* Program: Different universities have different program structures and requirements. Some might have a faster track, while others might require more extensive research.
* Prior education: Students entering with a Master's degree will generally take less time than those entering with a Bachelor's degree. A Master's of Divinity (MDiv) is often a prerequisite for doctoral programs in theology.
* Full-time vs. part-time study: Full-time students will typically finish faster than part-time students.
* Research progress: The time needed to complete the dissertation, which is a major component of the doctoral program, can vary greatly based on the scope of the research and the student's progress.
Generally, though, you can expect a PhD or ThD in theology to take anywhere from 4 to 8 years, with 5-7 years being a common range for full-time students. Part-time students can easily take longer.