Doctoral Programs

We offer two doctoral programs, an interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Theology and Education and a Doctorate in Sacred Theology (part of our ecclesiastical sequence). Boston College's Ph.D. in theology (separate from these two degrees) is housed in the Theology Department in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences.

Doctorate in Sacred Theology (S.T.D.)

During the program, students develop expertise in a specific area, mastering the issues and methodologies of their discipline. Our alumni contribute to Church administration and pastoral work, serving through dioceses, seminaries, religious communities, and institutions of higher learning around the world.

Degree requirements:

  • A three-semester residency

  • One modern language beyond S.T.L. requirements

  • Four courses or seminars in an area of specialization

  • Two semesters as a teaching assistant

  • Comprehensive examinations

  • Thesis proposal

  • Completion and defense of a doctoral thesis

Complete the culminating degree in the Catholic Church’s ecclesiastical education system. As home to one of the nation’s seven S.T.D. programs, STM forms scholars who produce original research and new approaches to theological methodology.

Ecclesiastical Doctoral
Professor of Sacred Scripture, St. John's Seminary Theology Faculty Member, Centre Sèvres - Paris Associate Professor, University of San Francisco
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Ph.D. in Theology and Education

Prepare for a career as a leader in religious education, working with your STM advisor and enjoying access to courses at the Lynch School of Education and Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences. You’ll design your own program of study and gain valuable skills as a research and teaching assistant.

Program requirements include:

  • 48 credit hours beyond the master’s degree

  • Reading knowledge of one modern, classic, or biblical language other than English,

  • Comprehensive examinations

  • A dissertation

 

This unique and interdisciplinary program integrates coursework from across Boston College to educate future scholars and educators. Enjoy the peace of mind to focus on your studies with funding for four years, including a full tuition scholarship, a stipend, and health insurance.

Professor Head of Chapel Associate Professor Director of Pastoral Ministry Program Member of Irish Senate College President
bc:schools/stm/program-browser/cards/phd

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