The PhD program is a rigorous, focused course of study that prepares individuals of exceptional academic ability for careers in teaching, research, and writing and for various roles of leadership such as pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, or denominational leadership. Each PhD program helps students gain expertise in one of the disciplines taught by Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. PhD study requires a high degree of originality, independence, analytical research in both biblical and non-biblical languages, judgment, and skill in articulating research findings, resulting in each student significantly contributing to a particular field.

The DMA program is a rigorous, terminal research degree that emphasizes the advanced development of both musical artistry and scholarly achievement in an applied area of specialization. Students in this area have demonstrated exceptional academic and musical abilities and are now preparing for careers in music teaching, performance, church music, and research.

The EdD program is designed to equip scholar-practitioners to solve educational or leadership problems through research, collaboration, and dissemination of new knowledge. Students in the EdD program will be prepared to set a high standard for transformational leadership in education, apply evidence-based practices to improve educational outcomes, and meet the vast challenges associated with improving learning outcomes in both theological and secular educational environments.