In a Doctoral Degree, students prove their ability to do original research. Ideally, this research should lead to the publication of an article or a book. The formative value of a Doctoral Degree cannot be overestimated: acquiring and practicing skills of creative and original thinking, problem-solving, critical reading, analysis, and synthesis. The topic of the degree should contribute to our understanding of Roman civilization and its contribution to Western civilization (political theory, philosophy, religion, literature, theatre, film, religion, architecture, etc.).