A doctorate in theology, or the study of religious faith and spirituality, is the terminal and thus highest degree in the academic field of theology. The doctorate is primarily a research degree that culminates in the presentation of a thesis to a faculty adviser or committee after completion of a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Candidates for a PhD in theology should have a strong undergraduate background in philosophy, theology, or religion, as well as a master’s degree in one of these fields or the Master of Divinity (MDiv). PhD students in theology prepare for careers as seminary or university professors, missionaries, or ministers.
Candidates for theology PhDs typically have a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, philosophy, or a related field, or an MDiv with a high grade point average. The MDiv is a professional degree for those who want to be pastors, ministers, or priests in the United States that is typically more rigorous than most master’s programs. Applicants to many theology PhD programs may be required to pass the Graduate Record Examination, which assesses verbal and quantitative reasoning, as well as analytical writing and critical thinking skills. Students who are not native English speakers but want to study in the United States may be required to take an English as a foreign language test and pass with a minimum score.
Most theology doctoral programs offer specializations in biblical studies, comparative theology, Old or New Testament, culture and worship, systematic theology, and Christian history. A typical theology PhD program will require at least two years of additional full-time coursework in a variety of traditions, including Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, during which time students can also work as a teaching or research assistant. Most PhD programs in theology encourage students to engage with and reflect on the spiritual issues raised religious pluralism. Students must often pass a written or oral exam after completing coursework before beginning their research and thesis under the supervision of a faculty member.
In addition to major concentration areas, theology PhD students can choose a minor concentration area to complement their major. The majority of doctoral students will also need to learn two additional languages, such as Latin or French. It’s either Italian or German. Students studying early Christian history may be required to demonstrate knowledge of ancient languages such as Greek and Hebrew. A theology PhD program should help students develop their teaching and ministry skills while also preparing them to engage in rigorous scholarship, critically reflect on religious and spiritual questions, and engage in rigorous scholarship.