Traditionally, such languages include Latin, Greek, Hebrew, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and English. Students who demonstrate reading proficiency in one approved language will satisfy the language requirement for more than one degree. While the translation need not be flawless, students must demonstrate a basic understanding of the text and a grasp of the grammar and idiomatic uses of the language, and they must express this understanding in good English prose. A dictionary may be used during the exam. The ability to do significant research and to communicate the results of research in lucid written form is a critical part of the degree program.
Students are eligible to take comprehensives after all other degree requirements are completed.
Students who do not pass either the oral or written portion may attempt the entire process only one more time. Students who intend to earn an MDiv and an MA should submit a letter of intent at the earliest possible date but no later than the beginning of the final semester of coursework. A total of 90 credits is the minimum required to earn the MDiv and MA simultaneously. The summer quarter of CPE is normally ten or eleven weeks in length. The tuition is the same rate per credit as the summer session at Saint John's.