MBS Dissertation Format

Dissertation Format Guide

Every student in the Certificate, Bachelor, Master, or Doctorate program must complete a dissertation or thesis project. This is required to demonstrate theological understanding. It also reflects spiritual growth and ministry competency.

Students may choose one (1) of the following dissertation formats, depending on their field of study and ministry application:

Option 1: Exegetical-Theological Dissertation

This option focuses on the scholarly study of Scripture, biblical themes, and theological reflection through verse-by-verse exegesis and doctrinal integration.

Suggested Format:

  1. Title Page
  2. Abstract (150–250 words)
  3. Acknowledgments
  4. Table of Contents
  5. Introduction
    • Purpose and Significance
    • Background of the Study
    • Statement of the Problem
    • Research Questions or Hypothesis
  6. Literature Review
    • Scholarly Contributions on the Topic
    • Theological Views and Interpretations
  7. Methodology
    • Exegetical Approach (Historical-Grammatical, Literary, Canonical)
    • Hermeneutical Framework
  8. Biblical Text Analysis
    • Verse-by-Verse Interpretation
    • Original Language Word Studies (Hebrew/Greek)
    • Contextual and Theological Implications
  9. Theological Reflection
    • Doctrinal Implications
    • Integration into Biblical or Systematic Theology
  10. Application to Contemporary Church or Society
  11. Conclusion
  12. Bibliography
  13. Appendices (if applicable)

Option 2: Practical-Ministry Based Dissertation

This format examines real-life ministry challenges. It provides theological and practical responses. These responses are based on pastoral experience, counseling, evangelism, leadership, or church development.

Suggested Format:

  1. Title Page
  2. Abstract (150–250 words)
  3. Acknowledgments
  4. Table of Contents
  5. Introduction
    • Ministry Context and Background
    • Statement of the Problem
    • Purpose and Goals
    • Research Questions
  6. Review of Literature
    • Practical and Theological Sources
    • Best Practices and Case Studies
  7. Methodology
    • Qualitative or Mixed Methods
    • Interviews, Surveys, or Observations
  8. Ministry Challenge or Issue
    • History and Scope of the Problem
    • Community or Church Impact
  9. Biblical and Theological Response
    • Biblical Support
    • Theological Principles for Ministry Action
  10. Strategic Plan or Ministry Proposal
  11. Evaluation and Impact
  • Expected Outcomes
  • Challenges and Adjustments
  1. Conclusion
  2. Bibliography
  3. Appendices (e.g., Interview Questions, Charts, Ministry Tools)

Option 3: Project-Based or Applied Ministry Dissertation

This model emphasizes real ministry in action. The student designs, implements, and evaluates a church-based or outreach project, then reflects on its biblical foundation and ministerial effectiveness.

Suggested Format:

  1. Title Page
  2. Abstract (150–250 words)
  3. Acknowledgments
  4. Table of Contents
  5. Introduction
    • Nature and Purpose of the Project
    • Ministry Setting and Background
    • Need for the Project
  6. Biblical and Theological Foundations
    • Key Scripture Passages
    • Doctrinal/Theological Themes
  7. Project Design and Implementation Plan
    • Project Objectives
    • Timeline, Participants, Materials
    • Curriculum, Media, or Strategy
  8. Execution of the Ministry Project
    • Implementation Process
    • Observations and Experiences
  9. Assessment and Evaluation
    • Measurable Outcomes
    • Feedback and Results
    • Adjustments and Improvements
  10. Personal and Ministerial Reflection
    • Lessons Learned
    • Spiritual and Leadership Growth
  11. Conclusion and Recommendations
  12. Bibliography
  13. Appendices (Photos, Tools, Worksheets, Schedules, etc.)

Formatting Requirements (All Dissertation Types):

  • Font: Times New Roman or Arial, 12pt
  • Spacing: Double-spaced
  • Margins: 1 inch on all sides
  • Page Length:
    • Certificate: 20–30 pages
    • Bachelor: 40–60 pages
    • Master: 60–100 pages
    • Doctorate: 100–150+ pages
  • Citation Style: Choose Turabian (footnotes) or APA (in-text citations). Use it consistently throughout.

What is Turabian or APA?

Both Turabian and APA are citation styles—they are official formats for writing, referencing, and organizing academic papers. They guide how to:

  • Format the title page
  • Organize headings and subheadings
  • Cite Bible verses and books
  • Add footnotes or in-text citations
  • List your references or bibliography

1. Turabian Style (Chicago Style for Students)

  • Used in: Theology, Bible studies, humanities, seminary dissertations.
  • Features:
    • Uses footnotes at the bottom of the page for citations.
    • Bibliography at the end.
    • More formal and traditional, ideal for theological writing.

Example – Book Citation (Footnote Style):

1. Wayne Grudem, *Systematic Theology* (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994), 55.

In the bibliography:

Grudem, Wayne. *Systematic Theology*. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994.

2. APA Style (American Psychological Association)

  • Used in: Education, psychology, social sciences, Christian counseling, and ministry-based research.
  • Features:
    • Uses in-text citations (Author, Year).
    • Reference list at the end.
    • More modern and simple.

Example – Book Citation (In-Text Style):

(Grudem, 1994, p. 55)

In the references list:

Grudem, W. (1994). *Systematic theology*. Zondervan.

What to Use for Mobile Bible School?

  • Turabian – for Exegetical-Theological dissertations (more scholarly and traditional).
  • APA – for Ministry-Based or Project-Based dissertations (more practical and modern).

⚠️ Important Note: Whatever style the student chooses, they must use it consistently throughout the whole paper.

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