PhD Theology Program

Earn your doctorate of sacred theology from Franciscan University and specialize in one of five concentrations:

• Systematic theology
• Historical theology
• Moral theology
• Biblical Theology
• Catechetics

The program provides three-fold formation:

• Formation in theological research from the heart of the Church
• Formation in teaching
• Human formation through mentorship relationships with Franciscan University’s theology faculty

“Without theological research, we would not know or would not know so clearly or would not so well appropriate into our lives such truths as Christian marriage is an image of the Triune communion of persons, morality is not just a series of obligations but the way of authentic flourishing and happiness, and there is a moral remedy in ectopic pregnancy to save the life of the mother—to give just a few examples. Without our PhD program, meaningful theological research will remain undone, truths will remain or become obscured, and there will be an untold cost in the lives of countless Christians.

Read the full letter from Dr. Stephen Hildebrand, Vice President for Academic Affairs, here.

1. Academic writing sample.
2. GRE scores.
3. Undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
4. 3 letters of recommendation from previous professors.
5. One page summary of current theological research interests.
   • How has your previous study prepared you to pursue these research interests at the doctoral level? Why would you like to pursue these research interests at Franciscan University?
6. One page personal statement on the role of theological study in your relationship with Christ and your vocation.
   • How would a PhD in Sacred Theology from Franciscan University help you serve Christ and fulfill your vocation more effectively?
7. If English is not your native language, has at least one of your previous degrees been taught in English? If not, please submit a TOEFL score.