Call for Applications
Baylor’s Graduate School and the Institute for Faith and Learning are pleased to invite applications for the 2026–2027 cohort of the Conyers Scholars Online Program—an opportunity for Baylor’s online doctoral students to explore the integration of Christian faith, academic life, and professional vocation.
This nine-month initiative (September–May) brings together a small cohort of students for virtual gatherings (generally once per month) centered on readings and conversations about what it means to follow Christ in our academic and professional lives.
Program Overview
Conyers Scholars Online is designed for full-time online doctoral students at Baylor. The cohort will consist of 10–14 students who meet virtually once per month on average for intellectually rich, faith-centered dialogue.
- Virtual meetings via Zoom (Sept–May), once per month on average, Fridays from 11:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Central Time
- Books and articles provided at no cost
- Guest speakers will join select sessions
2026–2027 Meeting Schedule & Themes
Note: All meetings are Fridays, 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Central Time
Date | Theme |
|---|---|
| September 11, 2026 | Christian Calling and our Vocations |
| October 16, 2026 | Christian Belief and our Work |
| November 13, 2026 | Christian Scholarship |
| January 22, 2027 | Christian Practice and its Relationship to our Disciplines and Professions |
| February 26, 2027 | Christian Community in Connection to our Professional Lives |
| March 19, 2027 | Justice and Reconciliation |
| April 16, 2027 | Work and Worship |
| May 28, 2027 | Capstone Reflections on Life and Vocation |
Note: Applicants must confirm availability during these times before applying. Meeting days will shift each year to provide broader access.
Who Should Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be full-time online doctoral students at Baylor
- Demonstrate strong academic and research habits
- Show an active Christian faith and sincere interest in vocation-related questions
- Commit to completing all assigned readings
- Commit to attending all eight meetings
Application Requirements
Applications are due August 12, 2026, and must include:
- Essay 1 (350–500 words)
How do you understand the relationship between your Christian faith and your chosen course of study and professional aspirations? What are the key opportunities and challenges that face Christians in this field? - Essay 2 (75–150 words)
How willing and able are you to devote additional time to this program (between 3 and 5 hours per month)? - Short biography (~150 words, third-person)
This will be used for the website if you are selected. Examples here.
We recommend composing your responses in a separate document and pasting them into the application form.
Timeline
- Applications open: June 26, 2026
- Application deadline: August 12, 2026
- Interviews: August 20–21, 2026
- Cohort announced: August 24, 2026
- First meeting: September 11, 2026
Questions?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Contact Nathan Hays at nathan_hays@baylor.edu