More often than not, a call to the ministry must be investigated before it is acted upon. These academic programs are often designed to prepare graduates to succeed in the daily duties of church ministers, as well as clarify a student’s calling.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.