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The Doctor of Practical Theology (DPT, DPTh) is a professional doctorate developed for those seeking to apply theological principles to their professional practice. It should not be confused with a Doctor of Philosophy in Practical Theology such as offered by Princeton Theological Seminary. [1]
The typical degree candidate is a part-time student who continues full-time professional responsibilities. [2] The modern development of this program in the United Kingdom (DPT) has been greatly influenced by educators and other professionals affiliated with the Association of Practical Theology (APT, established 1984). [3] [4]
The Doctor of Practical Theology is typically a multidisciplinary program designed for consideration, reflection, examination and application of theological principles appropriate to practice-based settings. Further, it serves as a foundation for an original project contributing to solutions and development of the student's organization and/or profession.
The Doctor of Practical Theology customarily integrates theological concepts into the context of professional practice. Most programs customarily include:
The Doctor of Practical Theology is applicable to:
The Doctor of Practical Theology (DPTh) is rarely offered today in United States. Most seminary and divinity schools there have replaced their degree studies in practical theology to majors within programs leading to the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Arts (DA). The specialized program is still offered in France (DThP), and more recently, the United Kingdom (DPT), and in Canada where McMaster Divinity College offers a Doctor of Practical Theology (DPT). [5]
Examples of schools offering the degree are:
A Juris Doctor, Doctor of Jurisprudence, or Doctor of Law (JD) is a graduate-entry professional degree that primarily prepares individuals to practice law. In the United States, it is the only qualifying law degree. Other jurisdictions, such as Australia, Canada, and Hong Kong, offer both the postgraduate JD degree as well as the undergraduate LL.B., BCL, or other qualifying law degree depending on the requirements of the jurisdiction where the person will practice law.
Degree abbreviations are used as an alternative way to specify an academic degree instead of spelling out the title in full, such as in reference books such as Who's Who and on business cards. Many degree titles have more than one possible abbreviation, with the abbreviation used varying between different universities. In the UK it is normal not to punctuate abbreviations for degrees with full stops, although this is done at some universities.
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