| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-06 | - |
| 2024-08-17 | - |
Program Overview
St. Thomas University's online PhD in Theology and Leadership prepares students for advanced theological scholarship and effective ministry leadership. The program offers a flexible 58-credit curriculum with core courses in theology, leadership electives, and a dissertation. Graduates pursue diverse careers in education, ministry, and other fields, contributing to the Church's mission in the 21st century.
Program Outline
PhD in Theology and Leadership at St. Thomas University
Degree Overview:
Vision:
To prepare students for advanced theological formation in scholarship and research, and for competent and effective ministry and leadership in the Church.
Mission:
To equip candidates to contribute significantly to public knowledge through theological inquiry, while forming them into effective leaders grounded in Catholic Theological Ethics. The program aims to produce knowledgeable and committed leaders with intellectual acumen, excellent leadership qualities, and a commitment to serving the local and global mission of the Church in the 21st century.
Delivery:
The program is offered 100% online, providing flexibility and accessibility for students.
Benefits:
- Cutting-edge, innovative practical theological methods
- Competitive edge in vocation, career, and spiritual formation
- Graduates pursue diverse careers as Catholic High School educators, Catholic University educators, Catholic University Campus Ministers, Lay Ecclesial Ministers, Public Speakers, Pastoral Associates, Priests, and Hospital Chaplains.
Outline:
Structure:
- 58 credit program
- 32 credits in core courses
- 8 credits in Leadership Electives Track
- 18 credits for candidacy requirements in research and dissertation
Core Courses (32 credits):
- Introduction to Doctoral Research
- Introduction to Practical Theology
- Ecclesiology
- Evangelization & Mission
- Scripture Studies for Practical Theology
- Formation and Spirituality in Practical Theology
- Sacramental Theology
- Catholic Social Teaching
Leadership Electives (8 credits):
- Theology of Leadership
- Hispanic-Latino Ministry & Leadership
- Theology of Education
- Business, Theology, & Leadership
- Health Care, Theology, & Leadership
- Addiction & Pastoral Care
- Theology & Spirituality of Sports
- Migration & Pastoral Care
- Theology, Leadership, & Integral Ecology
Theological Research (6 credits):
- Theological Research I
- Theological Research II
Dissertation (12 credits minimum):
- Doctoral Research Proposal
Careers:
Graduates pursue diverse careers as Catholic High School educators, Catholic University educators, Catholic University Campus Ministers, Lay Ecclesial Ministers, Public Speakers, Pastoral Associates, Priests, and Hospital Chaplains.
Other:
- The program is designed to meet the needs of dynamic student populations with accessible 10-week online courses.
- The program offers affordable tuition at $700 per credit hour, with a $100 technology fee per course.
- Tuition costs are subject to change.
- The program welcomes applications from graduates of regionally accredited institutions in the US or the equivalent for international degrees.
- Applicants require a graduate degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Divinity, or related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Applicants must submit official transcripts, a curriculum vitae with references, a writing sample, two confidential letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- An interview with the program director and/or academic dean of Theology is required.
- The program adheres to a specific admissions calendar with deadlines for each term.
St. Thomas University
Overview:
St. Thomas University is a Catholic university located in Miami Gardens, Florida. It is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment that fosters academic and professional success for its students. The university aims to prepare its graduates to become ethical leaders in a global community.
Services Offered:
St. Thomas University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university provides academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers to help students succeed in their studies.Student Life:
The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience.Career Services:
The university provides career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers.Financial Aid:
The university offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students afford their education.Housing:
The university provides on-campus housing options for students.Library:
The university has a well-equipped library with a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources.Athletics:
The university offers a variety of athletic programs for students to participate in.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. Thomas University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities to enhance the campus experience. Students can participate in sports, clubs, and other activities that align with their interests. The university also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and conferences.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Catholic Values:
The university is rooted in Catholic values and provides a faith-based learning environment.Diverse Community:
The university has a diverse student body and faculty, creating a rich and inclusive learning environment.Small Class Sizes:
The university offers small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention from professors.Location:
The university is located in Miami Gardens, Florida, providing students with access to a vibrant city and its many cultural attractions.Career-Focused Programs:
The university offers a variety of career-focused programs that prepare students for success in the workforce.Academic Programs:
St. Thomas University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several colleges and schools:
Biscayne College:
Offers programs in the liberal arts, social sciences, and humanities.Gus Machado College of Business:
Offers programs in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.College of Law:
Offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.College of Health Sciences & Technology:
Offers programs in nursing, health sciences, and technology.Other:
Entry Requirements
Bachelor's Degree
- A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or its equivalent from an institution outside the US.
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all undergraduate coursework.
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Completion of prerequisite coursework in philosophy, theology, and religious studies. The specific prerequisite courses will vary depending on the applicant's program of study and previous academic background. Applicants are encouraged to contact the program director for more information.
Additional Requirements
- A statement of purpose outlining the applicant's academic and professional goals.
- Two letters of recommendation from professors or other individuals who can speak to the applicant's academic abilities and potential for success in graduate studies.
- A writing sample, such as a research paper or thesis.
- An interview with the program director or a faculty member.
Language Proficiency Requirements
- All applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting scores from the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
- The minimum TOEFL score required is 80 on the internet-based test.
- The minimum IELTS score required is 7.0.
International Applicants
In addition to the general admission requirements, international applicants must also submit the following documents:
- A certified copy of their passport.
- A financial affidavit demonstrating sufficient funds to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses.
