PhD Programs
Integrative Studies in Ethics and Theology (ISET)
In our Integrative Studies in Ethics and Theology (ISET) program, students give particular attention to the ways in which theology (historical and systematic) and Christian ethics intersect with and influence one another in particular thinkers and with respect to concrete theological and ethical questions. Students in our ISET program are admitted with a primary disciplinary focus in either Ethics or Theology.
New Testament and Early Christianity
The New Testament and Early Christianity specialization concentrates on the New Testament and closely related texts in their historical, cultural, and religious context. The interpretation of texts involves the use of a variety of methods, both literary and historical. While studying the New Testament in its multifaceted reality, students explore the fascinating history and culture of contemporary Jewish and Greco-Roman worlds, the richness of the Jewish Scriptures, and the challenging diversity of Second Temple Judaism.
Structure of the Program
The PhD is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study. Students complete coursework during their first two years in the program. The third year is devoted to comprehensive exams and the submission of a dissertation proposal. In years four and five students dedicate their time to writing the dissertation. In addition to developing research skills, classroom experience and preparation for teaching are key components of our program. During the first three funded years, students are expected to serve as teaching assistants and/or research assistants for departmental faculty. In years four and five, students serve as instructor of record for undergraduate courses offered by the Theology Department while completing the dissertation.
Pedagogical Training
Doctoral students who have completed their course work typically take two non-credit courses in Theological and Religious Studies Pedagogy, and also serve as teaching assistants during their third year.
Among other activities, students will develop a course syllabus, write their philosophy of teaching statement, and take part in the culminating event: a graduate student symposium on teaching and learning.
Loyola University’s doctoral program in theology is designed for those who envision a career primarily in teaching and scholarly research at an advanced level. We offer two specializations: Integrative Studies in Theology and Ethics (ISET) and New Testament and Early Christianity.
Structure of the Program
The PhD is designed to be completed in five years of full-time study. Students complete coursework during their first two years in the program. The third year is devoted to comprehensive exams and the submission of a dissertation proposal. In years four and five students dedicate their time to writing the dissertation. In addition to developing research skills, classroom experience and preparation for teaching are key components of our program. During the first three funded years, students are expected to serve as teaching assistants and/or research assistants for departmental faculty. In years four and five, students serve as instructor of record for undergraduate courses offered by the Theology Department while completing the dissertation.
Pedagogical Training
Doctoral students who have completed their course work typically take two non-credit courses in Theological and Religious Studies Pedagogy, and also serve as teaching assistants during their third year.
Among other activities, students will develop a course syllabus, write their philosophy of teaching statement, and take part in the culminating event: a graduate student symposium on teaching and learning.