Vision
Vision
There are thousands of Churches in Nepal by God’s grace, and the thousands more growing rapidly. But unfortunately, most of the churches’ bookshelves are predominated by heretical and self-help books. Nepali churches continue to suffer from theological poverty.
Therefore, the Gospel Publication exists to meet the need of thousands of Nepali Churches locally and globally by translating, publishing, and distributing good English books into the Nepali language. That way, we can create more faithful resources for the churches in Nepal and beyond. The Gospel Publication would also publish and distribute books written by local writers and pastors
We Hope to:
- Translate, publish and distribute both classic and contemporary titles from English into the Nepali language.
- Develop, publish and distribute resources produced by local writers.
Advanced Research Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Advance Theological Scholarship. Shape the Future of the Church.
Duration
4–6 Years
Location
Bangalore, India
Old Testament • New Testament • Theology • Intercultural Studies
Rigorous Research. Global Impact.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at SAIACS is a rigorous research degree designed to equip scholars for academic leadership, theological scholarship, and advanced research in the global church.
Rooted in the evangelical tradition and committed to the highest standards of doctoral education, the SAIACS PhD prepares students to make an original contribution to theological knowledge while engaging deeply with the intellectual, cultural, and missional contexts of South Asia and beyond.
Mentored Academic Development
Work closely with experienced faculty mentors who guide your research and scholarly development.
Global Evangelical Scholarship
Study within an institution committed to internationally recognized academic standards.
Program Structure
Cultivating deep research expertise, scholarly discipline, and academic leadership through two major stages.
01
Pre-Doctoral Programme (PDP)
Before formal PhD candidacy, students participate in an intensive stage of academic preparation. Successful completion leads to formal candidacy and proposal approval.
- Develop comprehensive field knowledge
- Guided reading and scholarly writing
- Participate in doctoral seminars
- Demonstrate research language competency
- Identify and refine dissertation topic
02
PhD Candidacy
Focused dissertation research under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Students move into independent doctoral research and scholarly dialogue.
- Conduct independent doctoral research
- Submit draft chapters for review
- Present research to the community
- Engage in scholarly dialogue and critique
Annual Presentation
Candidates present research and receive peer feedback.
Interdisciplinary
Interact with scholars across various disciplines.
“Doktorklub”
The institute’s interdisciplinary doctoral forum where faculty and candidates engage in scholarly dialogue and develop publication-quality research.
A Vibrant Scholarly Community
While the PhD emphasizes individual research, academic formation at SAIACS takes place within an active community of scholars.
Through Doktorklub, students cultivate intellectual collaboration and academic excellence, preparing for the rigors of the global academy.
The Dissertation
The culmination of the program is a major research project that develops a clear argument, engages critically with scholarship, and demonstrates methodological rigor.
Evaluated by internal and external examiners and defended in a viva voce examination.
Recommended Length
80k – 100k
Words
Areas of Specialization
Each specialization integrates rigorous scholarship with contextual theological reflection, particularly within the realities of South Asia and the global church.
Old Testament
New Testament
Christian Theology
Intercultural Studies
Religious Studies
History of Christianity
Pastoral Theology & Counselling
Duration and Residency
The PhD program typically requires 48 months of doctoral study, with flexibility in residency options.
Full-Time Residency
Students reside on campus and complete the program through full-time research engagement.
Flexible Residency
Required residency periods combined with off-campus research. Potential for overseas research placements.
Award Pathways
PhD – SAIACS
Accredited by the Asia Theological Association (ATA).
PhD – University of Mysore
Recognized by the Government of India.
Pathways depend on applicant’s background and qualifications.
Admission Requirements
-
Academic Preparation
MTh or equivalent with a minimum B+ (75%) average.
-
Linguistic Competency
High competency in English and relevant research languages.
-
Research Potential
Strong analytical ability and commitment to evangelical scholarship.
Vocational Pathways
Our graduates serve in a variety of leadership roles:
Seminary Professor
Research Scholar
Academic Leader
Author & Editor
Ministry Consultant
Theological Educator
Begin Your Doctoral Journey
If you are called to advanced theological research and academic service, the SAIACS PhD offers a context where scholarship, faith, and mission come together.
