The Catholic University of America

Thesis

The student is to write a thesis that investigates a minor, but significant problem. It must demonstrate the student's familiarity with basic methods and techniques of research, technical mastery of a limited subject matter, and ability to exercise sound canonical judgment and formulate accurate conclusions.

Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive oral examination is an hour-long oral examination before three faculty members whereby the student is expected to demonstrate mastery of the whole corpus of church law. A student who twice fails the comprehensive examination is no longer eligible to receive the licentiate.