The first Doctor of Philosophy degree in The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia's history was awarded to Derek Cooper at the 144th Commencement on Sunday, May 18, 2008 in The Brossman Center on the seminary campus. Dr. Cooper's dissertation was on "The Ecumenical Exegete: Thomas Manton's Commentary on James in Relation to Its Protestant Predecessors, Contemporaries, and Successors." His faculty advisor was The Rev. Dr. Timothy Wengert, Ministerium of Pennsylvania Professor of Church History at LTSP.

2010 PhD Graduates

The Rev. Chaz Howard, PhD (second from left) with dissertation committee members (left to right) The Rev. Dr. Nelson Rivera, Dr. Cornel West (external examiner, Princeton University), The Rev. Dr. Katie Day - March 12, 2010   The Rev. Chaz Howard, PhD (major Theology for Ministry, minor Contemporary Theology - third from left) at the 146th Commencement with (left to right) LTSP President Philip Krey, The Rev. Dr. Katie Dayand LTSP Dean J. Paul Rajashekar 

The Rev. Martin Lohrmann, PhD (major Historical Theology, minor Contemporary Theology - third from left) at the 146th Commencement with (left to right) LTSP President Philip Krey, The Rev. Dr. Timothy Wengert and LTSP Dean J. Paul Rajashekar.