This study examines theological dissertations by international students accepted by major Austrian universities and shows that academic incompetence, plagiarism, and negligent supervision are seriously damaging theological institutions - in Europe and abroad. Some Catholic priests from developing countries receive theological doctorates in Austria by submitting substandard dissertations. Overwhelmed by culture shock and lacking proper academic guidance, these students resort to copying and manipulating data. Many go on to become church leaders at home. This study addresses the damage done by deficient dissertations.