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Through a series of conversations I have become connected with George Fox Evangelical Seminary and their doctoral program. I’ll be working with some doctoral students beginning in February. The program runs out of Portland, but is largely done online and in other locations. It’s an interesting program with three distinct tracks. The summary is in the graphic above, and the breakdown is below.

Leadership and Spiritual Formation

The Leadership and Spiritual Formation Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program operates out of the conviction that leadership in the kingdom of God only occurs through lives that are rightly related to Jesus Christ.

The Leadership and Spiritual Formation DMin program features an approach to academics that focuses on enriching both your leadership skills and spiritual life. As such, it fosters a learning atmosphere that encourages personal transformation in order to become an effective spiritual leader.

Semiotics and Future Studies

The Semiotics and Future Studies Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program with Dr. Leonard (Len) Sweet prepares an advance guard of Jesus semioticians, leaders adept at seeing signs of Jesus’ work in the world. These followers of Jesus are not afraid of the future but are excited about its possibilities and promises, while aware of its perils and pitfalls.

The approach is an ancient-future one of MRI (Missional, Relational, Incarnational) discipleship, using an EPIC (Experiential, Participatory, Image-Rich, Connective) interface. Students explore how to transition the church from its current default of APC (Attractional, Propositional, Colonial) to MRI, and play with a variety of EPIC interfaces.

Leadership and Global Perspectives

The Leadership and Global Perspectives DMin program focuses on equipping Christian leaders in faith-based nonprofit organizations and churches to confidently, constructively, and effectively carry out the mission of the gospel of Jesus Christ in an increasingly interconnected world.

Students participate in a learning experience that is bigger than the challenges that they face. Through a series of real-world experiences in a variety of global venues students engage with Christian leaders from around the world, who are making a difference. They join a network of like-minded leaders who are transforming lives, empowering communities, or engaging in social entrepreneurship as a witness to the love of Christ. They explore ministry leadership at the global and local intersections of church, world and culture with Dr. Clark in a flexible, online learning environment. Under the supervision of an academic advisor, students pursue customized research in topics directed toward their own ministry context. This combination of dynamic learning experiences is designed to empower students to boldly lead their communities in innovative ministry for the sake of the gospel.

George Fox Evangelical Seminary


3 Comments on Doctoral Studies at George Fox Seminary

  1. Dan Steigerwald says:

    Hey Len, of course you know I’m biased concerning Fox. I love the hybrid class I lead there, as the quality of students always impresses me. And both the MDIV and DMIN programs seem to be resonant and helpful with many female and male leaders. So it’s exciting to hear you’ll be involved in this world too.

  2. len says:

    dan, yes, GF feels like a rich and creative place. Be great to catch up with you in person – maybe this fall eh?

  3. Brandon Rhodes says:

    As another person who is somewhat biased on the matter, I second Dan’s enthusiasm for you contributing to their programs. They’re great folk, and you’d have a ton to contribute.