Religious Studies

Master of Arts

Of the 30 credits required for the degree, students are expected to complete a minimum of 24 credits of graded coursework, including a minimum of nine credits in a single religious tradition or cultural area and a minimum of six credits in courses with a strong emphasis on method. 

Students who elect not to complete a thesis are expected to complete six additional graded credits, including three credits in a single religious tradition or cultural area, and pass a comprehensive examination.

Students are expected to demonstrate a reading knowledge of one research language by examination.

Doctor of Philosophy

Of the 72 credits required for the degree, students are expected to complete a minimum of 45 credits of graded coursework by the conclusion of the fifth semester, including RELG 7360 (The Study of Religion) during the first semester. 

Students are expected to submit a summary progress report at the conclusion of each semester of study.

Students are expected to file an approved plan for language acquisition at the end of the first semester. Before sitting for comprehensive examinations, students are expected to demonstrate a reading knowledge of at least one modern research language.

Students are expected to file an approved comprehensive examination plan at the end of their first semester.

Upon finishing coursework, students are expected to hold a research conference with their prospective dissertation advisor and two other faculty members in their area to discuss dissertation ideas and a timetable for taking comprehensive exams.

Students are expected to pass comprehensive examinations in their field of specialization by the conclusion of the sixth semester.

Students are expected to complete all requirements stated above by the conclusion of the sixth semester.

Within six months of the completion of comprehensive examinations, students are expected to obtain approval of a dissertation proposal.

Students are expected to write and defend a dissertation.