THE DOCTOR OF THEOLOGY (Th.D.) DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
The doctoral dissertation may be on any topic in theology; however, since we have a highly specialized faculty dedicated to the thought of Augustine, the Augustinian tradition and the influence of Augustine on philosophy and theology, the student is encouraged to either focus on Augustine of Hippo, or make some connection with Augustine and the Augustinian tradition. The dissertation written may be in English, Italian, French, Spanish, German or Dutch depending upon the competency and permission of the supervising professor. The doctoral student is required to demonstrate competency in the necessary original and scholarly languages of his or her research. The doctoral program usually takes between two and four years to complete, depending upon the student. As with most of our degrees, the doctoral program in theology is a non-residential, research degree under the supervision of a directing professor.
THE MASTER OF THEOLOGY (Th.M.) DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY
This degree has three specializations: 1) Historical Theology, 2) Patristic Theology and 3) Systematic Theology, which normally requires two years, a year of supervised research followed by a year dedicated to the writing of the thesis.
While the Master of Theology degree generally involves a year of supervised research followed by a year dedicated to the writing of a thesis under the supervision of a professor, this degree can sometimes be completed in a one year when a student is accepted in advanced standing, by dispensation, or by examination. Nevertheless, generally when a thesis has been accepted by the supervisor, student is required to be examined on his or her thesis by a tribunal of professors who grade it.
