Boston College rose to seventh overall in Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies in the 2021 QS World University Rankings released on March 5, an improvement of three positions from last year’s rankings.ÌýÌý
Boston College is one of only three Catholic institutions among the top 10 schools in the prestigious international survey, along with the University of Notre Dame and Universite’ Catholique de Louvain.
The Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies ranking is based on academic and employer reputation and global research impact.
The top 10 schools in the 2021 rankings are: University of Notre Dame, Harvard University, University of Oxford, Duke University, Durham University, Universite’ Catholique de Louvain, Boston College, University of Cambridge, Yale University, and Eberhard Karls Universitat Tubingen in Germany.
“This latest ranking affirms the profound impact that our faculty and graduates continue to have in service of the global Catholic Church.”
The QS rankings recognize the combined contributions and academic reputation of the School of Theology and Ministry and the Theology Department in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences.
School of Theology and Ministry Dean Tom Stegman, S.J.
STM Dean Tom Stegman, S.J., said the University's strong showing in the rankings is attributable to the school’s excellent faculty and students, and validates the University’s 2017 strategic objective to become the world’s leading Catholic university and theological center.ÌýÌý
"As the STM enacts our own strategic directions—the first of which is to 'continue efforts to establish Boston College School of Theology and Ministry as a premier Catholic institution for theological scholarship and for intellectual and pastoral formation of priests, religious, and lay women and men'—it is gratifying to receive the recognitionÌýand affirmation from QS Rankings. Of course, that recognition includes our colleagues in òòò½Ö±²¥'s outstanding Theology Department."
Theology Department Acting Chair Ken Himes, O.F.M
Added Theology Department Acting Chair Ken Himes, O.F.M., "The QS rankings and òòò½Ö±²¥â€™s position as one of the highest rated schools in the world is a welcome affirmation of the leadership of STM Dean Tom Stegman, S.J., and MCAS Dean Greg Kalscheur, S.J., the first-class scholarship of our faculties, and the excellent educational experience enjoyed by our students in theological and ministerial studies. I know that all who share in this honor will be motivated to recommit themselves to maintain excellence in the work we do."
Provost and Dean of Faculties David Quigley said the ranking is a tribute to the recognized strength of theology and religious studies at Boston College.
"The Boston College community of theologians spans the University and connects us to transnational networks of scholars and practitioners," said Quigley.Ìý "This latest ranking affirms the profound impact that our faculty and graduates continue to have in service of the global Catholic Church."
The School of Theology and Ministry prepares lay and religious graduate students from throughout the world for careers and vocations within the Church through its eight degree programs and numerous certificate and non-degree programs. Its graduates pursue leadership positions where their theological foundation and professional preparation support mission-based careers. The STM places 95 percent of all its graduates in careers within six months of graduation.
The Theology Department provides undergraduate and graduate students with the knowledge and skills necessary for reasoned reflection on their values, faith, and tradition, as well as on the religious forces that shape society and the world. The department’s five primary areas of research include biblical studies, historical theology/history of Christianity, comparative theology, systematic theology, and theological ethics.
The QS Rankings are prepared by the British firm Quacquarelli Symonds, which is considered to be among the most influential providers of international university rankings. Its Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies ranking was launched in 2017.
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Jack Dunn | University Communications | March 2021
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