Charles University

The PhD in Historical and Systematic Theology at Charles University combines rigorous historical study of Christian traditions with systematic theological analysis. You develop research skills in theology, historical methods, and critical interpretation of primary sources to produce an original doctoral dissertation. Programme level: PhD (Doctoral) University: Charles University Study focus: Historical and Systematic Theology Credits: Typically structured as a doctoral programme with dissertation-based assessment (exact credit allocation may vary by faculty regulations) Delivery format: On-campus (research supervision and seminars) Language of instruction: Czech and/or English may be possible depending on the dissertation language and supervisor availability Application process: Applicants first consult the programme guarantor to confirm supervisor availability and suitability of the proposed topic Start dates: Follow Charles University doctoral admission cycles (check the current call for the exact intake month) Tuition fees: Fees depend on your fee status and study mode; confirm the current fee information for doctoral applicants

Programme Structure

The programme is built around supervised doctoral research, supported by academic training in historical and theological methods. Your dissertation is the central requirement, developed through consultation with your supervisor and programme guarantor.

Typical components

• Doctoral research seminars (discussion of research progress, methodology, and academic writing)
• Methodological training in historical and theological research approaches
• Specialised coursework aligned with your dissertation topic (e.g., church history, doctrinal analysis, or theology in historical context)
• Language and source work for reading and analysing primary materials in the relevant original language(s)
• Dissertation (original research submitted in the required format and language, assessed according to doctoral regulations)

Course themes (examples)

• History of Christian Churches and Traditions
• Patristic and Contemporary Christian Thought
• Systematic Theology and Doctrinal Analysis
• Theology in Historical Context
• Methods in Historical and Theological Research
• Interpretation of Religious Texts in Original Languages

Note: The exact course selection and sequencing depend on your research plan, supervisor guidance, and faculty requirements.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

• Before applying, contact the relevant programme guarantor for the field of your intended dissertation. Provide your proposed topic and the language(s) you plan to work in. The guarantor will check whether an appropriate supervisor is available, and—where possible—coordinate with the prospective supervisor.
• If a suitable supervisor is identified, submit a written application including the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae, including a detailed description of theological studies completed so far
• Certified copy of your Master’s degree
• If possible, a recommendation from a previous academic supervisor or teacher
• Dissertation proposal outline (typically 2–3 pages) including topic, research field, research methods, and research aims

• Background: Applicants are generally expected to have a Master’s-level foundation in theology or a closely related humanities discipline, plus demonstrated ability to work critically with academic literature and written sources (including in original languages, where relevant to the project).

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Charles University and/or in Czech Republic, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Work Permits

After completing your PhD at Charles University, your ability to work in the Czech Republic depends on the type of residence permit you hold and the rules applicable to your specific situation.

• Residence and work authorization: In many cases, graduates need a valid residence status that permits employment or a separate work authorization.
• Job search and employment: If you transition to a new residence purpose (e.g., employment), you typically must meet the conditions set by Czech immigration authorities and provide the required documentation (such as an employment contract or job offer, depending on the pathway).
• Duration: The length of any work-related authorization is usually tied to your residence permit validity and the conditions of the permit you apply for.
• Eligibility varies: Eligibility can differ based on your citizenship, the exact programme completion date, and the residence permit category you use after graduation.

Important: Immigration rules can change. For the most accurate guidance, check the latest information from the Czech Ministry of the Interior and Charles University’s international office.