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Below are downloads (PDF format) of the M.A. (Religion) theses of some of our graduates to date.

Note: Certain requirements for current thesis students have changed since earlier theses were completed.

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Master of Theology Theses

Theses/dissertations from 2024 2024.

Theological Foundations for Shobi's Table Extending Hospitality in Hunger Ministry , Esther Kristianti Sianipar

How Can Pastors Who Are Working with Youth in Tanzania Help Youth Resolve Christian-Muslim Tensions? , Ombeni Martin Ulime

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Poverty Alleviation in the Rural Areas of Kunene Region in Namibia: The Role of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (ELCIN) , Jeremia Ekandjo

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Missional Discipleship Within the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria , Innocent Webinumen Anthony

Empowering Laity to Engage in Pastoral Care Ministry: A Proposal for Capacity Building and Supervision for Larger Congregation with Special Reference to Kohima Ao Baptist Church, Nagaland, India. , Tsuwainla Jamir

The Social Role of Worship: A Reading of Micah 6:1-8 , Khin Win Kyi

Murmuring Met with Mercy and Grace: An Examination of the Pre-Sinai Wilderness Wanderings Traditions , Anna Rask

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

A Reinterpretation of Chin Christian Spirituality Beyond One Century in the Light Of Martin Luther's Freedom Of a Christian , Bawi Dua

New Every Morning: Epectasy as a Theology for Innovation , Joel Hinck

The Church’s Call to Minister to Refugees: A Case Study on Liberian Refugees in Minnesota , Rufus Kudee

Apostolicam Ecclesiam: Socio-Liturgical Interpretation of the Mission of the Church in the Perspective of Friedrich Nietzsche's "Antichrist" , Sebastian Ryszard Madejski

Developing Adaptive Leaders: An Initial Intervention for Transforming a Church Culture , Molly Schroeder

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

The Need for Older Adults’ Ministry in the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) , Bitrus Habu Bamai

Luther's Understanding of Grace and Its Implications for Administration of the Lord's Supper in the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) , Yelerubi Birgamus

Living the American Dream: Faith Formation and the Missio Dei Dilemma among Seventh Day Adventist African American Immigrant Families , Enock Ariga Marindi

Lakota Cultural Fusion and Revitalization of Native Christian Identity , Kelly Sherman-Conroy

The Word-of-God Conflict in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in the 20th Century , Donn Wilson

The Rupture That Remains: A Trauma-Informed Pastoral Theology , Eric Worringer

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

The Challenge of Being in the Minority: Palestinian Christian Theology in Light of Christian Zionism Post-1948 , Medhat S. Yoakiem

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Towards Beloved Community: Racial Reconciliation through Multiracial Missional Churches , Gray Amos Kawamba

Sanctification in Adolescence: How Karl Barth’s Two-Fold Critique of the Church Could Influence Youth Ministry Practices Today , Joel Vander Wal

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

The Absolving Word : Luther's Reformational Turn , Matthew W. McCormick

The Defiled Imago Dei and Forgiveness: The Tensions Between Ethnicity and Humanity in the Image of God in the Context of the Ethiopian Churches , Wondimu Legesse Sonessa

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Widowhood Care and Empowerment in 1 Timothy 1:3-16: A Case Study of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Christ as a Paradigm for African Instituted Churches , Millicent Yeboah Asuamah

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Understanding the Nature and Impact of Alcoholism : Implications for Ministry in Kenya , Margaret Kemunto Obaga

Theses/Dissertations from 1963 1963

An Approach to the Interpretation of the Self-Designation of Jesus: The Son of Man , Marlin Eugene Ingebretson

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Home > Academic Departments > School of Theology and Seminary > Graduate Papers/Theses

School of Theology and Seminary Graduate Papers/Theses

Submissions from 2022 2022.

(Graduate Paper) The Role and Characteristic of Love in 1 Corinthians 13 , Ninh Van Nguyen

(Master's Thesis) Synodality as the Listening Church: Pope Francis Continues and Expands Vatican II's Teaching on Collegiality , Toan Van Phan O.Cist

Submissions from 2021 2021

(Graduate Paper) Pauline Theology: The Interdependently Called Body of Christ , Katryna Bertucci

(Master's Thesis) The Glory of the Lord Whose Likeness is as the Appearance of a Human Being/Adam: A Study of Ezekiel’s Son of Man/Adam Anthropology , Timothy R. Schmeling

(Graduate Paper) The Power, (Problem), and Potential of Prayer , Meghan E. Stretar

Submissions from 2020 2020

(Graduate Paper) How Can Catholic Youth Programs Improve the Youth’s Connection To the Mass? , Elizabeth Cook

(Graduate Paper) Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall: A Glimpse Into the Theme of Righteousness Through the Anthropology, Theology, and Spirituality of the Psalms , Elizabeth Cook

(Graduate Paper) Introducing Queer Theology , Cole Epping

(Graduate Paper) Taking Care of the Forgotten: A Pastoral Response to the Hospice Care Professional , Constance Friebohle

(Graduate Paper) A Global Church in the Local Parish: Fostering Intercultural Competency for Indonesian Catholic Ministry in the United States , Janice Kristanti

(Graduate Paper) The Indispensability of Inculturation For Effective Evangelization: Revisiting The Evangelization of Sub-Saharan Africa , Mark Obeten

(Graduate Paper) Seeking a New Paradigm for Youth Ministry of Waegwan Abbey, South Korea , Cyprian Ji-Eung Ryu

(Graduate Paper) The Catholic Church and the Turn of the 20th Century: An Anthropology of Human Flourishing and a Church for Peace , Maria Siebels

(Graduate Paper) The Wounded Body of Christ: Social Trauma in Pastoral Care , Kelsi Watters

Submissions from 2019 2019

(Graduate Paper) A Non-Dualistic Reading of Body and Soul in the Gospel of Matthew: Focusing on Matthew 10:39 in the Context of Discipleship , Alexander Blechle

Submissions from 2018 2018

(Graduate Paper) Catholic Social Teaching and the Christian Responsibility to the Poor , Rose Aspholm

(Master's Thesis) Not Quite Calvinist: Cyril Lucaris a Reconsideration of His Life and Beliefs , Stephanie Falkowski

(Graduate Paper) Life or Death and Other False Dichotomies: A Theology of Hospice , Kayla Stock

Submissions from 2017 2017

(Master's Thesis) On Dionysian Theological Methodology , Joseph Arrendale

(Graduate Paper) The Transcendence of the Apprehension of Beauty , Mary Abigail Coleman

(Graduate Paper) The Paradox of Remarkable/Unremarkable Julian of Norwich , John P. Fitzgibbons

(Book Chapter) Agape Unbound in Silence and Deep River , Elizabeth Cameron Galbraith

(Graduate Paper) Formed for Diverse Communion: Toward Developing An Ecumenical Formation Process for New Members of Holy Wisdom Monastery’s Sunday Assembly , Rosy Kandathil OSB

(Graduate Paper) A Garden Enclosed, A Fountain Sealed Up: Paradoxical and Generative Metaphors of Enclosure in Medieval Female Anchoritism , Cody Maynus Obl.S.B.

(Graduate Paper) The Gospel of Mark , Nancy McCabe

(Master's Thesis) A Theological Retrieval of Communal Parenting as a Moral Response to Baby Stealing and Childlessness in Nigeria , Henry U. Omeike

(Graduate Paper) Do This, in Memory of Me! , Joseph Qiu-Lin Zhang

Submissions from 2016 2016

(Master's Thesis) A Church Built on Charity: Augustine's Ecclesiology , Michael J. Clinger Jr

(Graduate Paper) A Story of Identity in the Christian East , Manya Gustafson

(Graduate Paper) Jude's Enochian Apocalypse , Lucian López OSB

(Graduate Paper) Matthew's Least Brothers and It's Application in the Catholic Church , Runbao Zhang

Submissions from 2015 2015

(Electronic Book) Illuminating Christ , Jessie Bazan

(Master's Thesis) Gifting Freedom to the Samaritan: Considerations on access to both the sacramental event and salvation for those who, for whatever reason, find themselves outside the Church, and the consequences of identity for the Church in gifting such access , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) My Brother's a Jerk and Dad's Gonna Spank Him: Roles and Relations in Obadiah , Aletta Stumo

Submissions from 2014 2014

(Graduate Paper) Christology, Theology, & Evolution in Celia Deane-Drummond's Christ and Evolution , Trevor Beach SJ

(Graduate Paper) Joy as Illumination: Participation in God's Life-giving Trinitarian Love , Trevor Beach SJ

(Graduate Paper) Consideration of the Church's Identity and Mission, Predicated on the Church Be-ing 'Ligamen' (Bond) , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) Observations on the Performative Force of the Qyama and the Ihidaye, and its Pertinancy Today , C. A. Chase

(Graduate Paper) Christ, the Meeting Point of Sacramental and Trinitarian Theology , Nathan Peter Chase

(Graduate Paper) The Christological Remnants within Eucharistic Prayers , Nathan Peter Chase

(Master's Thesis) With Eyes That See: The Role of Spiritual Vision in the Ascent of Nyssen Noetic Theology , Benjamin Rush

(Master's Thesis) St. John of the Cross and the Denudation of the Soul , Wesley Sutermeister

Submissions from 2013 2013

(Graduate Paper) A History and Analysis of the Missel Romain pour les Diocese du Zaire , Nathan Peter Chase

(Graduate Paper) The Development of the Epiclesis: Alexandrian or Syrian? , Nathan Peter Chase

Submissions from 2011 2011

(Graduate Paper) Short-Term Solution, Long-Term Problem: The Rite of Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest and its Use in the United States of America , Christopher Angel

(Graduate Paper) Welcome (Back): The Use of Initiatory Elements in the Reconciliation of Heretics to the Early Church , Christopher Angel

(Graduate Paper) The Gospel of Matthew: The Temple Cleansing in 21:12-17 , Kasey Devine

(Graduate Paper) The "Ladder" of the Lord's Plagues , Kasey DeVine

Submissions from 2010 2010

(Graduate Paper) St. John Chrysostom and His Message of Social Justice Today , Joel Cassady

(Graduate Paper) Trinitarian Christology: The Grammar of The Christian Faith and the Foundation for a Theology of Religious Pluralism , Eric Christensen

(Graduate Paper) Entering into the Profound Mystery: Yves Congar’s Via Media on the Salvation of People of Non-Christian Religions , Elizabeth M. Cunneen

Submissions from 2009 2009

(Graduate Paper) Ego Eimi Formula and a Sense of Continuity in John’s Gospel Chapter Sixth (Jn 6: v.20, vss.35-58) , John Changjin Bai

(Graduate Paper) Jesus the Christ as a Jun-Zi in Confucian Perspectives , John Changjin Bai

(Graduate Paper) An Exegesis of 1 Corinthians 12:31 - 13:1-3 , Gregory Congote OSB

(Graduate Paper) Gregory Palamas and Hesychasm , Gregory Congote OSB

(Graduate Paper) Modern Usury: The Moral Challenge of Credit Cards in Light of Catholic Teaching and Practice in the Past and the Present , David R. Smoker

Submissions from 2008 2008

(Graduate Paper) Community in the Theology of Søren Aabye Kierkegaard , Nicholas Coffman

(Graduate Paper) Jean-Luc Marion’s Theology of Eucharistic Presence , Nicholas Coffman

(Graduate Paper) Proclaiming the Truth of Beauty , Larry Fraher

(Graduate Paper) Augustine of Hippo and Elizabeth de la Trinite: A Conversation across the Centuries , Vernon W. Goodin

(Graduate Paper) "Who Do You Say That I Am?" The Role of Story in Christology , Vernon W. Goodin

(Graduate Paper) Sufficere, “It Is Enough”: Avarice vs. Simplicity and Detachment in the Rule of Saint Benedict , Arlen M. Hanson

(Graduate Paper) Stories in Stained Glass: An Analysis of the Stained-Glass Windows at Saint Norbert Abbey in De Pere, Wisconsin , Timothy A. Johnston

(Master's Thesis) Wittgenstein and Worship: Investigations of Liturgical Language-Games and Their Formative Role in Christian Identity , Michelle Kathleen Weber

Submissions from 2007 2007

(Graduate Paper) Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Prophet & Martyr , Fr. Michael Calhoun OSB

(Graduate Paper) Saint Basil: Monastic Reformer , Fr. Michael Calhoun OSB

(Graduate Paper) Looking at Conflict Diamonds Through the Lens of Catholic Social Teaching , Heather Cherpelis

(Graduate Paper) “Allegorical Typologies” of the Eucharist: An Analysis of Some Eastern Liturgical Commentaries , Nathaniel G. Costa

(Graduate Paper) “For All the Saints”: A Feast for All People and All Time , Nathaniel G. Costa

(Graduate Paper) Eternal Hope: The Story of Sr. Mary Luke Tobin and Other Women who Participated in Vatican Council II , Megan S. Enninga

(Graduate Paper) Vulgar and Ascetic Christians: the Myth of a Higher Spirituality The rhetoric of monastic profession as a second baptism , August L. Gothman

(Graduate Paper) Active Participation and the Song of the Assembly , William Griffiths

(Graduate Paper) Transforming both the gifts and the people: Eucharistic presence , William Griffiths

(Graduate Paper) “You Can Become All Flame”: Do the Desert Fathers Have Anything to Say to Us Today? , Arlen M. Hanson

(Graduate Paper) Toward a Domestic Ecclesiology: The "Domestic Church" Finds Articulation in Pope John Paul II's "Theology of the Body" , Craig James St. Clair

(Graduate Paper) Celebrating the Communion Rite , Jay Stimac

(Graduate Paper) Karl Rahner: On Grace and Salvation , Nicole Streit

(Graduate Paper) One Body, One Spirit, One Priesthood; Many Members, Many Charisms, Many Ministries: Reflections Anglican and Catholic , Cody C. Unterseher

(Graduate Paper) Arianism, Athanasius, and the Effect on Trinitarian Thought , Andy Witchger

(Graduate Paper) How the Parish and School of St. Agnes Creates Vocations , Andy Witchger

Submissions from 2006 2006

(Graduate Paper) How Paul and the Jerusalem Council Might Speak to Division in the Twenty-First Century Church , Mary Birmingham

(Master's Thesis) Becoming One Spirit: Origen and Evagrius Ponticus on Prayer , Hilary Case OSB

(Graduate Paper) Syncletica: Urban Ascetic and Desert Mother , Susan Dreyer OSB

(Graduate Paper) The Education of Heloise in Twelfth-Century France , Susan Dreyer OSB

(Graduate Paper) A Woman of the Reformation , Megan S. Enninga

(Graduate Paper) A Key and Classic Text: Ephesians 5:21-33 , Katinka Nadine Ellen Evers

(Graduate Paper) Concealing to Reveal: Modesty in Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body , Katinka Nadine Ellen Evers

(Graduate Paper) Sex in the City of God , Diana Macalintal

(Graduate Paper) The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ecclesial Discipleship and Redemption , Diane Draxler Pederson

(Graduate Paper) The Spiritual Potential of Poetry , Carl Schlueter

(Graduate Paper) Complicating the Poor Widow’s Gift: Exegesis on Mk. 12:41-44 , Timothy Traynor

(Graduate Paper) "We Should Glory in the Cross:" The Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross and its Contemporary Liturgical Significance , Cody C. Unterseher

Submissions from 2005 2005

(Graduate Paper) Hermeneutics and Liturgical Space: Interpreting the Domus Ecclesiae - Domus Dei , Gregory Reed Beath

(Graduate Paper) Eros: Human and Divine , Denae M. Fielder

(Graduate Paper) And the Question Became Flesh: Jesus the Catechist in the Gospel of John , Diana Macalintal

(Graduate Paper) Hesychast Prayer: Attending the Cosmic Banquet of the Heart , Tamara Ann Moore

(Graduate Paper) A Study in Spiritual Lineage: The "Influence and Noninfluence" of Pseudo-Dionysius on The Cloud of Unknowing , David M. Odorisio

(Graduate Paper) The Cistercian Spirit in Stone , David M. Odorisio

(Graduate Paper) Architectural Reforms of Eucharistic Reservation , Diane Draxler Pederson

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Theology Master's Thesis: Style & Format

• Getting Started
• Style & Format
• Thesis Defense

Normally, a thesis will be between 15,000 words (roughly 60 pages, assuming double-spacing and 12 pt. font for body text) and 30,000 words (roughly 120 pages), including notes and bibliography. 

Submitting Your Thesis to the Library

To submit a thesis or dissertation to Loyola Notre Dame Library for inclusion in the  Loyola Notre Dame Library Digital Collections :

• Consult your university or department’s guidelines for official requirements regarding formatting, font size, spacing, and citations.
• Format the document as either an MS Word, RTF, or PDF file. (Note: All documents will be converted to PDF for the library’s archive) 
• Include a completed Signatures Page,  Electronic Thesis/Dissertation Access Form , and an Abstract.
• Submit to the library using the  Electronic Thesis/Dissertation Submission Form . 

Questions? Please contact us at  [email protected] .

Style and Format

Theses must use standard Greek and Hebrew/Aramaic fonts for quotations in those languages; abbreviations, pagination, citation, and all formatting in the thesis should follow the guidelines in the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Handbook of Style , available at PN147 .S26 in the Reference shelves of the Loyola Notre Dame Library. 

Careful attention to matters of style are crucial for citation, inclusion of foreign (especially ancient) language, and formatting. The latter will be especially consequential when submitting the post-defense, archival copy to the Loyola Notre Dame Library.

Further guidelines and standards for Loyola University Master's theses are available here .

NOTE: The Theology Department theses standards supersede those of the university. Please contact your advisor for details.

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Masters Theses

Submissions from 2024 2024.

The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus in the Qur'an and Islamic Scholarship: The "Swoon Theory" and the Medical Perspective , Emmanuel K. Asante

A Contemporary Pauline Apologetic Toolkit , Jayne Bertovich

Naturalism, Christian Molinism, and the Problem of Evil , Caleb Blackman

Modern Critiques of the Kalam Cosmological Argument , Colby D. Crawford

The Insufficiency of the Causal Mechanisms of Scientific Naturalism , Aaron R. Crosby

Isaiah 53: Grammatical, Structural and Exegetical Observations , Felipe Braz Federson

An Exegetical Evaluation: Believers’ Differential, Works-Based Heavenly Rewards in the New Testament , Emma Griffith

Noticing the Brush Strokes: Literary Markers in Hebrew Narratives , Shelbey Hunt

The Need for Standardized Training for Volunteer Healthcare Chaplains , Dominic Anthony Korzecki

The Nature of Beauty and Its Objective Manifestation Serve as Evidence of the God Described in the Bible , Michael S. Libby

Feminine Language for God in the Hebrew Bible and the Implications for the Image of God in Women , Shanté Grossett O'Neal

An Examination of the Geographical and Archaeological Evidence Which Supports the Historical Reliability of the Gospel of John , Alan R. Peterson

Addressing Chaplain Care and Resiliency as Protective Factors to Burnout in Community Chaplaincy , Robin Jonell Ratcliff

Lessons from Jesus’s Table Talk a Survey of Selected Texts in Luke’s Gospel , Claudine D. Rogers-Wright

Submissions from 2023 2023

An Apologetic for the Reliability of Biblical Doctrine from Pornography Addiction and Recovery , Jacob A. Arrieta

Did Jesus Survive The Cross? , Christopher Dwayne Banks

A Source-Critical Analysis of the Synoptic Resurrection Accounts , Austin W. Blunt

The Blind Scientist: A Critique of Neo-Darwinism's A Priori Assumptions , Alexander James Bonitto

Truth from Fiction: The Apologetic Use of Christian Allegorical Literature in the 21st Century , Terri Nicole Boutte

An Abductive Argument for Christianity Being the Best Source for Morality , Michael Stephen Christopher

A Comparison of Sinaitic Language In Support Of Jewish Claims Concerning The Presence Of God In The Second Temple , Sally Cox

The Atheistic Problem of Good , Bruce Leroy Davis

Solving the Logical Problem of Evil using the Principles of Programming , Daniel Joel Edmond

The Miracles of Christ and Kṛṣṇa and the Authority to Redeem Creation , Sallie R. Fuller

Best Practices in Prayer: Are Some Forms of Prayer Better than Others for a Healthcare Patient's Well-Being? , Tyler Michener Garth

God in the Dock: From Theory to Experience, the Odyssey of the Theodicy of C.S. Lewis , Anthony Vance Halford

Apologetics and Popular Culture Phenomena: A Critique of Ted Turnau's Method Concerning Anime , Matthew Hunter Hamilton

Gender Identity and the Impact on the Mental Health Crisis , Melissa Nicole Herbolsheimer

Explanatory Ultimacy, Epistemic Access, and Evil: A Community Theodicy , Jonathan Michael Huls

Echoes of Creation and Salvation by the Triune God in John 9 , Jungeun Lee

The Problem of Deification Within the Church Context in India: An Implausible Deification , Sadananda Rao Matangi

The Hands of God and Men: Old Testament Physiognomy Repurposed in the New Testament , Stephen Dan Mills

A Comparative Analysis of the Doctrine of Bodily Resurrection in Jehovah's Witnesses Versus Traditional Christianity , Carey A. Murphy

Soldiers of Christ in a Pluralistic Army , Jordan Lee Pittman

Genesis 9:6: The Noahic Covenant and the Divine Blood Redeemer , Seth Kenan Pryor

Inside Out Apologetics: Engaging Christian and Postmodern Approaches to Higher Education , Camila Alejandra Roldan Hernandez

Using Pascal's Wager as a Model for Introducing God to Unbelievers in an Increasingly Fast-paced, Secular World , Laurie Sharma

Natural Christology: the Necessity of Christ by Analysis of Natural Religion , Jared Anthony Smith

Bible or Qur'ān? Which Passes the Bibliographical Test , Raini J. Yeakel

Submissions from 2022 2022

God Alone Is Good and Wise: A Free Will Defense for the Logical Problem of Moral Disagreement , Maria Carolina Reis Baeta

Northwest Semitic Epigraphy and Historicity in the Book of Jeremiah , Matthew Tyler Bronson

An Abductive Argument from Depression and Anxiety to Christian Personal Holiness , Kelly Douglas Burchett

Defending the Resurrection of Jesus through the Reliability of the Credible Witnesses , Gregory K. Cherven

Debunking the Curse of Ham and its Generational Impact on the Black Race , Fraendy Clervaud

Chaplaincy Upholds the West’s Value of Tolerance Not Acceptance , Monique DeCandido

On Natural Evil: Augustine, Plantinga, and Hick , Andrew James Delaney

Exploring Strategy Planning and Execution Methods in Church Missions Programs , Jonathan Daniel Deming

A Case Study in Developing an Apologetic Discipleship Model Among Second Generation Haitians in Florida , Mesack Dieudonne

Progressive Christianity: The Postmodern Mutation of Theological Liberalism , Lisa Dundov

Supernatural Evil as Evidence for the Existence of God , Shane Stone Geisler

Choosing Evidence Over Theory: How the Evidence for the Resurrection Undermines A Priori Arguments Against Miracles , Benjamin D. Graber

True Pauline Worship is Trinitarian: A Look at Paul’s Trinitarian Presuppositions , Connie Heberlein

The Old Testament’s Contribution to the Baptism of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew , Andrew James Herbst

Is the Kalam Cosmological Argument's Second Premise Defendable? , Mark Karapetyan

Peter, the Apostle to the Gentiles? First Peter’s New Covenant Missional Strategy to Bless the Nations , Cole Victor Laing

A Christian Perspective on Islam's Origins: Its Religion, Founder, and Practices , German Matos

Bias as a Worldview Engine, the Terminus A Quo of the Problem of Evil , Eric Spencer McCrickard

The Aesthetics, Sanctity, and Utility of Jihad in the Earliest Biography of Muhammad , Alexander Connally McMullen

A Reconciliation of Pauline Complementarian Theology and Egalitarian Narratives in the New Testament , Paul Andrew Morss

Revisiting the Future: The Future Indicative and Perfective Aspect in Johannine Literature , Casey Lou Price

Understanding Paul’s Approach to Slavery in Ephesians 6:5 – 9 , William D. Smith

A Defense of the Resurrection Miracle and Critique of the Hallucination Theory , Joshua James Smothers

Identification and Treatment of Kierkegaardian Despair: An Informal Indirect Apologetic Strategy , Licio Soares

Jesus as Bridegroom Warrior King: The Use of Psalm 45 in Revelation 19 , Robert Brandon Strickland

On the Shores of Perga: A Theological Analysis of John Mark’s Departure from the First Pauline Missionary Journey and its Implications for the Gentile Mission , Erbey Galvan Valdez

The Differing of Worldviews between Soviet and Post-Soviet Russians , Jodie David Vesely

A Two-part Rebuttal of Probability-based Arguments Against Christian Theism , David Keith Wilson

Submissions from 2021 2021

A Christian Response to Modern Extraterrestrialism , Chase Perry Cakmis

Proper Understanding of Freedom in Christ: An Apologetic Tool in the Modern World , Cindy Casalis

The Toughest Apologetic: A Study on Christians who Deconvert , Jeffery L. Childress

Apologetics and Science Instruction for Educators in Secondary Christian Schools , Brett Austin Craddock

What in Hell Conflicts with God? The Divine Promulgation View of Hell Confirms the Reality of Hell Does Not Make God a Moral Monster , Kara Y. Harris

Is God Responsible for Sin? , John Wesley Holmes

Black American Identity Crisis: Culture and Christ , Celestine Job

Exegesis: Mark 6:30-44 , Younggwang Kim

Immortality Through Mind Uploading and Resurrection , Adam M. Leis

Lost in the Marketplace of Ideas: A Case for Christian Apologetics as the Church’s Defense Against Youth Apostasy , Mason Michael Rambarose

An Abductive Argument for Theism: A Comparative Analysis , Erich P. Reule

The Exclusivity of the Christian Faith: A Case for Christ-Alone in a Culture of Relativism , Brandon Keith Sinclair

An Evaluation of Rapture Theology , Steven Dale Smith

Submissions from 2020 2020

Christian Worldview Compared to Deepak Chopra's Worldview , Allison Renee Beardsley

Arguments from Evil and the Parenting Style(s) of God , Kyle Dean Gazlay

Women in Ministerial Leadership Roles , Sherith Carline Gutzmer

Traumatic Clergical Ministry Leads to Vicarious Trauma, PTSD, and Ministry Burnout , Teresa Denine Hanson

An Examination and Critique of the Compatibility and Coherence of Brian Leiter’s Naturalized Jurisprudence with the American Legal Framework , Michael L. Keck

Final Opportunities for Healthcare Chaplains to Share the Gospel to Those Facing End of Life , Michal Lynn Lee

The Resurrection of Christ: A Bayesian Analysis of Explanatory Hypotheses , Nicola Jérôme Liebi

‘Remember The Deeds of The Lord:’ Collective Memory’s Role in a Reasonable Faith , Baily Ray McDaniel

Pulpits and Pews—Professors and Pagans: A Grounded Theory on Worldview Development and Integration within Christian and Secular Culture , Luke Charles Moen

God Sees and God Rescues: The Motif of Affliction in Genesis , Emily Christine Page

Jesus's Son of Man Strategy in Mark: The Allegorical "Idiomatic vs. Messianic" Chess Match and Lessons for Christian Apologetics , Toni Evelyn Perry

Paul’s Use of Leviticus 19:18: A Comparative Analysis with Select Second Temple Jewish Texts , Corey D. Rugh

Identifying Risk Factors for and Responding to Religious/Spiritual Distress in Transplant Patient Populations , Amber Nicole Ryman

The Need for Christian Authors in Mainstream Fiction , Ashley Renea Starnes

A Study Analyzing the Practice of Resilience of the Chaplain/Self-Care and Wellness in the Ministry of the Chaplain , Javier M. Torres-Chinea

The Knowledge of Lazarus and Raskolnikov: Expansive Epistemology and the Moral Argument for Theism , Josiah Lee Yates

Submissions from 2019 2019

The Theological Implications of κατάπαυσίν and σαββατισμὸς in Hebrews 3:7–4:11 , Sean M. Best

The Effect of Ethnic Identity on Biblical Unity in Its Role as an Apologetic , Caroline Boozer

Reexamining Amos’ Use of Rhetorical Questions in Hebrew Prophetic Rhetoric , Matthew Bovard

The Grand Narrative Worldview: A Narrative Inquiry into the Impact of Biblical Metanarrative Teaching in Liberty University’s School of Divinity Global Studies Program , Chesed Anne Dent

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Admission Procedure

Master of Arts in Theological Studies: Biblical, Moral, Systematic, Pastoral Theology

The MA in Theological Studies (MA TH-STUD) program has the following purposes: [a] To prepare teachers for college-level theology; [b] To present a sound and serious grounding in the basic theological disciplines (biblical studies, systematic-historical, and moral-pastoral theology) relating to both the Christian tradition and to the contemporary life of the Christian community; [c] To foster a capacity for disciplined reflection and effective communication, principally on the college level. Upon admission into the program, the student may choose his/her area of concentration from any of the following:

a) Old Testament Biblical Theology

b) New Testament Biblical Theology

c) Systematic Theology

d) Sacramental Theology

e) Moral Theology

f) Pastoral Theology

To get accepted to the MA in Theological Studies program, the applicants must have a government-recognized (civil) bachelor’s degree with at least 12 units of undergraduate (college) theology courses. Moreover, they must have attained at least a general undergraduate average of B (2.5 or 85) with no grade of “failure” or “condition”.

REQUIREMENTS / PREREQUISITES

Academic Prerequisite

Course work.

This program requires at least three semesters of course work in which the student must complete successfully 10 master’s level courses belonging to the following categories:

a) Foundation Courses (15 units):

The five core courses: [1] Revelation-Faith (3 units); [2] Christology (3 units); [3] Ecclesiology (3 units); [4] Fundamental Moral Theology (3 units); and [5] Christian Worship (3 units).

b) Concentration (9 units):

Three courses or seminars in the student’s area of concentration.

The following are required courses in the various areas of concentration:

• for students specializing in New Testament Biblical Theology: Synoptic Gospels, John and Paul.
• for students specializing in Old Testament Biblical Theology: Pentateuch, Prophets, Wisdom Literature and Psalms. All Biblical Theology students are required to take Biblical Hermeneutics and Research Methods.
• for students specializing in Systematic Theology: Scripture, Tradition, Magisterium; Theological Anthropology I: Creation and Eschatology; Theological Anthropology II: Sin and Grace; Soteriology and Mariology.
• for students specializing in Sacramental Theology: Sacraments of the Church, Sacraments of Vocation and Holy Eucharist.
• for students specializing in Moral Theology: Special Moral Theology I: Medical/Sexual Ethics, Special Moral Theology II: Christian Social Ethics.

c) Electives (6 units):

Two electives courses chosen from outside the student’s area of concentration. Excess concentration units may count as electives.

Probation Period

Before successfully completing eighteen (18) units of course work, the student is on academic probation status. He/she cannot enroll beyond the eighteen units until he/she has been approved for definitive acceptance to the MA TH-STUD program by the Vice President for Academic Affairs upon the recommendation of the Admissions Committee. The bases for the definitive acceptance are the grades, the professors’ evaluations, proficiency in English, and at least one major research paper written in the MA TH-STUD course work.

Major Research Paper

The paper should conform to the following specifications: [1] it must be between 15-30 pages in length; [2] it must be formatted according to LST Style Manual based on Turabian, 6th edition]; [3] it must include footnotes and at least one full-page bibliography listing only the titles of books and articles that have actually been cited in the paper; [4] it must have received a grade of at least B (2.5).

Note: The sources of quotations and borrowed ideas must be fully acknowledged in the footnotes. Failure to do so is tantamount to plagiarism, which is penalized with a failing grade in the course and an appropriate sanction (Code of Discipline, pp. 9-10).

Students who are not approved for definitive acceptance are automatically dropped from the MA TH-STUD program. However, they may shift to the non-thesis Master program.

Comprehensive Examination

After completing his/her course work, the student must pass a written comprehensive examination. The student must be registered with the Ateneo de Manila University to take the comprehensive examination. Note: one cannot register for comprehensive examination while still on course work or still have an incomplete grade (INC) in his/her course work. The comprehensive examinations are scheduled once each semester and in the summer. Students who cannot take the comprehensive examination during the regular schedule must wait until the next examination period. Those who cannot complete the two parts of the examination at the schedule must repeat the entire comprehensive at the next examination period.

The two-part written examination is given on two successive Saturdays: Part I covers the foundation courses (Revelation-Faith; Christology; Ecclesiology; Fundamental Moral Theology; and Christian Worship); and Part II covers the courses the student has taken in his/her area of concentration. The two parts of the exams are graded separately. The passing grade for the comprehensive examination is 2.5 (B). In case of failure, only one retake is allowed. Students who fail the retake are dropped from the program unless, for special reason, the Standards and Degrees Committee recommends a second retake. In retake comprehensive examination, students need to repeat only the parts failed.

The STB dogma comprehensive examination may serve as the MA comprehensive examination for students taking both STB and MA TH-STUD programs simultaneously. In this case, the student must be registered with both LST and the Ateneo to be able to take the comprehensive exam.

Research Thesis

The MA TH-STUD program requires a research thesis. The student must enroll for Thesis Direction every semester, for as long as he/she is engaged in thesis writing, until the semester the thesis will be defended.

a) Thesis Proposal:

Under the guidance of a mentor appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the student writes a thesis proposal. The proposal, which can serve as the first chapter of the thesis, should present and discuss the following: [1] The Problem of the Thesis; [2] Scope and Limitations; [3] The Significance of the Problem; [4] Methodology; [5] Definition of Key Terms; and [6] Basic Bibliography. The proposal (excluding bibliography) should normally not exceed 10 pages and should follow the LST Style Manual (based on Turabian, 6th edition). Once approved by the mentor, five (5) copies of the thesis proposal are submitted to the Vice President for Academic Affairs who appoints a panel of professors to examine it. On a date specified by the school the student defends his proposal before the panel.

The oral defense consists in [a] a clear presentation (for about 15 minutes) of the written proposal by the writer, covering the basic problem or theme of the thesis, its scope and limitation, its importance, and the basic sources (bibliography) and methods to be used; [b] each professor reviews the proposal with the writer through questions, suggestions, etc., usually for a period of 10 to 15 minutes, depending upon the particular needs of the proposal. The professors may offer brief written recommendations, analyses, suggestions, etc. to the writer, copies of which are also given to the mentor and the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

b) Thesis Writing:

After the proposal has been approved by the panel, the student may now proceed to writing the thesis chapter by chapter. All throughout the writing of the thesis the student must seek the guidance of his/her mentor. Each chapter must be approved by the mentor one at a time.

An MA TH-STUD thesis should be between 80 to 150 pages in length (excluding Bibliography). The thesis must conform to all the requirements of the Graduate School of the Ateneo de Manila University regarding form, style, and method of registration.

c) Thesis Public Defense:

When the whole thesis is finished and meets the approval of the mentor, it is submitted to the school. The Vice President for Academic Affairs appoints a second reader, who, ideally, should come from the panel that examined the dissertation proposal. It is the task of the second reader to ascertain that the thesis is ready for public defense. He/she has the right to order any changes in the thesis he considers necessary for it to be truly ready for defense. In case of an unsolvable conflict between the second reader and mentor, an independent panel appointed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs will decide the issue.

After the second reader declares the thesis ready for defense, unbound copies of the thesis are submitted to two other readers who, together with the second reader, shall make up the panel of professors for the defense. A date for the defense is then scheduled. The readers assigned for the defense may ask for revisions of the thesis. The student should discuss these revisions with his mentor. In case of disagreement, readers and mentor should reach a suitable accommodation. Impasses may be resolved by the Standards and degrees Committee. After the successfully defending the thesis, the student must submit to the school two bound copies of the corrected and approved final edition of the dissertation.

For application procedures, click here . Aside from the Ateneo de Manila Graduate School Entrance Examinations, an LST English Proficiency Exam is administered at Loyola School of Theology by the LST Secretary.

For LST’s other non-degree and degree programs, academic policies and procedures, kindly refer to the 2018 LST Student Handbook which can be downloaded here.

Those intending to enroll are requested to contact Fr. Rogel Anecito L. Abais, S.J., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Acting Director of the Theology and Ministry Program, at [email protected].

DMin ’24 Danikka Fabela speaks at the ADMU Commencement June 21, 2024|News Intersession 2024-2025: Local and Overseas Offsite Payment of Enrollment Fees May 30, 2024|News LST launches its new publication, the Loyola Monographs May 8, 2024|News

Articles & Documentation

25th Commencement Exercises of LST as an Ecclesiastical Faculty of Theology June 4, 2024|Articles & Documentation Valedictory Address of Rev. Erwin F. Arandia SJ at LST’s Commencement Exercises 2024 May 12, 2024|Articles & Documentation Scholarship Grant for Consecrated Women and Lay in the Masters, DMin and PhD Programs October 10, 2023|Articles & Documentation

M.A. Thesis Defense of Fr. RICHARD S. SUMERA, S.J. (Philippines) on 27 June 2024 June 25, 2024|Events M.A. Thesis Defense of MARIA ALESSANDRIA R. GO (Philippines) on 27 June 2024 June 24, 2024|Events M.A. Thesis Defense of JOHN MARY FRANCIS M. NUQUI (Philippines) on 15 May 2024 April 29, 2024|Events

The Heidelblog

Advice regarding your ma (historical theology) thesis, r. scott clark.

[Written originally June, 2011]

Students frequently ask the same questions when beginning their MA (Historical Theology) thesis. They are not certain where to begin. The prospect of a 30,000 word project itself seems daunting and then there is the problem of choosing and narrowing a thesis topic.

You should decide for yourself, in consultation with your advisor, what your topic should be but these guidelines and questions may help you narrow things and find a way to think about your research.

• Decide which epoch you want to study (patristic, medieval, reformation, post-reformation, or modern to 1950). Which period interests you most? Which has drawn your attention thus far? In which field might you want to continue study?
• Within that epoch narrow the question or field. Obviously, a 30,000 word project cannot and should not try to cover every aspect of a person, question, text, or event (PQT or E). Having picked a PQT or E, decide what is it about that PQT or E that you want to investigate.
• Pick a topic (PQT or E) that needs to be done i.e., that hasn’t been done to death or that fills a gap in the existing literature. My advice is to avoid Augustine, Anselm, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, Edwards and the like on the theory that the secondary literature is too overwhelming and that the world probably doesn’t need another MA thesis on one of these greats. There are always exceptions to such rules. You may discover some aspect of a great PQTE or E that has not yet been investigated and that can be managed within the space of a short study.
• Remember that the MA thesis is as much a demonstration of skills and ability to do serious research as it is about the research itself. Thus, though it is hoped that you will not do something that has been done to death it is also not expected that your thesis will turn the academic world on its collective head. The hope is that you will research a question that has been neglected and so perhaps make a modest contribution to the discussion or understanding of a PQT or E and thereby grow in your understanding historical research and writing.
• Pick a topic (PQTor E) that can be done, i.e., one for which there are sufficient primary sources and for which the body of secondary literature manageable for an 30,000 word MA thesis. This usually requires that one narrow the question. It also means that researching a PQT or E where there are not existing texts to study will be that much more difficult and time-consuming. For example, if you wish to study an event for which primary source documents do not exist then you must must create a body of primary sources (e.g., transcripts from interviews) that would be analyzed and that would form the basis for the thesis. Are primary sources readily available? Can you read them easily or will you have to translate them. Be realistic about what you can do in the time that you have.
• Students sometimes worry that there is not enough secondary literature on a given PQT or E. That may be a good or a bad sign. It may signal that others have considered a question and decided that it is either not worth pursuing or that the “payoff” is not worth the effort. It might mean, however, that other scholars have simply missed this PQT or E. There is no way to know which is the case until you have done the basis research but the relative absence or paucity of secondary literature does not itself mean that a topic should not be done.
• As always the the reference room is the place to start. That’s where you will discover the basic information and the state of the question. From there you should go to ATLA and WorldCat to see what research has been done your prospective PQT or E. You will want to use a variety of likely search terms to avoid being surprised part way through your project, e.g., discovering three weeks before submission that someone has recently published a book making the very same argument that you are completing.
• Be patient. Walking through these steps carefully may take you a couple of weeks but it will save you time in the long term. If the prospect of doing this sort of research does not interest you that may be an indicator that the MA thesis process will probably not interest you.

Chronology of the Thesis

You need to ask and answer these questions before your final academic year. You want to have a clear idea of your topic heading into your last year. Students typically finalize their topic in the summer and begin focused research then (if not before). In consultation with their prospective thesis advisor that research may even be turned into draft a draft chapter or two in the fall semester. In this period you also need to select a second faculty reader for your thesis. You want to find someone on the faculty who has some interest or background in your thesis topic. The thesis proposal submitted in January finalizes what has been worked out in the months prior. By January writing should be under way. January-March is the heart of the thesis writing season. By this point you should be writing at least 1 finished page per working day in order to meet the deadline. In March and April revisions should be underway. Depending upon the number of candidates in a given semester, submissions may begin in mid-April.

Miscellanies for Farther Down the Road

You are strongly encouraged to submit drafts of your thesis chapters serially (one at a time) rather than all at once. This will relieve pressure on you and on your advisor/reader and give them opportunity to make suggestions and to offer help earlier rather than later.

Sometime between January and March you will likely be tempted to give up. Do not be discouraged. In the midst of a major research project it is easy to lose perspective. In reality, if you have done good research, by this point you probably know as much or more about your topic than you think you do. If you are working closely with your advisor all will be well. If you find that you are unduly anxious talk to your advisor immediately.

A good thesis calls attention to the PQT or E rather than to the author. A mediocre or poor thesis says, “Look at me, look at what I’ve learned.” The good thesis is focused on the reader and it teaches. It takes the reader by the hand and says, “Let me show you what I’ve learned.”

Students are often tempted to think that “knowing” or substance is more important than “teaching” or form. Your advisor and reader, however, and your thesis defense jury must judge what you know by what you present and how you present it. Thus, attention to detail and form is more important than you might initially think.

The key is to know when to stop learning, for the moment, and to begin teaching (by writing). From January you will continue reading but the balance of your time will be spent more and more on writing and less and less on reading. By mid-March your focus will largely be on writing or the “teaching” aspect of the project.

Your draft submissions should be clean but they need not be perfect. Your thesis submission prior to the defense should be essentially finished. After you submit you will have sufficient time to make minor corrections to the form of the thesis and to prepare for your oral defense.

Remember, as Bob Godfrey says: there are two kinds theses, the good and the finished.

The keys to a successful oral defense are three: be clear, be concise, and be cogent. Compose your defense on the basis of your thesis. Introduce your topic, summarize the literature, re-state your major argument and the major lines of evidence, and summarize your major thesis in your conclusion. Be sure you have a clear, concise, statement of the one great thesis (argument) that explains your research. Your project must explain that thesis. Your outline should flow from the thesis. Once you have an thesis sentence and an outline then you’re ready to write.

Read it through, out loud, several times before you present it. It is wise to read your defense in the room where the thesis will be presented at approximately the same time of day. The more familiar your suuroundings the less uncertainty there will be during the actual defense and the easier it will be to concentrate on the actual thesis defense.

Reading your thesis defense orally will help you find typos and other errors. It will also help you to determine whether your defense is too long (the limit is 30 minutes).

Chicago Manual of Style  16th Edition

Kate L. Turabian,  A Manual For Writers

Post authored by:

R.Scott Clark is the President of the Heidelberg Reformation Association , the author and editor of, and contributor to several  books and the author of many articles. He has taught church history and historical theology since 1997 at Westminster Seminary California. He has also taught at Wheaton College, Reformed Theological Seminary, and Concordia University. He has hosted the Heidelblog since 2007.

Subscribe to the Heidelblog today!

Home > SEM > THEOLOGY-CHRISTIAN-PHILOSOPHY > Master's Theses

Master's Theses

Master's theses from 2016 2016.

The Relationship of the Old Covenant to the Everlasting Covenant , Kumar Ashwani

Master's Theses from 2015 2015

Rita Nakashima Brock, Rebecca Ann Parker, and Governmental Atonement Theology , Andrew John Blosser

Master's Theses from 2014 2014

The Ethical Viability of Church Support of Moral Legislation , Jason Alexander Hines

Master's Theses from 2013 2013

Toward a Biblical View of Collective Responsibility for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Twenty-first Century , Miroslav Danihel

Master's Theses from 2012 2012

Protology and Eschatology in the Writings of John C. Polkinghorne: a Study of Contrastive Roles of Scripture , H. Nicholas De Lima

Socially Constructing God: Gender, Culture, and a Stratified Trinity , Landon P. Schnabel

Master's Theses from 2009 2009

The Doctrine of Sin in the Thought of George R. Knight: Its Context and Implications , Jamie Kiley

Master's Theses from 2008 2008

Reason in Theology: a Comparison of Fernando Canale and Wolfhart Pannenberg , Sven Fockner

Master's Theses from 1993 1993

Quantum Reality: Some Implications for Christian Theology , Charles Chinyoung Choo

Master's Theses from 1990 1990

Inerrancy and Sovereignty: a Case Study on Carl F. H. Henry , Joseph Karanja

Master's Theses from 1989 1989

The Final Generation: a Descriptive Account of the Development of a Significant Aspect of M.l. Andreasen's Eschatology as Related to His Treatment of the Sanctuary Doctrine Between 1924-1937 , Dwight Eric Haynes

Master's Theses from 1958 1958

An Investigation of the Concept of Perfectionism as Target in the Writings of Ellen G. White , F. W. Bieber

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Theology and Religion

• September 2024

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Durham City

Course details

Our broad-based MA in Theology and Religion builds on the Department’s global academic reputation to provide you with an in-depth understanding of theology and religion and their impact on the world’s belief systems in the past, present and future.

You will benefit from the theological and religious expertise that exists among academic staff and in University-based institutions such as the Centre for Death and Life Studies, the Centre for Catholic Studies, the Michael Ramsey Centre for Anglican Studies and the International Centre for Moral Injury. You will also have access to the magnificent resource that is our theological and religious libraries.

Teaching and research in the Department is focused on three key areas; biblical studies, Christian theology and the study of religion. Reflecting the wide-ranging expertise in the Department, this course provides an opportunity for you to choose your optional areas of study from an extensive selection of Theology modules,

Learning is delivered through small group seminars and tutorials that require substantial preparatory work and contributions during sessions in order to develop your skills in analysis, presentation and independence of thinking. We also adopt a lecture-style format in some classes which provides a firm basis for further research and study in a particular topic.

You will also benefit from our cross-departmental links with the University’s Institute for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies and the Institute for Medieval and Early Modern Studies on this fascinating and challenging course.

Course structure

All the MA programmes offered by the Faculty of Arts & Humanities consist of three components:

a Major Research Project to the value of at least 60 credits

• Core Modules to the value of 0-90 credits, depending on the programme
• Elective Modules, making up the total number of credits to 180; some of these modules will be defined as Recommended Electives for particular programmes.

For students studying the MA in Theology and Religion, the Dissertation (your Major Research Project, 60 credits )) consists of a 12,000-15,000-word piece of research that will boost your knowledge and understanding of a theological or religious subject of particular interest to you. It will also hugely enhance your abilities in the areas of research and analysis of texts, ideas and arguments.

No modules are defined as core for this programme, but it is recommended that candidates for the MA in Theology and Religion take at least one of the following elective modules:

• Classic Texts in Christian Theology ( 30 credits )
• Ritual, Symbolism and Belief in the Anthropology of Religion ( 30 credits )
• Catholic Theology: A Preliminary Tour (DL) (30 credits)

In total, you will choose 120 credits of elective modules from across the Faculty of Arts & Humanities (at least one of which should be from the modules listed above), so that your total number of credits adds up to exactly 180.

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The course offers a flexible programme of learning which puts you in control. The dissertation is the only compulsory module, with the remainder of the course made up of a wide range of theology and religion, and other Arts & Humanities,optional modules.

The majority of teaching is delivered in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere through small group seminars and tutorial sessions, designed to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out independent academic research. Classes include a lecture-style delivery which will give you a clear understanding of a particular subject so that you will be able to properly analyse and interpret information.

As well as supporting your own independent research activities with the possibility of continuing to doctorate level, skills in analysis and presentation will help you in your search for professional employment.

Assessment is conducted through coursework, the majority of which are essay based. Some modules include oral examinations and the delivery of presentations as well as written exams.

A significant contribution to the outcome of your study will be a dissertation of 12,000-15,000 words, written on a subject of your own choice and approved by your supervisor.

Entry requirements

The standard entry requirement is a BA (Honours) degree (UK 2:1 or equivalent, for example, a GPA of 3.7 on a 4.0 scale)  in Theology, Religious Studies or a related discipline.

The two principal exceptions to this rule are as follows:

• Graduates of other disciplines who have studied at undergraduate or equivalent level in one or more of the areas in which they hope to work, through their first degrees, through training for the ministry of the churches, and so on
• Students from overseas universities who have successfully reached a point in their theological studies comparable with completion of a British BA at the standard noted above - for example, on the German model, passing the Zwischenprüfung or Kolloquium and two semesters at the Hauptseminar level.

English language requirements

Fees and funding

Full time fees.

Part Time Fees

The tuition fees shown are for one complete academic year of study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated) .

Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation .

Scholarships and Bursaries

We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities. 

Career opportunities

Durham graduates are in demand across many sectors. The world-class study facilities, combined with a research-led approach to learning and the Department’s international outlook mean our postgraduate taught courses and research degrees provide the fundamental skills and personal qualities needed to succeed in the workplace.

Our Theology and Religion graduates are equipped to follow a wide range of careers, including law, politics and government, marketing, business and finance, industry, charity work, the media, journalism and the clergy. Many progress into careers with religious institutions across the world, while others work in schools, colleges and universities. Our taught MAs also offer a pathway into research and many graduates take the step into higher-level studies.

Previous employers have included Linklaters, Kirkland and Ellis, Coltraco Ultrasonics, the Home Office, Durham Police and Jaguar Land Rover.

Department information

Durham University’s Department of Theology and Religion is a supportive and vibrant international teaching and research community where ‘belief’ and ‘beliefs’ are studied in detail, whether those beliefs are atheistic, humanistic or religious.

We are a recognised global leader in the field of theology and religion. Delivered by researchers at the forefront of their disciplines, our range of highly regarded postgraduate degrees enables students to pursue their interests in the fields of theology, philosophy, religious studies, biblical studies, and ethics, through the exploration of diverse and contemporary issues such as the migrant crisis, homelessness and Catholic identity.

In the Department we have an intellectual community of more than 30 academic staff and 150 postgraduate students and researchers who join us from across the world, giving our courses a highly international focus. The local, national and international contexts in which we work and study help to build a more joined up picture of the complex world in which we live.

The Department is home to a range of research centres and projects, including the Centre for Anglican Studies, the Centre for Catholic Studies, the Centre for Death and Life Studies, and the Project for Spirituality, Theology and Health. These all help to foster a vibrant research culture, of which our postgraduates are an important part.

Our postgraduate provision is designed to develop the academic and personal qualities that are valued in the workplace and in higher-level academic research. This includes a professional development and training programme with opportunities to work as a teaching or research assistant.

For more information see our  department pages.

• World  Top 10  in the  QS World University Subject Rankings 2023
• 4th in  The Times and Sunday Times University Guide 2024 
• 4th in  The Guardian University Guide 2024
• 6th in  The Complete University Guide 2024

For a current list of staff, please see the Theology & Religion Department pages .

Research Excellence Framework

• 4th in the UK for Research Power ( REF 2021 )
• 91% research  graded world-leading or internationally excellent ( REF 2021 )

We are a leading Department in the field of Theology and Religion, uniquely situated within a World Heritage Site next to Durham Cathedral and within easy walking distance of the Students’ Union, colleges and Durham Castle. Our home, Abbey House, is an inspiring place to study and research the field of theology and religion.

We hold extensive library resources. As well as the University’s well-equipped central library which includes wide-ranging collections of rare books and manuscripts of particular interest to theology and religion students, we also hold the largest collection of German language theological materials in Britain. Next door, Durham Cathedral is home to Sharp Library, which focuses on modern and pastoral theology, while a number of college libraries also hold theological collections.

Find out more:

Apply for a postgraduate course (including PGCE International) via our online portal.  

• Applicant Portal (not PGCE unless International)
• Admissions Policy

The best way to find out what Durham is really like is to come and see for yourself!

Join a Postgraduate Open Day

• Date: 01/09/2023 - 31/08/2024
• Time: 09:00 - 17:00

Self-Guided Tours

• Time: 09:00 - 16:00

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Catholic theology (distance learning) - pcert, theology and religion - gdip.

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Theological Studies (MA)

Program overview Program structure Admission requirements Application process Tuition & funding

Program overview

The MA in Theological Studies explores the relationship between religious experience and human society. With the Church operating in an increasingly pluralistic world, Christianity’s role is in constant evolution. Our researchers approach the history of theology with respect while maintaining an eye on the future. As part of the humanities, our program provides an interdisciplinary environment for advanced research by using methodologies present in philosophy, history and languages. Our student body is composed of individuals from a variety of religious and non-religious backgrounds who are interested in questions of faith and spirituality. You’ll join a vibrant community of researchers and faculty members who will encourage you to go beyond established disciplinary boundaries as you examine the roles of theology and belief in a secular era.

Program structure

Degree requirements, degree requirements.

Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 45 credits.

Please see the Theological Studies Courses page for course descriptions.

Theological Studies MA (45 credits)

Theological Studies MA Option A: MA with Thesis (45 credits)

Theological Studies MA Option B: MA with Applied Project in Theology (45 credits)

Theology MA Elective Courses

Admission requirements

Admission requirements.

• Solid undergraduate preparation with a range of competence similar to that demanded of Major students at Concordia, and a minimum B average in their undergraduate studies.
• Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the English language proficiency page for further information on requirements and exemptions .
• Language Requirements. Thesis proposals which depend on special linguistic skills will be accepted only from students competent in the appropriate languages.

Application process

Application deadlines.

Priority will be given to complete applications submitted by the deadline. In some cases, programs may continue to accept applications as long as there is space available.

International students: Considering the waiting period involved in meeting the entry requirements to Canada and Quebec , we strongly encourage international applicants to apply early and submit supporting documents prior to the deadline.

Tuition & funding

Tuition and fees.

Tuition and fees of the program may depend on your student status, among other key factors. Estimate these costs based on the most common situations.

Awards and funding

Funding packages are generally available for students in thesis-based programs. They come in the form of awards, teaching and research assistantships are offered at the time of admission to most students to allow them to focus on their research and studies. Research and thesis-based students are automatically considered for all entrance graduate awards when they apply to Concordia, provided they meet eligibility criteria. No separate application is required.

The Quebec and Canadian governments offer a number of competitive graduate scholarships. We encourage you to apply for these awards at the same time you are preparing your application.

Out-of-province students

Get up to $9,251 in special funding for master's programs. Learn more

Other programs of interest

Religions and cultures (ma) thesis course-based internship.

Examine how religion interacts with today's globalized world through seminars and courses allowing you to explore a variety of religious traditions and emerging subfields based on your research interests.

Department of Religions and Cultures

Faculty of Arts & Science

Judaic Studies (MA) Thesis Course-based Internship

Study alongside expert faculty in combining elements of anthropology, rabbinics, gender and literary studies in developing critical research from the latest materials in Judaic Studies.

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Master of Arts in Theology with Thesis

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When you study the Master of Arts in Theology with Thesis at TMU, is a graduate program designed to provide advanced theological education to students who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

The thesis component of the program requires students to conduct original research in a specific area of theology under the supervision of a faculty member. The thesis must demonstrate a mastery of the subject matter, originality of thought, and an ability to conduct independent research.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in theology and are prepared to serve in various leadership positions in churches, Christian organizations, and academic institutions. They may also choose to pursue further studies at the doctoral level. The program is offered online and on campus.

Common Areas of Study

•  History of the Free Church
•   Evangelism, Discipleship, & Church Planting  
•   Exposition Class  
•   Cross-Cultural Ministries Practicum  
•   New Testament I: The Gospels & Acts  
•   New Testament II: Romans to Revelation  

Possible Careers

• Military Chaplain
• Religious Teacher/Professor
• Religious Writer/Editor

Hours required for completion: 60

How to Apply

Degree Concentrations

The program includes courses in advanced biblical studies, theology, church history, ethics, and practical ministry. Students are also required to complete research methods and writing courses to prepare them for the master’s thesis component of the program.

Dr. Maël L. D. S. Disseau , Chair  of The Balthasar Hubmaier School of Theology and Missions  & Associate Professor of Biblical and Theological Studies 706-865-2134, ext. 6606 [email protected]

Request Information   |   Tuition and Fees   |   Financial Aid

MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission

A Durham University “Common Awards” degree delivered by the Cambridge Theologic al F ederation

The MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission provides a grounded and contextualised approach to the exploration of theology and ministry in a variety of settings. Modules cover the intersection between theology, ministry practice and postgraduate research. It is possible to undertake the modules via block week teaching, to fit around a student’s current commitments, or via a more traditional term time model of delivery. It is also possible to shape the modules chosen and the assessments undertaken so that the specific interests of a student are given specific emphasis.

Available as

• Postgraduate Certificate in Theology, Ministry and Mission (3 modules)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission (6 modules)
• MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission (6 modules and a dissertation)

Each module is 20 credits, which equates to 200 hours of work. The dissertation is worth 60 credits and equates to 600 hours of work.

Suitable for

The MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission is suitable for those with a good theological foundation of study. This includes Christian leaders, both lay and licensed, and others who want to focus their knowledge and ministry experience.

• Available full-time, or part-time up to four years

Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits)

Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits)

MA (180 credits)

Entry requirements

The normal entry requirement for the postgraduate programmes is a 2.1 honours undergraduate degree, or Graduate Diploma, in theology or a related subject. Graduates in other subjects with a 2.1 or above, and experience of study in theology to undergraduate Certificate level (awarded with credit, distinction, or an overall mark of at least 60%) may also be considered for admission. Recent or current experience of the practice of Christian ministry is an asset. For entry to the Postgraduate Certificate, especially for mature students, prior professional experience may be taken into account.

Students for whom English is a second language should have achieved a score of 7.0 with no component under 6.5 in an IELTS examination or equivalent.

Further information

Our degrees validated by Durham University are offered through the following three of our member institutions. Email any questions you have to the Director of Studies.

Application forms are available from our applications page . You are advised to speak to the Director of Studies at the institution of your choice before making an application.

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Master of Arts (Theology and Religion)

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This program brings together two complementary programs: Theology (AST) and Religion (Saint Mary’s University). Graduate students will experience a diverse and rich field of expertise in the study of theology and religion.

Students have a unique opportunity to explore and articulate the relationship between Theology and Religion, especially as the fields have evolved both within Canada and internationally. The relationship allows Theology and Religion students to be enriched with the methods and perspectives each field offers. The result is an exceptional preparation for doctoral work that is unique in North America. Students can shape their own focus, specializing in the multicultural, religiously plural realities of Canada, the Americas, and elsewhere, and choose to study within traditional theological areas, such as biblical studies, systematic theology, ethics, and pastoral theology. 

Is the MA (Theology and Religion) Right for You?

• Get inspiration from Dr. Margaret MacDonald, who teaches in that program

Admission Requirements

The academic requirement for admission to this program as a first degree in theology (thesis or course-only) is a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a university recognized by the Association of Universities and Colleges in Canada, the Council for Higher Education in the United States, a similarly recognized AUCC accredited institution, or a similarly recognized institution. You have maintained a minimum ‘B+’ average in your undergraduate program. The academic requirement for admission to this program as a specialization in theology (thesis or course-only) is a Bachelor’s degree in theology, a Bachelor’s degree in a cognate discipline, or a Master of Divinity degree from a university recognized by the Association of Universities and Colleges in Canada, the Council for Higher Education in the United States, or a similarly recognized institution, with a minimum ‘B+’ average.

Admissions Process

Submit the following to the Registrar’s office by the published application deadlines: MA program application form; $70 non-refundable application fee; a letter of intent providing information on your area of interest, your goals, and how this degree program will help you meet them; a sample of your academic writing (at least 10 pages); one official transcript in its original sealed and signed/stamped envelope issued from each of your previous and current post-secondary education institutions; and three letters of reference in their original envelopes signed and sealed by your referees. The Academic Dean and the Program Coordinator will review your application and, if successful, you will receive an admission letter from the Dean. If not, you will receive notification that your application was unsuccessful.

Financial Support

Generous entrance scholarships are awarded annually to MA (Theology and Religion) students with outstanding academic backgrounds. No additional application is required; all applicants are considered for these awards.

To be considered for funding, the application deadline is March 1. 

MA (Theology and Religion) Program Requirements

Students in the MA (Theology and Religion) program fulfilling the requirements for a first degree in theology (holding a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline) are required to complete 16 course credits and a thesis (valued at 2 course credits); or for a course-only degree, are required to complete 18 course credits. Students in the MA (Theology and Religion) program fulfilling the requirements for a specialization in theology (holding a Bachelor’s degree in theology or in a cognate discipline, or the MDiv) are required to complete 6 course credits and a thesis (valued at 2 course credits); or for a course-only degree, are required to complete 8 course credits. To qualify for graduation with the MA degree, you must maintain an overall B+ average in your course work and your thesis (if you are in the thesis stream).

Required and Elective Course Distribution

All MA (Theology and Religion) students are required to take Theory and Methods in Theology and Religious Studies (GTR 6000), valued at one credit. Exemptions from this course are not permitted. It need not be the first course taken by AST students within the MA (Theology and Religion) program. However, it should normally be taken within the first 4 credits of the program. One course must be taken at Saint Mary’s University. This course must be chosen in dialogue with your faculty advisor. All remaining credits are elective courses. (Current MA students who have already taken GTRS 6000 valued at two credits in previous academic years are not required to take an elective at Saint Mary’s University, but may opt to do so). MA (Theology and Religion) students may enroll in courses in Supervised Field Education and Supervised Pastoral Education/Clinical Pastoral Education. Students in either of the MA streams who wish to make Pastoral Theology their primary focus are invited to discuss various options with the MA Program Director and appropriate faculty members. The MA (Theology and Religion) degree program allows for optional field-based academic research using qualitative research methods. In keeping with AST’s adherence to the Tri-Council policies governing research involving human subjects, you are required to submit an application to the AST Research Ethics Board before any interviews are conducted. (See “Research Ethics Board” in Academic Policies and Regulations.)

Thesis and Defense

Thesis-stream students should consult with the MA Program Director early in their program regarding the formation of a thesis examination committee, the preparation and submission of the thesis proposal and the thesis, as well as procedures for the examination of the thesis. Your thesis and major papers must follow the guidelines in The Chicago Manual of Style (17th ed. University of Chicago Press, 2017) and must abide by AST’s Inclusive Language Policy.

Language Requirements

Candidates for the MA (Theology and Religion) in the thesis stream (specialization and first degree in theology) must demonstrate a reading proficiency in a modern language other than English, normally French or German. You may apply to the Program Committee to be examined in another modern language if it is more relevant to your specialty. You are expected to pass the modern language requirements by the end of your second term. Exemption from these requirements is granted if you have proof of reading competence in the language. The acceptable standard of proficiency is the equivalent of a “B” grade or higher in a 2000 level undergraduate language course at Saint Mary’s University. You can demonstrate this standard by completing a university course or by an examination administered by the MA (Theology and Religion) Program Committee. If your work concentrates on Biblical Studies, you must have completed two full university courses of ancient Greek, Latin or Hebrew with a minimum B grade prior to graduation from the MA (Theology and Religion) program. Students in the course-only stream are not required to meet the modern language requirement.

Program Duration

MA (Theology and Religion) Program Requirements: Students in the MA (Theology and Religion) program fulfilling the requirements for a first degree in theology (holding a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline) are required to complete 16 course credits and a thesis (valued at 2 course credits); or for a course-only degree, are required to complete 18 course credits. Students in the MA (Theology and Religion) program fulfilling the requirements for a specialization in theology (holding a Bachelor’s degree in theology or in a cognate discipline, or the MDiv) are required to complete 6 course credits and a thesis (valued at 2 course credits); or for a course-only degree, are required to complete 8 course credits. To qualify for graduation with the MA degree, you must maintain an overall B+ average in your course work and your thesis (if you are in the thesis stream).

Typically, the program will take three academic terms (normally, Fall, Winter and Summer) for fulltime specialization in theology thesis students to complete, or two terms for full-time course-only students. Three terms offer you two terms of course work and one term to complete your thesis. Students enrolled in the specialization in theology (thesis or course-only) who require more than six years to complete the requirements of the program must request and receive permission from the AST Senate for an extension.

For more information, please contact our Recruitment Coordinator:  [email protected]

For an application to the MA Program, please see our  Applications page.

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MA Theology and Religion

Annual tuition fee for 2024 entry: UK: £10,530 full-time International: £24,120 full-time More detail .

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Theology and religion is a diverse subject area that is vital for understanding the contemporary world. 

The MA in Theology and Religion is designed to accommodate study of religions and spiritualties, past and present, and prepares you for professions which depend upon an advanced understanding of how religious histories, ideas, texts, and practices permeate all societies. It also provides ideal preparation for further research at doctoral level. 

The programme has a wide range of modules and you can create your own pathway by choosing those that are most relevant to your interests. We cater for interests in historical traditions, ritual and practices, contemporary spiritualties, world religions, religious texts, politics, histories and ethical issues.

You will be encouraged to be critically robust in the analysis of your own and others’ presuppositions, to work independently with the guidance of module tutors and thesis supervisors, and to approach your studies in ways that demonstrate awareness of and engagement with the multi and interdisciplinary nature of issues under discussion.  

Students are trained to interrogate their own presuppositions and those of others in a critically robust manner, to approach the study of theology and religion in ways that show sensitivity to the multi-disciplinary theories and issues. Transferrable skills include the ability to deploy relevant evidence and contextual considerations, and present this in the context of a written piece of work, an examination or in an oral presentation. Students also gain skills of personal organization in terms of working to deadlines, preparing contributions for group discussion, and ensuring best use of tutorials and seminars.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We are offering over 400 awards of £2,000 to support the brightest and best applicants wishing to undertake Masters study at the University during 2023-24. The deadline for applications is 23:59 (UK Time) on Sunday 2 July 2023.

Find out more and apply now.

Scholarships for 2024 entry

The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.

Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship webpages prior to submitting an application.

Explore our scholarships

Virtual Chat: Postgraduate opportunities in Theology and Religion - 28 April 2020 10:00-11:00

Take part in our online chat where Dr Andrew Davies and Dr Deryn Guest will be answering your questions about postgraduate study.

Find out more and register

Postgraduate scholarships available

The College of Arts and Law is offering a range of scholarships for our postgraduate taught and research programmes to ensure that the very best talent is nurtured and supported.

Learn more about our scholarships

At Birmingham, Postgraduate Taught and Postgraduate Research students also have the opportunity to learn graduate academic languages free of charge, to support your studies.

• Graduate School Language Skills

Why study this course?

• Flexibility – the range of options on offer allows you to study religion, theology, biblical studies in historical and/or contemporary contexts, to suit your areas of interest.
• Excellent reputation – The Theology and Religion department was ranked 3rd in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021 based on research rated 4*. The University of Birmingham has also been ranked as one of the world's top 50 institutions to study Theology and Religious Studies in the 2024 QS World University Rankings.
• Extracurricular opportunities  – you will be exposed to a variety of opportunities to enhance your student experience, including regular coffee mornings for staff and students, visiting speakers, lecture series and social events.
• Small classes – teaching on the Masters-level modules involve mainly small-group seminars allowing you to really get to grips with the learning material.
• The city – Birmingham is an ideal place to study Theology and Religion. The city is one of the most culturally and religiously diverse communities in Europe and the department has excellent relationships with the city’s faith communities.

The postgraduate experience

The College of Arts and Law offers excellent support to its postgraduates, from libraries and research spaces, to careers support and funding opportunities. Learn more about your postgraduate experience .

Core module

You will study two core modules:

Research Methods in Theology and the Study of Religion

This module unpacks the core issues of researching in theology and religious studies.It addresses debates surrounding the design, conduct, ethics and evaluation of research in a multidisciplinary subject area. It prepares you to carry out independent research and to critically assess others’ research across a wide spectrum of approaches. Assessment : 2500 word essay (50%) AND 2000 word Dissertation Proposal (50%)

Dissertation Preparation and Guided Reading

Following the relevant research methods module for your programme, where you will have identified your dissertation project, this module is designed to aid your planning and research for this dissertation, by further developing the relevant skills and knowledge in a structured way in the form of a literature review and study skills sessions. Assessment : 4,500 word essay (Literature Review)

Optional modules

You will choose four optional modules from a range which typically includes:

• Religion in Contemporary Global Politics 1
• Special Study - Autumn
• Inter-Faith Relations and Issues
• Approaches to Islamic Studies (modern and traditional)
• Critical Thinkers of Modernity, Science, Society and Religion
• Gender, Sexualities and Religion
• Atheisms: From Voltaire to Dawkin
• Conceptualising God in Christian Theologies
• Theology and Economics
• Special Study - Spring

For more information, see our Theology and Religion postgraduate modules .

UK/EU students also have access to two additional options offered by Al-Mahdi Institute in Birmingham, as part of their collaboration with the Department of Theology and Religion:

Mediaeval Arabic Thought

Focussing on the philosophical and theological ideas of mediaeval Arabic thinkers, this module provides you with an opportunity to study a range of thinkers and their ideas, ranging from topics such as the Graeco-Arabic translation movement during the so-called Islamic ‘Golden Age’, to the impact of Neoplatonism on Islamic philosophy, the proofs of God’s existence, political philosophy, theological reactions to Hellenistic philosophy, ethics and philosophical Sufism. It aims to give you the ability to navigate original texts in their historical context, the ability to unpack and assess philosophical arguments, to appreciate the ecumenical nature of shared philosophical and theological concerns among Jews, Christians and Muslims, and the ability to assess the compatibility or lack thereof of faith and reason during the Islamic middle ages. Assessment : 4,000-word essay

Thematic Study of Shi’ism: History, Doctrines and Religious Authority

This module will you with an opportunity to review an extensive list of Western scholarship (in English) on key themes that have formed and continue to form the unique identity of Shi’ism within Islam. These themes could include: beginnings of Shi’ism; theological doctrines of Shi’ism; legal doctrines of Twelver Shi’ism; authority structures within Shi’ism; and contemporary issues of the Twelver Shi’i world. Assessment : 4,000-word essay

Dissertation

In addition to your taught modules, you will conduct a piece of independent research with the support of a supervisor. Students taking the MA Theology and Religion MUST take ONE of the following two Dissertation modules:

Dissertation (15,000 word dissertation) or

Placement-based Dissertation (Completion of 100 hours on Placement + either (a) a 10,000 word dissertation critically analysing and evaluating reflecting on an aspect of the approach and/or work of the institution hosting the Placement. OR (b) write a report or conduct a piece of relevant research, or produce another form of media output for the Placement host).

Please note that the optional module information listed on the website for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2024 entry are as follows:

• UK: £10,530 full-time; £5,265 part-time
• International: £24,120 full-time

The above fees quoted are for one year only; for those studying over two or more years, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Eligibility for UK or international fees can be verified with Admissions. Learn more about fees for international students .

Paying your fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding .

Are you an international applicant?

Find out more about the deposit >> .

How To Apply

How to Apply for a Postgraduate Degree - Taught programmes

Application deadlines

The deadline for International students (requiring a VISA) to apply is 30 June 2024. The deadline for UK students is 30 August 2024.

Making your application

• How to apply

To apply for a postgraduate taught programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents on our how to apply page . Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Our Standard Requirements

We ask for 2:1 undergraduate Honours degree, preferably in a related discipline. All applications are treated on their merits, and we are happy to consider applicants whose qualifications differ, but we would encourage you to contact the Admissions Tutor for advice.

International/EU students

Academic requirements: We accept a range of qualifications from different countries - use our handy guide below to see what qualifications we accept from your country.

English language requirements: standard language requirements apply for this course - IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band. If you are made an offer of a place to study and you do not meet the language requirement, you have the option to enrol on our English for Academic Purposes Presessional Course - if you successfully complete the course, you will be able to fulfil the language requirement without retaking a language qualification.

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

Learn more about international entry requirements

International Requirements

Holders of a Licence, Diplome, Diplome d'Etudes Superieures, Diplome d'Ingenieur or a Diplome d'Architecte from a recognised university in Algeria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of one of these qualifications will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 for 2:1 equivalency or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Argentinian university, with a promedio of at least 7.5, may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent

A Bachelors (Honours) degree from an accredited Australian higher education institution may be considered for admission to a Masters degree.   Applicants with 3 year Bachelors with distinction from a recognised university, can be considered for admission to a Masters degree.

Holders of a Diplom, a Diplomstudium/Magister or a three-year Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, or a high-scoring Fachhochschuldiplom (FH) from a recognised Austrian Fachhochschule, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students with a good 5-year Specialist Diploma or 4-year Bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan, with a minimum GPA of 4/5 or 80% will be considered for entry to postgraduate taught programmes at the University of Birmingham.

For postgraduate research programmes applicants should have a good 5-year Specialist Diploma (completed after 1991), with a minimum grade point average of 4/5 or 80%, from a recognised higher education institution or a Masters or “Magistr Diplomu” or “Kandidat Nauk” from a recognised higher education institution in Azerbaijan.

 Holders of a bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Bahrain will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of three years duration, followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration from a recognised university in Bangladesh will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least four years duration may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Bangladesh.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0-3.3/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6-3.1/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Students who hold a Masters degree from the University of Botswana with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (70%/B/'very good') will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Please note 4-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a Diploma of Higher Education. 5-year bachelor degrees from the University of Botswana are considered equivalent to a British Bachelor (Ordinary) degree.

Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

A Licenciatura or Bacharelado degree from a recognised Brazilian university:

• A grade of 7.5/10 for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement
• A grade of 6.5/10for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement

Holders of a good Bachelors degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma za Zavarsheno Visshe Obrazovanie (‘Diploma of Completed Higher Education’), a pre-2001 Masters degree or a post-2001 Bachelors degree from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 5 out of 6, mnogo dobur/’very good’ for 2:1 equivalence; or 4 out of 6, dobur/’good’ for 2:2 equivalence; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students with a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (or 70%) on a 4-year Licence, Bachelor degree or Diplôme d'Etudes Superieures de Commerce (DESC) or Diplôme d'Ingénieur or a Maîtrise will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Canadian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A GPA of 3.0/4, 7.0/9 or 75% is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1.

Holders of the Licenciado or equivalent Professional Title from a recognised Chilean university will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD study will preferably hold a Magister degree or equivalent.

Students with a bachelor’s degree (4 years minimum) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. However please note that we will only consider students who meet the entry guidance below.  Please note: for the subject areas below we use the Shanghai Ranking 2022 (full table)  ,  Shanghai Ranking 2023 (full table) , and Shanghai Ranking of Chinese Art Universities 2023 .

需要具备学士学位（4年制）的申请人可申请研究生课程。请根据所申请的课程查看相应的入学要求。 请注意，中国院校名单参考 软科中国大学排名2022（总榜） ，  软科中国大学排名2023（总榜） ，以及 软科中国艺术类高校名单2023 。  

Business School    - MSc programmes (excluding MBA)  

商学院硕士课程（MBA除外）入学要求

School of Computer Science – all MSc programmes 计算机学院硕士课程入学要求

College of Social Sciences – courses listed below 社会科学 学院部分硕士课程入学要求 MA Education  (including all pathways) MSc TESOL Education MSc Public Management MA Global Public Policy MA Social Policy MA Sociology Department of Political Science and International Studies  全部硕士课程 International Development Department  全部硕士课程

  All other programmes (including MBA)   所有其他 硕士课程（包括 MBA）入学要求

Please note:

• Borderline cases: We may consider students with lower average score (within 5%) on a case-by-case basis if you have a relevant degree and very excellent grades in relevant subjects and/or relevant work experience. 如申请人均分低于相应录取要求（5%以内），但具有出色学术背景，优异的专业成绩，以及（或）相关的工作经验，部分课程将有可能单独酌情考虑。
• Please contact the China Recruitment Team for any questions on the above entry requirements. 如果您对录取要求有疑问，请联系伯明翰大学中国办公室   [email protected]

Holders of the Licenciado/Professional Title from a recognised Colombian university will be considered for our Postgraduate Diploma and Masters degrees. Applicants for PhD degrees will normally have a Maestria or equivalent.

Holders of a good bachelor degree with honours (4 to 6 years) from a recognised university with a upper second class grade or higher will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised university will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good Diploma Visoko Obrazovanje (Advanced Diploma of Education) or Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, for 2:1 equivalence or 3.0 out of 5.0, dobar ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.  Holders of a good Bacclaureus (Bachelors) from a recognised Croatian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 4.0 out of 5.0, vrlo dobar ‘very good’, or a Masters degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree(from the University of the West Indies or the University of Technology) may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. A Class II Upper Division degree is usually equivalent to a UK 2.1. For further details on particular institutions please refer to the list below.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Masters degree or Mphil from the University of the West Indies.

Holders of a good four-year government-accredited Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education college with a minimum overall GPA of 3 out of 4 for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.75 out of 4 for 2:2 equivalency; or a good four-year Bachelors degree (Ptychio) from a recognised University, with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 for 2:2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Bakalár, or a good pre-2002 Magistr, from a recognised Czech Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, velmi dobre ‘very good’ (post-2004) or 2, velmi dobre ‘good’ (pre-2004), for 2:1 equivalence, or 2.5, C, dobre ‘good’ (post-2004) or 3, dobre ‘pass’ (pre-2004) for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Bachelors degree/Candidatus Philosophiae, Professionbachelor or Eksamensbevis from a recognised Danish university, with a minimum overall grade of 7-10 out of 12 (or 8 out of 13) or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or 4-7 out of 12 (or 7 out of 13) for 2:2 equivalence depending on the awarding institution will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of the Licenciado or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Ecuadorian university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 70% or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Magister/Masterado or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Licenciado with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Egypt will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants holding a Bachelors degree with alternative grading systems, will normally be expected to have achieved a 75% (Very Good) for 2:1 equivalency or 65% (Good) for 2:2 equivalency. For applicants with a grading system different to those mentioned here, please contact [email protected] for advice on what the requirements will be for you.

Holders of a good Bakalaurusekraad from a recognised university or Applied Higher Education Institution with a minimum overall grade of 4/5 or B for 2:1 equivalency or 3/5 or C for 2:2 equivalency, or a good Rakenduskõrgharidusõppe Diplom (Professional Higher Education Diploma), will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with very good grades (grade B, 3.5/4 GPA or 85%) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

Holders of a good Ammattikorkeakoulututkinto (AMK) (new system), an Yrkeshögskoleexamen (YHS) (new system), a Kandidaatti / Kandidat (new system), an Oikeustieteen Notaari or a Rättsnotarie, a good Kandidaatti / Kandidat (old system), a professional title such as Ekonomi, Diplomi-insinööri, Arkkitehti, Lisensiaatti (in Medicine, Dentistry and Vetinary Medicine), or a Maisteri / Magister (new system), Lisensiaatti / Licenciat, Oikeustieteen Kandidaatti / Juris Kandidat (new system) or Proviisori / Provisor from a recognised Finnish Higher Education institution, with a minimum overall grade of 2/3 or 3-4/5 for 2:1 equivalence or 1-2/3 or 2.5-3/5 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good three-year Licence, License Professionnelle, Diplôme d'Ingénieur/Architecte Diplômé d'État, Diplôme from an Ecole Superieure de Commerce / Gestion / Politique, or Diplome d'Etat Maitrise of three years duration or a Maîtrise from a recognised French university or Grande École will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a minimum overall grade of 13 out of 20, bien, for 2:1 equivalency, or 11 out of 20, assez bien, for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a good three-year Bachelor degree, a Magister Artium, a Diplom or an Erstes Staatsexamen from a recognised university, or a good Fachhochschuldiplom from a Fachhochschule (university of applied sciences), with a minimum overall grade of 2.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3.0 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students from Germany who have completed three years of the Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 10 from the first six semesters of study within the Juristische Universitätsprüfung programme would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes.  Students from Germany who have completed the five year Erstes Staatsexamen qualification with a grade point average (GPA) of 6.5 would be considered for entry onto LLM programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good four-year Ptychio (Bachelor degree) from a recognised Greek university (AEI) with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 5.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, or a good four-year Ptychio from a recognised Technical Higher Education institution (TEI) with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

4-year Licenciado is deemed equivalent to a UK bachelors degree. A score of 75 or higher from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC) can be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 60 is comparable to a UK 2.2.  Private universities have a higher pass mark, so 80 or higher should be considered comparable to a UK 2.1, 70 is comparable to a UK 2.2

The Hong Kong Bachelor degree is considered comparable to British Bachelor degree standard. Students with bachelor degrees awarded by universities in Hong Kong may be considered for entry to one of our postgraduate degree programmes.

Students with Masters degrees may be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Alapfokozat / Alapképzés (Bachelors degree) or Egyetemi Oklevel (university diploma) from a recognised Hungarian university, or a Foiskola Oklevel (college diploma) from a recognised college of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 3.5 for 2:1 equivalency, or 3 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a Bachelors degree of three or four years in duration from a recognised university in India will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 55% - 60% or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or 50% - 55% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Either: A four-year Bachelors degree (first class or very good upper second class)

Or: A three-year Bachelors degree (first class) from recognised institutions in India.

For MSc programmes, the Business School will consider holders of three-year degree programmes (first class or very good upper second class) from recognised institutions in India.

For entry to LLM programmes, Birmingham is happy to accept applications from 3 or 5 year LLB holders from India from prestigious institutions.

Holders of the 4 year Sarjana (S1) from a recognised Indonesian institution will be considered for postgraduate study. Entry requirements vary with a minimum requirement of a GPA of 2.8.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iran with a minimum of 14/20 or 70% will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate taught programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Iraq will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Israel will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 80% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Diploma di Laurea, Licenza di Accademia di Belle Arti, Diploma di Mediatore Linguistico or Diploma Accademico di Primo Livello from a recognised Italian university with a minimum overall grade of 100 out of 110 for 2:1 equivalence, or 92 out of 110 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold the Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies, Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Students with a Bachelor degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for entry to a postgraduate Masters degree provided they achieve a sufficiently high overall score in their first (Bachelor) degree. A GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a B average from a good Japanese university is usually considered equivalent to a UK 2:1.

Students with a Masters degree from a recognised university in Japan will be considered for PhD study. A high overall grade will be necessary to be considered.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Jordan will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who have completed their Specialist Diploma Мамаң дипломы/Диплом специалиста) or "Magistr" (Магистр дипломы/Диплом магистра) degree (completed after 1991) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of 2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, will be considered for entry to postgraduate Masters degrees and, occasionally, directly for PhD degrees.  Holders of a Bachelor "Bakalavr" degree (Бакалавр дипломы/Диплом бакалавра) from a recognised higher education institution, with a minimum GPA of  2.67/4.00 for courses requiring a UK lower second and 3.00/4.00 for courses requiring a UK upper second class degree, may also be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/50

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Kuwait will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good pre-2000 Magistrs or post-2000 Bakalaurs from a recognised university, or a good Postgraduate Diploma (professional programme) from a recognised university or institution of Higher Education, with a minimum overall grade of 7.5 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 6.5 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Lebanon will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 16/20 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency, or 14/20 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Libya will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70% for 2:1 equivalency or 65% for 2:2 equivalency. Alternatively students will require a minimum of 3.0/4.0 or BB to be considered.

Holders of a good Bakalauras (post 2001), Profesinis Bakalauras (post 2001) or pre-2001 Magistras from a recognised university with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalency, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Bachelors degree or Diplôme d'Ingénieur Industriel from a recognised Luxembourgish Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20 for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees (70-74% or A or Marginal Distinction from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 60-69% or B or Bare Distinction/Credit is considered comparable to a UK 2.2).

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Malaysian institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum of 3.0) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised Higher Education Institution with a minimum grade of 2:1 (Hons) for UK 2:1 equivalency, or 2:2 (Hons) for UK 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (Honours) from a recognised institution (including the University of Mauritius) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2:1).

Students who hold the Licenciado/Professional Titulo from a recognised Mexican university with a promedio of at least 8 will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.

Students who have completed a Maestria from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree, licence or Maîtrise from a recognised university in Morocco will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a score of 15/20 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency, or 13/20 for 2:2 equivalency.

Students with a good four year honours degree from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. PhD applications will be considered on an individual basis.

Holders of a Bachelors (Honours) degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Nepal will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration plus a Masters degree may also be considered for postgraduate study. Degrees must be from a recognised institution in Nepal.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 or 65%-79% average or higher for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 60%-65% for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Dutch university, or Bachelors degree from a recognised Hogeschool (University of Professional Education), or a good Doctoraal from a recognised Dutch university, with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor degree (minimum 4 years and/or level 400) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) with a minimum GPA of at least 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good three-six-year Bachelorgrad, Candidatus Magisterii, Sivilingeniø (siv. Ing. - Engineering), "Siviløkonom" (siv. Øk. - Economics) degree from a recognised Norwegian education institution with a minimum GPA of B/Very Good or 1.6-2.5 for a 2.1 equivalency, or a GPA of C/Good or 2.6-3.2 for a 2.2 equivalency; will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Oman will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years in duration from a recognised university in Pakistan will be considered for postgraduate taught study. Students with a Bachelors degree of at least three years duration followed by a Masters degree of one or two years duration, or holders of a two year Bachelors degree and a two year Masters degree in the same subject, may also be considered for postgraduate study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 2.8-3.0/4.0 or 65% or above for 2:1 equivalency, or a GPA of 2.6/4.0 or 60% or above for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

A two-year degree followed by a three-year LLB will count as a full Bachelors degree.

All qualifications must be from recognised institutions. For further details on recognised institutions, please refer to Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in the Palestinian Territories will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3/4 or 80% for 2:1 equivalency or a GPA of 2.5/4 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.    

Holders of the Título de Licenciado /Título de (4-6 years) or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Paraguayan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Grades of 4/5 or higher can be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent.  The Título Intermedio is a 2-3 year degree and is equivalent to a HNC, it is not suitable for postgraduate entry but holders of this award could be considered for second year undergraduate entry or pre-Masters.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría / Magister or equivalent qualification, but holders of the Título/Grado de Licenciado/a with excellent grades can be considered.

Holders of the Licenciado, with at least 13/20 may be considered as UK 2.1 equivalent. The Grado de Bachiller is equivalent to an ordinary degree, so grades of 15+/20 are required.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Título de Maestría or equivalent qualification.

Holders of a good post-2001 Licencjat / Inzynier (Bachelors degree), or a pre-2001 Magister, from a recognised Polish university, with a minimum overall grade of 4.5/4+ out of 5, dobry plus ‘better than good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 4 out of 5, dobry 'good' for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Licenciado from a recognised university, or a Diploma de Estudos Superiores Especializados (DESE) from a recognised Polytechnic Institution, with a minimum overall grade of 16 out of 20, bom com distinção ‘good with distinction’, for 2:1 equivalence, or 14 out of 20, bom ‘good’, for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Qatar will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Diplomă de Licenţă, Diplomă de Inginer, Diplomă de Urbanist Diplomat, Diplomă de Arhitect, Diplomă de Farmacist or Diplomã de Doctor-Medic Arhitect (Bachelors degree) from a recognised Romanian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a good Диплом Бакалавра (Bakalavr) degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 from recognised universities in Russia may be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes/MPhil degrees. 

Students who hold a 4-year Bachelor degree with at least 16/20 or 70% will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the Saudi Arabia will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who hold a Maitrise, Diplome d'Etude Approfondies,Diplome d'Etude Superieures or Diplome d'Etude Superieures Specialisees will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. A score of 14-15/20 or Bien from a well ranked institution is considered comparable to a UK 2.1, while a score of 12-13/20 or Assez Bien is considered comparable to a UK 2.2

Students who hold a Bachelor (Honours) degree from a recognised institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 (or a score of 60-69% or B+) from a well ranked institution will be considered for most our Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees with a 2:1 requirement.

Students holding a good Bachelors Honours degree will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a good three-year Bakalár or pre-2002 Magister from a recognised Slovakian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 1.5, B, Vel’mi dobrý ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalence, or 2, C, Dobrý ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Holders of a good Diploma o pridobljeni univerzitetni izobrazbi (Bachelors degree), Diplomant (Professionally oriented first degree), Univerzitetni diplomant (Academically oriented first degree) or Visoko Obrazovanja (until 1999) from a recognised Slovenian Higher Education institution with a minimum overall grade of 8.0 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 7.0 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. 

Students who hold a Bachelor Honours degree (also known as Baccalaureus Honores / Baccalaureus Cum Honoribus) from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (70%) or a distinction (75%).

Holders of a Masters degree will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a Bachelor degree from a recognised South Korean institution (usually with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average 3.0/4.0 or 3.2/4.5) will be considered for Masters programmes.

Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study on an individual basis.

Holders of a good Título de Licenciado / Título Universitario Oficial de Graduado (Grado) /Título de Ingeniero / Título de Arquitecto from a recognised Spanish university with a minimum overall grade of 7 out of 10 for 2:1 equivalence, or 6 out of 10 for 2:2 equivalence, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Special or Professional Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in Sri Lanka will be considered for postgraduate taught study.

Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved 60-74% or a CGPA 3.30/4.0 or B+ for 2:1 equivalency, or 55-59% or a CGPA 3.0/4.0 or B for 2:2 equivalency depending on the awarding institution.  

Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd) for 2:1 equivalency, or G (godkänd) for 2:2 equivalency, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes. Holders of a good Kandidatexamen (Bachelors degree) or Yrkesexamen (Professional Bachelors degree) from a recognised Swedish Higher Education institution with the majority of subjects with a grade of VG (Val godkänd), and/or a good Magisterexamen (Masters degree), International Masters degree or Licentiatexamen (comparable to a UK Mphil), will be considered for entry to postgraduate research programmes.

Holders of a good " Baccalauréat universitaire/ Diplom / Diplôme; Lizentiat / Licence; Staatsdiplom / Diplôme d'Etat" degree from a recognised Swiss higher education institution (with a minimum GPA of 5/6 or 8/10 or 2/5 (gut-bien-bene/good) for a 2.1 equivalence) will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised university in Syria will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved score of 70%, or ‘very good’ for 2:1 equivalency or 60%, or ‘good’ for 2:2 equivalency.  

Holders of a good Bachelor degree (from 75% to 85% depending upon the university in Taiwan) from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate Masters study. Holders of a good Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.  Most taught Masters programmes require a minimum of an upper second class degree (2.1) Students who have completed a Masters degree from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a good Bachelors degree from a recognised institution will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level. Holders of Bachelors degree from prestigious institutions (see list below) will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency or 2.7 for 2:2 equivalency. Applicants with grades slightly below these requirements may also be considered for an offer if they have a relevant Bachelors degree, good scores in relevant modules, or relevant work experience.

Holders of a Bachelors degree from all other institutions will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.2/4.0 for 2:1 equivalency, or 2.8 for 2:2 equivalency.

Prestigious institutions: Assumption University Chiang Mai University Chulalongkorn University Kasetsart University Khon Kaen University King Mongkut University of Technology - Thonburi (known as KMUTT or KMUT) Mahidol University Prince of Songla University Srinakharinwirot University Thammasat University

Holders of a bachelor degree with honours from a recognised Caribbean and West Indies university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. 

Students with a Bachelors degree from the following universities may be considered for entry to postgraduate programmes:

• Ateneo de Manila University - Quezon City
• De La Salle University - Manila
• University of Santo Tomas
• University of the Philippines - Diliman

Students from all other institutions with a Bachelors and a Masters degree or relevant work experience may be considered for postgraduate programmes.

Grading Schemes

1-5 where 1 is the highest 2.1 = 1.75 2.2 = 2.25 

Out of 4.0 where 4 is the highest 2.1 = 3.0 2.2 = 2.5

Letter grades and percentages 2.1 = B / 3.00 / 83% 2.2 = C+ / 2.5 / 77%

Holders of a postdoctoral qualification from a recognised institution will be considered for PhD study.  Students may be considered for PhD study if they have a Masters from one of the above listed universities.

Holders of a Lisans Diplomasi with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0/4.0 from a recognised university will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.

Holders of a Yuksek Diplomasi from a recognised university will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of a Bachelors degree of four years duration from a recognised university in the UAE will be considered for postgraduate study. Holders of a Bachelors degree will normally be expected to have achieved a GPA of 3.0/4, 3.75/5 or 75% for 2:1 equivalency or 2.8/4, 3.5/5 or 70% for 2:2 equivalency.  

Students who hold a Bachelor degree from a recognised institution will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. Most Masters programmes will require a second class upper (2.1) or GPA of 3.5/5.0

Holders of a good four-year Bachelors degree/ Диплом бакалавра (Dyplom Bakalavra), Диплом спеціаліста (Specialist Diploma) or a Dyplom Magistra from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 4.0/5.0, 3.5/4, 8/12 or 80% or higher for 2:1 equivalence, or a GPA of 3.5/5.0, 3.0/4, 6/12 or 70% for 2:2 equivalence, depending on the awarding institution, will be considered for entry to taught postgraduate programmes.

The University will consider students who hold an Honours degree from a recognised institution in the USA with a GPA of:

• 2.8 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:2 requirement 
• 3.2 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for entry to programmes with a 2:1 requirement 

Please note that some subjects which are studied at postgraduate level in the USA, eg. Medicine and Law, are traditionally studied at undergraduate level in the UK.

Holders of the Magistr Diplomi (Master's degree) or Diplomi (Specialist Diploma), awarded by prestigious universities, who have attained high grades in their studies will be considered for postgraduate study.  Holders of the Fanlari Nomzodi (Candidate of Science), where appropriate, will be considered for PhD study.

Holders of the Licenciatura/Título or an equivalent professional title from a recognised Venezuelan university may be considered for entry to a postgraduate degree programme. Scales of 1-5, 1-10 and 1-20 are used, an overall score of 70% or equivalent can be considered equivalent to a UK 2.1.  Applicants for PhD level study will preferably hold a Maestria or equivalent qualification

Holders of a Bachelors degree from a recognised Vietnamese institution (usually achieved with the equivalent of a second class upper or a grade point average minimum GPA of 7.0 and above) will be considered for postgraduate study at Diploma or Masters level.  Holders of a Masters degree (thac si) will be considered for entry to PhD programmes.

Students who hold a Masters degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5/5.0 or a mark of 2.0/2.5 (A) will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees.   

Students who hold a good Bachelor Honours degree will be considered for Postgraduate Diplomas and Masters degrees. 

As well as the taught modules you take on this programme, the Department of Theology and Religion has a busy programme of research seminars, conferences and workshops which you can attend, so you’ll be able to gain insight from a range of academics and peers from across the department.

Course delivery

We have two teaching semesters per year, the autumn semester and spring semester. Semester dates can be found on our website.

As a full-time student, you will typically take three modules in each semester, followed by your dissertation. Depending on the modules you take, you can typically expect six hours of classroom time per week, two per module. If you are a part-time student, you will typically take three modules across each year, followed by your dissertation.

Each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, homework and assignment preparation.

Teaching year

We have three teaching terms per year, the autumn, spring and summer terms. Term dates can be found on our website .

As a full-time student, you will typically take three modules in each of the first two terms, followed by your dissertation. If you are a part-time student, you will typically take three modules across each year, followed by your dissertation.

Support with academic writing

As a postgraduate student in the College of Arts and Law, you have access to the Academic Writing Advisory Service (AWAS) which aims to help your transition from undergraduate to taught Masters level, or back into academia after time away. The service offers guidance on writing assignments and dissertations for your MA/MSc programme with individual support from an academic writing advisor via tutorials, email and the provision of online materials.

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Home > ARTSSCI > Theology > dissertations and theses

Theology Dissertations and Theses

The Theology Dissertations Series is comprised of dissertations authored by Marquette University's Theology Department doctoral students.

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

Dominus Mortis: Martin Luther on the Incorruptibility of God in Christ , David Luy

The Church and the Mediation of Grace: A Reformed Perspective on Ordained Ministry and the Threefold Office of Christ , Michael Joe Matossian

From Cleansed Lepers to Cleansed Hearts: The Developing Meaning of Katharizo in Luke-Acts , Pamela Shellberg

Lonergan on the Historical Causality of Christ: An Interpretation of 'The Redemption: A Supplement to De Verbo Incarnato' , John Volk

The Christology of Theodoret of Cyrrhus: The Question of Its Development , Vasilije Vranic

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

"Poor Maggot-Sack that I Am": The Human Body in the Theology of Martin Luther , Charles Lloyd Cortright

Intersex and Imago: Sex, Gender, and Sexuality in Postmodern Theological Anthropology , Megan K. DeFranza

Qoheleth: An Anti-apocalyptic Genre for a Message of Joy , Jerome Douglas

Renaming Abraham's Children: Election, Ethnicity and the Interpretation of Scripture in Romans 9 , Robert Bruce Foster

Lex Orandi, Lex Legendi: A Correlation of the Roman Canon and the Fourfold Sense of Scripture , Matthew Thomas Gerlach

The Way to God or God's Way to Us: The Theologies of Edward Farley and James McClendon in Critical Dialogue , Thomas W. Harrington

Early Christian Sex Change. The Ascetical Context of "Being Made Male" in Early Christianity , Jennifer Lynne Henery

The Trinitarian Theology of Irenaeus of Lyons , Jackson Jay Lashier

Renewing a Catholic Theology of Marriage through a Common Way of Life: Consonance with Vowed Religious Life-in-Community , Kent Lasnoski

Mercy, Justice, and Politics: John Paul II on Capital Punishment , Kevin E. Miller

The Assumption of All Humanity in Saint Hilary of Poitiers' Tractatus super Psalmos , Ellen Scully

Full, Conscious, and Active Participation: The Laity as Ecclesial Subjects in an Ecclesiology Informed by Bernard Lonergan , Mary Utzerath

The Metaphysics and Intellective Psychology in the Natural Desire for Seeing God: Henri de Lubac and Neo-Scholasticism , Christine Wood

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Chosen Nation: Biblical Theopolitics and the Problem of American Christian Nationalism , Braden P. Anderson

The Church's Unity and Authority: Augustine's Effort to Convert the Donatists , Gavril Andreicut

Word and Faith in the Formation of Christian Existence: A Study in Gerhard Ebeling's Rejection of the Joint Declaration , Scott A. Celsor

The Noetic Paschal Anthropos: Genesis 1:27 and the Theology of the Divine Image in Early Paschal Literature , Dragos Andrei Giulea

"The People Believe That He Has Risen from the Dead": The Gospel of Peter and Early Christian Apologetics , Timothy Henderson

The Septuagintal Isaian Use of Nomos in the Lukan Presentation Narrative , Mark Walter Koehne

The Body as Symbol: Bringing Together Theories of Sex/Gender and Race for Theological Discourse , Patricia Lewis

An Ecclesiology of Charisms in the Theology of Francis A. Sullivan , Michael Anthony Novak

The Enochic Watchers' Template and the Gospel of Matthew , Amy Elizabeth Richter

Visionary Ascents of Moses in Pseudo-Philo's Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum: Apocalyptic Motifs and the Growth of Visionary Moses Tradition , Kristine Johnson Ruffatto

Isaac of Stella, the Cistercians and the Thomas Becket Controversy: A Bibliographical and Contextual Study , Travis D. Stolz

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

The Theology of the Holy Spirit According to Irenaeus of Lyons , Anthony A. Briggman

Wisdom Editing in the Book of Psalms: Vocabulary, Themes, and Structures , Steven Dunn

The Self-Donation of God: Gerhard Forde and the Question of Atonement in the Lutheran Tradition , Jack Kilcrease

Theological Hermeneutics in the Classical Pentecostal Tradition: A Typological Account , Louis William Oliverio Jr.

Inverberation - The Idiom of "God Among Us:" Karl Barth's Filial-Pneumatology as the Basic Structure of Theology , Aaron T. Smith

Pentecostal Theology According to the Theologians: An Introduction to the Theological Methods of Pentecostal Systematic Theologians , Christopher Adam Stephenson

"It seems good to the Holy Spirit and to us": Toward a Feminist Pneumatological Argument for Women in Ministry , Lisa P. Stephenson

Using "Chaos" in Articulating the Relationship of God and Creation in God's Creative Activity , Eric Michael Vail

Beyond Stewardship: Toward an Agapeic Environmental Ethic , Christopher J. Vena

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

John Courtney Murray, S.J., and Incarnational Humanism , Richard S. Arndt

What the Law Cannot Do: Samuel DeWitt Proctor's Theological Response to An American Crisis, 1945-1997 , Adam L. Bond

A Great High Priest Who has Passed through the Heavens: In Quest of the Apocalyptic Roots of the Epistle to the Hebrews , James M. Carlson

The Breaking of the Tablets: A Comparison of the Egyptian Execration Ritual to Exodus 32:19 and Jeremiah 19 , Michael S. Donahou

The Mother of Christ As a Symbol of Christian Unity: A Case Study for Ecumenical Dialogue , Maura E. Hearden

Re-reading Yoder in Order to Conscientiously Engage Technology through the Practices of the Church , Paul C. Heidebrecht

The Catholic Church in Dialogue with Non-Christian Faith Traditions: Engaging Jacques Dupuis's Model of Religious Pluralism with Walter Ong's Concept of Dialogic Openness in Media Society , Marinus Chijioke Iwuchukwu

"Broken Nets": Augustine, Schisms and Rejuvenating Councils in North Africa , Fortunate Ojiako

The Sources of Ecclesiastes: The "Epic of Gilgamesh" as a Source Document for Ecclesiastes , Timothy Nalin Senapatiratne

The Sources of Ecclesiastes: The Epic of Gilgamesh As a Source Document for Ecclesiastes , Timothy Nalin Senapatiratne

A More thorough Trinitarian: Reconsidering Moses Stuart's Role in the Trinitarian Debate in New England, 1819-1850 , Jeffrey A. Wilcox

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

Composition and Redaction in the Coptic Gospel of Mary , Ardyth L. Bass

The Angelomorphic Spirit in Early Christianity: Scripture and theology in Clement of Alexandria's Eclogae Propheticae and Adumbrationes , Bogdan G. Bucur

Roman Catholic social bioethics critiques secular bioethics: Fetal tissue research and vulnerable populations , Shawnee M Daniels-Sykes

Roman Catholic Social Bioethics Critiques Secular Bioethics: Fetal Tissue Research and Vulnerable Populations , Shawnee M. Daniels-Sykes

The Role of Human Creativity in the Theological Anthropology of Centesimus Annus and Its Implications for Christian Economic Practices , Kari-Shane Davis

The Mission Theology of the Irish Holy Ghost Fathers in Igboland, 1905-1970, in the Light of the Changing Face of Mission Today: Toward a Mission Theology for the Igbo Church , Charles Achunike Ebelebe

Matthew's Vision: The Unity of the Formula Citations in Matt 1:1-4:16 , Jeremy R. Holmes

Prophetic Catholicism: Appropriating John Courtney Murray, S.J., in Postmodern America , Jennifer Laske

Encounter - call - mission: Conversion in the writings of Hans Urs von Balthasar , Daniel W McGuire

The Harmony between the Right to Private Property and the Call to Solidarity in Modern Catholic Social Teaching , Constance J. Nielsen

Intersecting Narratives: The Quest for Identity in a Post-Traditional World and the Prophetic Message of Franz Kafka , Matthew T. Powell

ruah YHWH, ruah 'elohim: A case for literary and theological distinction in the Deuteronomistic History , John M Ragsdale

The Heart of Rahner: An Analysis of Karl Rahner's Theology Using Andrew Tallon's Theory of Triune Consciousness , Heidi Russell

Yahweh Will be My God "if": The Vow of Jacob and His Relationship to the God of His Fathers (Genesis 25-35) , Nathanael E. Schmiedicke

The Gate of Heaven Opens to the Trinity: The Trinitarian Mysticism of Adrienne von Speyr , Matthew Lewis Sutton

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

The Trinitarian Ecclesiology of Dumitru Staniloae and Its Significance for Contemporary Orthodox-Catholic Dialogue , Radu Bordeianu

A Critical Assessment of Sacrament and Ethics in the Thought of Louis-Marie Chauvet , Timothy M. Brunk

Who Are the Wise? : A Critical Analysis of Film and Papal Social Teaching for Those Who Can Reclaim and Revitalize the Vision of a More Just America , Alejandro Crosthwaite

Tradition in Transformation: The Celebration of the Lord's Supper in the Reformed Church in America , Christopher Dorn

The Costly Witness of the Church: The World Council of Churches' Study on Ecclesiology and Ethics , John A. Jones

When Faith Judges History: The Anglo-American Religious and Political Experience, and Public Theology, As Missing Elements in Political and Liberation Theology , Ramón Luzárraga III

"Let Us Sing to the Lord": The Biblical Odes in the Codex Alexandrinus , James A. Miller

Nicholas of Lyra's Use of St. Thomas Aquinas' Expositio Super Iob Ad Litteram in His Postilla on Job , Troy P. Pflibsen

Rethinking Christian Salvation in the Light of Ghandi's Satyagraha , Terrence J. Rynne

The trinitarian theology of Marius Victorinus: Polemic and exegesis , John T Voelker

Modern Mormon Use of Patristic Sources to Validate the Utah-Mormon Church , Chris Welborn

The Challenge of Modern Inter-Orthodox Rapprochement and Reconciliation , Kenneth F. Yossa

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

The Relevance of Bernard Lonergan's Notion of Self-Appropriation to a Mystical-Political Theology , Ian Bell

Moses, Adam and the Glory of the Lord in Ezekiel the Tragedian: On the Roots of a Merkabah Text , Silviu N. Bunta

Catholic Theology As a Means of Evangelization: The Witness of Francis Joseph Sheed , Christopher M. Carr

Aphrahat the Persian Sage and the Temple of God: A Study of Early Syriac Theological Anthropology , Stephanie K. Skoyles Jarkins

God so Loved the World: The Experience of Salvation in the Theological Project of Edward Schillebeeckx , Michael J. Marigliano

Narrating self, Narrating Other: A Pneumatological Approach to Apophatic Anthropology , Matthew John McKinnon

The Significance of Bernard Lonergan's Work on Bias for the Ethnic and Religious Conflicts in Sub-Saharan Africa , Cyril Orji

The Subjective Dimension of Human Work: the Conversion of the Acting Person According to Karol Wojtyla/John Paul II and Bernard Lonergan , Deborah Savage

Theses/Dissertations from 2004 2004

Christine de Pizan and Biblical Wisdom: A Feminist-Theological Point of View , Bonnie A. Birk

A Reexamination of Nathan Scott's Literary Criticism in the Context of David Tracy's Fundamental Theology , William Donald Buhrman

Personal being: Polanyi, ontology, and Christian theology , Andrew Thomas Grosso

Solidarity in a Global Age: Bringing Forward the Vision of Populorum Progressio , Mari Rapela Heidt

The Human Son of God and the Holy Spirit: Toward a Pentecostal Incarnational Spirit Christology , S. D. L. Jenkins

Job As Proto-Apocalypse: Proposing a Unifying Genre , Timothy Jay Johnson

The Private World As Alienated: Economic Justice in a Culture of Privatized Individualism , Michael D. Lopez-kaley

Acting (Economic) Persons: Adam Smith and Karol Wojtyła/John Paul II As Sources for Economic Personalism , Megan Maloney

From Patriarch to the Youth: The Metatron Tradition in 2 Enoch , Andrei A. Orlov

The Question of the Church in North American Lutheranism: Toward An Ecclesiology of the Third Article , Cheryl M. Peterson

"Truly This is the Savior of the World": Christ and Caesar in the Gospel of John , Lance Bryon Richey

The Vow of Obedience As Decision-Making in Communion: Contributions from Ecclesiology and Psychology , Judith Katherine Schaefer

The Polemical Context and Background of Hilary's Trinitarian Theology , Mark Weedman

Theses/Dissertations from 2003 2003

The Lukan Kingship Parable: Luke 19:11-27 in Literary Perspective , Garwood P. Anderson

The Theological Ethics of Contemporary Prophetic Acts , Randall K. Bush

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Master of Theology Thesis Thomas Egei Davai Jr

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School of Theology and Religious Studies

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• Theses and Dissertation Proposals
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M.A. Proposals

A reader for the thesis is assigned from the faculty; the director and reader are responsible for approving the proposal and placing it in the student's file. The student, with the help of a faculty member who serves as director, will prepare a one-page thesis proposal that presents the background, purpose, method, and contribution of the thesis. The proposal with a selected bibliography will be submitted to the Director of the Academic Area for approval and will then go to the M.A. Committee for final approval.

S.T.L. Proposals

The S.T.L. candidate will work in conjunction with the Director and Reader of the thesis in preparing the proposal. When the Director and Reader approve the proposal, it will then be submitted to the faculty of the Academic Area for approval. Subsequently the proposal is submitted to the members of the Ecclesiastical Degree Committee for approval. The proposal is kept in the student's file.

Doctoral Proposals

These regulations apply to PhD and STD proposals. A student, who has been formally admitted to candidacy, is eligible to submit a doctoral proposal. The following guidelines for the dissertation proposal must be carefully followed:

The Ph.D. Dissertation Proposal Approval Process

Initial steps of the process.

The student is responsible for securing a director and two readers who will form the dissertation committee. Generally, the committee members should be STRS faculty and hold the degree of Ph.D. or D.Phil. The readers may hold the D.Min. degree if they bring relevant experience to the committee.

The Ph.D. Proposal Committee will use a rubric for evaluating proposals that specifies the instructions articulated in the university guidelines for proposals. The proposal should be organized as follows:

• Background / state of the question
• Methodology
• Contribution / Originality
• Apended biography (additional two pages)

Evaluation of the Proposal by the Ph.D. Proposal Committee

• Once the director has determined that the proposal is ready to be evaluated, the proposal must be approved by the student's academic area.
• The student must send the Chair of the Ph.D. Proposal Committee an electronic copy of the proposal.
• The student must provide the Chair with two forms: a. Doctoral Dissertation Topic and Committee Request for Approval Form (signed by the area director, the dissertation advisor, and the student) b. Ph.D. Proposal Recommendation by the Academic Area Form (signed by area director)
• When the Chair has received both forms and the electronic copy of the proposal, the proposal will go before the Ph.D. Proposal Committee. The Ph.D. Proposal Committee meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month. The Chair should receive all documents by the Wednesday prior to the meeting.
• At the Committee meeting, the student's director is asked to be present to answer any questions the Committee may have. The proposal may be approved by the Committee either "as is" or on the understanding that small-scale emendations will be made. In the latter case, it is the responsibility of the director to communicate the requested emendations to the student and to ensure that these are made by the student. Once the emendations have been made to the director's satisfaction, the student should submit the revised proposal to the Ph.D. Proposal Committee Chair. The Committee may also decide that the proposal requires major reworking and needs to be resubmitted to the Committee after revision. In this case as well, the director is responsible for conveying the Committee's remarks to the student and ensuring that the student makes the recommended revisions. Once this has been done to the director's satisfaction, the student should forward the revised proposal to the Ph.D. Chair who will bring it before the Committee at its next meeting.

Final Stages of the Dissertation Proposal Approval Process

Once the Ph.D. Proposal Committee Chair has the student's proposal as approved by the Committee (or revised in accordance with the Committee's comments) as well as the two required documents listed above, the Chair will write the student a letter officially informing them that the proposal has been approved by the Committee. A copy of that letter will be included in the student's file, which the Chair will submit to the STRS Dean. The Dean will either approve the proposal as submitted and sign the "Request for Approval Form" or ask for changes, which the Dean will communicate to the director and the student. The director and student will make changes and resubmit the proposal to the Dean.

Once the Dean has signed the proposal, he will transmit the student's file to the Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies. The Dean of Graduate Studies will have the proposal assessed by an evaluator outside STRS. On the basis of that evaluation, the Dean of Graduate Studies will either approve the proposal as submitted or ask that it be revised in minor or major ways, and will so inform the student and director. If revisions are necessary, they will need to be made by the student in consultation with the director. The revised proposal must then be resubmitted to the Dean of Graduate Studies, who, in all cases, makes the final decision regarding the approval of the proposal.

New Trial: SCO and POD Databases

We’re pleased to announce that the Boston University School of Theology Library currently has trial subscriptions to two new research databases,  Sources Chrétiennes Online  (SCO)  and  Patrologia Orientalis Database  (POD), through July 14, 2024.

Trial access to these databases is limited to Boston University students, staff, and faculty. For access, please contact Head Librarian Amy Limpitlaw at [email protected] or the STH Reference Librarians at [email protected] .

Please check these out and let us know what you think about these databases and their resources.