At the luncheon yesterday at Liberty I was asked about doctoral programs and I mentioned that my own program placed a pretty high premium on publishing.
I thought that was very intimidating. I mean, getting a first book published is probably less likely than getting a hole in one. But at Basel you had no choice. The order of requirements was as follows:
1. Write your dissertation.
2. Have it accepted by the ENTIRE theological faculty.
3. Wait 6 months, then take your orals.
4. Find a publisher for your dissertation.
5. Deliver 120 copies of your PUBLISHED dissertation to the university library at your own expense.
Then and only then were you granted your doctorate.
I'm certainly not saying that this program is for everyone. What I am saying is that if the Lord allows you to publish your dissertation, then do it. Something that's worth writing is worth reading, don't you think? And never forget: your dissertation will probably be the least important book you ever write in your academic career.
