CLAREMONT SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Spirituality (SpD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 36 creditsProgram Length
- Fully onlineAttendance Mode
- Professional DoctorateDegree Type
- Cohort-based learningProgram Structure
- Focus on compassion-based leadershipSpecialization
The Doctor of Spirituality (SpD) is a fully online professional doctorate program designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of compassion-based leadership. This 36-credit program emphasizes the spiritual dimensions of contemporary leadership and aims to equip students to become agents of transformation and healing in various settings, including communities, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and religious or spiritual groups. The SpD is particularly suited for early- and mid-career professionals such as healthcare providers, artists, civic leaders, educators, and social workers who are dedicated to integrating spiritual practices into their work. The program offers a rigorous academic experience that is also culturally informed and transformative. It is structured around themed cohorts, with initial cohorts focusing on spiritual direction. Future cohorts may explore areas like climate justice, arts-based activism, and community organizing. The SpD equips students with advanced skills in theory, practice, and resources for spiritually-based leadership and conflict resolution.
Curriculum
The SpD curriculum is structured into core courses, concentration focus courses, and a summative project. The program requires 36 credits and is designed to be completed within three years. The initial Spiritual Direction cohort includes specific coursework and practicum experiences.
- Year 1
- Resources and Documentation for Doctoral Students Intensive
- Research Methods (Study and Teaching of Contemplative Practices)
- Spiritual Renewal Through Engaged Compassion
- Interspiritual Approaches to Visionary Leadership
- Compassion Based Approaches to Communities in Conflict
- Year 2 & 3
- Concentration Focus Course 1
- Concentration Focus Course 2
- Concentration Focus Course 3
- Concentration Focus Course 4
- Summative Project (Proposal, First Draft, Final Submission)
Careers
Graduates of the Doctor of Spirituality program are prepared to become agents of transformation and healing in a variety of professional and community settings. The program's focus on compassion-based leadership and spiritual practice equips individuals to lead organizations committed to change, service, and justice.
- Community Leaders
- Educators
- Healthcare Providers
- Artists
- Civic Leaders
- Spiritual Directors
- Community Organizers
- Non-profit Administrators
- Social Workers
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeFrom an accredited institution. Equivalency may be demonstrated by completing a prerequisite 4-course/12-credit series of core theological/spiritual competency courses.
Graduate study experienceExperience equivalent to one (1) year of graduate studies in a relevant field, as determined by concentration area faculty.
Practitioner/leadership experienceTwo years of practitioner/leadership experience.
Applicants must demonstrate a desire and ability, as documented in their application, to incorporate diverse spiritual/contemplative sensibilities and skills into their vocational settings, practices, and perspectives.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
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How to apply
1. Submit an InquiryIf you are interested in learning more, reach out to the Admissions Counselor for this program, Elizabeth Strowbridge, by emailing estrowbridge@cst.edu or by filling out the inquiry form.
2. Submit ApplicationOnce you are ready to apply, submit your application through the university's online portal.