Systematic Theology

Systematic theology interprets the meaning and meaningfulness of the Christian tradition for the present situation. As a field of study, it explores the great thematic pillars of Christian theological reflection—God, Christ, church, humanity, creation, and revelation—both in their historical and contemporary articulations. It interprets them with interdisciplinary engagement of contemporary thought forms, models of lived faith, and examples of transformative action in order to make constructive claims addressing current realities. As “systematic,” this task is oriented by creative, constructive, and practical efforts that recognize how claims regarding any specific Christian theological idea are necessarily interrelated to a wider constellation of Christian belief and historical contexts. In light of the university’s mission and identity, systematic theology at Fordham carries out a critical-faithful investigation of Catholicism that draws on Orthodox and Protestant Christian thought and the wisdom of other religious traditions to participate in inclusive conversations that are academic, ecclesial, and social in their engagement with global realities.

Language Requirements
Language requirements for the Ph.D. in Fordham’s Theology department are individualized: each student will work closely with their academic advisor at the beginning of the program to determine appropriate language requirements and proficiency levels tailored to their specific needs and goals. 

Comprehensive Exams

Comprehensive exams are designed to develop teaching competencies in multiple areas while laying the foundation for dissertation research. The exact plan of comprehensive exams is developed individually with the primary advisor, but typically students take two comprehensive exams in systematic theology, with a third exam selected from another field of study in the department and a fourth dissertation area exam.