A.M. and Ph.D. Studies
The Master of Arts program (A.M.) is a two year, foundational program in the academic study of religion for students who wish to acquire the requisite skills and develop a research agenda for doctoral study, or develop a basis for a career in related fields (such as education, publishing, public sector non-profit work, etc.).
The Doctor of Philosophy program (Ph.D.) offers a rigorous program of advanced study and research in one of eleven areas of study that prepares students for a lifetime of field-defining scholarship, intellectual leadership, and teaching in the academic study of religion. A two- or three-year master’s degree is required for admission. Degree work is pursued in one of eleven academic areas: Biblical Studies, History of Christianity, History of Judaism, History of Religions, Islamic Studies, Religion and Literature, Religions in America, Religious Ethics, Philosophy of Religion, Sociology and Anthropology of Religion, or Theology.
The PhD program forms students for careers of teaching and research focused around the generation of knowledge and critical understanding of religion. Coursework and doctoral examinations develop expertise in one of these areas while also encouraging cross-disciplinary work and interdisciplinary questions. An original dissertation is researched and written under the advisement of a committee of three faculty members.
The Craft of Teaching program presents multiple opportunities for learning and reflection that introduce students to a range of perspectives (religious traditions, disciplines, methodologies, etc.) and to the different contexts of higher education within which the study of religion is taught. The goal is to allow each student to create an individualized curriculum of study from among these opportunities and according to her or his academic and vocational interests, while each is developing essential pedagogical skills through reflective practice.
