CURRICULUM – DOCTOR OF THEOLOGY (TH.D.) PROGRAM

Jefferson Theological Seminary


Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) Program
Jefferson Theological Seminary

Year 1: Foundational Studies & Research Preparation

Year/SemesterCreditsCourse Title
Semester 112 Credits
3Advanced Theological Methodology
3History and Development of Christian Doctrine
3Biblical Hermeneutics and Exegesis
3Research Methods in Theological Studies
Semester 212 Credits
3Comparative Theology: Christianity and Other Faiths
3Contemporary Issues in Theology and Ethics
3Pastoral Theology and Leadership
3Seminar on Dissertation Proposal Development

Year 2: Specialization & Advanced Study

Year/SemesterCreditsCourse Title
Semester 312 Credits
3Elective in Systematic Theology
3Elective in Biblical Studies
3Elective in Church History
3Theological Writing and Publication
Semester 412 Credits
3Advanced Seminar in Christology or Soteriology
3Interdisciplinary Theology and Society
3Doctoral Colloquium: Presenting Theological Research
3Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Year 3-5: Dissertation Research and Defense

Year/SemesterCreditsCourse Title
Semester 5 & Beyond30 Credits
Comprehensive Examinations (Must be passed before dissertation work begins)
30Dissertation Research and Writing
Dissertation Defense (Final requirement)

Specializations (Students choose one)

  • Biblical Theology
  • Systematic Theology
  • Historical Theology
  • Pastoral Theology and Ministry
  • Ethics and Moral Theology
  • Interfaith and Ecumenical Studies

Additional Requirements

  • Teaching Assistantship or Practical Ministry Experience
  • Publication of at least one peer-reviewed article
  • Conference Presentation of Research

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