Doctoral Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Church History

1 course with 25 lessons and an original dissertation. 3-5 years.

About This Program

The Doctor of Philosophy in Church History equips students with advanced research skills, historical methodology, and theological depth to contribute original scholarship to the field and serve as leaders in academic, ecclesial, and public contexts.

This program offers a comprehensive study of the history of the Christian Church from its inception to the present day, emphasizing primary source research, historiographical analysis, and the development of specialized knowledge in chosen areas of focus.

Prerequisite: An earned Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or equivalent Master's degree from an approved educational institution with a minimum GPA of 3.5. Requirements include a formal application, official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a personal statement of research interests, and a writing sample.

Students must complete 1 course comprising 25 lessons, pass comprehensive examinations, demonstrate proficiency in two research languages (Latin, Greek, German, or French), and successfully defend an original dissertation.

Degree Requirements

RequirementCourses / Hours
Total Courses1 course / 25 lessons
DissertationOriginal research
Research Languages2 required
Comprehensive ExamsWritten & oral
Duration3-5 years

Tuition

Per Semester

$2,495

6 semesters · $14,970 total est. cost

Monthly Plan

$500/mo

$200 deposit, then $500/month. Choose your settlement option.

Pay in Full

Save $300

$14,670

Full payment at enrollment. Textbooks not included.

* Tuition does not include textbooks. Purchase at your favorite book dealer or Amazon.com.

Curriculum — Authorized Textbooks

Select your core and elective courses from the approved textbook list below.

CH 701

The Early Church

by Henry Chadwick · Penguin Classics

CH 702

The First Seven Ecumenical Councils

by Leo Donald Davis · Liturgical Press

CH 703

The Desert Fathers

by Helen Waddell · Vintage Spiritual Classics

Coursework provided by FTS
CH 704

The Medieval Church

by Christopher Brooke

Coursework provided by FTS
CH 705

Scholasticism

by Josef Pieper

Coursework provided by FTS
CH 706

The Dawn of the Reformation

by Heiko Oberman

Coursework provided by FTS

Ready to Begin?

Apply today and start your journey toward a Doctoral Degree in theology and ministry.