Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the program last?

Conyers Scholars Online lasts approximately nine months, usually beginning around September and ending around May. 

What is the cost of the program?

The program is free to all participants. We will provide all readings. 

What else do I need to participate?

You will not need access to any equipment above and beyond what you already need for the online doctoral program, such as stable internet access and the ability to login to Zoom. 

How large is each cohort of students?

Each year-long Conyers Online cohort will be between 10 and 14 students. We find that this size is optimal for allowing everyone to participate in discussions. 

What level of commitment does the program involve?

Students must commit to participating fully in Conyers Scholars Online program activities for the year-long program, including reading assigned materials and participating actively in discussions. Each Conyers Scholars cohort is a community, so participation is crucial. Moreover, because entrance into the program is competitive, a student who does not participate is taking the place of someone who might have participated. 

The meetings will last approximately 90 minutes once per month. 

Readings include on average one article per month, with one book of about 150 pages in lieu of an article in December or January. An example of the type of reading is "The Meaning of Vocation," by A. J. Conyers. 

When are the monthly meetings?

We will choose one night each month for the entire year, and because of the number of online programs, we cannot ensure that that night will not conflict with scheduled class times. Each year, we plan to alternate the night on which monthly meetings will occur so that, if a student cannot participate one year, they may be able to participate in a subsequent year. Before applying to the program, please look carefully at your class schedules for September to May to ensure you are available to participate. 

What if I have a class on the night of the meeting?

When the call for applications goes out, the materials will include information on evening and time. Conyers Online will meet each month. If you have class sessions during that time, either in the Fall or Spring terms, please do not apply for Conyers Online that year. We will alternate the nights each year, and you may have the opportunity to participate in future years. The leaders welcome emails that let us know of your conflicts to help us plan in future.

Do you have recommendations on where students should be within their programs when they apply to Conyers Online? For instance, should they apply during their first year, second year, before/after beginning the dissertation, etc.?

We do not have any requirements on where students are within their programs. We anticipate that advisors may nudge students in different ways; for instance, advisors may not want students to participate in Conyers Online while working on their dissertations, as students might not have enough time at that stage of their journey. We leave it up to individual programs and advisors to communicate those requirements. Regardless of the student's stage, the student needs to be able to commit to the readings and meetings. 

What if I'm scheduled to graduate before the end of Conyers Online?

Students are welcome to apply even if they plan to graduate before the end of Conyers Online, as long as they are students when they apply and begin the program (i.e., in September). Alumni are not welcome to apply. Students who graduate during the program are still expected to participate actively for the remainder of Conyers Online. After all, the meetings will be in the evenings and thus should not conflict with most work schedules. 

Who leads the program?

You can find information on the leaders here. The leaders set up the meetings but expect all students to participate; Conyers meetings are not lectures but active discussions. In addition to these leaders, special invited speakers will join some Conyers meetings.  

I don't have an academic background in theology or ministry. Can I still participate?

Yes! Conyers Scholars Online is for all online doctoral students interested in questions regarding faith, learning, and vocation. We deliberately seek to have interdisciplinary cohorts. 

Is there a certification upon completion of the program?

No. Students are welcome to list their participation on a resume or CV, but they will not receive a formal certificate. 

Are there further commitments after the program ends?

No. Although we expect students to participate actively during the program, they do not need to do anything after Conyers Online ends. 

If I didn't get in this year, can I apply next year?

Yes! The program is competitive, so we encourage you to apply in the future. 

What if I have other questions?

Please email nathan_hays@baylor.edu.