The Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic 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 systematic 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
Systematic Theology (PhD)
Degrees
The Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic Theology program typically requires at least 36-credit-hour plus dissertation of coursework.
The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Doctor of Philosophy in Systematic Theology is structured to provide a comprehensive and advanced education in theological scholarship and research.
Prerequisites
- Philosophy: At least twelve credit hours of undergraduate or graduate philosophy in areas such as ancient, medieval, modern philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.
- Theology: At least fifteen credit hours of undergraduate and/or graduate courses in theology or religious studies, covering the Old and New Testaments, church history, and systematic and moral theology.
Coursework
- Total Credits: A minimum of 36 credit hours beyond the M.A. degree.
- Core Courses: 18 credit hours in systematic theology at the 700 and 800 levels, including TRS 760A: Theological Foundations, with at least 12 of these hours in 800-level seminars requiring major research papers.
- Electives: 12 credit hours in any academic areas within the School of Theology and Religious Studies.
- Minor Area: Optional 6 credit hours in areas such as Biblical Studies, Catechetics, Church History, Moral Theology and Ethics, Liturgical Studies, or Religion and Culture.
Language Requirements
- Latin: Demonstrate reading proficiency through an exam or course.
- Greek: Demonstrate reading proficiency in biblical or patristic Greek through an exam or course.
- German: Demonstrate reading proficiency through an exam or by passing TRS 504 Theological German.
- Romance Language: Demonstrate reading proficiency in French, Italian, or Spanish through an exam.
Comprehensive Examination
- Content: Based on a reading list prepared in consultation with faculty, covering systematic theology and related areas.
- Structure: Three-part written examination over three days.
Dissertation
- Proposal: Approval required from the faculty.
- Research: Original research contributing to the field of systematic theology.
- Defense: Public oral defense before a committee.
$1,250 / credit hour
More information about this degree is available on the School website or by request from our Admissions team.