Comparative Theology

Program Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Comparative Theology trains scholars to study another religious tradition deeply and then return to Christian theology with questions they would not otherwise have asked. Comparative theology differs from religious studies in that the comparativist remains a theologian, accountable to a confession; and it differs from apologetics in that the other tradition is read on its own terms, in its own texts, before any judgement is made. Students learn the methods of the discipline and its history, then undertake sustained study of one tradition — its scriptures, commentarial traditions, ritual, and living practice — with enough language work to read primary sources or reliable critical translations. Comparative seminars work on specific loci rather than generalities: how a tradition speaks of ultimate reality, of scripture and its authority, of sin or ignorance or impurity, of salvation or liberation, of prayer and contemplative practice, of the body, of law and community. Theological reflection then follows, asking what Christian doctrine looks like after the comparison, where genuine resemblance ends, and how difference can be stated honestly without caricature. The programme is candid about the risks: syncretism on one side, misrepresentation on the other, and the temptation to use another tradition merely as a mirror. The dissertation compares a specific text, practice, or doctrine across two traditions and draws a theological conclusion. Graduates teach comparative theology and world religions, serve in dialogue and mission settings, and help churches engage religious neighbours with knowledge rather than rumour.

Core Courses

• CMP 801 — Method in Comparative Theology (6 credits)
• CMP 812 — Primary Sources of a Chosen Tradition (6 credits)
• CMP 824 — Comparative Loci: Ultimate Reality and Scripture (6 credits)
• CMP 836 — Comparative Loci: Salvation, Practice, and Community (6 credits)
• CMP 848 — Theology of Religions (5 credits)
• CMP 860 — Comparative Research Design and Ethics (4 credits)
• CMP 899 — Doctoral Dissertation in Comparative Theology (24 credits)

Admission Requirements

• Master's degree in theology, philosophy, religious studies, ethics, or a related field
• Prior study in philosophy, the sciences, or another discipline the specialization engages
• Statement of purpose naming the question your research will address
• Academic writing sample demonstrating sustained argument
• Current curriculum vitae
• Official transcripts from prior institutions when available