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Programme: PhD specialising in Practical Theology

The PhD specialising in Practical Theology is a research-based degree that requires students to make an original contribution to the field of practical theology.

Programme Information

The outcome of a PhD is highly specialised, research-based knowledge and expertise. The programme consists of a thesis based on independent research about an approved topic in the field of practical theology.

Admission Requirements

General Admission Regulations

• All applications must be accompanied by certified full academic transcripts from undergraduate to current level.
• Certified copy of ID or passport.
• A research concept note: A description of the proposed research field indicating a research topic and the broad scope of the proposed study, not exceeding 500 words.
• All applicants with international qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation of the completed qualification or a comprehensive Foreign Qualification Report.
• TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results (if applicable).
• Certified copy of passport.
• All postgraduate applications are subject to departmental admissions processes.
• Admissions is based on the content of and performance in the prior degree, bridging arrangements (where required), academic merit and prior work experience (if applicable).
• Admission to all qualifications is subject to supervisory capacity and/or research projects in the field of specialisation in a department.
• Complying with the minimum admissions requirements does not automatically guarantee admission to the degree.
• Proposed research studies for masters and doctoral applicants should align with the research focus of the relevant department.
• All postgraduate applicants must be proficient in English as English is the official language of tuition, communication and correspondence at the University of Pretoria.
• Candidates who cannot provide evidence that previous studies were completed in English must submit TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results with their application.
• All applicants must be computer literate.
• All students need to have access to an internet enabled device, as well as consistent email and internet access.

Minimum Admissions Requirements

• Relevant master's degree (at least NQF level 9).
• An average of at least 65% for the research component at master's level.
• An admissions examination may be required.

Examinations and Pass Requirements

A doctorate is conferred on a student only if he or she has complied with all the requirements laid down in faculty regulations: An examined thesis and oral examination. The doctorate is not conferred with distinction.

Research Information

• Prospective doctoral students register for Theology Doctoral Preparatory if so determined by the Admission Committee of the Postgraduate Committee.
• The registration period for Theology Doctoral Preparatory is maximum one year, and the student must prepare a substantial research proposal under supervision of the supervisor.
• Once the supervisor has completed the assessment to his or her satisfaction and the research proposal is recommended by the relevant head of department and approved by the Research and Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Theology, the student will be allowed to register for the appropriate doctoral programme.

Core Modules

• PRT 980: Thesis: Practical theology 980
  • Credits: 360.00
  • Module content: A thesis based on independent research about an approved topic in the field of practical theology. The thesis has to make an original contribution to the field of the relevant discipline.

Article for Publication

• Unless Senate, on the recommendation of the supervisor, decides otherwise, a student, before or on submission of a dissertation, must submit at least one draft article for publication in a recognised academic journal.
• The draft or submitted article should be based on the research that the student has conducted for the thesis and be approved by the supervisor if the supervisor is not a co-author.
• The supervisor shall be responsible for ensuring that the paper is taken through all the processes of revision and resubmission, as may be necessary.
• Conferment of the degree may be made subject to compliance with the stipulations of this regulation.