Doctoral Study Programme "Theology and Religious Studies"
Program level: Academic doctorate
Language of study: English
Form and duration of studies: full-time attendance - 6 semesters or 3 years
Amount in credit points: 216 ECTS
Degree awarded: Doctoral Degree of Science, Doctor of Science (Ph.D.) in Humanities and the Arts
Number of places for admission in the 2026/2027 academic year:
State-funded study places - 3*
Study places for tuition fee - 5
*State-funded study places are awarded within a unified competition for local and international students and are available only to EU/EEA and Swiss citizens, permanent residents, and their family members
Tuition fee applicable for admissions in the academic year 2026/2027:
-2800 EUR for EU/EEA/Swiss Confederation citizens, permanent residents and their family members
-5800 EUR for citizens of other countries
Study location: Riga, 4a Visvalža Street
Accreditation until: 14.09.2029.
Study Programme Director
Ph.D. Ilze Stikāne
The programme offers rigorous research training and transversal competencies through structured coursework, field-specific doctoral examinations (in the discipline, subdiscipline, and a foreign language), and continuous engagement in scientific research. Throughout the studies, doctoral candidates carry out original research in their chosen topic, disseminate results in peer-reviewed publications, participate in international conferences, undertake mobility visits, and contribute to academic activities. The programme concludes with the completion and public defence of the doctoral thesis, demonstrating readiness for independent research work.
Within fields that are connected with religious research and the analytics of tendencies and processes that happen nowadays (Universities, institutions, media), administration (national and regional institutions, religious and non-profit organizations), praxis (churches and other religious organizations – within the fields of pastoral care, spiritual support and growth), and also with religious education and general service industry (for example, support for health workers, social and pastoral care).
Previous academic education: second cycle higher education (master's degree) in the humanities, education or social sciences (sociology and anthropology) or equivalent higher education.
Additional requirements:
Doctoral thesis proposal agreed with a potential scientific supervisor,
Proof of English language proficiency at least at B2 level,
Curriculum Vitae,
Motivation letter, proof of scientific research activities and other documents.
More information about the documents to be submitted.
Required English language proficiency (except if previous education is in English), attested by following tests:
| LanguageCert International ESOL | at least Level Communicator B2 (Written and Spoken exams) |
| TOEFL IBT | at least score 72 |
| TOEFL Essential | at least 8 points |
| IELTS | at least score 6.00 |
| PTE General | at least level B2 |
| FCE | at least level B |
| CPE | Proficiency/C2 Proficiency: any level |
| CAE | C1 Advanced: any level |
Entrance examinations: motivation assessment interview with a representative of the Doctoral School, as well as an oral presentation of the doctoral thesis topic and planned research at the Doctoral Council. The Council evaluates the applicant's knowledge, the quality and relevance of the doctoral thesis proposal, as well as the results of previous scientific research.
More information about the documents to be submitted.
Further information regarding ERASMUS+ opportunities is available here.
For questions regarding the study programme:
Ilze Stikāne
E-pasts: ilze.stikane.tf@lu.lv@lu.lv
Tālrunis: 67034919
For international applicants regarding application procedures, document legalisation, entrance examinations, interviews, visa-related documentation, and funding opportunities, please contact:
Ieva Stūrmane
E-pasts: ieva.sturmane@lu.lv
Phone: 67034027