The PhD in Theological and Ethical Studies is based on an integration of theological and ethical studies, while allowing a student to have a major area of focus within the two. The concentration presupposes that these disciplines cannot ultimately be separated from each other in Christian understanding.
Theology Focus
Students with this focus pursue the study of selected classical and contemporary theological constructions, with attention to their grounding in the broad stream of Christian tradition. It focuses particularly on biblical and Reformation trajectories that take seriously the issues raised in the modern and contemporary eras. A significant dimension of this engagement is the awareness of how theology contributes to moral deliberation, discourse and ethical praxis.
Ethics Focus
Students with this focus pursue the study of theological ethics or Christian social and political thought; study of a specific issue such as gender, race and class relations, war and peace, technology and culture, with attention devoted to related contextual, historical, and theological issues.
Emanuel (Ricky) Padillas is pursuing doctoral studies to construct a theology of mestizaje that recaptures the history of colonization, reshapes conceptions of metiza/o identity, and informs ecclesial pursuits of justice. His desire is to serve the Church through non-traditional educational ministries.
The PhD in Theological and Ethical Studies is a 40-credit hour degree program.
3 Foundational Courses (7-credit hours)
6 to 8 Courses in Major (18- to 24-credit hours)
Readings in Theological Method (Required Course)
3 to 4 Courses in Minor (6- to 9-credit hours)
2 Elective Courses as needed (6 hours)
2 Research Languages and/or Research Tools
Qualifying Exams
Dissertation Proposal
Dissertation and Defense
To add a focus in African American/Black Religious Studies, a student would take a minimum of fifteen hours of courses with specific African American/Black content, as selected by the student in consultation with their advisor. Persons opting for this focus would have an African American/Black advisor or consulting co-advisor, or as a committee member. At least one of the student’s Qualifying Examination questions would be on a dimension of African American/Black religion. The student’s dissertation would incorporate some element relating to African American/Black religious life and thought.
As a teacher, I try to help my students become aware of the stake they have in the questions raised by theology and the responsibility they have to develop their own theology as best they can.
Dr. Nancy Bedford
Georgia Harkness Professor of Theology
Rev. Dr. Barry Bryant
Associate Professor of United Methodist and Wesleyan Studies
What and how I teach is therefore oriented toward promoting “holiness of heart and life” (Wesley) in the overlapping spheres of everyday living, academic reflection, congregational gathering, and public engagement.
Rev. Dr. Timothy Eberhart
Robert and Marilyn Degler McClean Associate Professor of Ecological Theology and Practice
I am privileged to be part of this faculty and with colleagues I regard with high respect as teachers and scholars. Our students are what make the Garrett experience significant, and I look forward to contributing further to their formation.
Dr. Wonhee Anne Joh
Harry R. Kendall Professor of Christian Theology and Postcolonial Studies
My approach to ethics is not one that starts with a list of do’s and don’ts. In the classroom, we address moral issues through reflection on personal experience, understandings of religious traditions, and investigation of current social and political justice movements to discern creative moral responses that fit our times.
Dr. Kate Ott
Jerre and Mary Joy Stead Professor of Christian Social Ethics
I am deeply grateful to be part of a theological institution that embodies a longstanding global sensibility, a deep commitment to creative theological exploration, and a robust practice of interdisciplinary scholarship.
Dr. Hendrik Pieterse
Associate Professor of Global Christianity and Intercultural Theology
As a liberative ethicist, my pedagogy is grounded in the pursuit of justice and education inclusivity.
Dr. Rudolph P. Reyes II
Assistant Professor of Christian Ethics and Latinx Studies
Graduates of this program will be able to
Garrett accepts applications from students with a masters degree in religious or theological studies from an accredited college or university and proficiency in the English language.
Applications are due by January 10th for the following fall.
