Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies (PhD)

The PhD in Biblical Studies prepares persons for teaching in colleges and theological institutions, for scholarship, and for denominational leadership. Students develop a major in Old Testament or New Testament and a minor in the other testament or another area of the theological curriculum. Through critical historical study of the Bible and contemporary hermeneutical theory and method, students gain a wide-ranging exposure to the discipline and its current diversity.

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My goal is to create an atmosphere where students are encouraged to voice their opinions and ask questions. When we ask new questions of the text, the Bible can address us where we are and bring God's word for our context. -Dr. Osvaldo Vena

Commitment to Academic Excellence

With a rich history of scholarship, a strong reputation for teaching, and access to world-class academic resources, Garrett-Evangelical is committed to excellence throughout its PhD program.

Substantial scholarship resources
Emphasis on pedagogical theories and methods
Opportunities for developing skills as teachers and scholars through serving as research and teaching assistants and developing a teaching portfolio
Home to one of the top ten theological libraries in the nation
Connected to faculty and libraries at the largest concentration of seminaries in the United States as part of the Association of Chicago Theological Schools
Partnership with Northwestern University libraries and faculty
Exceptional record of placing students in teaching positions at colleges and seminaries as well as leadership roles in the church

Renowned Faculty Dedicated to Rigorous Academics and the Practice of Ministry

Our faculty is one of Garrett-Evangelical's greatest assets. They are widely recognized for their expertise, scholarship, and leadership in the Church and academy. They represent most of the major denominations and a variety of theological perspectives. Our faculty members have published hundreds of books and articles, and several hold places of international recognition and preeminence in their fields.

Our faculty in the area of Biblical studies include:

Dr. Cheryl Anderson, Professor of Old Testament
Dr, Charles Cosgrove, Professor of Early Christian Literature
Dr. Julie Duncan, Associate Professor of Old Testament
Dr. Brooke Lester, Assistant Professor of Hebrew Scripture
Dr. Osvaldo Vena, Professor of New Testament Interpretation
Dr. K.-K. Yeo, Harry R. Kendall Professor of New Testament

Affording Your Education

100% Tuition Scholarships for all phd students

All students accepted into the Doctor of Philosophy program at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary will receive a 100% tuition scholarship!

About the PhD at Garrett-Evangelical

The PhD program prepares teachers and scholars for seminaries, church-related colleges, universities, denominations, ecumenical agencies, and local congregations. While the program is centered at Garrett-Evangelical, it draws on faculty resources at Northwestern University; the Association of Chicago Theological Schools (ACTS), which includes four seminaries with PhD programs; and other approved universities.

Students may specialize in one of six concentrations with an optional focus in African American/Black Religious Studies available in any concentration:

Our graduates leave with a knowledge and mastery of key approaches, scholarly literature, and research methods in their focused area and appropriate cognate studies. They are engaged in practices of research, teaching, and leadership and are theologians and practical theologians contributing to the missions of the Church and the academy.

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Founded in 1853, Garrett-Evangelical is a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church with an ecumenical outreach. Faithfully embracing the future, we are committed to preparing skilled, bold and articulate leaders for ministry in the 21st century. On the campus of Northwestern University, upon the shores of Lake Michigan and on the outskirts of Chicago, Garrett-Evangelical is a place to nurture mind, body, and spirit. The seminary serves more than 400 students from many denominations and various backgrounds and its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

Degree Requirements

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies is a 40-credit hour degree that includes:

Foundational Courses (7-credit hours)
Courses in Area of Concentration (33-credit hours)
Research Languages (Hebrew, Greek, and a modern language)
Qualifying Exams (4 written, 1 oral)
Dissertation Proposal
Dissertation and Defense

Note: PhD students are expected to complete a minimum of 3 semesters on campus at Garrett-Evangelical

Download Degree Grid (PDF)

PhD Teaching Certificate

The Garrett-Evangelical PhD program offers the opportunity for students earn a PhD teaching certificate. Through teaching seminars and workings, teaching assistant (TA) experiences, and TA case conferences, the PhD teaching certificate program equips PhD students to:

Be reflective practitioners in the scholarship and practice of teaching
Become a partner with other students in reflecting on and supporting colleagues as teachers
Reflect critically on teaching philosophies and practices
Foster relationships that will support and sustain participants over the year of the workshop and beyond
Fashion unique identities as teachers
Understand and navigate institutional cultures
Prepare a teaching portfolio in anticipation of future employment in college or theological school

Meet Some of Our PhD Students

Admission Requirements

Masters degree in religious or theological studies from an accredited college or university
Basic knowledge of Hebrew and Greek (one-year each)
MTS or MDiv that includes at least 4 biblical studies courses
Proficiency in the English language

Admission Process

Detailed information for the application requirements and process can be found here.

In response to COVID-19 pandemic, PhD applications WILL NOT require GRE scores for those applying during the 2020-2021 academic year. The TOEFL test will still be required for students who have not completed a previous degree in English. Those who are unable to complete the test due to COVID-19 should contact the admissions office for alternative options.

PhD applications are due by January 20. The admissions committee reserves the right to determine in its sole judgment whether an applicant is a suitable candidate for a specific concentration in the PhD program.