Welcome to the Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies, the advanced theological school of Olivet University. We are intended for those who are already involved in Christian leadership, have completed a Master of Divinity (or equivalent) program and wish to further develop their God-given ministry skills.

Our chosen name evokes the heart and goals of our programs. Count Nicolaus von Zinzendorf (1700-1760) was a father of the Moravian movement that developed on Herrnhut, his estate in Germany. They were one expression of the broader Pietist movement that followed the Reformation of the 1500s. However, they took it still further by launching Protestantism’s worldwide evangelistic outreach. Zinzendorf himself sought to promote cooperation among the various forms of Protestantism. He and the Moravians exhibited four commitments for global ministry which our school also seeks to display:

        Personal and vibrant spirituality by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit
        Christian community in worship, prayer, and the sharing of resources
        Taking the Good News to the nations by evangelism, church planting, and social service
        Stressing the foundational doctrines held by Evangelicals generally

This is the tradition we seek to uphold and build upon as we educate a new generation from among the nations with the next level of biblical, theological, and ministerial studies. We invite you to consider the possibility of pursuing a doctoral degree with us as a way to improve your service within and on behalf of the Church, the body of Christ, and the furthering of the Kingdom of God.

God bless you,

Donald Tinder, Ph.D.
Dean, Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies