50 hours
On Campus
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.
“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”
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.)
| 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. |
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.
In addition to the requirements for general admission, you’ll need the following:
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.
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.
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 |
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|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $880/credit hour | $ |
| Comprehensive Fee | $290/semester | $ |
| Comprehensive Fee | $145/semester | $ |
TOTAL SEMESTER COST$ |
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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.
Director of the PhD (Theological Studies), Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages
Chair of New Testament & Professor of New Testament
Associate Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages
Chair of the Church History and the History of Christian Thought Department, Professor of Church History
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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