Marquette University

What you'll study

Students choose a principal area of concentration and pursue coursework and research within that specialty. The department’s four principal areas of research are listed below, and interdisciplinary tracks are available.

• Principal research areas: Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity; Historical Theology; Systematic Theology; Theological Ethics.
• Interdisciplinary tracks: Theology and Society; Healthcare Mission and Ethics; Mission and Ethics.

The Healthcare Mission and Ethics concentration, offered within the Theology and Society specialization, combines substantive theological training with academic study of practical healthcare issues and immersion in healthcare settings for students preparing for work in Catholic healthcare.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or international equivalent) completed before starting the program and a master’s degree or equivalent in theology, religious studies, or a related field. A Master of Divinity is acceptable. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in a classical language relevant to their research, have a minimum GPA of 3.00 (4.00 scale), and non-U.S. citizens must show English proficiency. Required application materials include the online application and fee, transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, a statement of purpose outlining academic interests and vocational objectives, an academic writing sample of about 20 pages, and three letters of recommendation. GRE scores are optional. International applicants must submit TOEFL or other acceptable proof of English proficiency. The department notes a December 15 deadline for consideration for the fall term and that applicants will be notified by March 31.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for scholarly research and for teaching a broad range of courses. Marquette reports program alumni have secured teaching positions at over 200 colleges and universities and have taken roles in church work, ministry, and various education-related institutions. The Healthcare Mission and Ethics concentration specifically prepares students for careers in Catholic healthcare settings.

Scholarships & funding angle

The Theology Department and Graduate School offer multiple forms of support to qualified doctoral students. Funding opportunities cited include teaching assistantships (TA), research assistantships (RA), graduate teaching fellowships, dissertation fellowships, and named fellowships and scholarships (for example, Smith family, Arthur J. Schmitt, John P. Raynor, S.J., fellowships). Private scholarships and federal student loans (for U.S. citizens and permanent residents) are also mentioned; applicants should consult departmental financial aid pages for complete listings and application details.