Doctoral Programme

Faculty of Religious Studies and Philosophy

The Doctoral programme in Religious Studies covers an interdisciplinary field of study that includes research areas such as the study of ancient languages, literature, biblical studies, patristics, philosophy, sociology, psychology, history, cultural studies, music, Canon Law, and theology. The methodologies appropriate to this diverse range of topics require research students to display a flexibility of approach and a clear focus on the research questions posed by their chosen subject.

During their doctoral studies, students are encouraged to attend academic conferences and seek opportunities to publish articles relevant to their research in appropriate peer-reviewed academic journals.

During the 3-5 years of study of the Doctoral programme in Religious Studies, students hold full-time student status.

The Doctoral Programme Coordinator is Prof. Adérito Fernandes Marcos.

Open doctoral topics

Applicants to our doctoral programme can pursue their research interests in two ways:

1. Select from our Open Topics: We offer a range of pre-defined thesis topics, each supervised by a faculty expert in the specific field.

2. Propose Your Own Topic: If you have a unique research idea, you are welcome to submit your own thesis proposal for consideration.

Your application must include a preliminary research plan. If applying for an open topic, please enter the corresponding topic code in the admissions platform during your application.

Browse Open Topics in Religious Studies >

• Applicants who are Catholics or Christians are asked to provide a letter of recommendation from a priest, pastor, or professed religious (religious brother/sister, monk/nun). Applicants who are Catholic seminarians or lay people sponsored by a Catholic diocese must also provide a letter of recommendation from their local bishop. Members of a Catholic religious congregation (aspirants, novices, religious brothers/sisters, monks/nuns) must provide a letter of recommendation from their legitimate superior.

Students complete the curricular part of the programme during the first year, which is composed of the following 5 modules:

• Methodologies of Investigation
• Methods and Techniques for Quantitative Research
• Methods and Techniques for Qualitative Research
• Integrative Research Seminars
• Specialist Studies and Reading Programme

During the first year of study, students must also prepare a thesis proposal. The completion of all modules and University approval of the proposal is a requirement to progress to the thesis-writing stage of the programme.

Working directly under an academic supervisor, the doctoral student independently completes an original and significant research project. Students begin their thesis once their proposed work and supervisory arrangements have been approved by the University.

For the programme’s government approval [in Chinese and Portuguese] click here.

Please click on any specific module below to see its description.