Biscayne College for Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

Doctoral Degree in Theology and Leadership

The 100% online PhD in Theology and Leadership program at St. Thomas University offers students advanced theological formation preparing them for theological scholarship and research as well as for competent and effective ministry and leadership in the Church and the global community.

Program Overview

Theology, which is faith seeking understanding, has always been at the heart of the Catholic university. At the same time, those formed in this sacred science are called to serve others in humility and love after the example of Jesus Christ. The PhD in Theology and Leadership program affords a student the unique opportunity to experience rigorous academic theology while being prepared to apply the riches of the Catholic intellectual tradition to one’s own life and career, especially in professional or ecclesial leadership.

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Over 260,000

Clergy jobs across the U.S.

25%

Pastors retiring in the next 7 years

84.8%

Theology alumni achieving leadership positions

Program Structure

Our curriculum is designed to balance deep theological inquiry with practical leadership formation. The 54-credit program is structured to meet your life’s demands, offering a pathway that fits your pace.

Curriculum Breakdown

Theological Foundations (24 credits): Formation in Ecclesiology, Sacramental Theology, Catholic Social Teaching, and the Theology of Leadership.
Pre-Candidacy Electives (12 credits): Customize your studies with specialized courses such as Evangelization & Mission, Theology of Education, or Hispanic-Latino Ministry.
Research & Comprehensive Exams (6 credits): Master the tools of theological inquiry and pass your doctoral benchmarks.
Dissertation (12+ credits): A crowning project that makes a meaningful contribution to the life of the Church and the academic community.

Choose Your Pathway

We offer three distinct tracks to help you select the trajectory that best aligns with your personal and professional life.

Track	Timeline	Suited for…
Track A	3 Years	Full-time students ready for an intensive, accelerated schedule.
Track B	4 Years	Working professionals balancing ministry or career commitments.
Track C	5 Years	Students needing a more flexible pace for research and writing.

Note: All tracks are designed to meet our 54-credit requirement. Students have up to 7 years to complete their degree.

Career Landscape

STU graduates with a PhD in Theology and Leadership are uniquely prepared to shape the future of faith-based education, ministry, and global service. They go on to become university professors, church leaders, nonprofit executives, and influential voices in theological research and public discourse. With deep spiritual insight and strong ethical leadership training, they are equipped to guide communities, mentor future leaders, and make a lasting impact in both academic and ministry settings.

In the Classroom

The online environment in the PhD in Theology and Leadership program is a vibrant, intellectually rich environment designed for deep engagement and flexibility. Students participate in thoughtful discussions, collaborative research, and guided theological reflection—all within a virtual space that supports meaningful connection with faculty and peers. Through interactive platforms, one-on-one mentorship, and access to scholarly resources, learners explore complex theological and leadership topics while balancing the demands of work, ministry, and family. It is a space where academic rigor meets spiritual formation—fully online, but deeply personal.

Continue your journey toward a profound exploration of faith and theology.

Apply now to join our PhD in Theology and Leadership program and become a leader in shaping the future.

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Tuition & Fees

At St. Thomas University, we pride ourselves on offering a quality private school education at an affordable pay-by-the course tuition that is competitively priced. Financial aid may also be available for students who qualify. The total tuition amount shown is inclusive of fees.

Tuition Breakdown

Total Tuition: $39,600
Per Credit: $700
Total Credits: 54

Theology and Leadership Fast Facts

Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future
Address contemporary issues such as technology, social change, and modern-day challenges.
Emphasizes Leadership Formation
Beyond academic research, focus on developing ethical leaders equipped to guide churches, institutions, and communities.
Globally Relevant
Theological doctoral graduates engage in global conversations on ethics, interfaith dialogue, and spiritual leadership across cultures and communities.

Why Study at STU?

Faithful to the Tradition
We are committed to the Catholic intellectual tradition, which we believe provides truths valuable for us today.
Leadership Formation
Learn to apply the riches of the Catholic tradition to professional and ecclesial leadership.
Flexible & Global
Earn your PhD 100% online while remaining deeply connected to your community.
Proven Outcomes
Our graduates are prepared for high-impact roles in academia, administration, and Christian ministry.

For more information or to begin your enrollment in the PhD in Theology and Leadership program at STU, please contact our admissions office. Our advisors are ready to assist you.

Admissions
16401 NW 37th Avenue
Miami Gardens, FL 33054
Call or Text: 305-563-8792
Email: [email protected]

Doctoral Degree in Theology and Leadership

Program Overview

Program Structure

Curriculum Breakdown

Choose Your Pathway

Career Landscape

In the Classroom

Continue your journey toward a profound exploration of faith and theology.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition Breakdown

Theology and Leadership Fast Facts

Rooted in Tradition, Focused on the Future

Emphasizes Leadership Formation

Globally Relevant

Why Study at STU?

Faithful to the Tradition

Leadership Formation

Flexible & Global

Proven Outcomes

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