Instructions on creating a theological dissertation

Academic research in theology is nothing new. As a matter of fact theology was considered the most scholastic subject in ancient times. Now however, with the progress of science, theological research isn’t held in the same light anymore. But for the faith that billions of people hold in this planet, theology needs to survive. It is not that academic work has not been done in this area; many people have already worked on various theological concepts. The interest in the subject is however waning. Students now feel that theology is something to be confined to places of worship. Writing an academic theological paper is a great idea to renew people’s faith. You just have to keep in mind a few instructions. In the following article we are going to detail those instructions to you.

  1. The topic.
    Choosing a good topic is as relevant in theology as it is in other subject. The topic has to be one which can someway contribute to the field of theology. You have higher chances of getting a top grade if your dissertation majorly contributes to the field. If you write some kind of a problem solution dissertation, it will be highly commended by your supervisor. So before anything is else, choose a good title. You can’t obviously choose one that has been written before. Your title has to be fresh, new and meaningful. Given all these pressures, choosing a title as soon as possible is of prime importance. Your title can either make or break your thesis paper.
  2. Sources.
    When you are to write a dissertation you will obviously require several sources to gather your material from. The greater number of sources you get the richer your paper becomes. Many people say that a theology paper is the students own opinion and what they feel about their topic.
    There is however like other subjects some engagement required with primary and secondary sources. The primary source would definitely be your scriptural books. You must fully read all the scriptures before formulating your arguments. You will need to refer to the scriptures to support your arguments. You also need to refer to various secondary sources, writings of other theologians.
    Often while framing your arguments you need to cite the arguments that others have put before you in order to enhance your argument or you may refute the arguments of others. Write down all the sources and collect together what you require from all the sources for writing the dissertation.
  3. Analyze.
    After you have all you material you must read them and analyze. Have the topic in your mind at all times, never digress from the topic. Read your research material thoroughly and note down extensively which parts are going to help you where. You also need to start framing your arguments. It is advisable that you make a rough sketch before you write down the final arguments. It is always good to have a rough. Write down the arguments in a sequential order then plan on how you will develop them. Think of what instances and data you are going to inset where to reinforce your argument. This a tough job and will take up quite a bit of time. You must be patient and do this process carefully.
  4. Self criticism.
    While you are writing down your arguments, ask yourself if tour arguments are sensible and coherent. At times you need to critically distance yourself from the paper and judge the strength of your arguments. You can ask someone else, maybe a senior to read your arguments and give an opinion. What might seem valid to you may not be so to others.

We hope this helps you write your dissertation and fetch good grades.