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 log in to Zoom.
Does the program include a financial scholarship?
When we talk about “scholarship” in Conyers, we’re referring to academic work—research, writing, and reflection that integrate faith and learning—not monetary assistance. Conyers (in both its residential and online forms) does not include financial support or scholarships for participation.
What other benefits are there to participation in Conyers Online?
Besides the benefits from the discussion, participants receive free books at the end of the program.
How large is each cohort of students?
Each 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 nine-month 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 75 minutes, generally once per month.
Readings include on average one article per month. An example of the type of reading is "The Meaning of Vocation," by A. J. Conyers.
When are the monthly meetings?
The meeting dates and times are listed here.
We will choose one meeting time each month for the entire year, and because of the number of online programs, we cannot ensure that that meeting time will not conflict with scheduled class times or other obligations. Each year, we plan to alternate the times 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 schedules for September to May to ensure you are available to participate.
What if I have a class or other obligation during the time of the meeting?
The call for applications will include information on meeting days and times. Conyers Online will generally 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 meeting times 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.
My program is hybrid in that we have periodic "immersions" at Baylor's Waco campus. Am I still eligible to apply?
Yes. Most of your education is online and remote, so for our purposes, you are an online student.
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 eligible to apply. Students who graduate during the program are still expected to participate actively for the remainder of Conyers Online.
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.