Definition

1. Noun:
   • An advanced academic degree in theology: A "doctor of sacred theology" is a doctoral degree awarded for advanced study and research in the field of sacred theology, representing the highest level of academic achievement in this discipline. It is often abbreviated as S.T.D. (from the Latin Sanctae Theologiae Doctor).

Usage

• The degree is typically pursued after a master's level qualification in theology or divinity.
• It is often required for teaching theology at a university level or for holding certain senior positions within religious academic institutions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • After a decade of study, she was awarded a doctor of sacred theology.
  • The university's faculty includes several scholars who hold a doctor of sacred theology.

Advanced Usage

• "S.T.D.": The standard abbreviation for the degree, used in academic contexts, titles, and official documents.
  • His credentials listed him as John Smith, S.T.D.

Variants and Related Words

• Doctor of Divinity (D.D.): Another high-level theological doctorate, sometimes used interchangeably in certain traditions but with distinct historical and curricular nuances.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Theology (Ph.D. in Theology): A research doctorate in theology, often with a broader or more secular academic focus compared to the S.T.D.

Synonyms

• Theological doctorate: A general term for a doctoral degree in theology.
• S.T.D.: The direct abbreviation.

Notes

• The "doctor of sacred theology" is distinct from professional degrees like the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.). It is primarily a research and academic degree focused on the deep, systematic study of sacred doctrine.

Noun

1. a doctor's degree in theology
   • STD is from the Latin Sanctae Theologiae Doctor