Practical Theology, Ph.D.

Master's Degree:

• Applicants must possess a minimum of a Master's degree in Theology or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. (or recognized equivalent for international degrees).
• Applicants with a Master's degree outside of Theology or a closely related field may be considered if they have 15 graduate credits in Theology.
• Applicants completing their Master's degree at the time of application can be considered if they demonstrate likely completion before starting doctoral studies.
Recent degree transcripts are preferred.

Curriculum Vitae:

• Submit an academic-style CV following a generally accepted format.
Include educational history, experience, and honors.

Writing Sample:

• Demonstrate your readiness for scholarly research and writing.
It should be theological and reflect your current scholarly interest.
• It can consist of one or more papers, but must total at least twenty pages.

Recommendations:

• Submit at least three recommendations that demonstrate scholarly potential and personal skills as a self-motivated learner.
• Recommendations should detail the recommender's relationship with the applicant, personal qualities, scholarly interests (if known), and potential for distance learning (if applicable).
• At least two recommenders should hold a doctorate, ideally in theology, and attest to the applicant's readiness for theological scholarship.

English Language Exam (If Possible):

• Applicants from countries where English is not the primary language of instruction must submit an English proficiency exam score, such as TOEFL (minimum 79), IELTS (minimum 6.5), or Duolingo (minimum 105).
• This is not required for applicants with a U.S. undergraduate or graduate degree or those who completed English language study outside the U.S.

Statement of Purpose:

• This 3-5 page document articulates your background and aspirations for pursuing a Ph.D. in Practical Theology.
• Include specific intellectual interests, potential dissertation research, and why you are pursuing a Ph.D. and why at PBA.
• Applicants desiring distance participation should include a brief request, noting sufficient equipment, internet access, and online experience to facilitate participation.
• They should also acknowledge the requirement to participate in person for the opening weekend and end-of-semester academic conference during fall and spring semesters of pre-candidacy.

Personal Interview:

• This is the most crucial part of the process and occurs after submitting all other documentation by the January 31st deadline.
• Faculty collectively make admission decisions, so the interview is with core doctoral faculty.
• Interviews are organized by the Ph.D. program director and typically occur via videoconference in late February.
• Applicants are responsible for ensuring quality signal and equipment.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Specific score requirements are mentioned in the Entry Requirements section.

Summary:

Admission to the Ph.D. in Practical Theology program at PBA is competitive and requires a strong academic background in theology or a related field, a demonstrated research potential, and well-articulated research interests. The program also emphasizes personal qualities like self-motivation, collaborative learning, and openness to intercultural and interconfessional dialogue.