Integrated PhD In Divinity
Introduction
Our on-campus integrated PhD is a four-year programme which combines one year of taught coursework (equivalent to a Masters in Theology) with three years of independent doctoral research.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Degree Qualification
- PhD
The integrated PhD is a great option for students who could benefit from additional preparation for a PhD programme while enjoying continuity of study and a streamlined transition from Masters level work to a PhD.
The programme is split into two stages. In stage one, the first year of the degree, the student will take 180 credits of level 5 coursework, usually four 30-credit courses and a 60-credit dissertation (15,000 words). Stage two of the degree runs between years two to four and functions like a traditional British PhD programme, leading to a 100,000-word doctoral thesis.
This programme is of particular benefit to:
- Students whose current educational experience would not qualify them for admission to the PhD programme.
- Students who come from an academic context where taught coursework is standardly part of the PhD programme.
- International students for whom applying for an integrated four-year programme may be more straightforward than applying for a one-year Masters followed by a separate PhD.
The courses you select during year one will be shaped by your research trajectory, in consultation with an advisor, so that you are well prepared for the doctoral phase of the programme.
You can undertake the integrated PhD in any of the following specialist subject areas: Systematic Theology, Theological Ethics, Church History and Historical Theology, Practical Theology, Old Testament and Hebrew Bible, New Testament, Philosophical Theology and Religion.
As part of our integrated PhD programme, you will work closely with world-renowned academics to develop your research interests and critical academic skills. You will also become part of an international and welcoming scholarly community.
Our Research
Research opportunities encompass all the major sub-disciplines of theology. We have a range of research centres led by academic experts and researchers in their respective fields. The centres support collaborations between scholars across other disciplines within and outside the university.
Our research centres
The Centre for Autism and Theology aims to foster a positive Christian understanding of autism and help churches respond effectively to its pastoral reality, drawing on scripture and theological traditions.
The Centre for Spirituality, Health, Disability aims to explore the relationship between spirituality, health and healing and the significance of the spiritual dimension for contemporary healthcare practices.
The Aberdeen Centre for Protestant Theology facilitates the coordination and promotion of advanced research in Christian theology. The centre critically examines historical and contemporary forms, developments and implications of Protestant thought.
The Centre for Ministry Studies (CMS) at the University of Aberdeen seeks to facilitate world-class education, training and support for people involved in Christian ministry across the UK and internationally.
Our Experts
You can undertake the integrated PhD in any of the following specialist subject areas: Systematic Theology, Theological Ethics, Church History and Historical Theology, Practical Theology, Old Testament and Hebrew Bible, New Testament, Philosophical Theology and Religion. For a list of potential supervisors in each subject area see Divinity People.
- PhD Coordinator
- Dr Daniel Pedersen
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEntry Requirements
How to apply?
The application process for the Integrated PhD is the same as for a standard PhD. Therefore, the student must apply with a coherent and feasible research proposal. You should apply for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Divinity and indicate clearly on your Personal Statement and Research Proposal that you wish to be considered for the Integrated PhD pathway.
Admission decisions will bear in mind that the applicants will have additional preparation, research, and revision of the research proposal during the first year of the programme. It is advisable to contact a potential research supervisor before applying to discuss your research ideas and your application to the programme. See Divinity People for a list of current academic staff.
Progression from stage one to stage two during the programme
To progress from stage one to stage two of the programme, you must meet the following criteria:
- Attain an average of 16/22 (B) on your coursework
- Attain 17 (B+) on their dissertation
- Pass a Research Proposal Revision Exercise
- Have two letters of recommendation
If a student does not meet this higher threshold for progression to stage two of the integrated PhD but does pass the coursework and dissertation at a standard masters level, then the student will be able to exit at the end of the first year with a Masters in Theology.
Fees and Funding
Please refer to our Tuition Fees page for fee information for this Research Area.
Scholarships
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
Careers
The principal aim of the integrated PhD is to prepare you for an academic role. However, students who undertake the Divinity programme also enter a range of careers in the charitable, private and public sectors.
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
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School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History
University of Aberdeen
50-52 College Bounds
Aberdeen
AB24 3DS