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Admissions Requirements

  • An MA degree (or the equivalent) in theology or a related field from an accredited university or seminary

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA and evidence of superior achievement, strong preparation, and aptitude for graduate study evinced by official transcripts

  • Statement of Intent: a 500- to 800-word essay in which the applicant explains his or her goal in pursuing a doctorate in sacred theology. In the essay, the applicant ought to discuss his or her academic aspirations, research interests, and career plans. Any major relevant qualifications should be specified including collegiate/ministerial activities, languages known, professional experiences, and any other achievements not already mentioned on the application form. Finally, the applicant should explain why he or she believes that Franciscan University will help them achieve their objectives.

  • Official Transcripts from every school previously attended, sent directly to Graduate Admissions. Enrollment in university graduate courses for students completing their final year of a graduate degree study is contingent upon the receipt of the final transcript showing the conferral of the degree.

  • Three Letters of Recommendation from former or present college or university professors giving evidence of aptitude, interest, and motivation for doctoral work in sacred theology. Recommenders will also complete a ranking survey of the applicant.

    • Applicants who are priests, deacons or members of religious communities must submit a letter of endorsement from their Bishop or Religious Superior (in addition to their three letters of recommendation) with their application. In addition, if such applicants will be funded for their studies by their Diocese or Religious Community, they are also required to submit a separate letter to this effect from their Diocese or Religious Community.

  • GRE or MAT scores from within the last five years.

  • Applicants from non-English speaking nations whose previous education has not been at institutions of higher education in the United States are required to certify their proficiency in English by submitting scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

  • Writing Sample: providing a representative example of the applicant’s academic research and writing (unless the applicant earned their MTS in theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville).

 

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