Academic degree
Doctoral degrees or doctorates, such as the Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD or DPhil) or Doctor of Education (EdD or DEd) are awarded following a programme of original research that contributes new knowledge within the context of the student's discipline. Doctoral degrees usually take three years full-time. Therefore, in the UK it may only take seven years to progress from undergraduate to doctoral level – in some cases six, since having a Master's is not always a precondition for embarking on a doctoral degree. This contrasts with nine years in the United States, reflecting differences in the educational systems.
Saint John Vianney Theological Seminary
The Pre-Theology Cycle at St. John Vianney is a two- or three-year cycle of courses which covers three essential components: philosophy, introductory courses in theology, and languages. The seminarian's Diocese may choose between degree and non-degree programs in philosophy to meet the entrance requirements for the four-year Theology Program. The study of philosophy is central to the Pre-Theology Program. The goal of the philosophy curriculum is "to develop a reflective awareness of the fundamental relationship that exists between the human spirit and truth, that truth which is revealed to us fully in Jesus Christ." St. John Vianney offers three undergraduate programs of philosophical study: the Standard Program in Pre-Theology; the Bachelor of Philosophy (B.Phil.) Degree; and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree with Philosophy Major.