Youth and Children Ministry focuses on nurturing the spiritual growth of young people. This specialization equips ministers to understand the developmental, social, and spiritual needs of children and youth. Students learn creative teaching methods, mentorship skills, and strategies for building engaging, Christ-centered programs.
Emphasis is placed on discipleship, leadership development, and addressing contemporary challenges such as peer pressure, identity, and digital influence. The program also encourages partnership with families and communities.
Graduates are prepared to inspire the next generation, create safe and impactful ministry environments, and guide young people toward a lasting, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
First year Electives
The Missions and Evangelism specialization focuses on spreading the gospel in both local and global contexts while engaging contemporary challenges. This specialization equips ministers with biblical, theological, and practical tools through courses such as cross-cultural ministry in global contexts, church revitalization, and leadership formation for church planting, particularly in Western societies. Students also explore directed studies in mission and the theology of medicine, enabling holistic ministry that addresses spiritual and physical needs.
Emphasis is placed on cultural sensitivity, strategic outreach, and sustainable mission efforts. Graduates are prepared to lead transformative mission initiatives, revitalize churches, and effectively communicate the gospel across diverse cultural and societal settings.
First year Electives
The Christian Counseling specialization integrates biblical truth with sound counseling principles to promote healing and personal growth. This specialization equips ministers through courses such as pastoral psychology, crisis and trauma counseling, family and couple therapy, counseling techniques, and senior adult ministry. Students are trained to address emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges from a Christ-centered perspective while applying Scripture to real-life situations.
Emphasis is placed on compassion, ethical practice, and spiritual discernment. The program prepares leaders to guide individuals and families toward restoration and wholeness in Christ. Graduates serve effectively in churches and communities, offering hope, wisdom, and practical, Spirit-led care.
First year Electives
Christian Educational Leadership prepares ministers to lead effective teaching ministries within the church and beyond. This specialization integrates biblical foundations with courses such as theology and philosophy of Christian education, integration of faith in teaching and learning, curriculum and Bible lesson development, and biblical teaching methods in the African context. Students are equipped to disciple believers, train leaders, and design relevant, culturally sensitive educational programs.
Emphasis is placed on leadership development, spiritual formation, and lifelong learning. Graduates are prepared to build strong learning environments, mentor others, and lead ministries that promote deep biblical understanding and faithful application of God’s Word in everyday life.
First year Electives
Biblical Studies: Biblical Texts and Apologetics centers on the study and defense of the Christian faith through Scripture. This specialization equips students to interpret the Bible accurately using sound hermeneutical principles and to respond thoughtfully to challenges against Christianity.
Topics include biblical languages, historical context, theology, and contemporary objections to faith. Students learn how to engage skeptics, address difficult questions, and present clear, reasoned arguments for the truth of the gospel. The goal is to strengthen both personal faith and public witness. Graduates become confident teachers and defenders of Scripture, able to guide others in understanding and trusting God’s Word.
First year Electives
In addition to the general admission procedures, applicants to the Doctor of Ministry degree program must meet the following specific requirements:
A minimum of three years of professional ministry or religious leadership or its equivalent.
Official transcripts. Applicants must possess an accredited master’s degree related to the student’s ministry setting or vocational calling with at least a 3.0 FGPA.
Daniel Institute requires you to submit a Professional Vita (CV) showing significant ministry experience consistent with the mission of the school, and readiness for study in an advanced professional doctorate.
Statement of Purpose (300-word minimum) detailing:
Three reference letters: One from an academic and two ecclesiastical endorsement indicating the agreement of the church (or employing organization) with your participation in the Doctor of Ministry program. The endorsement letter must be signed with pen (no typed signatures allowed) and can be faxed, mailed, or scanned and emailed as an attachment.
Candidate status is granted when all admissions criteria have been met, 36 hours of coursework have been completed, and a formal introduction for the thesis project has been submitted.
Once students enter the thesis writing phase of their degree, they must maintain continuous enrollment until they complete all degree requirements. If they do not, they will break enrollment, and they will be required to apply for readmission if/when they wish to resume the pursuit of their degree. They will have to complete their degree under the Degree Completion Plan (DCP) in effect at the time of their readmission.
