CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
FOR ADMISSION TO INDIVIDUAL PHD PREPARATION
IN ENGLISH
By the Rector of the John Wesley Theological College
The Rector of the John Wesley Theological College announces an admission call for individual PhD preparation.
John Wesley Theological College offers a doctoral degree (PhD) in the field of theology, either through organized doctoral training or through an individual preparation route, based on the doctoral procedure following such preparation. The doctoral degree awarded corresponds to international standards and equivalency conditions.
The PhD degree certifies a high level of expertise in a particular research field, the contribution of original results to that field, and the candidate’s ability to conduct independent research.
1. Objective of the Training
The aim of the individual preparation route is to support the acquisition of the knowledge and fundamental research skills necessary for earning a doctoral degree, and to contribute to the development of future academic researchers.
2. Form of Training
The required level of knowledge for earning a doctoral degree can be achieved through individual preparation, completing the research and dissertation phases within four semesters.
Applicants for individual preparation are expected to have significant teaching or research experience and a documented record of academic achievements.
Prior to admission, applicants must verify scientific performance equivalent to 70 credit points (as defined in the Wesley Doctoral School of Theology and Religious Studies Training Plan), or at least five years of documented teaching or academic research activity in the field of theology or religious education.
Applicants must submit a publication points table and copies of their publications as proof. (Publications are considered foreign if published outside the applicant’s country of citizenship; publications in a non-native language are considered foreign-language publications.)
Applicants for individual preparation must also apply for the complex exam when submitting their application.
3. WTVDI Research Fields
Classical Theological Sciences
Critical Studies in Theology
Theological Applied Sciences
Religious Education
Within these fields, applicants may choose a research topic.
Applicants for individual PhD preparation may propose their own research topic, provided that a qualified supervisor, approved by the Doctoral Committee, agrees to oversee the research.
4. Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted according to §26 of the Wesley Doctoral School of Theology and Religious Studies Operational Regulations, using the attached application form.
Applicants must provide:
Proof of a master’s degree or equivalent university qualification.
Evidence of prior scientific research, academic achievements, or publications that demonstrate the relevance of the chosen research topic.
A preliminary research plan.
A letter of acceptance from the supervisor responsible for the research area and topic.
Degrees obtained abroad will be recognized according to the regulations of the Wesley Doctoral School of Theology and Religious Studies.
Personal data of applicants will be processed in accordance with the Privacy Policy available on the JWTC website. The personal data of admitted doctoral students will be processed based on a declaration of consent, which can also be downloaded from the website.
5. Documents to be Attached
Completed application form
Copy of the degree certificate proving the completion of a master’s or equivalent program
Evidence of previous academic research or student research achievements
List of publications related to the proposed research topic
Preliminary research plan
Acceptance letter from the supervisor
5. Method of Submission
Applications may be submitted:
In person: 1086 Budapest, Dankó u. 11., Registrar’s Office
By post: 1086 Budapest, P.O. Box 200
By email (however, email submissions must be confirmed with a paper copy)
For postal submissions, the envelope must be marked: “APPLICATION FOR DOCTORAL PROGRAM”
6. Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Admission interviews are held in August and January, before the start of each semester.
7. Admission Interview
Applicants who meet the formal requirements will be invited to an admission interview by the Admissions Committee.
(For applicants residing abroad, interviews can be conducted online.)
The purpose of the interview is to assess the applicant’s academic background, scientific work, and the feasibility of the proposed research topic.
8. Evaluation of the Admission Process
Following the interview, the committee evaluates the applicant.
A maximum of 100 points can be awarded. A minimum of 80 points is required for successful admission to the individual preparation route.
The committee’s recommendation is forwarded to the Doctoral Committee, which makes the final decision and notifies the applicant.
Interview dates will be communicated separately to each applicant.
9. Application and Tuition Fees
Application fee: €150
(To be transferred to the following account number: 11708001-20562498)Tuition fee for the individual PhD preparation program for the academic year 2025/2026: €3,500 per semester
Budapest, June 1, 2025
Dr. Gábor Iványi
Rector
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