Knox College, Canada

Students in the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theological Studies at Knox College don’t just study theology – they shape it. This research-focused doctoral degree is designed for scholars, educators, and ministry leaders who are ready to make a meaningful contribution to theological scholarship.

This program is ideal for those who want to:

• Engage deeply with a specialized area of theological inquiry
• Contribute original research to the academic study of theology
• Prepare for teaching and leadership roles in universities, seminaries, and faith-based institutions

PhD students benefit from the academic excellence of the Toronto School of Theology and the University of Toronto. Students are supported by close faculty mentorship and supervision, helping them develop research that is both academically robust and contextually relevant. In commitment to theological inquiry and academic excellence, Knox College annually awards two PhD Fellowships to eligible students, offering valuable tuition and stipend support to help advance studies.

Duration

Normally completed in four (4) years, with a maximum allowable duration of six (6) years.

Delivery

Full-time, in-person study.

Degree Conferred By

Conjointly awarded by the University of Toronto and Knox College.

General Areas of Study

• Sacred and canonical texts
• Articulated structures of belief
• History of Christianity
• Ecclesiastical practices
• Christian faith
• Other: Although Christian studies are at the core of Knox and TST’s mission, prospective students may choose to frame research topics in the context of other faiths.

The following provides an overview of the admission requirements for the PhD program. For full details, please refer to Applying to the PhD Program, Step 1 – Meet Admission Requirements and the Graduate Conjoint Degree Handbook for comprehensive admission and program information.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold an appropriate masters degree or equivalent from an accredited institution*
• Achieve a minimum CGPA of 3.7/4.0 or greater (equivalent to 80% or a A-)
• If the student’s program included a research component (research paper, thesis), a grade of at least A- (3.7/4.0 GPA) or equivalent is also required for the research paper or thesis.
• Hold a baccalaureate degree or equivalent.
• Be actively engaged in a recognized ministry (normally full-time), which will serve as the “ministry base” during the program
• Demonstrate English-language proficiency
• Provide evidence of equivalent academic standing if educated outside North America
• Demonstrate competency in relevant academic research language requirements

*All theological schools fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada are deemed to be recognized institutions.

Admissions to this program are overseen by the Graduate Center for Theological Studies (GCTS) at the Toronto School of Theology (TST). Interested applicants must submit a Graduate Degree Program Application through GCTS at TST.

To apply, interested candidates must:

1. 1. Review program timelines and deadlines carefully before submission
   2. Ensure all supporting documents meet the stated requirements
   3. Connect with Knox College to discuss your proposed thesis topic and explore potential faculty supervisors
   4. Submit a Graduate Degree Program Application through GCTS

Students will demonstrate:
1. Expertise in one theological area of focus, engaging with other areas of focus as appropriate.
2. Ability to practice pedagogical excellence in an academic, ecumenical, intercultural and multi-religious context.
3. Capacity to carry out original research at an advanced level.

Prospective applicants are warmly invited to visit the Knox College Fellowship page to learn more about our PhD Fellowships awarded annually to incoming Knox students in proposed research areas and how this support can advance your academic goals.

For full tuition details and bursary information, visit our Tuition/Financial Aid page.

Not sure if the PhD is the right fit? We’re here to help you explore your options and find the program that aligns with your calling. Contact Knox Admissions.