Obtain a bachelor's degree from a college or university. The bachelor's degree is the first step toward the doctorate. Your undergraduate education will provide a firm foundation to pursue graduate work in theology. The bachelor's degree may be in any field, but disciplines such as religious studies, philosophy, psychology and history are very useful for those who wish to pursue graduate work in theology.
Earn a master's of divinity degree from an accredited seminary or divinity school. Most denominations require a master's of divinity degree prior to ordination. Seminaries are recognized and accredited by the Association of Theology Schools. The master's of divinity degree typically takes three years. Course work includes the Old and the New Testaments, church history, religious doctrine and the history of theology. Greek, Hebrew, and Latin are also part of the curriculum.
Decide what type of doctorate you are interested in, since seminaries and divinity schools offer several. The doctor of theology degree, DTh or ThD, is an academic degree in theology intended for those who are interested in scholarship and research. The traditional PhD in theology is also a research and academic degree that usually focuses on religious studies in a larger context. The DTh and the PhD are degrees typically pursued by those who are interested in teaching at a university. Some seminaries and divinity schools also offer degrees such as the doctor of pastoral of counseling and the doctor of ministry, which concentrate more on the practical issues of ministry and applied theology.
Visit several seminaries or divinity schools. Select a few schools whose doctoral programs and faculty coincide with your interests. Take the time to visit the campuses and meet the faculty and theology students. Some programs allow you to pursue a doctoral degree online. If you are already working full time as a pastor, this may a more viable option. It takes an average of four to seven years to complete a doctorate in theology.
Apply to the doctoral programs that interest you. Collect the necessary materials, such as letters of recommendation, transcripts and a statement of purpose, and send in your application.