PhD Religious Studies

The academic study of religion is a central component of the humanities and has become increasingly recognized as a critical tool in understanding society and politics in a globalized world. The doctoral program has two main goals: 1) to train graduate students for careers as scholars and teachers in the academic study of religion and 2) to provide supplementary training for graduate students in a range of related programs (including history, anthropology, political science, journalism, secondary education, and justice studies) who would benefit from greater expertise regarding the nature and role of religion around the world.The doctoral degree is separated into three phases, the first of which is to earn a Masters in Passing in Religious Studies. Upon admittance, applicants who already have an M.A. degree in Religious Studies or a related discipline enter the Ph.D. program beginning in Phase 2 of the program, and bypass the Masters in Passing