Report on a Study of Doctoral Programs that Prepare Faculty for Teaching in Theological Schools
By Helen M. Blier and Barbara G. Wheeler
June 2010

Helen Blier and Barbara Wheeler report on a study of 24 “top supplier” doctoral programs in theology and religion—those that send the most graduates to teach in seminaries and divinity schools. The report raises questions about the practices of programs and the employment prospects of graduates.

How has the recent financial downturn affected the doctoral programs that prepare people for seminary teaching and the students in those programs? Twenty-four programs in North America that are the top suppliers of seminary faculty were surveyed about recruitment and admissions practices, academic and vocational support of students, educational focus, and the financing of doctoral education. The study found gaps between programs’ stated purposes and their practices, heavy financial stress on both students and programs, and poor prospects for immediate employment of graduates.  

Signs of the Times: Present and Future Theological Faculty
By Barbara G. Wheeler, Sharon L. Miller and Katarina Schuth
February 2005

This study suggests that theological education is, on the whole, a stable enterprise. The findings of this study, compared with earlier research, show much in common, possible new trends, and a few dramatic shifts.

In this Issue:
• Who are the faculty members who are training future religious leaders in North
   America and how have they changed in the past ten years?  

Tending Talents: Reports from a Study of Theological School Faculty
By Barbara G. Wheeler and Mark N. Wilhelm
March 1997

A theological school is only as strong as its faculty. This research offers not only a picture of who is teaching in our seminaries, but also some of the challenges they face as they train students for ministry.

In this Issue:
• Do our schools have the faculty they need?
• What are the current issues facing faculty, particularly women and junior faculty? 

True and False: Reports from a Study of Theological School Faculty

By Barbara G. Wheeler
January 1996

In this Issue:
• Why do some schools have faculty that function well as a body, not just individuals?
• What can theological schools do to create effective and productive faculties?
•  How can institutions "develop" their faculties in ways that will deepen, enrich, and
   extend educational mission?

This report focuses on four issues: Retirements and Replacements, Morale, Women on Theological Faculties and Scholarship and Church Service.   

Background Reports on following page