The Doctorate of Philosophy in Historical Theology represents an achievement in theological scholarship and research. The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare graduate students to make significant contributions to knowledge in historical inquiry while broadening their understanding of other areas of theology. By means of research seminars, advanced level courses, language skills, comprehensives, and an extensive research project, the program is designed to develop graduates who are capable of thorough theological understanding and careful research.
Doctorate
Historical Theology (PhD)
Degrees
The Doctor of Philosophy in Historical Theology program is a 30-credit-hour plus a masters and dissertation degree program.
The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Ph.D. in Historical Theology program is designed to provide advanced scholarly training and research opportunities in the field. Here are the key components:
Coursework
- Core Courses: Includes courses in historical theology at the 700 and 800 levels, with at least 12 credit hours at these advanced levels.
- Seminars: Four seminar courses requiring research papers, with specific grade requirements.
- Electives: Additional courses in the School of Theology and Religious Studies or other departments like Philosophy, History, Semitics, Greek and Latin.
Prerequisites
- Philosophy: At least 12 credit hours in areas such as ancient, medieval, modern philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.
- Theology: At least 15 credit hours in theology or religious studies, covering areas like the Old and New Testaments, church history, and systematic and moral theology.
Language Requirements
- Languages: Reading knowledge of Latin, Greek, German, and a major Romance language (French, Italian, Spanish). Proficiency is demonstrated through exams or coursework.
Comprehensive Examinations
- Exams: Four written comprehensive exams, including two in the major area of concentration and two in minor fields, one of which may be in another discipline.
Dissertation
- Proposal: Approval of a dissertation proposal within two years of attaining candidacy.
- Research: Original scholarly research culminating in a dissertation.
- Defense: Successful oral defense of the dissertation.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.