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Top 10 Best PhD in Theology Programs [2024]

A PhD in theology is an advanced degree that will allow you to gain in-depth insights into biblical and theological themes. With a doctorate in the field, you’ll be qualified to hold leadership or senior administration roles in the church, work as a pastor or youth minister , or teach theology or philosophy at a post-secondary level.

Read on to discover the best theology doctorate programs in the country and how many theology PhDs are incredible online doctorate programs .

Table of Contents

Best PhD Theology Programs

Boston university, school of theology.

Doctor of Philosophy Program

Boston University’s School of Theology sets itself apart from other theology schools with its PhD with an emphasis on Christian traditions and the practices, histories, ethical values, and beliefs of Christian institutions. This PhD program offers three tracks: biblical and historical studies, theology, ethics, philosophy, and practical theology.

• Courses:  Object relations theory for pastoral relationships, transformative faith formation & digital media, and political theology.
• Credits:  44
• Duration: 5 years
• Delivery mode: On-campus
• Tuition : Full funding
• Financial aid: Full tuition fellowship, stipend, scholarships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 20.1%
• Location:  Boston, Massachusetts

Dallas Theological Seminary

Doctor of Philosophy

Dallas Theological Seminary is a well-known non-denominational theological institution with a strong grounding in the Christian faith. Along with theology, it offers a range of programs that link arts, education, and media to religion and theology. Students can major in either biblical studies or theological studies.

• Courses: Theological education in intercultural contexts, advanced old testament biblical theology, and modern theology & theologians.
• Credits: 36 hours (61 for bachelor’s degree holders)
• Tuition : $697 per credit
• Financial aid: Scholarships, loans, and military benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 79%
• Location: Dallas, Texas

Grace Theological Seminary

Doctor of Ministry in Ministry Leadership

With support from the Grace College of Liberal Arts, Grace Seminary, strives to mold students into valuable ministry professionals. This theology PhD program equips students with leadership skills for ministry administration, hiring, training, and mentoring.

• Courses:  Current theological issues, team staffing, mentoring, coaching, and practice of ministry leadership.
• Credits:  30
• Delivery mode: Hybrid
• Tuition : $2,088 per unit
• Financial aid: Scholarships and fellowships.
• Acceptance rate: 75%
• Location: Winona Lake, Indiana

Harvard University, Harvard Divinity School

Doctor of Philosophy in Religion

Harvard Divinity School collaborates with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences to offer programs covering all major world religions. It draws on faculty from many disciplines, such as history, anthropology, and philosophy, and theology. This doctorate degree in theology focuses on world religions, religious thought and traditions, and how culture relates to religion.

• Courses: Judaism & the making of Christianity, Evangelism in America, and Hebrew bible studies.
• Duration:  5-7 years
• Tuition : $30,472 per year
• Financial aid: Institutional grants and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Calvary University

Doctor of Philosophy in Bible and Theology

Calvary University offers students affordable education in religious studies and produces scholars with a biblical outlook on life and work. This PhD theology program develops bible experts skilled in the testaments’ original languages.

• Courses: Hebrew intensive, exegesis in the Greek new testament, and biblical young earth creationism.
• Credits: 60 (without biblical language courses) or 78 (with biblical language courses)
• Duration:  4 years
• Delivery mode: On-campus and online options
• Tuition : $347 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, tuition reduction, military benefits, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 78%
• Location: Kansas City, Missouri

The University of Iowa, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

PhD Program in Religious Studies

Iowa University’s Department of Religious Studies’ PhD program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of various religions and their changing faces in the modern world. This PhD program develops advanced theology practitioners as a standalone discipline and equips them with useful knowledge applicable to other fields like law, diplomacy, medicine, journalism , social advocacy, and counseling.

• Courses: Genealogies of religion, Asian religions in the modern world, and methods and theories in religion.
• Credits: 72 semester hours
• Duration: 6 years (5 years for MA holders eligible for credit transfer)
• Delivery mode:  On-campus
• Tuition : $12,065 per year
• Financial aid: Scholarships, fellowships, and teaching assistantships.
• Acceptance rate: 84.3%
• Location: Iowa City, Iowa

Fordham University, Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education

PhD in Theology

The Graduate School of Religion and Religious Education at Fordham University combines practical spiritual wisdom and academic knowledge to create leaders with a strong outlook on justice, solidarity, and service. This doctorate of theology offers five concentrations: bible, history of Christianity, Judaism & Christianity in antiquity, theological & social ethics, and systematic theology.

• Courses: Biblical Hebrew introduction, history of Christianity, and theological anthropology & human diversity.
• Credits: 36 minimum
• Duration: 7 years average
• Tuition : $960 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, assistantships, loans, and veteran benefits.
• Acceptance rate: 52.5%
• Location: New York City, New York

Liberty University

PhD in Theology and Apologetics

Liberty University is well-known for its various programs in theological and biblical studies, which features a rare collection of books worth more than $1 million, including a 111-foot 16th century Torah scroll and a functioning replica of the Gutenberg Press. This PhD program in Theology and Apologetics is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and designed for Christian students who aspire to become church leaders.

• Courses: Theological method, apologetic method, and bibliology.
• Credits: 57 credit hours
• Duration:  3.5 years average
• Delivery mode: Online (following initial one week on-campus)
• Tuition : $410 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 50.1%
• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

Columbia University in the City of New York, Department of Religion

PhD in Religion

Columbia University is one of the nation’s leading institutions for religious studies, giving students access to valuable sources of knowledge, including the Jewish Theological Seminary, New York Public Library, and the Asia Society, along with its own collection of ten million volumes. This doctorate program is not standalone — it starts with a MA or M.Phil. and ends with a PhD.

• Courses: Economic theology, law & medieval Christianity, and theories of transmission & community formation.
• Duration:  7 years
• Financial aid: Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and stipend.
• Acceptance rate: 6.7%
• Location:  New York City, New York

The University of Notre Dame, Department of Theology

The University of Notre Dame’s Department of Theology is internationally renowned for its excellence in Latino theological studies. With a strong focus on diversification and globalization, the department boasts close connections with the Church in Africa. This doctorate in theology offers concentrations related to Christianity, Judaism, world religions, and ethics.

• Courses: New Testament and the Greco-Roman world, medieval Jewish-Christian encounters, and liturgical theology.
• Credits:  42
• Duration:  4-6 years
• Tuition : $59,644 per year
• Financial aid:  Full-tuition scholarship, stipend, fellowships, and assistantships.
• Acceptance rate: 19%
• Location: Notre Dame, Indiana

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Theology?

The exact prerequisites vary depending on the program, but you’ll typically need a master’s degree in theology or a related field to apply. Some programs accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree, though you may need to complete extra credits.

To earn your doctorate, you must complete core and elective courses and pass exams, often including classical languages such as Greek or Hebrew. Most PhD in theology programs require you to conduct extensive research and complete a dissertation.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Theology PhD Program

Here are some important considerations for choosing your PhD in theology:

• Niche: Do you want to study at a secular institution, or would you prefer a devout Christian or Jewish school? Explore specializations offered to ensure the program is aligned with your interests.
• Career Goals: Do you want to work in academia or serve the church directly?
• Costs:  Review the school’s tuition costs and weigh them against potential financial aid opportunities.
• Format: Think about whether you have the capacity to study on-campus, or if you prefer an online or hybrid program to balance your doctorate with work or other commitments.

Why Get a Doctorate in Theology?

A doctorate of theology qualifies you to work in education, media, social work , and Church leadership. While you may start as a junior pastor, a PhD will help you progress into advanced leadership and managerial roles.

Even better, you might score a dual teaching and pastor role simultaneously. Finally, graduates are in high demand. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, professionals with a theology major boast one of the lowest unemployment rates , at less than 2%.

Doctors in theology may work in a range of jobs, including:

• Senior Pastor ( $63,525 )
• Professor, post-secondary/higher education ( $87,873 )
• Pastor, Ministry ($48,095 )
• Assistant Professor ( $70,459 )
• Professor of Theology ( $84,724 )

Doctorate in Theology Key Facts

• 1,946 PhD degrees  in theology were conferred in 2019.
• Doctorates made up 7.8% of all theology degrees awarded in 2020.
• Theology is a male-dominated field: of the total doctorates in theology, more than 72% were completed by men.

What is the Average Cost of a PhD in Theology?

The cost can vary widely, depending on the university or theological institution. Tuition can be anywhere between $6,000-$60,000, and living costs, books, and other expenses may total $5,000-$15,000 per year. Some universities offer full funding for deserving candidates, along with other financial aid options.

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

A PhD in theology usually takes 3-7 years to complete, depending on the program and individual factors. You can expect to take longer if you’re admitted with a bachelor’s degree compared to already having a master’s qualification. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely you’ll find any one-year PhD programs  in theology.

Skills You Gain from Doing a PhD in Theology

Like any doctorate, a PhD in theology will allow you to develop skills such like:

• Analytical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Verbal and written communication
• Presentation skills

These programs will also help you develop a deep understanding of abstract concepts around divinity and how to apply them in the practical world.

Key Takeaways

A PhD in theology gives you the highest possible level of knowledge in theology. It will qualify you for leadership roles in the church or help you pass on valuable knowledge to others in an academic career. The best theology PhD programs help you reconcile the divine and the practical worlds to serve others.

Interested in a meaningful theology career? Check out our guide to the best master’s in theology !

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a phd in theology take.

A PhD in theology typically takes 3-7 years to complete, depending on the program.

Is a Doctor of Theology the Same as a PhD?

Doctor of Theology (ThD) and PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) degrees are both doctorates. However, a ThD usually has a Christian focus, whereas a PhD can concern various religions. Additionally, ThD programs are most commonly offered by a Theology school, while you can earn a doctor of theology degree from science and liberal arts colleges.

What is a Doctor of Theology Called?

Common designations for a professional with a doctorate in theology include pastor, associate pastor, and professor in theology.

What Jobs Can I Get with a PhD in Theology?

The most common roles for PhD-holders in theology are leadership and managerial roles in the church or post-secondary teaching positions.

What is the Highest Degree in Theology?

A PhD is the highest degree in theology.

Can I Study Theology Online?

Yes, many universities offer fully online and hybrid theological doctoral programs for students who require more flexible study.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Top 10 Best PhD in Law Programs [2024]

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Fully Funded PhD Programs in Religion and Theology

Last updated February 16, 2022

As part of the series on  How to Fully Fund Your PhD , here is a list of Ph.D. programs in religion and theology that offer full funding to their students. A Ph.D. in Religion and Theology opens the door to a variety of interesting careers. You could work as a college professor, take a variety of roles within religious institutes, and write for media publications, among many other opportunities.

“Full funding” is a financial aid pack for students that includes full tuition remission and an annual stipend or salary for the duration of the student’s doctoral studies. Full funding is not universal, so it’s a good idea to research the financial aid offerings of all the potential Ph.D. programs in your academic field, including small and lesser-known schools.

You can also find several external fellowships in the  ProFellow database  for graduate and doctoral study, including opportunities for funding for dissertation research, fieldwork, language study,s and summer work experiences.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines? Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

Boston University, Ph.D. in Theological Studies (Bostom, MA): All students admitted to the Doctor of Philosophy program are awarded full-tuition fellowships plus a generous stipend for the first five years of study. The Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan program is also open to students in the Doctor of Philosophy program.

Brown University, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Providence, RI): Our students receive six years of full funding; additional funding is possible but not guaranteed.

The University of Dayton, Ph.D. in Theology (Dayton, OH): Most students receive full funding for five years — full-tuition remission with a substantial assistantship stipend — which is awarded on a competitive basis.

Duke University, Ph.D. in Religion (Durham, NC): Currently, our program is set up to pay fellowships on a 9-month basis for the first 5 years. Summer funding is guaranteed in summers 1 and 2 of the program. Students who no longer have guaranteed summer funding are encouraged to apply for competitive funding both internally and externally.  All students must have proof of health care, and the program is prepared to cover the cost of up to 6 years of health insurance if needed.

Fordham University, Ph.D. in Theology (New York, NY): In 2009, the Fordham University Theology Department began offering Ph.D. students full funding for their doctoral studies. As part of the Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) program, every second-year Ph.D. student will have an opportunity to work with at least one faculty member in a Fordham undergraduate classroom prior to teaching on his or her own in the third year.

Georgetown University, Ph.D. in Theological and Religious Studies (Washington, D.C.): Students admitted to our program receive five years of full funding, which includes tuition, health coverage, and a generous stipend. Our program also allocates funding for conference travel, and our current students regularly present at national and international conferences. Current students have also received grants and awards from outside fellowships for summer language study and dissertation research.

Northwestern University, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Evanston, IL): Northwestern University provides all graduate students in the humanities with the same standard package of guaranteed funding. Currently, this includes the following: five academic years of tuition and stipend, five summers of study stipend, health insurance, and a U-pass for public transportation.

Stanford University, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Stanford, CA): All Religious Studies Ph.D. students receive five years of funding, which includes fellowship stipends or teaching assistantships, and tuition for the academic year.  In addition, students receive three funded summers of support.

Syracuse University Fully Funded PhD in Religion (Syracuse, New York): All admitted PhD students will receive five years of stipend funding, including a full tuition scholarship, for working as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Religion.

University of Notre Dame, Ph.D. in Theology ( Notre Dame ,  IN): Full-time students in good standing are eligible to receive a 12-month annual stipend (an amount of $23,000 for students starting in 2018-2019) for up to five years and a full-tuition scholarship for up to eight years.

University of Pennsylvania, Ph.D. in Religious Studies (Philadelphia, PA): The typical doctoral program in Religious Studies is funded over a five-year period, over which students are expected to engage in coursework, complete teaching assistantships, and attend the graduate colloquium. Requirements for the program include a minimum of two languages, qualifying examinations, preliminary examinations (with an oral examination component), and an oral dissertation defense.

Wheaton College, Ph.D. in Biblical & Theological Studies (Wheaton, IL): A full-tuition scholarship, as well as a research fellowship, for each of the six students accepted per year, will enable each student to devote himself or herself to advanced learning as a fully involved member of the academic community.

© Victoria Johnson 2020, all rights reserved

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• Ph.D. Program in Religion

For students seeking their Ph.D. in Religion, the Graduate Program in Religion —part of the Duke Graduate School—offers a Ph.D. program. Although this program is not housed with the Department of Religious Studies, it is a collaboration between the Department and Duke Divinity School. The program includes the following 9 fields of study, also called tracks, in which students can concentrate their studies:

• American Religion
• Asian Religions
• Christian Theological Studies
• Early Christianity
• Hebrew Bible/Old Testament
• Islamic Studies
• New Testament
• Religion, Aesthetics, and Society
• World Christianity

Learn More about the Ph.D. Program

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Trump floats green cards for noncitizen college graduates

WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump suggested in a podcast released Thursday that noncitizens in the U.S. should "automatically" get green cards when they graduate from college.

"What I want to do and what I will do is you graduate from a college, I think you should get automatically as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country," Trump said. "And that includes junior colleges, too."

Trump made similar comments during his 2016 campaign, only to limit legal migration when he was in office.

Trump was responding on the podcast to a comment from one of its hosts, who said, "We need high-skilled workers in this country." Another chimed in, noting that three of the four hosts are immigrants.

"Can you please promise us you will give us more ability to import the best and brightest around the world to America?" a host asked, prompting Trump's green card response.

Trump said he did promise that, adding that it was "so sad when we lose people from Harvard, MIT, from the greatest schools, and lesser schools that are phenomenal schools, also."

In a statement Friday morning, Trump campaign national press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the former president's proposal would apply to "the most skilled graduates" who are "the most thoroughly vetted."

“President Trump has outlined the most aggressive vetting process in U.S. history, to exclude all communists, radical Islamists, Hamas supporters, America haters and public charges," Leavitt said. "He believes, only after such vetting has taken place, we ought to keep the most skilled graduates who can make significant contributions to America. This would only apply to the most thoroughly vetted college graduates who would never undercut American wages or workers.”

Earlier in the podcast appearance, Trump had repeated his frequent unfounded claim that migrants crossing the southern border into the U.S. are coming from jails, prisons, mental institutions and insane asylums. He also asserted without evidence that "we have terrorists coming into our country at a level that we've never seen before."

At a 2016 Republican primary debate, Trump said that "we need highly skilled people in this country" when he was asked about visas for highly skilled workers.

"They’ll go to Harvard. They’ll go to Stanford. They’ll go to Wharton. As soon as they’re finished, they get shoved out," Trump said in March 2016. "They want to stay in this country. They want to stay here desperately. They’re not able to stay here. For that purpose, we absolutely have to be able to keep the brainpower in this country."

However, visa denials and extensions increased during Trump’s time in the Oval Office, making it more difficult for some noncitizen workers to stay in the U.S.

In 2019, Trump laid out a merit-based legal immigration system to prioritize highly skilled migrants. But in 2020, he also signed an executive order that froze new visas for foreign workers.

In a statement, Biden campaign spokesperson Kevin Munoz said that Trump "made it his mission to rip apart immigrant families for his own political gain."

"Trump’s empty promise is both a lie and an insult, especially to the countless people that have been permanently damaged by his first-term in office," Munoz said.

Now campaigning for another term, Trump often makes anti-migrant rhetoric a centerpiece of his campaign speeches.

Trump has compared migrants to Hannibal Lecter from the movie "The Silence of the Lambs." He has asserted that migrants coming to the U.S. are "poisoning the blood of our country," rhetoric the Biden campaign has compared to Adolf Hitler's . Last month, he asserted without evidence that migrants are bringing "very contagious disease."

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

Jillian Frankel is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

Jake Traylor is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

Top 8 Online Doctorate in Theology Programs 2024

Find your perfect school.

For many people, religion is a fundamental part of life. If faith is important to you, then studying theology could be a pathway to a fulfilling role in ministry, religious teaching, or church leadership.

Doctoral degrees in theology open doors to influential and meaningful roles in faith-based organizations, social services, and even academia.

These degrees are known as terminal degrees, meaning they’re the highest degrees one can earn in this particular field. In this ranking, we identify the top eight online doctoral degrees in theology and ministry.

Featured Programs

Methodology.

Our search for the best online doctorates in theology began with a list of two dozen colleges and universities that offer this credential in the United States. After an affordability and ROI filter was applied, our editors were left with just eight programs. We then applied our site-wide graduate methodology for rating advanced degree programs. The results constitute our final ranking of the best theology doctorates in America.

#8—Regent University

Virginia beach, virginia, phd in renewal theology.

Tuition : $16,128

The online doctorate in theology from Regent University is one of the more versatile programs in our ranking, featuring four distinct concentrations:

• Practical Theology
• Church History
• Biblical Studies
• Theological Studies

A two-week residency is also required per semester. The program’s culminating elements include a comprehensive exam and a dissertation. Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and the Association of Theological Schools.

• Versatile curriculum
• Lower graduation rate
• Larger class sizes

#7—Saint Leo University

St. leo, florida, online doctorate of applied theology.

Tuition : $15,840

The online doctorate in theology from Saint Leo University is a rigorous 60-credit hour Doctorate of Applied Theology. Offered through the school’s College of Arts & Sciences, the degree requires 42 credit hours of coursework, a comprehensive examination, and a dissertation. Students may complete the program entirely online. St. Leo University is accredited to award doctoral degrees in theology online by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• High acceptance rate
• Fully online

Cons :  

• Low graduation rate
• Less diverse

#6—Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, arizona, edd in organizational leadership: christian ministry.

Tuition : $10,138

The online doctorate in theology from Grand Canyon University is a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Christian Ministry. This research-based terminal degree features core courses such as:

• Christian Ministry and Culture
• Theology of Leadership
• Practical Considerations in Christian Ministry
• Leading Across Cultures

Doctoral candidates must complete both a residency and a dissertation before graduation. GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to award doctoral degrees in theology.

• Required residency

#5—St. Thomas University

Miami gardens, florida, phd theology and leadership.

Tuition : $14,850

St. Thomas University offers a comprehensive 58-credit hour doctorate in theology. This PhD in Theology and Leadership is offered fully online and features core courses such as:

• Sacramental Theology
• Scripture Studies for Practical Theology
• Evangelization & Mission
• Formation and Spirituality in Practical Theology

Enrolled students will also take courses in the Leadership track, including:

• Business, Theology & Leadership
• Addiction & Pastoral Care

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges accredited St. Thomas University to offer this online doctorate in theology.  

• Small class sizes
• 100% online
• Diverse student body

#4—Liberty University

Lynchburg, virginia, doctoral degrees in theology.

Tuition : $7,740

Liberty University offers several online doctoral degree programs in theology. Students interested in pursuing this terminal credential can choose from programs such as:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Practical Theology
• PhD in Applied Apologetics
• PhD in Bible Exposition
• PhD in Christian Leadership
• Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

The theology programs are offered completely online, and courses are taught by experienced pastors and church leaders. The asynchronous nature of the programs allows for maximum convenience and flexibility. Liberty University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Maximum flexibility
• High graduation rate
• Diverse program selection
• Less prestigious university

#3—Lancaster Bible College

Lancaster, pennsylvania, phd in biblical studies.

Tuition : $10,985

Lancaster Bible College offers a cohort-based doctorate in theology. This PhD in Biblical Studies is a hybrid option that requires annual visits to campus in addition to online coursework. Once enrolled, students will take classes such as:

• Hermeneutics & Theology
• Advanced Biblical Research & Writing
• Learning and Teaching: Theory and Practice
• New Testament Backgrounds

A research dissertation is required as a capstone experience. Lancaster Bible College is accredited to award doctoral theology degrees by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.

• Small cohort
• Yearly visits to campus

#2—Oral Roberts University

Tulsa, oklahoma, doctor of ministry.

Tuition : $11,502

Oral Roberts University offers a doctoral degree in theology from its Graduate School of Theology and Ministry that can be completed in just three years. Technically a hybrid offering, half of the courses required for the program feature a 2 ½-day visit to campus for the purposes of completing a modular component. Enrolled students may concentrate their studies in one of two available specializations:

• Church Ministries and Leadership Track
• Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy Track with a Concentration In Moral Injury

Scholarships are available for eligible students.

• Top-rated regional university
• Scholarships available
• Accelerated format

#1—Columbia International University

Columbia, south carolina, online doctor of philosophy in theological studies.

Tuition : $10,440

Columbia International University offers an accelerated online doctoral program in theology that can be completed in as few as three years. This ATS-accredited program can be completed entirely online and features course titles such as:

• Issues and Methods in Theological Studies
• Theological Studies Dissertation Research and Writing
• Principles of Teaching, Learning, and Course Design
• Research Language Competency

Students pursuing this terminal theology degree will do so alongside the guidance of a dedicated mentor. CIU holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Mentorship program
• ATS-accredited

Types of Online Doctorates in Theology

If you’re interested in earning a doctorate in theology—online or otherwise—you should know that there are many different types of programs to consider.

Credentials: PhD Versus DMin

Generally speaking, there are two distinct types of doctoral degree programs in the field of theology—the PhD in Theology and the Doctor of Ministry (DMin). These degrees are similar in terms of curriculum but may differ in several other ways. Perhaps the most important thing to consider when choosing between these two credentials is your intended career goals. Those students who want to advance their leadership positions within a church or other faith-based organization should consider the Doctor of Ministry degree. Conversely, those who wish to obtain positions as professors or researchers in theology should opt for the PhD program.

Students who elect the PhD in Theology should be prepared for a longer period of study. While the Doctor of Ministry credential can be earned in 2-3 years, the PhD program could require 4 years or more. Furthermore, a DMin is more likely to be offered fully online. Online PhD in Theology programs often require visits to campus each semester or on a yearly basis.

Note that it is also possible to earn an EdD in organizational leadership degree with a concentration in theology or ministry like the program from Grand Canyon University featured in this ranking.

Modality: Online Versus Hybrid Programs, Synchronous Versus Asynchronous

You can still get a traditional doctorate in theology on campus, but if you wish to take advantage of the flexibility of distance learning, there are several options. For example, you can choose a fully online program for maximum convenience or a hybrid program if you wish to enhance your virtual studies. Within these categories, there are additional options. For instance, you can opt to study synchronously and attend online sessions in real-time. Conversely, an asynchronous schedule allows you to study and complete assignments according to your own schedule.

Curriculum Details for Online Theology Doctorates

Before selecting the right online theology doctorate for you, you’ll want to look at the curriculum details for each of the programs you’re considering. While there are some standard elements for this type of degree, each program is unique.

For example, one program may feature a prescribed curriculum—meaning you’ll be told which courses to take and when—while another may offer customizations within the curriculum guidelines. The latter program might allow you to concentrate your studies in a particular sub-field of theology, for instance, or choose from elective classes that interest you. Below, we list some examples of concentrations and core classes you can expect to see when searching for an online doctorate in theology.

 Sample Concentrations for Online Theology Doctorates

• Church Ministries and Leadership
• Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy

Sample Core Courses for Theology Doctorates Online

• Issues and Methods in Practical Theology
• Research Methods and Teaching in Christian Higher Education
• Communication and Spiritual Guidance
• Ministry Research and Analysis
• Advanced Biblical Research and Writing
• Evangelization and Mission

Dissertation

Typically, doctoral programs in theology are research-based and require a dissertation. A dissertation is a scholarly paper that documents a student’s extensive research in an area of academic study. While most programs require a dissertation as a culminating element at the end of the doctoral program, some allow students to work on the paper over the course of their studies.

Accreditation for Online Doctoral Programs in Theology

Accreditation is important when looking for any theology doctorate, but it can be especially crucial when selecting an online program. That’s because these programs can be particularly vulnerable to scams, including illegitimate degree programs from so-called “ zombie colleges ”.

To avoid becoming a victim of fraud, it’s important to do your due diligence. You can check for programmatic and institutional accreditation at the National Center for Education Statistics website. While institutional accreditation is a must, you can consider programmatic accreditation as an extra layer of credibility. Many of the best doctoral programs in theology are accredited by The Association of Theological Schools (ATS).

Frequently-Asked Questions About Online Doctorate in Theology Programs

Pursuing a doctoral degree is a serious endeavor. You’re bound to have some questions prior to committing to a Phd or DMin program. Below, our editors field some of the most common questions prospective students have prior to enrollment. Keep in mind that the information here is general in nature and not intended to replace advice from an admissions counselor.

Q: Can I earn my doctorate in theology completely online?

A: Yes. Many of the schools in our ranking offer fully online doctorates in theology. Others require minimal campus visits, making these programs hybrid options.

Q: How much is tuition for a doctoral program in theology?

A: Tuition can vary widely from one school to the next. While conducting research for this ranking, our editors identified programs for less than $8,000 per year as well as those that cost more than $25,000 annually. Scholarships and other forms of financial aid may help students pay for these expenses.

Career Questions for Doctoral Degrees in Theology

Careers in theology are usually driven by a desire to make a difference in the world, not by dreams of prosperity. Still, it’s a good idea to know what your job prospects will be upon graduation from a doctoral degree program in this field.

Q: What can I do with a PhD in theology?

A: Graduates of PhD in theology programs typically work as clergy members or as postsecondary teachers in academia. Other leadership positions may be available in faith-based organizations, non-profits, and even the private sector.

Q: Where will I work with a doctorate in theology?

A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most clergy members work for churches, home healthcare organizations, hospitals, social service organizations, and psychiatric and substance use facilities. Professors of religion and philosophy often teach at four-year universities and colleges.

Q: How much money will I earn with a theology doctorate?

A: Pay depends largely on the organization that employs you as well as the geographic region where you work. Still, PayScale reports that individuals with a PhD in Theology make $90,000 per year on average. Those with a DMin credential tend to make significantly less, with an average salary of $74,000.

Q: Which theology schools have the highest return on investment?

A: The schools in our ranking of top doctorates in theology with the highest return on investment, according to PayScale.com, are Grand Canyon University, Saint Leo University, and Regent University, respectively.

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Department of Religious Studies

About the phd program, about the ph.d. program.

Our Ph.D. program is designed to prepare the very best candidates for successful careers in research and teaching at the university level. We have been ranked among the top 5 doctoral programs in Religious Studies in the country, and admissions is highly selective to produce incoming classes of 4 to 8 students. All doctoral students are admitted into one of the Department’s fields of specialization and must fulfill the specific requirements of that field:

Ancient Mediterranean Religions

• Ancient Near East
• Hebrew Bible
• Early Judaism
• Archaeology
• Greco-Roman Religions
• Early Christianity (including New Testament)
• Religions of Late Antiquity

For more on this field of specialization, click here .

Core Faculty:

Bart D. Ehrman ; Joseph Lam ; David Lambert ; Jodi Magness ; Hugo Méndez ; Zlatko Plese

Associated Faculty:

Evyatar Marienberg

Islamic Studies

Additional resources for the comparative study of Islam in the area include the following:

Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies programs at UNC and in the Triangle are coordinated by the  UNC Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies , housed in the  Global Education Center .  The Middle East Center collaborates with the Duke University Middle East Center to form the Consortium for Middle East Studies  at Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a federally funded Title VI National Resource Center. Another affiliated resource is the  Duke Islamic Studies Center .

University of North Carolina Press  has launched a  book series  on Islamic Civilization and Muslim Networks edited by Bruce Lawrence and Carl Ernst.

For more detailed information on the Islamic studies field, see the remarks of Carl Ernst on “ Graduate Admission Information for Islamic Studies at UNC .”

Youssef Carter ; Carl W. Ernst ; Juliane Hammer ; Waleed Ziad

Jodi Magness

Affiliated Faculty:

Charles Kurzman , Sociology (UNC); Omid Safi , Asian & ME Studies (Duke)

Medieval and Early Modern Studies

Jessica A. Boon ; Evyatar Marienberg

Barbara R. Ambros ; Carl W. Ernst ; Brandon Bayne

Religion and Culture

Andrea Dara Cooper ; Randall G. Styers

Jessica A. Boon ; Lauren G. Leve ; Todd Ramón Ochoa ; Brendan Jamal Thornton

Jason Bivins , Philosophy and Religion (NSCU); Christian Lundberg , Communication Studies (UNC); Barry Saunders , Social Medicine (UNC)

Religion in the Americas

Scholars in other Departments or programs at UNC such as Afro-American Studies, American Studies, Anthropology, English, Folklore, History, Latin American Studies, Political Science, and Sociology, regularly offer courses and participate in graduate examinations in the field.

There is a large and well-developed program in American religious history at nearby Duke University. Students at both institutions routinely enroll in each other’s graduate courses and participate in a series of jointly sponsored colloquia each semester.

The Southern Historical Collection, the North Carolina Historical Collection, and the folklore and ethnomusicology collections at UNC attract researchers from all parts of the nation. Specialized resources such as the Wesleyan collection at Duke, the Primitive Baptist collection at Elon College, the Friends collection at Guilford College, and the Southern Baptist collections at Wake Forest and at Southeastern Baptist Seminary, are easily accessible.

Yaakov S. Ariel ; Brandon Bayne ; Todd Ramón Ochoa ; Brendan Jamal Thornton

Juliane Hammer

Jason Bivins , Philosophy and Religion (NCSU)

Religions of Asia

Barbara Rossetti Ambros ; Lauren G. Leve

Carl W. Ernst

Across these specific fields we have a range of strengths in regions, traditions, methodologies, and themes. Graduate students regularly develop expertise in these areas by taking thematically-focused courses within and beyond the graduate fields in which they were admitted. We encourage applicants to consider how faculty strengths across concentrations provide resources for projects situated in a particular concentration:

In addition to pursuing your interests in your concentration through coursework in our department, other UNC departments, and at Duke, students will also receive a broad grounding in Religious Studies as an interdisciplinary field. All incoming students enroll in RELI 700 (“Theory and Method in the Study of Religion”), and all take “gateway” courses that introduce important themes and methodologies relevant to a particular concentration. For more information about coursework, please see the graduate program’s Policies and Procedures .

For more information about language requirements and doctoral exams, please click on the specific concentration above. For more information about the dissertation process and time to degree, please see the graduate program’s Policies and Procedures .

All students must have earned a bachelor’s degree prior to registration. In addition, note that:

• We admit students for Fall semester only (not for the Spring).
• We can accept only full-time students who will be in residence.
• Students admitted to the program who have not already earned an M.A. in the study of religion must earn an M.A. in the Department before advancing to the Ph.D. phase of the program. (We offer the M.A. only as the beginning of work for the Ph.D.; we do not offer a terminal M.A. degree.)
• Students enrolled in the Department’s M.A. program can petition to enter the Ph.D. program after successful completion of all M.A. requirements, or they may be admitted into the Ph.D. program after successfully petitioning to bypass the M.A. degree. Information about our M.A. requirements, including the process for bypassing the M.A., can be found here .

Because our department is committed to bringing a broad range of perspectives into the study of religion, we particularly encourage applicants from minority perspectives.

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Religious Studies Ph.D. degree

Our Ph.D. program mentors future scholar-teachers who stand at the forefront of the contemporary study of religion. Our doctoral program combines the personal attention and flexibility of a smaller program with the resources of a large, public research university, including opportunities for language study, interdisciplinary collaboration, and teaching experience. We emphasize doctoral work that combines guided and individualized research, and so we look for creative, self-driven students who will work closely with our faculty.

Apply to Religious Studies

Learn how to apply

Grad Student Guide

Your first contact for information about requirements, financial aid, and other aspects of our program is our  Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

Requirements

In order to receive a Ph.D.at Indiana University, you must complete the following:

• 90 credits of coursework.
• Two revised research papers.
• Show proficiency in two modern languages of scholarship (French and German) and any necessary primary source languages required by the field. Other modern languages may be substituted for French or German with the approval of the director of graduate studies and your advisors.
• Successful completion of qualifying exams.
• Submission of a dissertation.

If you have conducted graduate work elsewhere, you may transfer all or part of that work and receive credit at Indiana University with the approval of the director of graduate studies. Up to 30 hours may be transferred and counted toward the 90 hours required for the Ph.D. However, graduate work done elsewhere is not automatically transferable.

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PhD in Religion

The purpose of the PhD in Religion program is to train scholars of religion who will distinguish themselves through research, teaching, and service to universities, colleges, and the world at large. The program’s curriculum is meant to ensure that students are well-prepared to produce high-quality academic work in their chosen areas of specialization while also remaining fully engaged in the broader trends in the study of religion most relevant to their work. The program is guided primarily by the faculty of the Department of Religion, but our graduate faculty in Religion includes members from additional departments in GRS as well as faculty from other schools across BU. Program faculty stress methodological rigor and theoretical engagement; many have particular interests in religious interactions and interreligious boundaries.

Students entering the PhD program will have majored in Religious Studies (or a related discipline) or otherwise show transcript evidence of advanced coursework in a single religious tradition and introductory coursework in multiple religious traditions.

Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a PhD in Religion are expected to:

• Produce an original and substantial contribution to knowledge in the field of religious studies, utilizing appropriate research skills.
• Demonstrate a rich, generalized mastery of the field’s subject matter and the variety of methods employed by its practitioners.
• Obtain the necessary knowledge for future research and to teach broad introductory undergraduate courses in religious studies.
• Comport oneself according to the highest ethical standards of the academy, exhibiting collegiality and fairness in treatment of teachers, peers, students, and subjects of study.

Course Requirements

In addition to any prerequisites required upon admission, sixteen 4-credit courses (64 credits) are required as a minimum for the PhD. This includes two 4-credit courses in Approaches to Religious Studies, normally taken within the first three semesters of study:

• GRS RN 791 Approaches to Religion 1 Classical Approaches
• GRS RN 792 Approaches to Religion 2 Contemporary Approaches
• One thematic seminar, selected from a list maintained on the program website
• GRS RN 793 Professional Development Seminar in Religious Studies

Additional courses may be required at the discretion of the advisor or Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

Candidates admitted to the PhD degree program who come with a master’s degree in religious studies may transfer a maximum of 4 courses (16 credits). The exact number of courses required depends on how closely the student’s prior work parallels the PhD course requirements at Boston University; a decision about how many prior credits the program will accept for transfer credit is made at the end of the student’s first full year of study. Please see the GRS transfer credit policy and procedures for additional information about transfer credits.

World’s Religions Requirement

All students will be required to demonstrate broad knowledge of multiple traditions from multiple geographic areas. This requirement may be met by one or more of the following, with combinations permitted pending approval by the student’s advisor and DGS:

• Prior graduate or undergraduate coursework
• Graduate training taken at BU
• Examination(s) in (select) religious traditions

Upon matriculation into the program, students will discuss their academic backgrounds and credentials with their advisor in order to determine if this requirement has been met entirely or only partially by prior coursework. All requests for exemption from this requirement as well as proposals for fulfilling this requirement (whether by exam or coursework) must be approved by the DGS.

Language Requirements

All students pursuing a PhD degree in Religion are required to demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency in two languages (other than English) during the first two years of graduate study. Additional language competencies may be required, depending on a student’s specialization. Language proficiency can be demonstrated through either a language examination or successful completion of a noncredit graduate-level foreign language reading course offered by Boston University.

Beyond two contemporary languages, students who are working with primary sources in language(s) other than English will need to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary in these language(s), at a level of expertise appropriate to the particular area of specialization. Normally, this expertise will be evaluated directly by program faculty, during the stage of Qualifying Examinations.

Qualifying Examinations

Students of the GPR will take three types of examinations. Examinations will have both oral and written components, to be decided on by the specialization committee in consultation with the student’s primary advisor(s). Examinations reflect the corpus of knowledge the GPR expects the student to control before they can move to writing a dissertation prospectus.

• Specializations draw on diverse bodies of knowledge, address different historical periods and geographical areas, and demand discrete methodological skills. Consequently, each specialization will administer 1–2 examinations covering the historical periods, data, and historiography relevant to the specialization.
• Students across the GPR are required to master the theoretical models, interpretive schemes, and modes of analysis unique to their specialization. Hence, all students will be required to take one examination that will demonstrate the theoretical and methodological acumen necessary for interpretation of the materials particular to their specialization.
• In their dissertations, students will be making use of the requisite historical, theoretical, and methodological knowledge of their specializations to develop an original work of scholarly analysis. The final exam will consequently be aimed at demonstrating the student’s skill at analyzing their own area of expertise and interest in terms of those accepted interpretive schemes and bodies of knowledge.

PhD candidates, after successful completion of all coursework and language requirements but before proceeding to the dissertation, are required to pass three to four separate qualifying examinations. At least one of these examinations should have an oral component. At least two of these examinations must have a written component. Exams should be completed within the third year of study (normally within one year after completing coursework).

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. The student will draft their prospectus in consultation with at least two readers, usually drawn from their own specialization. Once the prospectus is provisionally approved by the first reader (advisor) and second reader, a draft of the prospectus will be circulated in advance, and the student will present their project to an audience of GPR faculty and graduate students. Following the presentation, the first and second readers will decide whether officially to approve the prospectus, or to approve following revisions. If revisions are required, they will be submitted to the two readers for their final approval.

All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree , and the GRS Student Handbook for program-specific advice and procedures.

If a student chooses not to continue in the PhD program and has otherwise fulfilled the course and language requirements for the MA degree, they may apply for the master’s degree. The required thesis or comprehensive examination for the degree will be determined by the student’s advisor, in consultation with related faculty, and with the approval of the Director of the GPR.

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New Regius Professors appointed in the Faculty of Theology and Religion

His Majesty The King has approved the appointment of two new Regius Professorships in the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Oxford.

Professor Luke Bretherton has been appointed as the new Canon and Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology at Christ Church, Oxford, in succession to The Reverend Canon Professor Nigel Biggar C.B.E. The Regius Professorship of Moral and Pastoral Theology was established by an Act of Parliament in 1840.

  The Revd Professor Andrew Davison has been appointed as the new Canon and Regius Professor of Divinity at Christ Church, Oxford, in succession to The Reverend Canon Professor Graham Ward. The Regius Professorship of Divinity, established by Henry VIII, is one of the oldest professorships at Oxford.

As Canon Professors, both appointees will serve as ordained Canons of the Cathedral, performing duties as Church of England priests. Professor Bretherton will also assume the role of Director of the McDonald Centre for Theology, Ethics, and Public Life.

Professor Luke Bretherton

After completing his PhD, Professor Bretherton was appointed as Director of Studies at St Augustine’s Theological College before moving back to King’s College London in 2004 where he became Reader in Theology and Politics. In 2012 he was appointed to Duke University as Associate Professor in Theological Ethics, becoming the Robert E Cushman Distinguished Professor of Moral and Political Theology in 2020. Additionally, he has been a Visiting Professor at St Mellitus Theological College since 2022. Professor Bretherton has an MA in History from Cambridge University and a PhD from the University of London in Moral Philosophy and Theology. Before beginning his undergraduate studies, he served a year in the British army, undertaking a short service limited commission in the  7th Parachute Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery . Prof. Bretherton will be made Deacon in June 2024 by the Bishop of London in a service at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Prof. Bretherton's work addresses critical topics including debt, populism, euthanasia, environmental justice, racism, humanitarianism, and church-state relations. He has received several grants, fellowships, and awards, including the Michael Ramsey Prize for Theological Writing. His media contributions include articles in The Guardian, The Times, and The Washington Post. He has also collaborated with various faith-based NGOs, mission agencies, and churches globally, and has actively engaged in grassroots democratic politics in both the UK and the US.

Professor Bretherton said: ‘I am delighted and daunted in equal measure to be invited to become the next Regius Professor in Moral and Pastoral Theology. The office integrates church and academy in a unique way and provides a platform to address the existentially urgent issues of the day. Alongside scholarly rigour and critical insight, I seek to bring to the demands of the post practical wisdom and an abiding commitment to forging just and generous forms of common life.’

Professor Andrew Davison

Prof. Davison's interdisciplinary expertise combines his background as a chemist and biochemist with his theological studies. He has an MA in Chemistry and a DPhil in Biochemistry from the University of Oxford and a second undergraduate degree and doctorate, in Divinity, from the University of Cambridge. Professor Davison trained for ministry at Westcott House, Cambridge. He served his title at St Dunstan, Bellingham in the Diocese of Southwark and was ordained Priest in 2004. In 2006 he was appointed Tutor and Fellow at St Stephens House and Junior Chaplain at Merton College Oxford. In 2010 he moved to Cambridge as a Tutor at Westcott House and in 2014 became a Lecturer in the University of Cambridge’s Faculty of Divinity and Fellow of Corpus Christi College where he was appointed Dean of Chapel in 2019. In 2023 he was given the title of Professor.

His recent collaborative efforts include projects on the origins of life and climate change, leading to the establishment of the Leverhulme Centre for Life in the Universe , and his collaboration with the Department of Engineering at Cambridge through his fellowship with the UK FIRES initiative.

Professor Davison said: ‘I am delighted to be returning to Oxford, as Regius Professor of Divinity, where my love of theology first blossomed, as an undergraduate in chemistry, and where I later began teaching. Oxford’s interdisciplinary and multi-faith Faculty of Theology and Religion stands at the heart of a British tradition of exploring, developing, and applying the Christian tradition that is admired the world over. The location of this Chair at Christ Church, as a residential canon of the cathedral, offer the integration the worlds of the university and the church, of research and prayer, that I have sought over my over my years as a teacher, writer, and priest.’

Professor William Wood, Chair of the Theology and Religion Faculty Board at the University of Oxford, said: ‘I am delighted that Professor Bretherton will be our new Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology, and equally delighted that Professor Davison will be our next Regius Professor of Divinity. These are two of our most venerable and important posts, and as Faculty Board Chair, it gives me great satisfaction to know that they will both be filled by candidates of such distinction. I look forward to working closely with Professors Bretherton and Davison for many years.’

Dan Grimley, Head of the Humanities Division at the University of Oxford, said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Professors Luke Bretherton and Andrew Davison as Regius Professors in the Faculty of Theology and Religion. These outstanding appointments demonstrate the faculty’s dedication to maintaining academic excellence and to addressing the moral and theological issues of the present day. I look forward very much to working closely alongside Luke and Andrew in their new roles.’

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, Professor Irene Tracey added:

‘These prestigious appointments reflect the faculty’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to addressing contemporary moral and theological challenges.’

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• New piece published in Middle east monitor by Dr Brendan Ciarán Browne and Caroline Lund

New piece published in Middle East Monitor by Dr Brendan Ciarán Browne and Caroline Lund

A new piece published in Middle East Monitor by Dr Brendan Ciarán Browne and Caroline Lund, PhD candidate in peace studies, highlights the fact that the looming famine in Gaza is entirely man made and a by-product of Israeli colonial control over Palestine. Read the article here .

Read all articles from Dr Browne on his website: brendancbrowne.com . 

Comparative Study of Religion

Undergraduate Program

The concentration in the  Comparative Study of Religion at  Harvard  invites  students to explore the most  consequential and momentous questions  relevant to the understanding of individual and communal human life. Concentrators  consider topics such as the significance of ritual and practice;  differing  conceptions  of human  nature and the nature of the divine; and comparative study of how people understand the meaning of life, suffering  and  death.  Competency in religious studies indicates the ability to think critically and with historical and cultural learning about the complicated place of religious history, imagination, motivation, and memory in national and international affairs.

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Medical school as an older student

I currently work for the state. I am 39 years old. I graduated in 2007 with a 3.9 GPA with a degree in history and religion. I was thinking of quitting my job and moving in with my mom to go to medical school. I was going to take any prerequisites I don’t have at a local community college, as well as brush up on my math and take classes that will help me prepare in studying for the MCAT. I read that some schools look down upon prerequisites taken at community colleges, but I am not sure if I can afford to take the classes at a 4 year institution. Realistically, do I have a chance? I am very intelligent and originally was going to major in pre-med. My academic advisor was disappointed I switched out of the pre-med program.

Truly Unconventional Wisdom

In 1968, our department was established to critically study religion at a time when it was standard to think about religion only as the study of theology and ethics in philosophy departments.

Application Process

Thank you for your interest Rice University's PhD program in Religion program.

Applications for fall 2024 are now closed. Applications will open in early September 2024 for fall 2025 admission.

For more information about graduate program qualifications, visit Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies .

Please pay particular attention to the application instructions, answers to frequent inquiries, and program eligibility and application requirements below.

Candidates will be notified of admissions decisions in early February; communications will be sent to the email address provided by the candidate on the application form.

Application Instructions:

• Applicants will upload unofficial transcripts and supporting documents to the online application system. Hard copies of official transcripts are not required to apply.
• If admitted, applicants will be required to send official transcripts to complete the admissions process.
• Once a completed application is submitted, the applicant will be able to pay the application fee and monitor the status of their application on the Application Status page.
• Application information and supporting documents cannot be edited after final submission. However, applicants are able to upload updated version of their CV and unofficial transcripts via the Application Status page.
• All application materials, including three letters of recommendation, must be received by the deadline to be considered for admission.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered for admission.

Frequent Inquiries:

• The PhD program in Religion is a full-time, funded program and does not offer online or distance courses.
• Applications are accepted annually for Fall matriculation only; there is no Spring matriculation.
• In general, applicants should have a minimum 3.0 (B) grade point average, or the equivalent, in their undergraduate work.
• The Department of Religion does NOT require a GRE score for applicants.

Program Eligibility

Candidates who hold a Bachelor's degree, or who will complete a Bachelor's degree by the start of the admission term, are eligible to apply. Applicants of all academic backgrounds are considered for the PhD program.

Application Requirements

The following materials must be submitted by the application deadline to be considered for admission:

APPLICATION FORM & FEE

The fall 2025 application form will open in early September 2024.

UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS Unofficial transcripts from previous colleges and universities. The department will review unofficial transcripts during the admissions process; official transcripts will be required after acceptance into the graduate program.

OFFICIAL TEST SCORES The Department of Religion does NOT require a GRE score to apply. ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY (International applicants only) TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores should be directly from ETS to Rice (School Code: 6609). Please see the following webpage for additional information regarding IELTS and waiver options: https://graduate.rice.edu/qualifications.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE A statement describing the applicant’s educational objectives and intended area of study. Additionally, the statement should discuss any scholarly research, writing, or similar research currently being pursued. Statements should be no longer than two or three pages, double-spaced.

WRITING SAMPLE A sample of the applicant's academic writing, preferably one that uses primary sources. The writing sample may be a paper you have submitted for class or an original essay written for the application. Writing samples should be seven to ten pages, double spaced.

RECOMMENDATION LETTERS Three letters of recommendation by individuals best qualified to testify to the applicant’s capacity for graduate work in religious studies are required. Academic references representing the applicant’s major field are preferred. If this is not possible, individuals who can comment on qualities relevant to the applicant’s academic goals and research will be accepted. Recommenders named in the application form will be sent an automated email requesting that they complete an online evaluation and upload the letter of recommendation. We advise applicants to make sure recommenders know to expect this email and to give them sufficient time to complete this task ahead of the application deadline.

Inquiries regarding the application process should be directed to Humanities Graduate Admissions: [email protected] .

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The Department of Religious Studies offers graduate training in classical and contemporary Hinduism, with an emphasis on historical, textual, and philosophical methods. Supported languages include Sanskrit, Hindi, Braj Bhāṣā, and Kashmiri (though students sometimes work beyond these languages as well). Our faculty has particular strengths in  śāstric  traditions, including metaphysics, theology, logic, grammar, and aesthetics. Areas of faculty research include Śaiva traditions, Tantra,   Sanskrit narrative literatures, works on state formation and social history,   Vedānta, Hindu-Buddhist philosophical debates, Hinduism and the environment, and traditions of encounter between Hinduism and Islam.     

Coursework 

PhD students in Hinduism are required to take two seminars on theory and method. One of these must be RELG 7360 (“Theories and Methods in the Study of Religion,” which is required of all PhD students in Religious Studies).  The second seminar may be a theory or method course offered either in Religious Studies or in another department, with the approval of the student’s advisor. Students must additionally complete at least 11 seminars or tutorials on topics related to their research interests. Typically, students will take 6 seminars or tutorials in their field of specialization, 3 seminars or tutorials in a secondary field, and 2 electives, in order to fulfil the GSAS requirement of at least 45 credit hours of graded graduate coursework. Students who enter the PhD program with a relevant prior graduate degree should petition for “advanced standing” by the end of their first year, in order to obtain up to 15 transfer credits toward their UVa degree, thereby reducing the graded graduate coursework requirement to 30 credit hours. In all course planning, the student should work with their advisor(s) to construct a sequence of study that balances depth in one’s area of specialization with a wider field of research. As appropriate, students can and should take classes in other departments of the university.   

Students must complete the equivalent of four years of a primary research language (usually Sanskrit or Hindi) and at least two years of a second South Asian language. Satisfactory completion of coursework is typically sufficient to fulfill these requirements, though it is also possible to demonstrate proficiency through language exams. Additionally, students must pass a reading competency exam in one modern research language (usually French or German) relevant to the student’s field of research. The plan of language study should be determined in consultation with the student’s advisor(s). 

Study Abroad 

PhD students in Hinduism are typically expected to complete at least one academic year of study or research in South Asia. 

Comprehensive Examinations 

Students will take three comprehensive exams, in addition to any required language exams. The first exam will focus on Hinduism (consisting of a general reading list as well as one specialized list chosen by the student); the second will cover a secondary area of research chosen in consultation with the student’s advisor(s); the third will be on theory and method in the study of religion. Students must complete all examinations by the end of the semester following the completion of coursework (although it is possible and often useful to take some of the exams earlier during coursework). Each exam will be supervised by two faculty members: a primary examiner and a secondary examiner. The format of the exams and the reading lists will be arranged by the examiners in consultation with the student.