PhD Theology at University of Notre Dame

Programme overview

The Notre Dame doctoral program in theology is a premier program for Roman Catholic and ecumenical theological study. We offer a collegial and challenging program, in which students work closely with world-class scholars, innovative younger faculty, and one another to develop into mature scholars and teachers. Areas of focus include Christianity and Judaism in Antiquity, The History of Christianity, Liturgical studies, Moral Theology/Christian Ethics, Systematic Theology, and World Religions and World Church. The doctoral program places a very high percentage of its graduates in tenure-track, academic positions. Updated: 9/23/25 Minimum residency: 2 years minimum.

Faculty: The Graduate School | Department: Theology | Study mode: full-time | Location: Notre Dame, IN, United States

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate School application materials: GRE General Test optional; TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native speakers of English; Curriculum vitae; Statement of intent; Three letters of recommendation; Writing sample(s) - refer to program site for details; A master's degree (or the equivalent) in this field; Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution required at the time of application. (Official transcript showing conferral of a bachelor's degree due upon enrollment.) Application deadline: Dec. 15.

USD 69,110 a year (2026-27). Graduate School full-time tuition for 2026-27, the rate the page lists for Graduate School programmes generally (not a programme-specific schedule). Excludes technology ($250), health centre access ($150) and student activity ($100) fees. Source

Notre Dame Law School admits new Juris Doctor students for the fall term only.

JSD applications are submitted through the LSAC online system and are due March 15; supporting documents are due April 1.

Apply through the official page: https://graduateschool.nd.edu/admissions/

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