The program is divided into foundational, formulational, functional, and focus studies. Following a preliminary proposal, the research phase is divided into the development of a formal Research Proposal and writing and defending a Doctoral Dissertation. The program has one academic structure with foundational and post-doctoral options. All applicants are probationary graduate students until foundational studies assessment merits matriculation. The study must demonstrate the sociological integration of religion and society.
Applicants approach doctoral studies from different backgrounds.
All doctoral Candidates are required to submit a post-doctoral research proposal prior to degree validation. An acceptable proposal qualifies for Oxford Society of Scholars membership. Society members participate in referred research and are advanced as they produce and publish literature in religion and society. A function of the program is to synthesize foundational studies into a working philosophy of service with a functional and research application to society. This interpretation is focused on the humanities and social sciences and a particular research application, and culminates in problem-solving research.