The Ph.D. in Theology is rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition, adopting a decidedly ecumenical and global
orientation. Students in the program seek to better understand the Christian tradition
by studying its biblical roots, historical development, and interaction with the religions
and cultures of the world. Students participate in the rigorous study of systematic
theology, moral theology, and biblical theology, while simultaneously engaging in
a range of disciplines and perspectives that enrich their thinking, including history
of religion, philosophy, anthropology, spirituality, sociology, and the physical sciences.
Learning Outcomes:
Master and articulate contemporary theological systems and schools of thought using
hermeneutical tools appropriate to the subjects studied.
Demonstrate knowledge of foundational areas of Catholic theology.
Bring ecumenical and global dimensions of Christian theology into dialogue with Catholic
thought.
Show a capacity to present integrated and constructive theological arguments that
critically engage and analyze historical and contemporary theological sources.
The doctoral coursework is designed to equip you with a broad and sound knowledge
of the field. The program consists of thirty credit hours in Bible, Doctrine, and
Ethics. At the conclusion of the coursework, a comprehensive exam ensures that you
have a secure grasp of the fundamentals in the various theological areas. In the third
year of study you will have the opportunity to teach undergraduate courses and thereby
accumulate valuable classroom experience.
I am grateful that Duquesne's broad diversity of doctrinal and moral theology, all
taught in the context of a historical and global approach, enabled me to teach, publish,
and present in multiple theological areas, from biblical foundations to phenomenological
theory and even to venture into areas of other disciplines, such as the role of ritual
theory in the anthropological sciences.
Dr. Mary Beth Yount, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Theological Studies, Director of
the Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling, Neumann University
Duquesne University is not presently accepting applications for this program. In response
to increasing uncertainties, Duquesne made this difficult decision to ensure adequate
resources remained available to support students currently in the program.
The curriculum of 30 credit hours in Bible, Doctrine, and Ethics will give you a secure
grasp of the fundamentals in the various theological areas. You may also choose an
optional concentration in Liberal Arts or Interdisciplinary Studies
Completion of ten graduate seminars totaling a minimum of thirty credit hours with
at least a B average.
Each candidate for the Ph.D. in Theology must demonstrate a reading competency in
two foreign languages which are theologically relevant.
Each candidate for the Ph.D. in Theology is required to take a comprehensive examination
upon completion of course work and satisfaction of the language requirements. Normally
this exam is taken within one year of finishing course work. The comprehensive exam
includes a research component, a written component and an oral component in each of
four areas: Systematic Theology, Ecclesiology and Sacraments, General Moral Theology
and an area of specialization chosen by the student and approved by the faculty.
A dissertation (6 credits), which makes an original and significant theological contribution
in the area of contemporary Systematic Theology, written under the supervision of
a director, and publicly defended before a three-person dissertation defense board
which includes the director.
Student Funding
Each year the Department of Theology appoints a limited number of graduate assistants,
normally for Ph.D. students. Assistantships include full tuition and fees, and a competitive
multi-year stipend. Graduate assistants carry a full-time course load and fulfill
requirements for their assistantships by completing work as a GA during coursework
and as a Teaching Fellow during their third and fourth years of the program. All applicants
for admission into the Ph.D. degree will automatically be reviewed as candidates for
graduate assistant positions.
The Department of Theology also awards full and partial tuition scholarships to qualified
applicants. These awards range from 1-9 credits tuition remission per semester and
must be reapplied for on a yearly basis. At their request, Ph.D. candidates may also
be employed by the department on a part-time basis for teaching undergraduate courses.
Partial Tuition Discounts
MA in theology students may apply for partial tuition assistance as follows. These
discounts may be utilized for one degree at Duquesne University, and students must
re-apply for them annually. Forms are available through the university Financial Aid
Office, phone 412-396-6607.
50% Discount for Lay Ministers and Catholic School Teachers:
Lay ministers employed at least part-time in the Dioceses of Pittsburgh and Greensburg,
as well as Catholic school teachers in local dioceses, receive an automatic 50% tuition
discount.
50% Discount for Clergy and Vowed Religious:
Ordained clergy of any denomination, and members of Catholic religious congregations,
receive an automatic 50% tuition discount.
