| Acronym | DIS |
|---|---|
| Type | Doctoral Degree |
| Purpose | Advanced research and applied scholarship related to Intercultural studies, Missiology, Anthropology, Theology, Sociology, Cross-cultural studies. |
| Duration | 3–6 years (varies by institution and format) |
| Prerequisites | Master’s degree in a related field, professional experience related to research topic (varies by institution) |
Doctor of Intercultural Studies (abbreviated as DIS, D.I.S., DICS, or Dr.IS) is a terminal degree in the academic discipline of intercultural studies. Typically offered by Christian seminaries and theological schools, this interdisciplinary course of study integrates insights from anthropology, missiology, sociology, cultural studies, and theology to prepare students for leadership, teaching, and research roles in cross-cultural and multicultural contexts. [1]
The Doctor of Intercultural Studies is typically offered by seminaries, theological institutions, and universities with programs in missiology, intercultural communication, or global leadership. [2] The degree is closely related to the Doctor of Missiology degree, with some programs organizing both degrees into a single program. [3] [4]
The Association of Theological Schools classifies the Doctor of Intercultural Studies degree as a professional doctoral degree, which they outline as requiring a minimum of 36 semester credits or equivalent units and incorporating a doctoral dissertation or other summative exercise. [5] The degree is designed for individuals with substantial experience in intercultural settings—such as missionaries, educators, or NGO leaders—who seek to deepen their theoretical understanding and contribute to academic or applied research in the field. Unlike some Ph.D. programs, which may be more narrowly focused on theory or theology, the DIS often emphasizes both scholarly rigor and practical application. Programs may allow for specialization in areas such as globalization, migration, contextual theology, reconciliation and peace studies, cross-cultural leadership, or education in intercultural contexts. Many institutions offer flexible formats including modular intensives, online or hybrid models, and field-based research, allowing students to remain active in their ministries or professions during the program. [6]
Doctor of Intercultural Studies degree programs are accredited by bodies such as the Association of Theological Schools [5] and the Asia Theological Association. [7]
Institutions that offer the Doctor of Intercultural Studies (or comparable degrees) include:
Some universities may offer comparable degrees under different titles, such as Doctor of Missiology [3] or Doctor of Global Leadership. [14]