PhD in Theological Studies Degree
Join the Ranks of Major Thinkers from Throughout Church History with Liberty’s PhD in Theological Studies Degree
Liberty University’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theological Studies is designed to support you in becoming a leader in the discipline of theology as you analyze the ideas of important thinkers – both Christian and non-Christian – throughout church history. In this program, you’ll study a variety of influential texts and analyze the movements, presuppositions, and major ideas of the field. Additionally, you’ll have opportunities to engage in open research and inquiry, allowing you to strengthen your faith and follow your calling to reach the highest levels of scholarship and Christian service.
The doctorate degree in theology studies is a research PhD, which means you’ll conduct independent research through the entirety of the program, culminating in the completion of a dissertation that aims to make a significant contribution to the field. Not only that, but you’ll also dive deep into the skills and methodologies of teaching pedagogy, which can help open you up to collegiate teaching roles.
While this degree primarily focuses on helping you pursue a career in research or academia, the skills you study may also prove valuable as you seek to serve through nonprofits, Christian agencies, and the local church. Partner with us and prepare to join the ranks of leaders in the church who are impacting culture for Christ.
Credit Hours
View CoursesNext start date: Aug 18, 2025
ATS Accredited
Highlights
Highlights of Our Doctorate in Theology Studies
Valuable Mentorship Opportunities
In this program, you will study under theologians, missionaries, and ministry leaders who have years of real-world experience and who have reached the highest levels of scholarship in their field. They are available to mentor you as you progress in your program.
A Path to Fit Your Interests
Customize your doctoral degree in theology studies by selecting a major area of focus, so you can hone in on the specific knowledge and skill set you are interested in.
A Unique, Christian Community
Benefit from the teaching and professor involvement of a small Bible college combined with the experience and amenities of a world-class university.
A Research Focus
Contribute to the current body of knowledge in your field by conducting original research for your dissertation.
Career Potential
What Can You Do with a Doctoral Degree in Theology Studies?
Liberty University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies can help prepare you to pursue the following occupations:
- Ministry director
- Professional Christian scholar
- Senior pastor
- University or K-12 Christian school administrator
- University professor
#4 Best College Campus in America
At Liberty, you’ll find an affordable, high-quality education designed to help equip students like you for the real world. Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as the #4 Best College Campus in America by Niche.com.
Earning your degree from a nonprofit university with state-of-the-art resources like ours can help set you apart from your peers.
Courses
What Will You Study in Our PhD Degree in Theology Studies?
To help equip you for roles in scholarship and academia, this program includes courses in research methods as well as teaching and learning processes. Additionally, you’ll take classes and seminars in core aspects of theological studies, including resurrection, miracles, theological methods, Christian thought, and modern theological movements and theologians.
You can also customize your degree by selecting a major area of focus from the following options: apologetics, biblical theology, Christian thought, and public theology. That way, you can tailor the program to match your unique interests and career goals as you explore a specific aspect of theology.
For instance, the apologetics area of focus lets you study topics such as natural theology and the problem of evil, pain, and suffering. Biblical theology provides a gateway to exploring the theology of the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Gospel. Christian thought focuses on bibliology, the doctrine of God, and Christology. Public theology dives into areas such as Christian ethics, current issues in theology, and Christianity and politics. No matter which area of focus you select, you’ll receive a well-rounded education designed to help you thrive.
All of your courses will build up to your final dissertation sequence, where you’ll research, write, and defend your own findings. This can serve as a valuable launching point for contributing to modern discussions surrounding various theological issues and challenges – so you can make your mark on church history.
Featured Courses
APOL 920 – Resurrection and Miracles
RTCH 900 – Research Methods
RTCH 901 – Teaching in Higher Education
THEO 903 – Historical Development of Christian Thought
Degree Information
- This program falls under the Liberty Theological Seminary
- View the Degree Completion Plan
- Check out our course catalog
- Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total
BENEFITS
Why Choose Liberty’s Doctoral Theological Studies Degree?
Learn in a World-Class Environment Designed for Ministry and Scholarship
As a residential student, you’ll study in the heart of Liberty’s Freedom Tower – a 17-story hub built to fuel theological education and spiritual growth. The facility includes an immersive classroom with 7 projectors, a cutting-edge homiletics teaching lab, and an interactive teleconferencing space for global engagement. You’ll also have access to the Scriptorium, home to rare biblical artifacts like a 16th-century Torah scroll and a replica of the Gutenberg Press. These unique learning spaces are designed to support both your academic exploration and your ministry preparation.
Study Under Distinguished Faculty Committed to Your Growth
Liberty’s School of Divinity brings together experienced theologians, apologists, ministry leaders, and biblical scholars who are dedicated to mentoring future Christian leaders. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from professors who not only publish and present scholarly work but also actively live out their faith in service. Their guidance can help you shape meaningful research while developing a theology grounded in Scripture and cultural relevance. More than instructors, they’re mentors who are invested in your personal, spiritual, and academic journey.
Contribute to the Ongoing Conversation in Theology
The PhD in Theological Studies is designed to help you produce original scholarship that engages both the academy and the Church. Through rigorous coursework and a dissertation, you’ll explore doctrines, historical theology, or other key areas with the goal of advancing understanding in the field. This program gives you the tools to engage deeply with Scripture, tradition, and contemporary issues from a research-based perspective. If you’re passionate about theology and eager to add your voice to the conversation, this program provides the framework to do so.
Earn a Respected Degree from an Accredited Institution
Liberty’s PhD in Theological Studies is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), ensuring that your degree is recognized for its academic quality and credibility. Whether you aim to serve in a church, teach in higher education, or work in a faith-based nonprofit, your degree can carry weight across a variety of contexts. You’ll be equipped with a strong theological foundation and the analytical skills needed for a variety of leadership roles. This program is about more than credentials – it’s about pursuing excellence in service to your calling.
Admissions
How Do You Become a PhD in Theological Studies Student?
Every application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and all applicants must submit the following documents and meet the minimum requirements for admission:
- Admission application
- Official transcripts showing a Master of Divinity or a Master of Arts with a thesis in a related field (i.e., Theological Studies, Apologetics, Religious Studies, Christian Thought, Historical Theology, Biblical Theology, Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Public Theology, Philosophical Theology, Christian Ethics, Philosophy of Religion)
- 3.0 GPA in all previous graduate coursework
- Writing sample
- 10-12 page paper
- May be a writing sample submitted for the applicant’s master’s degree or recent research
- PhD Questionnaire
- 3 references
- 2 academic contacts from graduate degree faculty
- 1 pastoral contact
- Reference letter may be requested if needed during applicant review process (personal recommendation letters will not suffice)
- Letter of Intent
- 300-word minimum
- Must specify the applicant’s purpose and goals for entering the program
- Professional vita
- Department approval
- Proof of English proficiency
Please note: German language competency is not required for admission but is a graduation requirement within the program.
Have Questions?
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