosophically aligned with this conference.

Sample Classes in Church Vitality Track

• Church Vitality & Planting (Lampstand Conference)
• Advanced Hermeneutics
• Contemporary Theology
• Contemporary Church Planting
• Preaching in a Post-Christian Context
• The Transformational Church: Evangelism and Discipleship
• Gospel Coaching and Mentoring

This program is designed to prepare ministry leaders for effective service in a rapidly changing ministry landscape, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.