QS Rankings Place BC Theology 10th in the World

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Leuven, Durham University, Yale University, Eberhard Karls Universitat Tubingen, Duke University, and BC.

[Boston College also placed 30th in the QS rankings for philosophy. See separate story on this page.]

School of Theology and Ministry (STM) Dean Michael C. McCarthy, S.J., said BC’s strong showing in the QS rankings is a testament to the school’s faculty, staff, and students.

“Between the School of Theology and Ministry and the Theology Department in the Morrissey College, the sheer range and depth of expertise among theologians at Boston College give us a very distinctive profile,” said Fr. McCarthy. “We value both academic rigor and the practical, pastoral application of theology in the world, and we do our very best to create a community that is intellectually stimulating and personally supportive to students. That is a hallmark of Jesuit education, so we are gratified to be recognized as among the best places in the world to do theology.”

Andrea Vicini, S.J., the Rev. Michael P. Walsh, S.J., Chair in Bioethics and chair of the Theology Department, said that while the rankings do not tell the whole story of the competence, dedication, and commitment of faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, and staff in both the department and the STM, they affirm the distinctive excellence of theological studies at Boston College.

“We are very grateful for this external indicator of our global academic reputation,” said Fr. Vicini. “We receive this ranking as a further incentive to strive for theological excellence and as an opportunity to continue attracting outstanding faculty and remarkable students.”

Founded in 2008, the STM prepares lay and religious graduate students from throughout the world for careers and vocations within the Catholic Church. Its graduates pursue leadership positions in which their theological foundation and professional preparation support missionbased careers.

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 among the most influential providers of international university rankings. The Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies ranking was launched in 2017.