FAQ for Applicants
Thank you for your interest in graduate studies in the Theology Department at Boston College. The Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences’ Theology Department offers a joint MA in Philosophy and Theology and a PhD in Theology. For various other master’s-level and ecclesiastical degrees in theology, as well as a PhD in Theology and Education, please refer to Boston College’s School of Theology and Ministry.
All information on our application process can be found in our Program Brochure.
Applications are due in early January of each year for the upcoming fall. The application itself is completed online through the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and is opened early autumn for the upcoming cycle (e.g., opens in September for the following January deadline). Application is made to a specific area of the department.
Those considering applying are encouraged to reach out in advance to faculty in their area of interest; please email the department’s Graduate Assistant at theolog@bc.edu with any questions or to schedule a visit or virtual meeting.
The Department of Theology offers full-tuition scholarships and stipends (currently $30,000 per year) for five years to all doctoral students in good standing. Admitted students may also be chosen to compete for Presidential Fellowships that add $5,000 per year to the stipend. Students (usually in the areas of Comparative Theology or Bible) who focus research on an aspect of Judaism may also be awarded a Jewish Studies Fellowship, supplementing the stipend by $4,000 per year. Similarly, the Goizueta Fellowship of $4,000 per year is designed to enhance the diversity of the student body in the doctoral program, providing first preference to students from underrepresented populations studying theology and second preference to students focusing on Global Catholicism.
Graduate students can apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA. The loans that may be available to graduate students are the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan and Perkins Loan, based on eligibility. If additional funds are needed, students may apply for a Grad Plus Loan. For more information, see the Graduate Financial Aid website or contact the Graduate Financial Aid Office at 617-552-3300 or 800-294-0294.
The success of the program in preparing scholars for meaningful and successful endeavors in the field of theology is evident in our strong placement record. Of the 47 graduates who have received a Ph.D. in Theology from Boston College in the last five years, 39 currently have a full-time position in an academic institution for a placement rate of 83%. Of those 39 appointments 80% (31) are tenure track. This is very encouraging news and well above the placement rate in the Humanities among most of our peer institutions granting advanced degrees in theology.
In compliance with the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature’s best practices for posting of enrollment and graduation information, we offer the following data about the number of students enrolled and rates of completion in our doctoral program.
- 2023 - 10 students enrolled, 10 still enrolled
- 2022 – 10 students enrolled, 10 still enrolled
- 2021 – 10 students enrolled, 10 still enrolled
- 2020 – 11 students enrolled, 9 still enrolled
- 2019 – 10 students enrolled, 9 still enrolled, 1 graduated
- 2018 – 12 students enrolled, 9 still enrolled, 3 graduated
- 2017 – 11 students enrolled, 6 still enrolled, 2 graduated
- 2016 – 12 students enrolled, 5 still enrolled, 5 graduated, 2 Terminal MA
- 2015 – 11 students enrolled, 2 still enrolled, 7 graduated
- 2014 – 12 students enrolled, 2 still enrolled, 11 graduated
- 2013 – 12 students enrolled, 0 still enrolled, 10 graduated
Students admitted to the Ph.D. Program must have completed an MDiv or equivalent degree; a master's degree in religion, theology, or philosophy; or a bachelor's program with a strong background in religion, theology, and/or philosophy.
Language requirements vary by area; please see the area pages for more information.
How do you apply? All application materials must be submitted through Boston College’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences online portal. More information about each of these components may be found on the GSAS admissions website.
Requirements For Your Application
PrintApplication Form & Fee
- Application Form and $80 non-refundable application fee.
Transcripts
Transcripts from all post-secondary education institutions attended. At the time of application, unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Official transcripts will be required before matriculation.
GRE General Test
For Ph.D. applicants, the GRE General test is not required, but recommended. If submitted, the official score report should be from within 5 years.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors. It is highly advisable that at least one letter be from an academic source.
Statement of Purpose
Statement of Purpose: a brief (~ 3 pages double-spaced, or ~1000 words) discussion of an applicant’s interest in the program and academic goals.
Writing Sample
A sample of an applicant’s best work (usually a course paper or equivalent of no more than 25 pages) related to their proposed field of study.
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
A list of an applicant’s academic and work experience.
Proof of English Proficiency
Proof of English Proficiency (international students only): Official TOEFL/IELTS reports accepted.