The Catholic University of America's Doctor of Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) in Sacramental Theology program provides an in-depth and advanced education focused on the theological understanding and historical development of liturgical services. This program is designed to prepare students for academic research, teaching, and leadership roles within ecclesiastical settings. Students engage in rigorous scholarly research, exploring issues in sacramental theology as they relate to historical and systematic theology. With access to the university's extensive resources and expert faculty, students will develop the skills necessary to contribute significantly to theological scholarship and the Church's sacramental life.
Doctorate
Sacramental Theology (STD)
Degrees
The Doctor of Sacred Theology in Sacramental Theology program typically requires at least 36-credit-hour plus dissertation of coursework.
The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Doctorate of Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) in Sacramental Theology is designed to provide advanced academic training with a focus on the theological understanding of liturgical services in light of their historical development.
Prerequisites
- Degree Requirements: Applicants must possess an S.T.L. degree or an equivalent graduate degree in theology. Additional coursework may be required for those whose previous studies do not align perfectly with the program’s focus.
- Academic Performance: A cumulative GPA of 3.3 or better in previous graduate work is required.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Latin, Greek, and one modern language (typically French or German) is required at the time of application, with a second modern language to be completed during the program.
Coursework
- Total Credits: A minimum of 12 semester hours of doctoral seminars relevant to the student's research area.
- Additional Courses: Courses must include substantial research papers (approximately 25-30 pages each).
- Proseminar: A noncredit Proseminar in Research and Dissertation Methodology is required in the first semester.
Comprehensive Examinations
- Format: Written exams over three days, covering the major area of study and an allied field.
- Preparation: Based on bibliographies prepared in consultation with faculty advisors.
Dissertation
- Guidance: Four semesters of dissertation guidance are required, beyond the 12 credit hours of doctoral seminars.
- Lectio: A comprehensive oral examination prior to the dissertation defense.
- Defense: Successful defense of a dissertation that demonstrates mastery of the subject and contributes original research to the field.
Language Requirements
- Reading Proficiency: Latin, Greek, and two modern languages (usually French and German) are required. Additional languages may be required based on the student’s research needs.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.