Program Overview
Introduction to the Doctor of Theology (DTheol) Program
The Doctor of Theology (DTheol) program is designed for individuals who have completed a Master's degree in Theology or a related field and wish to pursue advanced research in a specific area of theology. The program is offered by the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the DTheol program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Possess a recognized Master's degree in Theology or a related field with excellent academic performance.
- Submit three letters of recommendation from their current employer, church, and research institution.
- Have been baptized for at least two years prior to admission.
- Pass an entrance examination.
- Submit a research proposal of no more than 10 pages.
- Meet the English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) 6.0 or equivalent.
English Language Requirement Exemption
Applicants who have obtained a degree from a local institution in Hong Kong or an English-speaking country, or have achieved a grade of C in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination or 4 in the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education, are exempt from the English language requirement.
Areas of Specialization
The DTheol program offers the following areas of specialization:
- Biblical Studies (New Testament/Hebrew Bible)
- Systematic Theology/Constructive Theology
- Church History
- Chinese Christianity
- Missiology
- Practical Theology/Pastoral Research
- Christianity and Society
Program Structure
The program consists of the following components:
- Participation in two methodology seminars
- Completion of coursework recommended by the supervisor
- Passing a comprehensive examination (three papers)
- Submission of a research proposal
- Completion of a doctoral dissertation and oral defense (not exceeding 100,000 words in English or 150,000 characters in Chinese)
Duration of Study
The program can be completed in the following durations:
- Full-time: 3 years (maximum 5 years)
- Part-time: 6 years (maximum 7 years)
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for the program are as follows:
- Full-time: HK$58,000 per year (total HK$174,000)
- Part-time: HK$29,000 per year (total HK$174,000)
- Extension fee: HK$5,275 per semester (payable after the normal study period)
Grading and Standards
The grading system for the program is as follows:
- A: Excellent
- B: Good
- C: Satisfactory
- D: Fail
Research Courses and Subjects
Please refer to the student handbook for a list of research courses and subjects.
Conclusion
The Doctor of Theology (DTheol) program at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of theology. The program is designed for individuals who have completed a Master's degree in Theology or a related field and wish to pursue a higher level of academic achievement. With its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive program structure, the DTheol program is an excellent choice for those seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in theology.
