Cohort Description

Bible Translation has radically changed and expanded in an ever globalising world over the past few decades. The use of translation theory, modes of training and the role of orality have all contributed to sharpening the focus of Bible translation which seeks to equip people with biblical texts they can engage meaningfully in their daily lives. The cohort will meet for classes in a hybrid format; each year students will meet in-person for a two-week seminar as well as completing coursework via online learning and discussion. The in-person seminars are designed to provide opportunities for relationship building, peer learning, and thesis development pursuant to the focus for each module as well as each student’s research. Peer review and the inclusion of a local advisor will strengthen the value of the entire degree program.

Year One (14 Units)

Fall Quarter: Sep 2024 (4 units, hybrid, location TBD)
Winter Quarter: Jan 2025 (4 units, online)
Spring Quarter: Mar 2025 (6 units, online)

Based on foundational readings in missiology and theology, each cohort member will design a research project applicable to the needs and interests of a particular translational issue and relevant to their context. A literature review of theological works relevant to each student’s thesis and research will set the tone for the entire four-year program.

Year 2 (14 Units)

Fall Quarter: Sep 2025 (4 units, hybrid, location TBD)
Winter Quarter: Jan 2026 (4 units, online)
Spring Quarter: Mar 2026 (6 units, online)

The second year will focus on understanding the context in which each student’s research project is developed. Students will acquire skills in research methods and analysis to further understand the needs and interests within their specific context.

Year 3 (14 Units)

Fall Quarter: Sep 2026 (4 units, hybrid, location TBD)
Winter Quarter: Jan 2027 (4 units, online)
Spring Quarter: Mar 2027 (6 units, online)

The third year will focus on the changes in leadership dynamics based on the coursework and research of years one and two and they will consider how the practices of translation can help to address critical issues in ministry. Students will also develop a pilot project implementing the principles of “leadership dynamics” that will provide data for the student’s major paper in this module.

Year 4 (12 Units)

Fall Quarter: Sep 2026 (4 units, online)
Winter Quarter: Jan 2027 (4 units, online)
Spring Quarter: Mar 2027 (4 units, online)

Dissertation writing is the focus of this final year of the cohort. Students will begin to synthesize the research from previous years which will inform their research and culminate in a contextually applied dissertation that has on-going value for the ministry context in focus. The inclusion of a peer review and critical feedback from the local advisor will strengthen the dissertation which each student will defend prior to graduation.