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Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies

Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to deepen your understanding of both the Old and New Testaments, while also equipping you with advanced research skills and theological insights. This program is tailored for individuals seeking a career in biblical research, seminary teaching, or those who aspire to elevate their pastoral sermon preparation to an expert level.

Core Components

Old Testament Studies: Deep exploration of the historical, cultural, and theological contexts of the Old Testament.

New Testament Studies: Detailed examination of the New Testament, focusing on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, the Pauline epistles, and the apocalyptic literature. Historical and Contemporary Theologies: Analysis of the development of Christian thought from early church fathers to contemporary theologians, with an emphasis on how these perspectives shape modern understanding of the Bible. Interpretative Strategies and Hermeneutics: Advanced study in biblical interpretation methods, including historical-critical, literary, and sociological approaches. Seminars and Colloquia: Regular participation in scholarly discussion boards with peers and faculty, fostering an environment of academic inquiry and debate. Capstone: Original research project that contributes significantly to the field of Biblical Studies. Literature review essay, and practical capstone

Enrollment Periods & Deadlines

The program is online, self-paced, with an expected timetable of 2-4 years to complete. Since it is self-paced students are able to finish earlier or later than the suggested timetable, without penalty. Students are to complete each course, in the order given, with no substitutions. 

Since this will be delivered via online course modules, we are able to accept new students year round without any enrollment deadlines. 

Admission Requirements

Students must show that they have been awarded a degree equivalent to a Master's degree from an accredited institution or verifiable Christian seminary or a resume showing 12+ years of extensive ministry experience with an accompanying written recommendation from the ministry listed on the resume.  Admission credentials are not reviewed until the student submits all work for grade and graduation, therefore we strongly urge every student to ensure they meet the admission requirements prior to joining the program. If you need a faculty member to confirm if they are eligible for the program, they are free to email or call the office. 

Credit Policy

This program does not accept transferred credits nor do any credits earned in this program transfer to other institutions

Grading System

This program operates solely on a Pass/Fail grading system. There are quizzes, discussion boards, and capstone projects. Students must pass each class for them to be eligible for graduation.  ​

Cost of Attendance

There is no tuition for this program. Textbooks are not required. There is no money required up front. There are a few small fees to process your graduation. 

Program Start Fee: $25 Diploma: $225 Diploma Priority Shipping: $45  

Queens College of Theology does not mail printed diplomas internationally. Students outside of the lower 48 of the USA will receive a digital diploma.   

The printed diploma could take up to 25 business days to receive. 

International Students

We do welcome international ministers to enroll into this program, however we may require an academic evaluation from a third party, like WES, of international transcripts. 

Student Resources

Students enrolled in this program do not have the same access to student resources and Professors as other enrolled, full-time students of our seminary. This program is strictly correspondence based where the student will self-learn and has no option for one-on-ones with faculty unless the student wishes to purchase private tutoring from one of our Professors. 

Students enrolled in this program will not have access to our digital library for their thesis research, however, all required textbooks for this course is provided free of charge. 

Program Authorization

Queens College of Theology may legally offer this program pursuant to an exemption from the state authorization requirements by the University of North Carolina System. Please see the attached letter granting approval from the State. 

The State Authorization Unit of the University of North Carolina System Office serves as the official state entity to receive complaints concerning post-secondary institutions that are authorized to operate in North Carolina. If students are unable to resolve a complaint through the institution’s grievance procedures, they can review the Student Complaint Policy (PDF) and submit their complaint using the online complaint form at https://studentcomplaints.northcarolina.edu/form. 

For more information contact: North Carolina Post-Secondary Education Complaints 223 S. West Street, Suite 1800 Raleigh, NC 27603 (919) 962-4550 To file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the North Carolina Department of Justice, please visit The State Attorney General’s web page at: http://www.ncdoj.gov/complaint. North Carolina residents may call (877) 566-7226. Outside of North Carolina, please call (919) 716-6000. En Espanol (919) 716-0058. If you choose to mail a complaint, please use the following address: Consumer Protection Division Attorney General’s Office Mail Service Center 9001 Raleigh, NC 27699-9001 Students with a complaint should contact school administration immediately, and proper internal procedures will commence. Students will have the right to review the complaint and respond to allegations before them. 

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Traditional forms of religious ministry development has drastically shifted in form and scope.  Those that experience the call of God upon their lives, and desire to serve in any of the diverse roles in ministry, usually seek to acquire knowledge and skills essential to fulfill their calling into ministry service.

    St. Christy University of Theology & Seminary (SCUTS) provides alternative form of traditional training in religious ministry development by offering credentialing opportunities to those called into religious ministry service to receive non-academic religious undergraduate and postgraduate degree certifications designed to empower the men and women of God already serving in diverse roles in a religious ministry or organization.  

No academic degree is required for admission to any of our non-academic religious degree programs.

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I personally implore you to explore our various degree programs and apply for admission right now.

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        o you desire to take your ministry to a                higher level?  Do you desire to achieve  a religious degree but do not have any academic education commensurate with the level of degree program?  Do you have any experience in any role in a religious ministry setting or religious organization?

Fulfill your Calling

    If you answered YES to any of the above questions, then, St. Christy University of Theology & Seminary (SCUTS) is the best place for you.  We offer non-academic religious bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree programs. 

    No academic degree is required for admission to any of our religious masters and doctoral degree programs.

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 2023 christian ministers global summit ,  murrieta, california (usa), 15 - 17 june 2023, retooling,  rebranding, strategic networking,  & aggressive global evangelism., unlocking the evangelistic & missionary potentionals of the local church., registration :  early bird registration in progress.  reserve a seat by,                            completing a an "event participation form." (click here),                    , * visa application assistance available for international participants., children & youth development programs.

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Become a Youth Minister and be an agent of positive change in your community and country.  Share fellowship with other Youth Ministers from around the globe and get the opportunity to travel around the globe to be a disciple for Jesus Christ.

Designed to train and equip program participants in the knowledge and  application of bible principles crafted to prepare and empower youth for non-vocational religious ministry service.  This program is opened to all Youth between the ages of 16 - 35 years old.  

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Event Participation & Visa Assistance

Participation is strictly by registration. Visa application assistance is available to registered international participants.  Please note that, all event participation requests will be vigorously scrutinized by the event organizers in accordance with International Security and Clearances protocol policies of St. Christy University of Theology & Seminary.  Interested participants MUST make event reservation before receiving event participation forms and other documents for travel processing. 

Conference/Summit objectives

 - To support and encourage one another in the task of missions and evangelism.

 - To uphold one another in our divine task of shepherding the flock of God in knowledge and  of understanding.

  - To promote ministerial fellowship and cooperation among Christian ministers and religious workers in communities and societies across the globe.   

Study Abroad Programs

St. Christy University of Theology & Seminary Study Abroad  Programs for Religious Students.

Applications are still open to religious students currently enrolled in any of our degree programs.  Our students use such opportunities to visit important religious sites around the world.

Registration is restricted to staff and students of Saint Christy University only. 

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Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies

45 credit hours

Program Length

as few as 36 months

Accreditation

Nationally Accredited by ATS

Prepare to Teach the Next Generation — Earn an Accredited PhD (Theological Studies) Fully Online

At Columbia International University, our PhD (Theological Studies) program is designed specifically for individuals like you who have a passion for teaching in postsecondary theological higher education. If you are seeking an academic/philosophical doctoral program that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in scholarly research and writing and make a meaningful contribution to the field of Theological Studies, our PhD (Theological Studies) program is designed to help you reach your goal.

You will engage in rigorous academic study explores the profound truths of Scripture, with a focus on the functional authority of Scripture.

You will develop advanced research and writing skills that allow you to contribute significantly to the field of Theological Studies.

You will gain valuable skills in presenting your scholarly work in a professional, organized, coherent and structured manner, both in written and oral form.

You will engage in a supervisory relationship with an experienced faculty mentor, who will help you navigate the responsibilities of your academic pursuits while embracing spiritual growth and exemplifying Christian character.

Throughout your journey in Columbia International University’s online PhD (Theological Studies) program, you will receive excellent academic instruction, intentional professional mentoring, and consistent academic support. You will develop the advanced research and writing skills necessary to make a scholarly contribution to the field of Theological Studies. You will present your research findings in a professional and compelling manner. You will embrace the transformative journey of intellectual growth while embodying the principles of Victorious Christian Living. You will prepare to become a well-rounded scholar and educator, equipped to make a lasting impact in postsecondary theological higher education both nationally and internationally.

Theological Studies is one of three concentrations within the PhD degree. Within the Theological Studies concentration, you may pursue a wide variety of research topics. You might wish to consider a topic in an area such Apologetics, Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, or Theological Ethics. If you have questions about how your anticipated topic might fit into the concentration, contact the program director for guidance. Note: In February 2022 the ATS Board of Commissioners approved a three-year experiment to offer a non-residential PhD degree as an exception to Standard 5.15, through a combination of online courses (synchronous and asynchronous) and one-on-one faculty mentoring sessions.

The other concentrations within the PhD degree are Biblical Studies and Practical Theology. (See the Concentrations below.)

Why Choose Columbia International University?

At Columbia International University, we are committed to providing you with a comprehensive and enriching educational experience through our ATS-accredited PhD (Theological Studies) program. Designed to equip you as a well-rounded scholar and educator, our program offers a unique blend of research-focused curriculum, individualized mentoring, and flexible online modality.

As a student in our PhD (Theological Studies) program, you will have the opportunity to delve deeply into your chosen area within the field of Theological Studies. Through rigorous research and academic exploration, you will gain a thorough understanding of your topic, contemporary biblical studies issues, and the methods scholars use in your chosen discipline.

Mentoring lies at the heart of our program. You will receive individualized guidance and support from an experienced faculty mentor who is a renowned scholar in his or her respective fields. Your mentor will provide personalized attention and expert advice as you navigate your research journey and develop your scholarly voice.

Our online modality offers you the flexibility of pursuing your doctoral studies while balancing other commitments in your life. Through our innovative online platform, you will have access to engaging course content, interactive discussions with faculty members and peers, and valuable resources that will enhance your learning experience.

Throughout your PhD journey, we are dedicated to preparing you to make a significant contribution to scholarship in your discipline. You will develop advanced research skills, critical thinking abilities, and scholarly writing expertise that will empower you to produce high-quality academic work. We believe in fostering a collaborative academic community, where you will have opportunities to engage in scholarly conversations and present your research findings to peers and faculty.

In addition to equipping you as a scholar, our PhD (Theological Studies) program prepares you to excel as an educator in theological higher education. Our curriculum includes pedagogical training, enabling you to teach and mentor future generations of students effectively in theological institutions both inside and outside the United States.

Benefits of our PhD (Theological Studies) Degree 

Our unique PhD program is fully-online, dissertation-focused and follows the modified-European model. It offers you the opportunity to:

• Complete your entire program using fully online modality without relocating or coming to campus.
• Pay affordable tuition that saves you up to 50% of the cost of other seminary PhD programs and includes the cost of textbooks.
• Develop your skills in research, writing and teaching, while you pursue a wide variety of research topics.
• Focus your coursework on refining your anticipated dissertation topic before beginning your research.
• Engage in synchronous small group discussion sessions that foster a sense of community with your classmates.
• Work closely with a mentor whose areas of interest and expertise align closely with your dissertation topic.
• Develop a well-rounded understanding of the knowledge related to your discipline through tutorial discussions with your mentor.
• Engage regularly and intentionally with your dissertation mentor throughout the research and writing process.
• Complete your entire program in as few as three years.

Featured Faculty

John D. Harvey

Professor of New Testament and PhD Program Director

David A. Croteau

Dean, Seminary and School of Counseling

Associate Professor of History and Theology

What Will I Study?

You will survey significant contemporary issues in Historical Theology or Systematic Theology and review key methods used in theological study. You will then identify an issue and a method related to the area of your proposed dissertation topic and will explore each in depth. (3)

You will review biblical perspectives on teaching and learning, survey principles of adult education, and explore best practices of course design and development. You will learn how to design lessons and courses that go beyond the communication of content to the facilitation of learning and will apply those skills to the creation of a course related to the area of your proposed dissertation topic. (3)

You will engage in guided practice of bibliographic (text-based) research that will prepare you to write a doctoral dissertation in Theological Studies. You will learn to craft a research problem, identify appropriate research methods, locate, evaluate, and document scholarly sources, structure argumentation, and write at the doctoral level. Building upon those skills, you will write a dissertation proposal that must be approved by the Dissertation Proposal Committee before you begin the dissertation research courses. (3)

Upon successful completion of the dissertation proposal course, your supervising professor will guide you as you engage in research for a 90,000 - 110,000 word dissertation in a selected area of Theological Studies. (3-6) Repeatable.

Upon successful completion of the dissertation proposal course, your supervising professor will guide you as you engage in research for a 90,000 - 110,000 word dissertation in a selected area of Theological Studies. (3-6) Repeatable. Prerequisite: THE 9901

Upon successful completion of the dissertation proposal course, your supervising professor will guide you as you engage in research for a 90,000 - 110,000 word dissertation in a selected area of Theological Studies. (3-6) Repeatable. Prerequisite: THE 9902

Upon completing your dissertation research, you will continue working under your supervising professors direction to draft your 90,000 - 10,000 word dissertation. (3-6) Repeatable. Prerequisite: THE 9903

Upon completing your dissertation research, you will continue working under your supervising professors direction to draft your 90,000 - 110,000 word dissertation. (3-6) Repeatable. Prerequisite: THE 9904

Upon successful completion of the dissertation research and writing courses and upon your supervising professors recommendation, you will submit the final draft of your 90,000 - 110,000 word dissertation to the Dissertation Defense Committee comprised of your supervising professor and two additional faculty members. Once the committee has read the dissertation, you will appear before them and defend it orally. (6) Repeatable. Prerequisite: THE 9905

You will demonstrate acceptable competency in a research language related to your dissertation.

You will demonstrate acceptable competency in a second research language related to your dissertation.

Admission Requirements

• Online application
• Official transcripts from accredited institutions (all graduate level work)
• Completed MA, MDiv, or ThM with 3.5 GPA
• Major research paper, (20–24 pages)
• Proposed research topic (1 page plus bibliography)
• Transcript evidence of having completed four semesters of Greek and/or Hebrew (in any combination)
• Two academic references
• Interview with admissions committee
• *International requirements when appropriate

Accreditation and Accolades

Career Path Opportunities

• Seminary Professor
• International Theological Educator
• Bible College Professor
• High School Teacher

As a Theological Studies student, you may choose to focus your study in the areas of Systematic Theology, Historical Theology, Apologetics, Theological Ethics.

The Ph.D. program is accredited professionally by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), as well as regionally by SACSCOC and nationally by ABHE.

The entire PhD program uses online modality, so that you never need to come to the Columbia campus.

The three foundational seminars are largely asynchronous, but with a synchronous component. Instructors facilitate two-hour discussion group sessions of six to eight students that meet five to eight times throughout each semester.

In February 2022 the ATS Board of Commissioners approved a three-year experiment to offer a non-residential PhD degree as an exception to Standard 5.15, through a combination of online courses (synchronous and asynchronous) and one-on-one faculty mentoring sessions.

The modified-European model combines the strengths of both the North American and European models. You enter the program with a preliminary idea of the topic for your dissertation, and the coursework in the three foundational seminars helps you refine your topic to be substantive, coherent and focused. After those seminars, you engage in your dissertation research, writing and defense, which comprises 80% of your studies.

Total tuition for the program is 25–50% lower than the cost of other seminary PhD programs and includes the cost of textbooks.

As a PhD student, you will receive a free copy of Accordance Bible Software that you may use as long as you are pursuing your doctoral studies. Upon graduation, you own the software.

If you are pursuing work related to Theological Studies, you must show transcript evidence of having completed four semesters of Greek and/or Hebrew in any combination.

In order to have as wide access as possible to scholarly literature related to your dissertation topic, Theological Studies students demonstrate proficiency in two theological research languages as part of their PhD studies. The process of collecting a working bibliography for your dissertation usually helps you identify the specific languages you will pursue.

The wordcount for your dissertation is 90,000–110,000 words, including the introduction, the body, the footnotes, the conclusion and the bibliography, but not the front matter.

We will work with you to recruit a dissertation mentor whose areas of interest and expertise align as closely as possible with your topic. Since the majority of our mentors come from outside the seminary, the range of topics you may pursue is broad, and you have the opportunity to work closely with an expert in your field of research.

You may also be interested in

Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Practical Theology

Are you ready to transform your life?

2024 Best Online PhD in Theology Programs

Religious leadership is a weighty responsibility, but earning an online PhD in Theology can help prepare you for the task.

Through doctoral studies, you can gain a better understanding of history, scripture, worldview, ministry, and spirituality. The lessons that you take away from this program may shape your preaching, writing, teaching, or research for years to come.

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If you are serious about letting your mind be shaped by theological studies, then becoming a doctor in theology may be your next step.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Theology Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Calvary University

Calvary University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Bible and Theology. The program can usually be completed in 4 years, including a year dedicated to a dissertation.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have completed 18 credits in Greek and Hebrew. A personal testimony, pastoral and personal references, and a writing sample must be submitted when applying.

Calvary University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission.

Christian Leadership University

Christian Leadership University offers an online Doctor of Theology. Students must complete 60 credit hours, an internship at a ministry, and a dissertation or ministry project. Up to 20 qualifying credits can be transferred into the program from previous courses or life experiences. Applicants must have an on-campus or online master’s in theology .

Christian Leadership University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia International University

Columbia International University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies.

Students can typically complete the program in 3 years. Of the 45 credit hours required to graduate, 36 of them come from completing a dissertation. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and 2 academic references and need to complete an interview.

CIU  is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Evangelical Seminary

The Evangelical Seminary offers a Doctor of Theology. The 39 credit hours required to graduate can usually be obtained in 3 years. Students may choose between 11 separate tracks for their degree, including the Personhood Track and the Biblical Track. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Evangelical Seminary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Faulkner University

Faulkner University offers an online Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies. Students must complete 54 semester hours and a dissertation to graduate. The program can usually be completed in 4 years. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and need to submit 3 letters of recommendation and a graduate research paper.

Faulkner University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Johnson University

Johnson University offers a PhD in Leadership Studies with the option to add a concentration in Theology of Leadership. Students must complete 60 credit hours to graduate. Applicants need to have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, 3 letters of reference, with one being from a pastor, and an admissions essay.

Johnson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Lancaster Bible College

Lancaster Bible College offers a PhD in Biblical Studies. Students must complete 60 semester hours, with 20 hours dedicated to a dissertation. While the program is online, 3 residencies are required per year. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.25 or higher and 3 references, one of which must be from a pastor.

Lancaster Bible College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers an online PhD in Theology and Apologetics. Students must complete 57 credit hours to graduate, and the program can typically be finished in 3.5 years. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. A writing sample, 3 letters of reference, and GRE scores must be submitted when applying.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Oral Roberts University

Oral Roberts University offers an online PhD in Contextual Theology. Applicants must contact an admissions representative to apply.

The program focuses on four facets of theological reflection, including inspiration of the Bible by the Holy Spirit and the history of Christian doctrine. It also considers the cultural context of particular nations or regions and global trends in Spirit-empowered Christianity.

The university also offers an online Christian counseling degree for students interested in this career field.

Oral Roberts University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Regent University

Regent University offers a PhD in Renewal Theology. Students can choose to add one of four concentrations to their degree: Biblical Studies, Christian Theology, Church History, or Practical Theology. A total of 60 credits are needed to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree and a recommendation from a clergy member.

Regent University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online PhD in Theology Programs

Religion and academics can go hand in hand. In a theological PhD program, you’ll have the opportunity to practice your faith through study and scholarship.

A PhD is a terminal research degree. Earning it can demonstrate that you are an expert in your field of theological study. It can also show that you have the determination and dedication to conduct original research and share your findings with others.

Theology is a large field with many subdisciplines. The area of focus that you choose for your PhD might be:

• Apologetics
• Biblical hermeneutics
• New Testament studies
• Old Testament studies
• Religious history
• Systematic theology

The specialty areas that are available to you will depend on where you go to school. Some universities have set concentration tracks you can pick from. Others may allow you to customize your studies through a careful selection of classes that will contribute to your academic goals, while others may let you specifically get an on-campus or online PhD in Apologetics , for example.

Your program may consist of core theology classes, courses centered around your specialization area, and research-focused courses. The curriculum can include classes that cover ecclesiology, advanced Christian theology, and spiritual development practices.

Research classes are an important step toward preparing for your dissertation. The faculty will walk you through selecting an area of study, conducting research, and producing a scholarly manuscript.

Earning a theology PhD may enhance your ministry practice. This high level of study may improve your teaching style, or it may even prepare you for denominational leadership. An academic career can be another reason to consider PhD studies. With a doctorate, you may have the qualifications to pursue a position as a theology professor or researcher.

Theology Careers & Salaries

It’s common for people who have completed theological studies to pursue careers as members of the clergy.

Religious leaders may interpret scriptures, deliver messages, lead worship, or teach classes in their faith centers. Other responsibilities can include visiting sick people, organizing community outreaches, and providing counseling services.

Depending on the religious tradition in which a person serves, the job title can vary. In Christian denominations, clergy members are often called pastors or ministers. Other religions, though, can employ theologians too. For example, in the Jewish tradition, they may be called rabbis.

Religious leaders who work in settings other than churches or other local houses of worship may be chaplains. For example, hospitals and the military hire chaplains. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , members of the clergy make a median annual salary of $51,940.

Some theological leaders pursue careers in education. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) may qualify you to teach religion or theology to college undergraduate or graduate students. There may also be opportunities to teach religion to high schoolers, especially in private schools.

Having a doctoral degree may, in some cases, qualify you to work in postsecondary education administration. Religious colleges and seminaries, in particular, might be interested in hiring academic deans with theological backgrounds.

As a theology expert, you might be interested in the history of doctrines, denominations, or religious texts. You may want to research them as a historian or preserve artifacts as an archivist. Another idea is to share your theological insights with others through publishing. You may choose to write books or be a journalist who focuses on religion news.

Your theological background might also help you contribute toward a nonprofit or community agency’s mission. Theology graduates may end up working as a director, manager, or fundraiser.

Theology Doctoral Curriculum

For online theology doctoral programs, you will take several semesters of courses, similar to the ones listed below, before writing your dissertation.

• Biblical Hermeneutics : One of your courses may address hermeneutics, or the practice of reading and interpreting biblical texts.
• Church in Modern Times : In a class like this, you may discuss what role faith-based organizations and houses of worship should take in influencing culture and politics.
• Counseling and Spiritual Care : Religious leaders sometimes provide counseling services to parishioners, so this class can equip you with foundational care skills.
• Gospel Studies : You might closely study one or more of the four Gospels as you become better acquainted with the life of Jesus.
• Religious Expression in Art : During this course, you may be introduced to a variety of artistic works that were created as expressions of worship or to aid in worship practices.
• Spiritual Formation : In this course, you may explore spiritual practices from other eras and discuss the factors that shape a person’s spirituality.
• Theological Research : In preparation for your dissertation, you’ll learn the steps for undertaking a major research project on a theological topic.
• Theological Teaching : If an academic career is in your future, this course can equip you with skills for teaching religion and theology to college students.
• Women and Faith : Throughout history, women have played key roles in the development and practice of the Christian faith, and you can learn about some of them in this course.
• World Religions : You may take a comparative theology class in which you analyze various religious traditions from around the world to identify key differences as well as shared teachings.

A university’s course selection is often influenced by the school’s religious tradition, so you might want to select a program that aligns with your theological beliefs.

Admissions Requirements

Accredited colleges can have high standards for admission, so you may need to submit application materials like the following:

• Curriculum vitae or resume
• Master’s thesis or example of scholarly writing
• References from academic, professional, or spiritual leaders
• Signed acknowledgement of the school’s statement of faith
• Transcripts from your undergraduate and graduate studies

Some universities require scores from the GRE or a similar examination, but there are others that offer waivers or base their admissions decisions on alternative criteria.

Accreditation

Many theological schools offer doctoral degrees, but not all of those schools are accredited. The most reputable theology doctorates are issued by regionally accredited institutions .

Earning regional accreditation is a rigorous process for schools. Colleges must prove that they meet the standards of academic excellence. Both religious and secular institutions can earn regional accreditation.

Accredited degrees earn greater respect. Most employers will appreciate knowing that you earned your PhD from an academically sound school. Transferring credits to another college can sometimes depend on regional accreditation as well.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

A robust financial aid package can help make doctoral studies more affordable. Some students get enough assistance to partially or fully fund their programs.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is typically the first step in securing assistance. As a doctoral student, you may qualify for state or federal loans with low interest rates. Government student aid can be used only at accredited universities.

Scholarships and fellowships may contribute to your financial aid package as well. These awards can sometimes be obtained directly through the college. In other cases, you’ll need to apply with outside organizations.

Doctoral programs sometimes provide tuition breaks for students who provide teaching or research services. There may even be stipends involved. Alternatively, some employers offer tuition-assistance programs. If your work offers this option, you may be able to receive a set amount of money toward your schooling each semester.

Is There a PhD in Theology?

Yes, you can earn a theology PhD. For this research degree, you may study systematic theology, church doctrine, biblical canonicity, and ministry practice. Some theological seminaries offer course topics like research methods for religion studies, theology and ethics, history of church teachings, and comparative religions.

As part of your doctoral program, you may spend several semesters engaged in a scholarly research and writing project. After completing your dissertation, you then defend it before a committee of scholars in your field.

What Is a ThD Degree?

A Doctor of Theology (ThD) is a terminal academic degree in the field of theology. It’s similar in scope and nature to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and you can expect a ThD program to include rigorous research components.

Some universities use ThD for the doctoral programs within their divinity schools and PhD for the programs housed in other departments. ThD is one common abbreviation for this degree, but other acceptable abbreviations are DTh, DTheol, and Dr. theol.

Where Can I Get a PhD in Theology?

A variety of higher education institutions offer PhD in Theology programs. They include both religious schools and those that are typically considered more secular in nature.

In general, though, you’re much more likely to find this type of doctoral program at a theological seminary than at a state school. Online colleges offer PhD in Theology programs as well. Distance learning can be an option that allows you to earn a reputable doctorate while working a full-time job or caring for your family.

The most respected PhD programs, both on-campus and online, are offered by regionally accredited schools.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Theology?

As a theologian, you might apply your doctoral knowledge in local ministry, denominational leadership, or a chaplaincy role. PhD graduates can also pursue careers as professors, historians, or writers.

Some theologians with advanced degrees pursue leadership opportunities in nonprofit organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, members of the clergy usually earn between $28,410 and $89,510 annually. The annual income for philosophy and religion professors typically ranges from $40,470 to $155,430.

Some theology students prefer to work in community services. Most social and community service managers earn between $42,230 and $115,800.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Doctorate in Theology?

It’s common for a Ph.D. to take 3 to 5 years to complete. That includes time for coursework and a dissertation.

If your theological seminary does not require a dissertation as part of the theology program, then you might be able to wrap up your studies in 3 years with full-time study. For schools that do require it, a dissertation is usually the top factor in how long a program takes. Some people spend several years finishing theirs.

Some schools allow up to 8 years of doctoral enrollment, but getting your dissertation done sooner can save you time and money.

Must I Pursue a Career in Clergy If I Have a Doctor of Theology (ThD) Degree?

While some people do plan to apply their theological studies in the local church, that’s not all you can do with this degree.

Theologians are needed in college classrooms. Some PhD graduates become religion, Bible, or theology professors. Religion experts can also share their insights through books instead of pulpits. After completing your dissertation, you might be ready to begin another research project and author a book on the topic.

Your religious convictions may also lead you to care for people in need. Some ThD graduates seek work as a community service manager or a fundraiser.

What’s the Difference Between a DMin vs. PhD in Theology?

If you are a religious leader or thinker, you might be trying to decide between a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) or a PhD in Theology. Here’s how these two degree stack up:

Despite these distinctions, either degree can help prepare you for ministry or academic work.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Religious Studies vs. Theology?

If you’re interested in matters of faith, you can advance your knowledge with either a religion PhD or a theology PhD.

Both religion and theology PhDs are research-focused and can lead to careers in academia.

Is a PhD in Theology Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Theology is worth it for many students. Many theologians seek a PhD to gain the qualifications for a career as a theology professor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for postsecondary teachers are expected to grow at a 9% rate over the next decade.

Being a spiritual leader is a great responsibility. For those in local church ministries, PhD studies can help enhance your teaching and pastoral care practices. Also, earning a theology degree can be influential in your own faith development.

Getting Your PhD in Theology Online

A PhD in Theology can help you become more familiar with your faith tradition and its teachings. As a doctoral student, you’ll engage with experts in your field, read faith-shaping books, and undertake a scholarly research project.

By the conclusion of your program, you’ll likely have a deeper understanding of doctrine with the ability to teach others. Your doctoral degree may qualify you for roles in teaching, research, or ministry.

Colleges offering online theology degree programs provide a respected approach to fitting advanced theological studies into your busy life. If you’re ready to study theology at the doctoral level, you can start by checking out regionally accredited online programs.