Professional Doctorate in Practical Theology DProf
36 monthsProgramme duration
8,350 GBPTuition Fee/year
02 Jul, 2026Application Deadline
SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Degree
Other
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Whether you’re developing social policy, running a business or are a minister of religion, this innovative part-time doctoral course will deepen your understanding of the spiritual and ethical dimensions.
Developed and run in partnership with the Cambridge Theological Federation, our course begins with an in-depth introduction to practical theology’s key debates, methods and thinkers; and to advanced research methods. This is delivered through two taught modules, available through either blended or distance learning, each assessed by a 7,000-word assignment. On satisfactory completion of the taught modules, you will develop your research proposal and then complete a 60,000-word dissertation.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from the support and guidance of world class theologians; and from high-quality supervision and research training. There are a number of research seminar days each year, as well as a three-day summer school, but with an independent study commitment of 6-8 hours per week it’s possible to combine the course with a job.
Personal faith commitment isn’t necessary – and you’ll be able to tailor your research proposal to reflect your personal and/or professional interests.
This course is affiliated with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at ARU, and the University's campus in Cambridge. Find out more about research in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Developed and run in partnership with the Cambridge Theological Federation, our course begins with an in-depth introduction to practical theology’s key debates, methods and thinkers; and to advanced research methods. This is delivered through two taught modules, available through either blended or distance learning, each assessed by a 7,000-word assignment. On satisfactory completion of the taught modules, you will develop your research proposal and then complete a 60,000-word dissertation.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from the support and guidance of world class theologians; and from high-quality supervision and research training. There are a number of research seminar days each year, as well as a three-day summer school, but with an independent study commitment of 6-8 hours per week it’s possible to combine the course with a job.
Personal faith commitment isn’t necessary – and you’ll be able to tailor your research proposal to reflect your personal and/or professional interests.
This course is affiliated with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at ARU, and the University's campus in Cambridge. Find out more about research in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies
Degree
Other
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Whether you’re developing social policy, running a business or are a minister of religion, this innovative part-time doctoral course will deepen your understanding of the spiritual and ethical dimensions.
Developed and run in partnership with the Cambridge Theological Federation, our course begins with an in-depth introduction to practical theology’s key debates, methods and thinkers; and to advanced research methods. This is delivered through two taught modules, available through either blended or distance learning, each assessed by a 7,000-word assignment. On satisfactory completion of the taught modules, you will develop your research proposal and then complete a 60,000-word dissertation.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from the support and guidance of world class theologians; and from high-quality supervision and research training. There are a number of research seminar days each year, as well as a three-day summer school, but with an independent study commitment of 6-8 hours per week it’s possible to combine the course with a job.
Personal faith commitment isn’t necessary – and you’ll be able to tailor your research proposal to reflect your personal and/or professional interests.
This course is affiliated with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at ARU, and the University's campus in Cambridge. Find out more about research in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Developed and run in partnership with the Cambridge Theological Federation, our course begins with an in-depth introduction to practical theology’s key debates, methods and thinkers; and to advanced research methods. This is delivered through two taught modules, available through either blended or distance learning, each assessed by a 7,000-word assignment. On satisfactory completion of the taught modules, you will develop your research proposal and then complete a 60,000-word dissertation.
Throughout the programme, you will benefit from the support and guidance of world class theologians; and from high-quality supervision and research training. There are a number of research seminar days each year, as well as a three-day summer school, but with an independent study commitment of 6-8 hours per week it’s possible to combine the course with a job.
Personal faith commitment isn’t necessary – and you’ll be able to tailor your research proposal to reflect your personal and/or professional interests.
This course is affiliated with the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at ARU, and the University's campus in Cambridge. Find out more about research in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Admission Requirements
176+
6.5+
120+
61+
88+
You’ll normally need a Masters degree in a related subject, plus appropriate professional experience that will allow you to successfully complete the programme. If you do not have a Masters degree, we may still consider you for admission to the Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Research with the possibility of subsequent progression to the Professional Masters or Professional Doctorate provided you have at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) and appropriate research and professional experience.
We’ll carefully evaluate your academic and professional background and, where appropriate, invite you for interview.
You'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning.
We’ll carefully evaluate your academic and professional background and, where appropriate, invite you for interview.
You'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course. Before starting the course, we recommend that you check our technical requirements for online learning.
02 Jul 2026
3 Years
Sep
Tuition fees
Domestic
2,502 GBP
International
8,350 GBP
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