The purpose of doctoral studies in the field of Practical and Ecumenical Theology and Theological Ethics is for students to cultivate, in the usual way for advanced studies, their ability to think theologically and to deepen their knowledge of the theological tradition in its ecumenical, practical, and ethical dimensions on an expert level. Students learn to critically analyze and reflect on the knowledge acquired and methods used in their field and to interpret them both in their own specific contexts and in the interdisciplinary settings of contemporary scholarly knowledge. Depending on the subject of their dissertation project, their studies are focused on the relevant specialization in the field of ecumenical or practical theology (for example, homiletics, catechetics, poimenics, practical ecclesiology, hymnology, or missiology), or on theological ethics or Christian social work (diaconia). At the same time, however, they retain the appropriate breadth of vision and interdisciplinary orientation that pertains to all branches of theology.

There are numerous ethical issues in every field of human activity. The aim of this programme is to critically reflect on these issues, whilst applying ethics as a philosophical discipline. Students of Applied Ethics will acquire skills in analytical thinking and qualitative research methods. They will be able to hierarchically organize, evaluate and propose solutions to dilemmas or situations requiring ethical insight in their profession, using the theoretical and practical knowledge obtained during this programme.