Learn about doctoral degree programs in theology.
Doctoral programs in theology prepare students for academic and research careers in a variety of religious studies fields. Theology doctoral degree-holders work in colleges, seminaries and universities as well as religious organizations. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) programs require students to complete a dissertation in a field of specialization. Doctoral candidates must also meet certain language requirements.
Harvard Divinity School
Harvard University has offered graduate programs in religion and theology since 1811. The university founded its Divinity School in 1816. The school now offers a Doctor of Theology degree program. Candidates can specialize in Hebrew Bible and Old Testament studies, New Testament and early Christian studies, history of Christianity, theology, ethics, comparative religion, religion and society or religion, gender and culture. Students must complete two years of residence and must be able to demonstrate proficiency in two modern languages and one ancient language, such as Hebrew, Greek or Sanskrit. The National Research Council ranked Harvard University second among doctoral programs in religious studies and theology in 1995.
Harvard Divinity School
14 Divinity Ave, Room 214
Cambridge, MA 02138
617-495-5796
hds.harvard.edu/
The University of Chicago Divinity School
The University of Chicago's Divinity School offers a Doctor of Philosophy program in religion. Students can specialize in religious ethics, philosophy of religions, theology, biblical studies, history of Christianity, history of Judaism, Islamic studies, history of religions, anthropology and sociology of religion or religion and literature. Candidates must complete four years of residence and must be able to demonstrate proficiency in two languages. The National Research Council ranked the University of Chicago first among doctoral programs in religious studies and theology in 1995.
The University of Chicago Divinity School
1025 E. 58th St.
Chicago, IL 60637
773-702-8200
divinity.uchicago.edu/
Duke University Divinity School
Duke University's Divinity School offers a Doctor of Theology degree program with a focus on Christian studies and practice. Doctoral candidates work with their academic advisers to develop their own individualized primary and secondary concentrations. Students must complete two years of residency and must demonstrate proficiency in two modern languages, not including English. The National Research Council ranked Duke University fourth among doctoral programs in religious studies and theology in 1995.
Duke University Divinity School
Box 90968
Durham, NC 27708
919-660-3400
divinity.duke.edu/
Vanderbilt University Divinity School
Vanderbilt University's Divinity School offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree program. Students without a masters degree enter the Master of Arts program before continuing onto the doctoral program. PhD students can specialize in ethics and society, Hebrew Bible studies, historical studies, history and critical theories of religion, homiletics and liturgics, New Testament and early Christianity studies, religion, psychology and culture or theological studies. Students must demonstrate proficiency in two languages, including modern or ancient languages. The National Research Council ranked Vanderbilt University seventh among doctoral programs in religious studies and theology in 1995.
Vanderbilt University Divinity School
411 21st Ave. South
Nashville, TN 37240
615-322-2776
vanderbilt.edu/divinity
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