Requirement of PhD in Theology at University of Ottawa Canada
Degree Requirements
two regular courses (three credits each) in the area of concentration;
directed reading course (3 credits);
comprehensive exam;
the seminar (3 credits);
submission and defence of a thesis.
Research Director
The research director is appointed by the Faculty of Theology before the end of the second session upon consultation with the student.
Comprehensive Examination
The comprehensive examination is intended to verify that candidates have developed a theological culture enabling them to acquire a knowledge and critical judgment in reference to the major questions, the most significant debates and the principal authors, past and present, in their concentration and, more particularly, in the area of their own research.
THO 9998 is a credited activity which is evaluated upon completion of both a written exam and an oral presentation.
This examination should take place sometime between the beginning of the third session and the end of the fourth session. It takes place before the presentation of the thesis project.
Refer to the graduate studies procedures manual of the Faculty of Theology for further details on the comprehensive examinations.
Thesis Project Presentation
The thesis topic must be submitted to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies for registration after the successful completion of the comprehensive examination.
After the comprehensive examination, upon completion of all course and seminar requirements, and with the approval of the research director, the candidates present their thesis project to professors and graduate students. At this meeting, the candidates present the original hypothesis they have formulated and explain how their project attempts to prove it. The presentation is not perceived as an examination but as an exchange between the participants which may elicit suggestions for improving the project.
Thesis
The candidate must write, submit and successfully defend a thesis of at least 200 pages. The thesis must be a significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge, embody the results of original research and analysis and be of such quality as to be worthy of publication.
At least six copies of the thesis and of a summary not exceeding 350 words must be submitted to the Faculty of Theology.
The thesis is submitted to an examining board of four to seven examiners, at least one of these being chosen outside the University. If the thesis is accepted by this board, the candidate will be called to defend it. The University community and the general public are invited to attend the defence.
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