Boston College is ranked 10th among universities worldwide in Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies in the prestigious 2023 QS World University Rankings, released March 22 in London.

The Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies ranking, which reflects the joint contributions of the School of Theology and Ministry and the Department of Theology in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, is based on academic and employer reputation, faculty citations, and global research impact, among other factors. Boston College, the University of Notre Dame, and KU Leuven were the only Catholic institutions ranked in the top 10 in the international survey. Boston College was the highest ranked Jesuit university in the world.

The top 10 schools in the 2023 rankings are: University of Notre Dame, University of Oxford, Harvard University, University of Cambridge, KU Leuven, Durham University, Yale University, Eberhard Karls Universitat Tubingen, Duke University, and Boston College.

Mick McCarthy, S.J.

School of Theology and Ministry Dean and Professor Michael C. McCarthy, S.J.

School of Theology and Ministry Dean Michael C. McCarthy, S.J., said BC’s strong showing in the QS rankings is a testament to the school’s faculty, staff, and students.

“Between the School of Theology and Ministry and the Theology Department in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, the sheer range and depth of expertise among theologians at Boston College give us a very distinctive profile,” said Fr. McCarthy. “We value both academic rigor and the practical, pastoral application of theology in the world, and we do our very best to create a community that is intellectually stimulating and personally supportive to students. That is a hallmark of Jesuit education, so we are gratified to be recognized as among the best places in the world to do theology."

Andrea Vicini, S.J.

Theology Department Chair and Walsh Professor in Bioethics Andrea Vicini, S.J.

Andrea Vicini, S.J., the Rev Michael P. Walsh, S.J., Chair in Bioethics, and chair of the Department of Theology, said that while the rankings do not tell the whole story of the competence, dedication, and commitment of faculty, graduate and undergraduate students and staff in both the Theology Department and the School of Theology & Ministry, they affirm the distinctive excellence of theological studies at Boston College.

“We are very grateful for this external indicator of our global academic reputation,” said Fr. Vicini. “We receive this ranking as a further incentive to strive for theological excellence and as an opportunity to continue attracting outstanding faculty and remarkable students.”

Founded in 2008, the School of Theology and Ministry prepares lay and religious graduate students from throughout the world for careers and vocations within the Church. Its graduates pursue leadership positions in which their theological foundation and professional preparation support mission-based careers.

The Theology Department provides undergraduate and graduate students with the knowledge and skills necessary for reasoned reflection on their values, faith, and tradition, as well as on the religious forces that shape society and the world. The department’s five primary areas of research include biblical studies, historical theology/history of Christianity, comparative theology, systematic theology, and theological ethics.

The QS Rankings are prepared by the British firm Quacquarelli Symonds, which is considered among the most influential providers of international university rankings. The Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies ranking was launched in 2017.

Jack Dunn |  University Communications | March 2023