Today, Dr. Ernie Baker sits down with Dr. Keith Palmer, Director of TMU’s Doctorate of Ministry program, to hear more about what the program has to offer.
The Doctor of Ministry program builds on TMU’s heritage of excellence in biblical counseling training. Its primary aim is to train men and women to become highly skilled counselors in the field, while also preparing them to train the next generation of counselors. For men, the program also provides the opportunity to become fellows with ACBC, providing the pathway for them to mentor and train aspiring counselors. Not only is the program focused on teaching the practical skills and content of biblical counseling, but it also encourages students to grow in their faith and cultivate Christ-like character in every area of their lives.
Designed with full-time ministry in mind, the program is designed with a flexible online modular format. This allows students to remain in their current ministry roles without the need to relocate to the campus. However, throughout the program, students gather on campus for four intensive seminar sessions, where they engage in learning as well as make significant progress on their doctoral work.
One of the most distinctive features of the program is the doctoral project. While it may be longer than other university’s projects, it is intentionally structured to combine deep theological research with practical application, making it a meaningful tool to serve both the church and the counselors as well.
Admission to the program required a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or an equivalent degree. Applicants should also be seasoned counselors, as a certain amount of counseling experience is required. While ACBC certification is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended for students to either have or to be working toward.
