About the Ph.D. in Theological Studies

The Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies is the highest academic degree program of biblical and confessional Lutheran studies at CTSFW. It enables students to do original research and writing and prepares them for vocations of teaching and research in theological schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S. and around the world, in the areas of Lutheran Confessions, doctrine, and Old and New Testament exegesis.

“That we may obtain this faith, the Ministry of Teaching the Gospel and administering the Sacraments was instituted. For through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Ghost is given, who works faith; where and when it pleases God, in them that hear the Gospel, to wit, that God, not for our own merits, but for Christ’s sake, justifies those who believe that they are received into grace for Christ’s sake.”

“I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”

Degree Requirements

Students will successfully complete a minimum of 60 quarter hours with a cumulative G.P.A. of no less than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Individual courses will be regarded as successfully completed only when a grade of B- or better is received.