PhD in Theology/Theological Studies (PhD)

Drew University, located in Madison, New Jersey, is a small, student-centered institution founded in 1867 that emphasizes undergraduate learning and close faculty mentorship. With around 2,000 students and a sizable international cohort, Drew combines liberal arts foundations with focused preprofessional preparation. The university's personal academic environment supports individualized advising, research mentorship, and experiential learning that helps students explore interests and prepare for graduate study or careers.

Academic programs span the arts, sciences, and professional studies with opportunities for independent research, internships, and community-engaged learning. Small class sizes enable active discussion and strong faculty-student relationships, while campus resources support career planning and skill development. International students receive targeted support for immigration matters, orientation, and cultural adjustment, ensuring they can fully engage in academic and extracurricular life.

Madison and the surrounding region offer a safe, suburban setting with easy access to New York City and Philadelphia for internships, cultural experiences, and networking. Campus life includes student organizations, service opportunities, and events that foster leadership and community. For students seeking a close-knit academic community with personalized attention and access to metropolitan opportunities, Drew provides a supportive and intellectually engaging option.

This programme is designed for students with a strong academic background in religious studies, theology, or related fields who seek advanced scholarly training. It emphasizes interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research that connects religious studies with social, cultural, and political contexts. Students engage in critical inquiry into religious traditions, ethical issues, and power structures through a faculty committed to socially engaged scholarship. The programme supports research that bridges academic disciplines and real-world concerns in diverse global settings.

Focus areas include Hebrew Bible, New Testament and early Christianity, theological and philosophical studies in religion, sociology of religion, psychology of religion, Christian social ethics.

The doctoral programme requires a total of 90 credits, distributed across coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. Students complete required and elective courses, form interdisciplinary dissertation committees, and fulfill a comprehensive examination in their chosen field of study.

Graduates pursue academic careers in theology, religious studies, and related disciplines at universities and research institutions.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in theology, religious studies, or a closely related field with a minimum GPA of 3.5. Required documents include transcripts, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample. International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores if their previous degree was not in English.

The programme totals about 90 credit hours. On-campus, full-time or part-time, typically completed in 5 to 7 years. For international students, tuition is around the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 69% of applicants.