Our doctoral students constitute an important part of the overall research at our Faculty of Theology. In 2008, 10 of 70 students pursuing degrees were awarded doctorates.
The requirements for attaining a doctorate include: a university degree in theology; verified language ability in Latin, Greek and Hebrew; a written disseration and the successful completion of a rigorosum (doctoral exam). For more information please view the Theology Faculty's doctoral degree regulations.
Since the winter semester of 2009/2010, the doctoral degree program at the Theology Faculty has offered the opportunity for course work in addition to writing a dissertation. The four modules (24 credits) are related to the particular research of the doctoral student. The research needs to presented before the doctoral colloquium while it is in progress during the modules P.Theo.010, P.Theo.020 and P.Theo.030. The doctoral student specializes in a key area in the fourth module, which he or she may choose according to the September 14 th 2009 program guidelines.
Alternatively to earning a doctoral degree through the Faculty of Theology, doctorates can also be awarded in the Study of Religions or Religious Education through the Philosophy and the Social Science Faculties respectively. The requirements as to language abilities and doctoral exam are different then.
Beginning research: Finding a topic
Interest in further research opportunities usually begins during the normal course of studies at university. Relationships and contacts between professors and students often develop either during bachelor and masters programs or later when doctorate candidates identify areas of mutal research interest between professors and themselves.
For further information about specific research foci, please see the websites of each department within the Faculty of Theology.
Raising Finances
There are several approaches for financing living and research costs during doctoral work. Some doctoral students find work in a department or research project. Others apply for scholarships at graduate programs or foundations. Additionaly, some students seek to cover the costs by working part-time jobs outside the university or by support from family.
Further information and a list of institutions to apply to for financial support is available here.
Time of research: Writing the dissertation
Completing the dissertation requires not only methodological proficiency and research competence, but also creative ideas, continous interest, self-discipline and perseverance. Most doctoral work takes place in the library and in front of a desk. Nevertheless, conversation and contacts in post-graduate seminars or at doctoral colloquiums and conferences help to develop new ideas and concepts. The doctoral adviser provides the main support in this area.
Structured doctoral studies: The Graduate School of Humanities Göttingen (GSGG)
Every doctoral student at the Faculty of Theology is eligible to participate in doctoral training offered by the GSGG. The GSGG, founded in 2006, is a joint institution of the Philosophy and Theology Faculty and brings together seven different research training groups in the field of the Humanities under one roof. Additionally, there are over a hundred doctoral students registered as members who are not in a specific GSGG program. Colloquiums, self-organized conferences, interdisciplinary qualification courses and professional guidance through an advisement council are a part of the support provided by the GSGG. Membership in the GSGG is recommended.
Enrollment
Enrollment is only necessary immediately before taking the doctoral exam. Nevertheless, enrollment prior to the exam can be helpful depending on the situation. Particularly, foreign students may need student status to obtain a visa, health insurance, stipends, etc..
Further information about enrollment can be found here.
Advisement
Advisement and consultation for doctoral students is provided by department representatives and the student advisement office (Dr. Frank Schleritt).
