Doctor of Philosophy Theological Studies

CREDITS

50 hours

MODALITY

On Campus

Program Overview

The PhD in Theological Studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) is a comprehensive program designed to equip scholars for academic and research-oriented careers. With specializations in Church History/Historical Theology, New Testament, Old Testament, and Systematic Theology, students engage in deep theological thought and original research under the guidance of faculty mentors.

The curriculum emphasizes biblical languages, research methodologies, and theological integration, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for scholarly contributions and leadership roles in academia, the church, and nonprofit organizations. Language proficiency in Greek, Hebrew, and two research languages (typically German and French) is required. This program includes core seminars, independent proposal studies, specialized coursework, and a dissertation. TEDS fosters a dynamic academic environment where students contribute meaningfully to theological scholarship and the broader Christian community.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

  • Demonstrate a deep and comprehensive understanding of biblical, historical, and systematic theology within your chosen specialization.
  • Engage critically with theological traditions, biblical texts, and contemporary issues to develop well-reasoned and coherent theological arguments.
  • Integrate insights from various disciplines such as history, philosophy, and cultural studies into theological scholarship.

“One of the things I think is so special about our PhD program is that we have students from around the world; many times, these PhD students will go back, and they will be primary leaders in their countries. I really appreciate their passion and their desire, I think one of the things that people don’t often realize, particularly the larger community around Trinity, is how international this community really is”

Dana M. Harris

Chair of New Testament & Professor of New Testament

Specializations

Complete original work in one of these four specializations: Church History/Historical Theology, New Testament, Old Testament, or Systematic Theology. Prospective students choose their specialization at the time of application, along with a faculty mentor who will begin working with the student to design progressively specific studies each semester to make substantive progress on the dissertation proposal by the end of coursework.

Church History

The Church History specialization at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School covers a wide range of topics, including the development of Christian theology, institutions, and practices from the early church to the present day.

New Testament

New Testament studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School are designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the New Testament in its historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts. Through these tools, students are expected to make original and significant contributions to the area of New Testament scholarship. Such contributions should in turn make an impact on the wider theological and ecclesiological contexts.

Old Testament

The study of the Old Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School focuses on the exegesis and interpretation of the Old Testament in its original context, with a focus on its significance as the Word of God for the church. Students are equipped for a lifetime of effective independent study and teaching. The program covers Hebrew language and exegesis, theology, historical and cultural backgrounds, cognate languages, literary analysis and critical methods, linguistics, and textual criticism.

Systematic Theology

Systematic Theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School focuses on the content and methods of formulating theological truths in a self-consistent whole. Special attention is paid to the use of Scripture in theology, dialogue with historic and global theological traditions, a theological engagement with issues relating to ethics, and specializing within your specific research area from a robustly critical-evangelical perspective. This specialization is suitable both for pastor-theologians returning to local church work and theologian-pastors who wish to see their work in the academy as accountable to the church.

Course Curriculum

Proficiency in Greek and Hebrew, as well as in two research languages—German and French (or other language, if approved)—must be demonstrated prior to or during the first two years of study. (German and French are offered intensively in the summers. New students may take one of these courses in the summer prior to their actual matriculation date.)

CURRICULUM BREAKDOWN

The Theological Scholar 2hrs.
Reading Scripture Theologically Past and Present 3hrs.
Integration Seminar 3hrs.
Theological Research Methods 1hr.
Theological Research Methods 2 1hr.
Proposal Study 1-4 (Independent) 12hrs.
Elective 3hrs.
Concentration 12hrs.
EDS (ES) 2hrs.
ICS (ME) 2hrs.
Comprehensive Exams Prep 3hrs.
Dissertation 6hrs.
Total 50hrs.

Careers and Outcomes

The PhD (Theological Studies) at TEDS offers an exciting, academically robust program that prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities. Alumni from the PhD (Theological Studies) program have gone on to a diverse set of vocations that include academic teaching and writing and various forms of church, parachurch, nonprofit, and denominational leadership. Graduates from this program have also made significant contributions to original research in their respective fields.

ROLES HELD BY RECENT GRADUATES INCLUDE:

  • Academic teaching and writing
  • Pastors
  • Parachurch, Non-profit, Denominational Leadership

Prerequisites and Application

In addition to the requirements for general admission, you’ll need the following:

  • Have earned a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or its equivalent from an accredited institution.
  • Have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) in previous graduate studies.

Application Process

  • Submit a test score from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test.
  • Although the PhD-THS program is integrative and can be interdisciplinary to a certain extent, prospective students apply to one of four departments: Old Testament, New Testament, Church History/Historical Theology, or Biblical and Systematic Theology.
  • Describe research interests, and apply to work with a particular faculty member in the department. Although this decision is not necessary fixed and permanent, it will influence admissions decisions. In addition, the student will begin working on his or her research proposal with this faculty member in the first semester of coursework.
  • Present evidence of potential for original academic research at the doctoral level by submitting an exemplary research paper or thesis.
  • Provide recommendations from three professors of recent graduate study and one pastor or church official.

International Applicants

All international PhD/THS program students, including students from Canada, are now required to enter the United States with an F-1 visa, even if attending a single modular class. PhD/THS students are normally expected to enroll in a full-time residential status (i.e., living in Deerfield and registered for full-time attendance) and therefore must comply with the same visa requirements as residential master’s-level applicants (see Admissions). Exceptions to this requirement must be cleared in advance with the Program Director and the International Students Office.

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Combining unrivaled academic rigor with a wholehearted commitment to gospel fidelity and an abundance of flexible options, TEDS offers a theological education that equips you to serve Christ with wisdom and grace, in truth and love.

Direct Cost and Financial Aid

TEDS is committed to offering an affordable and accessible world-class seminary education which is why we offer scholarships, grants, rebates, and other aid options to help pay for the cost of schooling.

SEMESTER COST

Tuition $880/credit hour $
Comprehensive Fee $290/semester $
Comprehensive Fee $145/semester $

TOTAL SEMESTER COST

$

Learn about all our Financial Aid opportunities

Study with the Authors

Experience a classroom setting like none other. At TEDS, you will study under leading theologians, experts, and renowned authors in their specific field. Our professors will not only teach you but invest in your life.

  • Eric J. Tully

    Director of the PhD (Theological Studies), Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages

  • Dana M. Harris

    Chair of New Testament & Professor of New Testament

  • Michelle E. Knight

    Associate Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages

  • Scott M. Manetsch

    Chair of the Church History and the History of Christian Thought Department, Professor of Church History

Study at TEDS

Combining unrivaled academic rigor with a wholehearted commitment to gospel fidelity and an abundance of flexible options, TEDS offers a theological education that equips you to serve Christ with wisdom and grace, in truth and love.

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