The Doctor of Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) program enables those with a Licentiate in Sacred Theology (S.T.L.) to pursue doctoral level research in a particular theological field. The program, directed by Meg Guider, O.S.F., offers a disciplined course of study leading to the third cycle ecclesiastical degree that is appropriate for those teaching in:

• Catholic colleges and universities
• Seminaries
• Ecclesiastical faculties
 

In addition to the admission requirements for all applicants, please note the following:

• Applicants must have completed the S.T.L. degree.
• Applicants must have achieved a 3.7 GPA or its equivalent at the S.T.L. level.

Students must complete 12 credit hours of advanced courses or seminars, one of which is a reading course related to the projected S.T.D. dissertation, with a GPA of at least 3.0. After the course work has been completed, students prepare for and must pass a comprehensive examination. Students must then prepare and receive approval of the dissertation proposal. The program concludes upon successful completion and defense of the dissertation.

The program is normally completed in three to four years and must be completed within six years of matriculation. A minimum of three semesters must be spent in residence. Students must participate in the monthly Doctoral Colloquium and serve as a teaching assistant for two semesters. Beyond the language requirements for the S.T.L. degree, students must demonstrate proficiency in one additional modern European research language. This may be done by (1) passing an intermediate-level course or by prior certification of language testing and subsequent notation on one’s transcript, or (2) passing an examination arranged by the Director of the S.T.D. program and administered by a faculty member. The language requirement must be completed during the first year of the program.