The Catholic University of America's Doctor of Philosophy in Liturgical Studies and Sacramental Theology program offers a profound and comprehensive education focused on the history, theology, and practice of liturgy and sacraments. This program is designed to prepare students for advanced academic research, teaching, and leadership roles in ecclesial settings. Students will engage in rigorous scholarly research, benefiting from the university's rich resources and expert faculty. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, fostering a deep appreciation for the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church.
Doctorate
Liturgical Studies (PhD)
Degrees
The Doctor of Sacred Theology in Historical Theology program typically requires at least 30-credit-hour plus dissertation of coursework.
The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Doctor of Philosophy in Liturgical Studies and Sacramental Theology program is designed to provide a comprehensive and advanced education in the field, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and scholarly excellence.
Prerequisites
- Academic Background: A master's or licentiate degree in an appropriate discipline, with coursework in critical introduction to the Old and New Testaments, Christology, ecclesiology, and liturgical studies/sacramental theology, along with familiarity with church history.
- Course Equivalency: Equivalent courses to those offered by the School of Theology and Religious Studies in History and Theology of Liturgy, Liturgical Sources, and Liturgical Theology of the Eucharist.
Coursework
- Total Credits: A minimum of 36 credit hours.
- Core Courses: 18 credit hours in Liturgical Studies/Sacramental Theology (700 and 800 levels), with at least 9 credits from 800-level courses.
- Electives: 12 credit hours from courses within the School of Theology and Religious Studies on the 700 and 800 levels.
- Allied Field: 6 credit hours from another field within the university, such as Architecture, Anthropology, or Music, normally at the 700 and 800 levels.
- Research Papers: Students must produce four research papers during their coursework, with at least three written in conjunction with 800-level courses, demonstrating proficiency in foreign language research.
Language Requirements
- Ancient Languages: Reading proficiency in Latin and Greek.
- Modern Languages: Reading proficiency in German and French. Depending on the research agenda, another modern language may be substituted with approval.
Comprehensive Examination
- Format: Written exams over three days, covering two days in liturgical studies/sacramental theology and one day in the allied area of study. Material is based on bibliographies prepared in consultation with instructors.
Dissertation
- Proposal: Approval by the dissertation director and two readers, followed by the faculty.
- Defense: An oral defense of the dissertation is required, demonstrating the ability to contribute to theological research.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.