About this programme
The Doctoral Programme in Theology and Religious Studies offers a comprehensive cross-disciplinary exploration of these fields. The disciplines of the programme include biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, study of religions and practical theology. The programme has a strong international and dynamically developing scholarly profile. Recent years have seen increased links to, among other fields, the philosophy of suffering, brain research, psychotherapy research, medicine, economics as well as the DNA and protein analyses of manuscripts. In the TRES programme, doctoral researchers can specialise, for example, in Research on the ancient Near Eastern cultural environment as well as on ancient Judaism and early Christianity (biblical studies) International or northern European and Finnish church history Research on religions and belief systems of all kinds, including non-religiousness and non-monotheistic religions Historical and topical questions of social ethics, ecumenical theology, dogmatics and the philosophy of religion Topics of societal importance in church and social studies, religious education and pastoral theology Emerging interdisciplinary fields investigate, for example, global Christianity, Islamic theology, urban theology and religion in the digital world as well as wellbeing and the sense of security. The four themes of the Faculty of Theology vision for 2035 are in-depth understanding of history and culture; human existence and the search for meaning; interaction, dialogue and conflict; as well as a sustainable world and future for humanity. The programme’s doctoral researchers can acquire in-depth skills in individual disciplines or investigate topics that transcend academic boundaries (e.g., wellbeing, values and sustainability or religious changes and societal structures). In their research, they can focus on cross-disciplinary topical questions, such as where a sense of security stems from and how it differs from actual security. Compared with other fields, how does theology help to advance understanding of humanity, suffering and experiences of a good life? How are populism and conspiracy theories constructed and how should they be understood? The doctoral programme provides skills for applied approaches and professional issues, including climate anxiety, compassion, leadership and the comprehensive wellbeing of young people.
Course details verified 29 Oct 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source