About the PhD in Theological Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies is the highest academic degree program of biblical and confessional Lutheran studies at CTSFW. It enables students to do original research and writing and prepares them for vocations of teaching and research in theological schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S. and around the world, in the areas of Lutheran Confessions, doctrine, and Old and New Testament exegesis.

Contact the Graduate Studies Office

Cindy Johnson
260.452.2203
graduatestudies@ctsfw.edu

PhD in Theological Studies Admission Procedures

All prospective PhD-TS students should contact the Office of Graduate Studies for the required application materials. The application will require the following:

1. 1. A completed PhD-TS application form, including a $35 non-refundable application fee.
   2. Official transcripts of all previous academic and professional training beyond high school.
   3. Three letters of recommendation from persons able to evaluate the applicant’s scholarly ability, professional competence and personal character. Please use the forms provided with the application.

1. Sample theological research paper.
2. A personal interview with the director of the PhD-TS program or another member of the PhD-TS faculty will usually be required. In certain circumstances it may be waived at the discretion of the director.

PhD-TS in Theological Studies Admission Requirements

1. Entry into this degree program requires the Master of Divinity degree or its equivalent from an accredited theological school, with a 3.5 cumulative G.P.A. on a 4.0 scale. For those coming from outside North America, credentials equivalent to the foregoing are required. Credentials for these applicants will be examined by the Graduate Studies Committee on a case-by-case basis.
2. Applicants whose native language is not English are required to demonstrate a working ability in the English language by means of an acceptable TOEFL score or by means of some other standard English examination.

Degree Requirements

Students will successfully complete a minimum of 60 quarter hours with a cumulative G.P.A. of no less than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Individual courses will be regarded as successfully completed only when a grade of B- or better is received.