PhD studies in Theology

The application for self-financed students for the 2025/2026 academic year was open from 1 February 2025 until 30 April 2025. The application period is closed.

The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship application for the 2025/2026 academic year is open from 15 November 2024 untill 15 January 2025. For more information please visit our Stipendium Hungaricum page.
Click here to apply! (only for SH applicants)

The Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship application for the 2025/2026 academic year is open from 15 November 2024 until 31 January 2025. For more information please visit our Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship page.
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The Reformed Theological Academy of Budapest, the predecessor of the Faculty of Theology of Károli Gáspár University, has been issuing doctoral degrees since World War II.  In addition to granting PhD titles, the doctoral council conferred the title of doctor honoris causa to famous academic and public personalities in Hungary and abroad.
Language of instruction: English
Head of PhD in Theology program: Prof. Dr. Péter BALLA

Programme Structure

The Doctoral School prepares candidates in the field of theology. The aim of the programme is to teach students the most recent research methodology, to prepare them for individual academic work and to participate in conferences, and to help them gain teaching experience in higher education.

The timetable is set up for each and every doctoral student individually, based on the chosen research area. The education is carried out in the framework of a tutorial system. We encourage students to participate in international conferences and give lectures. The Doctoral and Habilitation Council of Theology takes the previously gained experiences in to consideration and tailors the educational methods accordingly.

The majority of our professors have carried out research at foreign universities. They continually publish articles in English language professional journals and have their foreign language books published. Besides organising international conferences, they often participate as lecturers at such events.

Curriculum

Admission Criteria and Application Process

Entry requirements: 

• MA degree Protestant Theology/Teacher of Religion and the entrance exam
• Applicants must be highly proficient in spoken and written English.

Once the deadline for applications has passed, it is not possible to submit applications or pay fees. Incomplete applications will be automatically rejected.

Application documents:

1. Transcript of records
2. Official and certified (stamped) English translation of degree or diploma
3. Curriculum Vitae with an overview of scientific interests
4. Copy of passport or identity card
5. Copy of level C language exam certificate in English  (Native speakers and applicants who completed their bachelor and/or master level studies in English do not have to provide proof of English their language proficiency.)
6. Certificate of scientific activities
7. List of publications
8. Description of the desired research topic
9. Declaration of acceptance by the doctoral supervisor
10. Payment of the application fee (non-refundable cost): 100 EUR/programme paid in 10 working days after filling the application form.
    Bank account details
    Name of the recepient: Karoli Gaspar Egyetem
    Account number: 10404089-00033906-00000001
    IBAN: HU03 1040 4089 0003 3906 0000 0001
    SWIFT code: OKHBHUHB
    Description: Full name_THEO PHD
11. and the Application form

Please note, that applications will be considered complete only after the university has received the application fee.

Fee-paying students

I. Self-financing applicants

Tuition fee:
1200 EUR / semester for non EU citizens
1100 EUR / semester for EU citizens.

Self funding applicants shall submit their documentation via our Online Application Platform.

Scholarship Opportunities

Please check our scholarship site for the scholarship opportunities:
https://english.kre.hu/index.php/study-programmes-in-foreign-languages/scholarships-for-international-students.html

Contact Information

Academic issues and administrative issues: Ms. Éva Sógor, Coordinator of the Doctoral School This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Study Administration office hours: Monday – Tuesday 9:00 - 14:00; Thursday 9:00-12:00

Address: Doctoral School of the Faculty of Theology, Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church in Hungary, 1092 Budapest, Ráday str. 28.