A Doctor of Philosophy in Theology degree (Ph.D. in Theology) is a terminal degree in theological studies. The degree prepares a student for an academic career in scholarship and research, as well as a professional career in university or seminary-level teaching.
Most programs offering a Ph.D. in Theology will require a student to have earned a Master’s of Divinity degree or another master’s level seminary degree prior to enrolling. Some institutions will waive one or more of these requirements if a student has special circumstances.
Each theological institute or divinity school will have its own unique requirements, but it is common for Ph.D. Theology students to be expected to complete a thesis during their studies. Many programs also have foreign language requirements.
Ph.D. in Theology students often focus their studies on specific subjects. Common examples of such specializations can include: Christian Ethics, Biblical Studies, Church History, Systematic Theology and Interreligious Relations. Individual seminaries may allow for other specialization.
Seminaries with Accredited Doctor of Philosophy in Theology Degrees
Ph.D. in Theology — Church History
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Church History/Historical Theology focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Cultural Studies
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Theology and Culture focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Ethics
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Ethics focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Homiletics
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Worship and Preaching focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — New Testament Studies
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with New Testament focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Old Testament Studies
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Old Testament focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Practical Theology
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Practical Theology focus)
Ph.D. in Theology — Systematic Theology
- Fuler Theological Seminary (Ph.D. in Theology with Systematic Theology focus)
Looking for more seminary degrees?
- Master of Divinity degrees
- Master of Theology degrees
- Doctor of Theology degrees
- Doctor of Philosophy degrees
- Doctor of Ministry degrees
There are many other seminary degree options.