The Catholic University of America's Licentiate in Sacred Theology (S.T.L.) in Historical Theology program provides a rigorous academic foundation in the study of the historical development of Christian theology. Accredited by the Holy See, this program is ideal for those seeking to teach in ecclesiastical faculties or pursue advanced research in historical theology. Students will engage in comprehensive coursework, language studies, and research projects, culminating in a thesis that contributes original scholarship to the field. The program emphasizes critical methods of historical investigation and a deep understanding of theological traditions and developments.
Licentiate
Historical Theology (STL)
Degrees
The Licentiate in Sacred Theology in Historical Theology program typically requires at least 24 credit hours of coursework plus 6 credits for the thesis after approval.
The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Licentiate in Sacred Theology (S.T.L.) in Historical Theology program includes the following key components:
Residency
- Duration: Four semesters of residence are required.
Coursework
- Credit Hours: A minimum of 24 credit hours of coursework is required, primarily in the Church History area.
- Core Courses: Required courses include TRS 724, Methods in Church History and Historical Theology.
- Electives: Up to six credits may be taken outside the Church History area with written approval.
Language Requirements
- Latin: Proficiency equivalent to two years of study, demonstrated by a proficiency exam.
- Greek: Completion of a reading course or a proficiency exam in biblical or patristic Greek.
- Modern Language: Reading proficiency in German or a Romance language, demonstrated by an exam or completion of a reading course.
Thesis
- Length: 25,000 to 35,000 words.
- Approval: The thesis proposal must be approved by the director, a reader, and the Church History area faculty by the end of the second semester.
- Content: The thesis should demonstrate original research, technical mastery, and sound theological judgment.
Comprehensive Examinations
- Written Exams: Two four-hour exams covering general Church History and the student's field of concentration.
- Oral Exam: A one-hour oral examination following the written exams.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.