PhD

Doctoral Study with Union

Undertake theological research to strengthen the church

  • Undertake extensive theological research with the supervision of leading evangelical scholars

  • Participate in constructive, scholarly discussion with the Union Research community at Newton House in Oxford

  • For those with a strong academic background, normally holding an MTh

  • Complete within 4 years full-time, or up to 7 years part-time

Offered in partnership with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

PhD overview

Under the supervision of leading evangelical scholars, students undertake detailed study that will offer an original contribution to the scholarly community, while also seeking to serve the needs of today’s church. 

Complete the programme where you are

The PhD programme can be completed wherever you are in the world. Students will usually engage with their supervisors via our virtual learning facilities, but are also welcome to come to our Ministry Centre at any time to use the library and to meet in person with peers and faculty.

Offered in partnership with Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam 

The UST PhD programme is offered through a collaborative partnership with the prestigious Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Free University of Amsterdam), one of Europe’s leading research universities, with a strong interest in Reformed theology. In the recent QS rating of universities, VU Amsterdam ranked no. 21 worldwide in the field of Theology and Religious Studies.

Benefit from supervision with leading evangelical scholars

Students benefit from supervision and mentoring by highly-regarded Senior Fellows including Professor Michael Reeves, Professor Robert Letham, Dr Donald Fairbairn, Dr Kevin Vanhoozer and Dr Corneliu Simut.

Meet the supervisors

Watch PhD supervisor Dr Donald Fairbairn explore the true object of Christian faith.

Who is it for?

Union School of Theology welcomes applications to our PhD programme particularly in the fields of Biblical Studies, Systematic & Historical Theology, Pastoral & Applied Theology, and Church History.

If you are considering the PhD programme, you will need a strong academic background, normally holding a Masters in Theology at a high grade (please note that MDivs are not deemed equivalent and cannot be accepted). Students also need to have a proposed research subject which is within the areas of interest of our supervisors and within the scope of VU’s Research Teams, and which will fuel the church’s mission.

Ready to apply?

Prospective students may contact a potential supervisor or the Dean of Studies to see whether the proposed area of study fits within UST’s research areas. After this we request that the candidate apply via our online application system. Once we have received your CV and proposal, detailed discussion with potential supervisors can take place.

If you have questions about the programme, application timeline or application process, please email deanofstudies@ust.ac.uk

Further information

  • Find out more about Union School of Theology’s Policies and Procedures. Read more >

  • Find out about our fees and explore funding options. Find out more >

  • We’re here to support you throughout your time with us and beyond, whether that’s in your studies or your personal life. Read more >