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• Ph.D. Program in Religion

For students seeking their Ph.D. in Religion, the Graduate Program in Religion —part of the Duke Graduate School—offers a Ph.D. program. Although this program is not housed with the Department of Religious Studies, it is a collaboration between the Department and Duke Divinity School. The program includes the following 9 fields of study, also called tracks, in which students can concentrate their studies:

• American Religion
• Asian Religions
• Christian Theological Studies
• Early Christianity
• Hebrew Bible/Old Testament
• Islamic Studies
• New Testament
• Religion, Aesthetics, and Society
• World Christianity

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Graduate Department of Religion

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Religion

Areas of study.

Degree programs are offered in:

• Critical Studies in Asian, Islamic, and Jewish Traditions
• Ethics and Society
• Hebrew Bible and Ancient Israel
• Historical Studies  
• Homiletics and Liturgics
• Jewish Studies (M.A.)
• New Testament and Early Christianity 
• Religion, Psychology, and Culture
• Theological Studies

Interdisciplinary studies, both within religion and in other areas of knowledge, are encouraged. The study of religion can be pursued at Vanderbilt both as a critical, humanistic discipline, employing a variety of methodological perspectives, and as a theological discipline, interpreting the biblical religions and their historical, theological, and ethical heritage.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the Ph.D. degree must demonstrate a reading knowledge of two modern languages: A. a modern language of research (normally French, German, Spanish, or Modern Hebrew); and B. one of the following:

• another modern language relevant to the field of study;
• a biblical or other relevant ancient language;
• the student's native language, if not English;
• a research method such as statistics when appropriate.

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Ph.d. in the study of religion.

The doctor of philosophy (PhD) program in religion at Harvard dates from 1934, when the Faculty of Arts and Sciences established a degree of PhD in "The History and Philosophy of Religion." Its purpose, as stated by the Faculty, was "to make possible a course of studies which shall enable the candidate both to lay a broad and sufficient foundation for teaching and study within the field of religion, and to do individual research at some point in that field." In accordance with that expressed intention, the Faculty voted in 1963 to name the program the Study of Religion.

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The program in religion is one of the leading religion programs in the US with 14 areas of study, 10 methodological approaches, and many research areas. This wide variety enables you to fine-tune your research with the aid of a relevant faculty member. You will have access to a vast array of resources including the Harvard library system and several centers and programs, such as the Center for the Study of World Religions, the Pluralism Project, and the Women’s Studies in Religion Program.

Examples of student theses and dissertations include “Gospel of the 'Orient': Koreans, Race and the Transpacific Rise of American Evangelicalism in the Cold War Era,” “Persisting in the Good: Thomas Aquinas in Conversation with Early Chinese Ethics,” and “Protestants, Politics, and Power: Race, Gender, and Religion in the Post-Emancipation Mississippi River Valley, 1863-1900.”

Graduates have gone on to secure tenure track positions at prestigious institutions in the United States and abroad, such as Emory University, Stanford University, Vassar College, Lahore University in Pakistan, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Boston College, and the University of Virginia. Others have chosen alternate careers in clinical ethics, ministry, publishing, and management and research in various NGOs and nonprofit organizations.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Committee on the Study of Religion and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

I. Areas of Study

African American Religions | Buddhist Studies | Christianity | Comparative Studies | Hebrew Bible | Hindu Studies | Islamic Studies | Jewish Studies | New Testament and Early Christianity

Geographical Complexes

African Religions | East Asian Religions | Europe (Medieval and Modern) | Latin American & Caribbean Religions | North American Religions | Religions of the Ancient Mediterranean | South Asian Religions

II. Methodologies or Approaches

Archaeology | Critical Theory | Ethics | Gender and Sexuality Studies | History | Literary Studies and the Arts | Religious Thought (Philosophy and Theology) | Social Sciences (Anthropology, Ethnography, and Political Science

Admissions Requirements

Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Committee on the Study of Religion .

Academic Background

While not required, applicants will typically already have a master’s degree and previous preparation in the field of religion and related subjects.

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and should be no longer than 20 pages.

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose must outline the applicant’s proposed project.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Not Accepted

Contacting Faculty

Applicants should review the current areas of study and methodologies. The Committee on the Study of Religion admits students who have clearly defined intellectual interests evidenced in the statement of purpose and completed application. As part of the application, prospective students are asked to indicate the main faculty of interest; applicants are encouraged to contact their faculty of interest prior to submitting their application. (Please note that Emeritus faculty and lecturers are not eligible under Harvard Griffin GSAS policies to serve as primary doctoral advisors.)

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Religion

See list of Religion faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

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Religion & Society PhD Program

The Religion and Society Program promotes interdisciplinary reflection that critically examines religious and social life. With “the religious” and “the social” as its two areas of focus, the program equips doctoral students with theoretical resources and diverse perspectives that enhance and deepen their theological studies and Christian practices in church and society. These areas of study are important for structuring the program’s conceptual field and its comprehensive exams.

PhD Course of Study

The faculty of the program bring a variety of perspectives and expertise in:

• Religious studies (e.g., sociology of religion, history of religion, philosophy of religion)
• Social sciences (e.g., sociology, anthropology, political science, economics)
• Humanities (e.g., history, literature)
• Ethics (e.g., religious, social, theological)
• Theology (e.g., systematic, doctrinal, constructive)

Seminary and University Scholarship

Doctoral students are expected to learn from disciplines of the university, even as they focus those disciplines for distinctive concerns and contexts of Christian theological traditions. This program not only enables scholarship at the Seminary to sustain its own community of research into religious and social issues, it also serves as a liaison between the Seminary and Princeton University and, on occasion between the Seminary and other nearby institutions.

U.S. and International Scholarship

The dual focus on religion and society, and its distinctive interdisciplinary work, has traditionally made the Religion and Society Program an important resource for international as well as U.S. scholars. The PhD program places a high value on a functioning diversity of scholars from this country and from abroad, who come together to reflect critically on issues of justice and peace, and on human differences that are not only religious, social, and theological, but also cultural, political, and economic.

The Religion and Society Program has traditionally sought to fuse rigorous reflection with social criticism and prophetic discourse.

Seminars Offered by Religion and Society Program Faculty

• Critical Issues in the History of Religions
• The American Jeremiad: American Religion in Cultural Context
• Methods in Theological and Religious Studies
• Aquinas on Law and the Virtues
• Theological Anthropology
• Race, Racism, and Religion in America

Comprehensive Examinations

The interdisciplinary ethos of the Religion and Society Program is structured for doctoral students around four comprehensive exams, usually toward the end of the second year of residence. One of these exams should be selected by examinees as their “theory and methods exam,” in which they include special attention to theoretical and methodological options and debates pertinent to that exam.

• Religion and religions—This exam should demonstrate excellence in knowledge of religious studies and at least one non-Christian tradition.
• Social sciences or the humanities—This exam should demonstrate excellence in one theoretical perspective on the “social” in either the social science or the humanities.
• Ethics—This exam should demonstrate excellence in the knowledge of religious, social, or theological ethics.
• A Dissertation-related theme or problematic—This exam should demonstrate excellence in analyzing a theme or problem that will be significant in the writing of the dissertation.

The first two exams enable disciplined attention to the areas of study, which set the conceptual field of religion and society. The third exam in ethics is required because analysis of the moral life, and ethical reflection upon it, has been a key site wherein religious and social themes often intersect in theological studies and Christian practice. The fourth exam enables students to focus research and thinking about their dissertations. These exams are “qualifying” exams in that they certify readiness to proceed to the dissertation proposal and writing phases of the program.

Department of Religious Studies

Doctoral programs (ph.d).

We offer Ph.D. study in four areas: Asian Religious Traditions, Islam, Society and Culture, Religion and Critical Thought, and Religions of the Ancient Mediterranean.

RAM now incorporates our prior Ph.D. programs in Early Christianity, and in Ancient Judaism, as well as various other ancient Mediterranean religions. All applications to study one or more religions of the Ancient Mediterranean should be made to RAM. 

Prospective applicants should also note that it is no longer possible to apply for the track in Religion, Comparison and Culture. Students interested in comparative work across two or more areas (ART, ISC, RCT, and RAM) should consult with the Director of Graduate Studies and the Graduate Advisor for these areas before submitting an application.

Asian Religious Traditions (ART)

Islam, society and culture (isc), religion and critical thought (rct), religions of the ancient mediterranean (ram).

Prospective applicants are welcome to direct inquiries to Prof Jae H. Han, Director of Graduate Admissions ( [email protected] ), Prof. Paul Nahme, Interim Director of Graduate Studies ( [email protected] ), Nicole Vadnais, Graduate Program Manager ( [email protected] ) and/or any faculty member in the listed areas.

Graduate Advisors

Shahzad bashir, mark cladis, jason protass.

Department of Religious Studies

Religion and culture, general description.

All students in Religion and Culture are expected to become well-grounded in modern Western intellectual and cultural history since the seventeenth century, including the major traditions of modern scholarly engagement with religion as well as the critical reactions to these traditions. Building on this foundation, each student designs and carries out focused study in a specific discursive tradition or a particular empirical moment of cultural practice. Students specialize in such areas as the ethnographic study of religion, religion in American law and politics, Jewish studies, religion and gender, and modern Western religious thought.

RELI 720, Critical Lineages in Religion and Culture, is required of all Religion and Culture students. Additional coursework should be selected through close and regular consultation with the student’s faculty advisor.

Each student is required to be competent in two modern research languages. These languages are commonly French and German, through other research languages can be substituted with the approval of the faculty in the field and the student’s advisor if appropriate for the student’s specific area of research.

Doctoral Examinations

At the doctoral level, the student’s competency in the following areas will be examined through the Doctoral Examinations:

• Western intellectual and cultural history since 1600.  This examination includes basic issues in the philosophy of religion, theory and method in the study of religion, and contemporary critical theory. The purpose of the exam is to situate the field of Religion and Culture in its historical and intellectual context.
• Area of specialization.  This examination focuses on major scholarly literature specific to the student’s specific field of study
• Cultural theory.  This examination focuses on methodological and theoretical issues in an area of cultural theory relevant to the student’s scholarly work, such as literary theory, cultural studies, ethnographic theory, postcolonial studies, or gender theory.
• Dissertation examination.  This exam covers historical and critical literature specific to the student’s area of dissertation research.

Core Faculty

• Randall G. Styers
• Andrea Dara Cooper

Associated Faculty

• Jessica A. Boon
• Lauren G. Leve
• Todd Ramón Ochoa
• Brendan Jamal Thornton

Affiliated Faculty

• Jason Bivins , Philosophy and Religion (NSCU)
• Christian Lundberg , Communication Studies (UNC)
• Barry Saunders , Social Medicine (UNC)

Click here to return to the description of the Ph.D. program.

PhD in Religion

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The Religion Department at Claremont Graduate University contributes to the disciplined study of religion, including—but also transcending—considerations of particular communities of belief and practice.

The PhD in Religion trains graduate students in the theories, methods, and knowledge they need in order to participate in and shape the study of religion in the 21st century as well as to apply those tools to productive careers outside the academy. Students enrolled in this PhD program must choose from one of the following areas of specialization: Critical Comparative Scriptures, History of Christianity & Religions of North America, Philosophy of Religion & Theology, and Women’s & Gender Studies in Religion. In special circumstances, students may work with faculty to create an area of specialization outside these areas.

Program Highlights

• Interdisciplinary concentrations are available, including American Studies, Early Modern Studies, Hemispheric & Transnational Studies, Media Studies, and Museum Studies.
• You can take courses and interact with faculty and students in other CGU departments and at The Claremont Colleges in such areas as Asian religions, African-American religions, New Testament, women’s and gender studies, and U.S. history.
• Thanks to CGU’s proximity to Los Angeles, you will study in one of the most religiously diverse areas in the world.
• You will have access to the libraries of CGU and Claremont University Consortium which offer more than two million volumes – more than 250,000 in the field of religion alone.

Program at a Glance

UNITS 72 units

*Actual completion times will vary and may be higher, depending on full- or part-time course registration, units transferred, and time to complete other degree requirements.

COURSES BEGIN Fall | Spring

DEPARTMENT Religion

DEGREE AWARDED PhD in Religion

Featured Courses

Investigates the politics of theology in the formation and evolution of orthodoxy through episcopal letters, canons of church councils, ordination liturgies, and biographies of famous bishops.

Takes an in-depth survey of the major theories of religion as they are portrayed through some of their influential interpreters in the post-Enlightenment West.

Surveys major themes and issues in early American religious history, from Puritanism and Native American religion to growing religious diversity in the new nation.

Offers close reading of the stories in the Books of Samuel examining the role and function of women.

Introduces the history and legacy of Christianity in Egypt under Islamic dynasties from the attitude of Muslim rulers toward the Copts and Egypt’s monastic heritage to the present day.

Examines the background and beginnings of the Zoroastrian religion and its role in the three great Iranian Empires: Ancient Persian, Parthian, and Sasanian.

Areas of Concentration

The concentration in Critical Comparative Scriptures undertakes in-depth examination of world religious texts to better understand how humans use scripture to shape the politics of religious discourse. You’ll analyze scripture from a range of disciplinary perspectives, from anthropology and psychology to social history and political theory, applying cross-cultural, interdisciplinary analysis to the study of religious texts to better understand their roles and interpretations across human history.

The History of Christianity and Religions of North America concentration lets students examine the long sweep of religions in the West through the prism of Christianity. Our classic historical approach to the study of religion enables students to put many religions in perspective, focusing on Christian origins, Medieval and Reformation Christianity, and religion in North America.

The concentration in Philosophy of Religion & Theology focuses on classical issues in the field as well as recent theories and movements raised by profound philosophical and theological questions. You’ll receive a broad and pluralistic context for your study of religion to understand major issues, movements, and thinkers in philosophy of religion and theology.

The Women’s & Gender Studies in Religion concentration introduces students to women’s issues across religious traditions and a wide variety of feminist scholarship in this richly expanding field. Our program addresses a vital need for more scholars whose training addresses gender and identity and explores how different religious traditions approach sexuality and spirituality.

Faculty & Research

Nicola Denzey Lewis

Professor of Religion Margo L. Goldsmith Chair in Women’s Studies in Religion

Research Interests

Social and Intellectual History of the Roman Empire, Gnosticism, Women’s Studies, Religion in the Roman Empire and Late Roman Empire, Late Antiquity

Ruqayya Y. Khan

Professor of Religion Malas Chair of Islamic Studies

The Qur'an, Arabic literatures, progressive Islamic theologies, women in Islam, Islam and environmental ethics, Islam and the digital age, late antiquity and Islam, origins of Islam, cultures of Umayyad Damascus and Abbasid Baghdad

Daniel Ramírez

Associate Professor of Religion

American religious history; Latin American religious history; Religion, migration, and transnationalism; Religion in borderlands; Contemporary theories of religion

Tammi J. Schneider

Danforth Professor of Religion Chair, Religion Department

Ancient Near Eastern history, literature, archaeology, and religion; Women in the Hebrew Bible

Sallama Shaker

Senior Fellow of Middle East & International Studies

Power Politics, Religion, and Culture in the Middle East; Feminization of Poverty and Global Challenges; Globalization

Extended Faculty

Ahmed alwishah.

Pitzer College

Islamic philosophy, Medieval philosophy, Philosophy of religion, Islamic theology

Myriam Chancy

Scripps College

African diaspora with specialization in its literature

Stephen T. Davis

Claremont McKenna College

Analytic theology, Christian thought, Metaphysics, Philosophy of religion

Politics of knowledge production, Gender and sexuality, Islam, Transnational feminism, The Middle East, especially Lebanon

Erika Dyson

Harvey Mudd College

Activism and religion, American religious history, Church and state, Occult religions, Religion and science

Oona Eisenstadt

Pomona College

Judaism and political theory

Gastón Espinosa

American religion & politics; Latino religions; Latino religions & politics; Pentecostal, charismatic, & liberation movements; Religion and the American presidency; Religion in the United States

Gary Gilbert

Bible, Christian-Jewish relations, Israel, Jesus, Jewish/Christian relations, Judaism, New Testament

Philip Zuckerman

Secularity, Atheism, Apostasy, and Scandinavian culture

Where You Can Find Our Alumni

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo

Professor of Philosophy

Ursuline College

Baker University

Assistant Professor of Religious Studies

Bayan Claremont

Assistant Professor of Muslim Studies

American Studies

The American Studies concentration takes a multidisciplinary approach to the study of United States culture, society, civilization, and identity through the curricular lenses of history, literature, critical theory, and more.

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Early Modern Studies

The Early Modern Studies concentration undertakes interdisciplinary examination of history, culture, politics, and society within the transitional and transformative period that stretched between Medieval and modern societies, marked especially by the advent of print, Christian confessional war, and the rise of the modern state.

Hemispheric & Transnational Studies

A comparative analysis of culture in the Americas, the concentration in Hemispheric & Transnational Studies explores how scholarship on the Atlantic, borderlands, and diaspora have reshaped U.S. American Studies, Caribbean Studies, and Latin American Studies, emphasizing the topics of empire, race, religion, and revolution.

Media Studies

Situated at the bustling intersection of cultural studies, new media, critical theory, and popular culture, the burgeoning field of Media Studies examines the creative and critical practices of media consumers, producers, artists, and scholars, focusing on questions of representation, power, technology, politics, and economy.

Museum Studies

The Museum Studies concentration investigates the history and political role of museums in society, the interpretation and display of a wide variety of cultural productions, and topics of special concern to museums as cultural organizations, using a multidisciplinary, practice-based approach to understand the historical development of this evolving field.

These concentrations are available for students pursuing the following degree programs:

Master’s Degrees

• Applied Gender Studies
• Cultural Studies
• Islamic Studies

Doctoral Degrees

Request information about the Religion program

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Gigi Audoma

Director of Recruitment for the School of Arts & Humanities T: 909-607-0441 E: [email protected]

Comparative Study of Religion

Undergraduate Program

The concentration in the  Comparative Study of Religion at  Harvard  invites  students to explore the most  consequential and momentous questions  relevant to the understanding of individual and communal human life. Concentrators  consider topics such as the significance of ritual and practice;  differing  conceptions  of human  nature and the nature of the divine; and comparative study of how people understand the meaning of life, suffering  and  death.  Competency in religious studies indicates the ability to think critically and with historical and cultural learning about the complicated place of religious history, imagination, motivation, and memory in national and international affairs.

Religious Studies, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: 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 PhD program in religious studies helps graduate students develop greater expertise regarding the nature and role of religion around the world. The program provides supplementary training that includes history, anthropology, political science, journalism, secondary education and justice studies.

Doctoral focus areas in the study of religion approach the study in a variety of contexts. Specifically offered are areas in:

• anthropology of religion
• global Christianity
• Islam in global contexts
• religion in Asia
• religion in the Americas

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, foreign language exams, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (6 credit hours) REL 501 The Study of Religion I: Genealogies, Disciplines and Power (3) REL 502 The Study of Religion II: Epistemology, Practice and Mediation (3)

Other Requirement (3 credit hours) REL 700 Research Methods (3)

Electives (51 credit hours)

Research (12 credit hours) REL 792 Research (12)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) REL 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information Students must choose one of the five focus areas that are listed in the program description, and they select courses for the focus area as part of their electives in consultation with their supervisory committee.

As part of electives, students may include up to three credit hours of REL 690 Reading and Conference. Additionally, students may select up to six credit hours of graduate-level courses from a related discipline that support the student's research.

Other requirement course REL 700 may be substituted with approval of the academic unit.

When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program may allow up to 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this program. If students do not have a previously awarded master's degree, the remaining coursework will be made up of electives and research.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution. Transcripts must show evidence of having completed the equivalent of 15 credit hours of undergraduate work in the study of religions, including advanced courses in both western and Asian or other nonwestern religions. Applicants who have not met this requirement may be required to take additional coursework beyond program requirements to remedy this deficiency.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.30 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program. The most competitive applicants have a GPA of 3.50 or higher.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• statement of purpose
• curriculum vitae
• writing sample
• contact information for three references
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

The statement of purpose should be approximately 1,000 words describing the applicant's academic background, the reasons for wishing to pursue a doctorate in religious studies, the proposed area of specialization, and specific research topics the student plans to engage in at Arizona State University.

The writing sample should be a work of original scholarly writing, approximately 15 to 30 pages in length. It should represent the student's best academic writing.

Students are required to submit contact information for three academic references who are qualified to provide detailed, accurate evaluations of the applicant's potential as a graduate student in religious studies. Professors, particularly faculty advisors, are preferred. Recommenders are contacted by the Graduate College with a request to complete a reference questionnaire. Letters of recommendation can be submitted in addition to answering these questions online.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, learning outcomes.

• Students will analyze and present theories and methods in the study of religion through in-class discussion, oral presentation and submission of an original written seminar paper.
• Students will critically analyze religions by formulating research questions, examining various kinds of qualitative data, and drawing connections to relevant secondary literatures.
• Students will conduct original research through a doctoral study drawing connections to relevant secondary literature, collect and analyze primary data, communicate, and defend responses to research questions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates possess training and knowledge relevant to careers in a variety of different roles and in a range of employment sectors. Some typical employers include government agencies, especially the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; nongovernmental organizations; schools, colleges and universities; charities and nonprofit organizations; social services; and churches and other religious organizations.

Career examples include:

• book editor
• case management director
• church administrator
• foreign service employee
• global affairs writer
• nongovernmental organization professional
• nonprofit manager
• professional researcher and writer
• university instructor

Global Experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-5778

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Doctoral Program

Please click here for a text version of the program history, resources, and courses.

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Teaching & Professionalization

Study of Religion as a Secondary Field

Director of Administration, Elise Ciregna [email protected]

Student Coordinator, Sarah Passinhas-Bergman [email protected]

Graduate Coordinator, Nancy Barricklo [email protected]

Graduate Program Email [email protected]

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PHD, Religion

The Phd in Religion allows one to focus on an area of study, generating a book-length manuscript, and also provides opportunities in preparation for teaching in Religious Studies. Areas of concentration: Global Religions and Religions in America

Degree Type: Doctoral

Degree Program Code: PHD_RELI

Degree Program Summary:

The Department of Religion offers a program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy in Religion. The aim of The PhD degree is to understand religion in its historical, theoretical, and applied dimensions. Given this broad objective, the PhD program in Religion aims to train scholars of religion to achieve an academic degree with concentrations in one of two broad tracks: Religion in a Global Society and Religion in the Americas, within which they will receive more specialized training in particular religions or fields of Religious Studies. A major intent of the program is to prepare individuals to become scholarly researchers and educators in religious studies who can compete successfully for positions in quality institutions of higher education. Yet individuals who are pursuing careers related to Religion other than in the academy will also find the degree useful. The program’s emphasis on global and a variety among religion(s) in the Americas will help to prepare tomorrow’s workforce for the global economy.

Religion has historically been and continues to be one of the major concerns of human societies. The Department of Religion’s PhD in Religion will clearly assist the University of Georgia as it strives to further the education of the citizens of Georgia, the nation, and the world and serve their needs. As noted in the mission statement of the 2020 Strategic Plan, the university is committed to preparing “the University community and the state for full participation in the global society of the twenty-first century. Through its programs and practices, it seeks to foster the understanding of and respect for cultural differences necessary for an enlightened and educated citizenry.” Because Religion is a crucial element of most of the world’s cultures and their worldviews, the Ph.D. in Religion–by training scholars to understand both America’s and the world’s religions–will enhance our students’ abilities to understand and respect the increasingly diverse cultures not only of their fellow Georgians and Americans but of the various societies throughout the world.

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences

346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602

706-542-8776

Department:

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Derrick Lemons

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PhD in Religion

Students must complete a minimum of three full years of residential study beyond the bachelor’s degree (or two years beyond the M.A., or its equivalent, if earned elsewhere than UGA), exceptions to this rule being permitted only with the approval of the Department and Graduate School. This can be gained either by

• 60 hours of graduate-level coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree (in the case where one has not previously earned a master’s degree at UGA), which can be completed either in two 30 hour blocks of consecutive work or 60 hours of consecutive work; or by
• 30 hours of consecutive graduate-level coursework beyond the master’s degree (in the case where a master’s degree has previously been earned at UGA)

Also required for the PhD are Research Skills:

Two modern secondary research languages plus any other primary languages deemed necessary and appropriate and approved by the student’s major professor. The modern, secondary research languages must be other than English, languages in which contemporary scholars present and publish their research and discuss and critique other scholars’ research. Primary languages are those in which the principal texts of one’s research are written or spoken. 

This assessment shall be taken prior to the Ph.D. comprehensive examinations; no dissertation proposal will receive final approval until all language requirements have been met.

Our programs allow students latitude in pursuing their interests, but are designed to emphasize the Department’s areas of concentration:

• American Studies (American Religion, African American Religion, Native American Religion, Southern Religion)
• Asian Studies (Literature, History, Thought in Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Jainism, Sikhism, and/or Shinto)
• African and African Diaspora Studies
• Biblical Studies (Hebrew Bible, New Testament, Biblical World)
• Christian Studies (Bible & Christian Literature, History, Thought)
• Islamic Studies (Quran & Islamic Literature, History, Thought and Sufism)
• Jewish Studies (Hebrew Bible & Jewish Literature, History, Thought)

Why Study Religion at UGA?

• A diverse department that covers a wide range of traditions
• Significant flexibility with respect to research specializations
• Excellent mentorship in research and professional development
• Interdisciplinary opportunities
• Robust intellectual life in a vibrant graduate community
• Athens is affordable and one of the best college towns in the US

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Every dollar given has a direct impact upon our students and faculty.

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Digital Commons @ USF > College of Arts and Sciences > Religious Studies > Theses and Dissertations

Religious Studies Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2022 2022.

Interpreting 9/11: Religious or Political Event? , Fadime Apaydin

The need to address religious diversity at work: an all-inclusive model of spirituality at work , Ivonne Valero Cázares

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

The Mass is the Medium: Marshall McLuhan and Roman Catholic Liturgical Change , Ashil D. Manohar

White Too Long: Christianity or Nationalism? , Rachel E. Osborne

"Theology" in the Public University , Sarah T. White

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Warfare in Christianity and Islam: Unveiling Secular Justifications and Motivations Behind So-Called Religious Violence , Onur Korkmaz

Legitimizing Violence: Functional Similarities of the Religious and the Secular Violence , Tahir Topal

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

“Living Creatures of Every Kind:” An Ecofeminist Reading of Genesis 1-3 , T. G. Barkasy

Three Theorists on Religious Violence in an Islamic Context: Karen Armstrong, Mark Juergensmeyer, and William T. Cavanaugh , Ayse Camur

Complex Tripartite Hydro Politics of River Ganges , Muttaki Bin Kamal

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Solid Metaphor and Sacred Space: Interpreting the Paradigmatic and Syntagmatic Relations Found at Beth Alpha Synagogue , Evan Carter

Growth, and Development of Care for Leprosy Sufferers Provided by Religious Institutions from the First Century AD to the Middle Ages , Philippa Juliet Meek

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Altering Tian: Spirituality in Early Confucianism , Jacob Thomas Atkinson

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

The U.S. Department of State Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives: What does the U.S. engage when they engage `religion'? , Belgica Marisol Cucalon

Rising Above a Crippling Hermeneutic , Luke Steven, Carlos, Armando Thompson

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

From Cosmogony to Anthropogony: Inscribing Bodies in Vedic Cosmogony and Samskara Rituals , Christine Boulos

Theses/Dissertations from 2010 2010

Gadamer and Nāgārjuna in Play: Providing a New Anti-Objectivist Foundation for Gadamer’s Interpretive Pluralism with Nāgārjuna’s Help , Nicholas Byle

Shamanism, Spiritual Transformation and the Ethical Obligations of the Dying Person: A Narrative Approach , Ellen W. Klein

Theses/Dissertations from 2009 2009

Finding Confucianism in Scientology: A comparative analysis , John Albert Kieffer

Sympathy for the devil: A character analysis of Gibreel Farishta in Salman Rushdie's The satanic verses , Catherine Mary Lafuente

The Babel paradox , Michel Machado

Theology, Spirituality, and the Academic Study of Religion in Public Universities , Don Saunders

Broadening the Spectrum: The Religious Dimensions of the Rainbow Gatherings , Seth M. Walker

Theses/Dissertations from 2008 2008

Poetry and Ritual: The Physical Expression of Homoerotic Imagery in sama , Zachary Holladay

Religious Exiles And Emigrants: The Changing Face Of Zoroastrianism , Tara Angelique Migliore

Metropolitan Community Church: A Perfectly Queer Reading Of The Bible , Matthew D. Stewart

Theses/Dissertations from 2007 2007

(Dis)continuity between Sikhism and Islam: The development of hukam across religions , Mark Horowitz

Natural Law Ethics: A Comparison of the Theravāda and Thomistic Traditions , David Lantigua

An analysis Of Origen's charismatic ideology in his Commentary on the Gospel of John , Kimberly W. Logan-Hudson

The proliferating sacred: Secularization and postmodernity , Donald Surrency

Theses/Dissertations from 2006 2006

The commodification of yoga in contemporary U.S. culture , Michelle E. Demeter

The Middle-Class Religious Ideology and the Underclass Struggle: A Growing Divide in Black Religion , Franklin Hills Jr.

The ethics of the spirit in Galatians: Considering Paul's paranesis in the interpretation of his theology , Steven Douglas Meigs

Cicero and St. Augustine's Just War Theory: Classical Influences on a Christian Idea , Berit Van Neste

Theses/Dissertations from 2005 2005

The Origins of Jewish Apocalyptic Literature: Prophecy, Babylon, and 1 Enoch , Sarah Robinson

Theses/Dissertations from 2004 2004

Sports and the American Sacred: What are the Limits of Civil Religion? , Frank Ferreri

Radical Religious Groups and Government Policy: A Critical Evaluation , Tori Chambers Lockler

“Symbolism of Language: A Study in the Dialogue of Power Between the Imperial Cult and the Synoptic Gospels” , Sharon Matlock-Marsh

Near-Death Experiences, Religion, and Life After Death , Holly Wallace

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Explore our programs in religious diversity training and consultation designed for businesses and working professionals.

Hartford International faculty and students conduct groundbreaking research about religion in the United States and throughout the world.

Partnerships allow Hartford International students to experience faith in real communities across the globe.

Since 1834, we have been building on our legacy of cultivating interfaith scholarship, and preparing religious leaders and peacebuilders for today’s diverse world.

Doctor of Ministry

Our hybrid Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program provides religious leaders who work in a wide variety of ministry settings with the opportunity to cultivate new knowledge and skills that better prepare them to serve their communities and address today's challenges. 

You’ll engage in an interdisciplinary, interreligious education that emphasizes reflective ministry, that is, ministry grounded in practical theology and an understanding of its social context. You’ll build a community of peers–religious leaders from diverse backgrounds–who challenge you to think creatively and critically as you explore the social and cultural dynamics impacting religious life and organizations in the 21st century.

Program Structure

The Doctor of Ministry (DMin) is a 36-credit advanced professional degree program designed for experienced professionals working in an area of ministry looking to build their expertise with new skills to better respond to contemporary challenges and nurture leadership in service to their communities. 

The hybrid program combines the flexibility of online learning with formative face-to-face experiences and culminates in a written project that explores an area of ministry related to each student’s vocational setting, or calling, and generates new knowledge for the broader practice of ministry.

After working with their advisor, students choose from these areas of specialization: 

• Ecology and Religion: Leadership for Life on Earth
• Africana and Black Church Leadership
• Interreligious Leadership 
• Personalized: Students work with their advisor to select electives in creating a personal emphasis toward their doctoral project

The 36-credit hybrid DMin program combines intentional, formative face-to-face experiences with a flexible, online format, using a cohort model to build a peer community of interreligious leaders.

4 Colleague Seminar Courses (12 credits): Two as residential intensives; two as synchronous online courses

• Colleague Seminar I: The Changing American Religious Landscape
• Colleague Seminar II: Exploring and Understanding the Local Religious Context
• Colleague Seminar III: Transformative Leadership and Practice
• Colleague Seminar IV: Action Research Methods for Religious Leaders

6 Electives (18 credits): Electives courses will draw from existing MAIRS and MAC course offerings aligned with each DMin student’s chosen track or areas of interest 

2 Project Writing Courses (6 credits) 

DMin Project

• Demonstrate knowledge of the larger social and cultural dynamics affecting religious life and organizations in the 21 st  century and their implications for ministry settings.
• Demonstrate the knowledge, capacities, and willingness to respectfully engage the religious pluralism of contemporary American society through exposure to the teachings of other faiths and those who practice those faiths.
• Cultivate advanced critical thinking and the tools necessary for lifelong theological and sociological reflection in the practice of effecting change in their ministry and community leadership setting.
• Complete a substantive and relevant ministry project that analyzes the religious and social dimensions of real-world contexts and proposes new approaches to religious leadership that makes a substantive contribution to their area of ministry, chaplaincy, or other vocational concentration.

The Doctor of Ministry program is open to persons who have three years of ministry experience after the completion of the Master of Divinity degree at an ATS-accredited seminary (or its educational equivalent or a master’s degree in a related field) from an accredited institution. Students must sustain their leadership position or role in their ministry or chaplaincy setting for the duration of their program. Student’s ministry setting must be located within the United States or in service in the US military. Only students who meet these criteria will be considered for admission. 

Applications for the Doctor of Ministry program and all supporting materials should be submitted to the Admissions Office no later than July 10 for the fall semester. The applicant must supply the following: 

1. The application form and application fee. 

2. A personal statement of up to 6 pages that describes the applicant's readiness for doctoral level theological education. 

3. Complete official transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate institutions. 

4. Three letters of recommendation from persons able to assess the applicant’s academic and professional potential: one from a professor with whom the applicant has studied, one from a religious leader or official from a tradition with which the applicant is affiliated or plans to research, and one from a professional colleague or associate. 

5.  A current resume or CV that includes a description of recent ministry work experience and involvement in religious or spiritual organizations.

One can apply through an online format available on our website. 

Interview: Applicants will be contacted by the Admissions Office to schedule an on-campus, phone, or zoom interview. 

Once all application materials have been received and the personal interview has been conducted, the applicant’s file will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. 

Entrance and Deferral: Students admitted to the D.Min. program may defer their entrance for no more than one academic year after the fall semester to which they are admitted. This intent must be received in writing by the Registrar. Students unable to enroll in the program after this period may apply for readmission (Please see “Readmission” under the Academic Policies for Graduate Programs). 

Entrance to the program formally begins with enrollment in the fall first-year Colleague Seminar (DM-710). If entrance is deferred, students may enroll in D.Min. elective courses, but no more than two electives may be completed before the enrollment in the first-year Colleague Seminar begins. In all cases, enrollment in the first-year Colleague Seminar must begin no later than one academic year after the fall semester to which a student is originally admitted to the program. Students are expected to remain with their colleague group during the two-year sequence of the Colleague Seminar. 

Once admitted to the Doctor of Ministry program, the student is encouraged to organize a support group in her or his ministry setting to offer encouragement and assistance throughout the student’s program of study. 

Master of Divinity Equivalency

Those students wishing to enter the Doctor of Ministry program who do not have the ATS required Master of Divinity may still be eligible for acceptance provided that their previous theological course work is determined to be equivalent to the M.Div. or a Master's Degree in a related field that is aligned with their Doctor of Ministry project. Hartford International University defines M.Div. equivalency as a minimum of 57 credits, earned from an accredited institution, which fulfill the following subject areas: 

Scripture Studies  - 12 credits

4 courses in scripture studies, must show variety in scriptures studied 

Theological Studies – 12 credits 

2 courses in Theology 

1 course in Ethics 

1 course in History 

Understanding Cultural Contexts – 12 credits

Courses should be in areas such as: interreligious studies, comparative and cultural studies, social issues, pluralism, multifaith/multicultural, religion and society, gender studies, interfaith dialogue, ecological and environmental studies 

Arts of Ministry – 9 credits

Courses should be in areas such as: leadership, worship, preaching, religious education, pastoral counseling/CPE. 

Religious Studies Elective Courses – 12 credits

If a student has the requisite number of credits, but fails to fulfill all of the above subject areas, they will be required to take additional course work before they can be considered for admission to the Doctor of Ministry program.

Where Your Journey May Lead

Serve as a Clergy Leader

Lead Faith & Community Groups

Start a Non-Profit

Teach at a University or School

Courses you may take

The first seminar course explores the social and contextual challenges within American religious life across the nation. Through readings, guest presentations, and (virtual) field trips, you’ll explore the overarching challenges facing local congregations and then discover creative, out-of-the-box realistic solutions to address these challenges. Following each of these explorations and experiences, you’ll reflect theologically on the relevance and salience of these approaches as well as other possible solutions, from the perspective of your personal beliefs and specific tradition’s theological framework.

In your second seminar, you’ll explore the reflective practice of ministry in an atmosphere of personal and professional sharing, eventually producing a set of analytical and theological papers as background for the Ministry Project. The goal is to ground the practice of ministry in an understanding of its contextual and organizational realities and their theological significance. You’ll be introduced to various field research tools and learn to reflect theologically and strategically on the insights gathered through their use.

You’ll develop engaging tools and skills to expand your ability to think contextually, imagine contextually, and evaluate contextually as core elements of religious leadership and excellence. The course involves differentiated instruction for individual students and will proceed toward the mastery of an action-reflection way of thinking and acting. Action-reflection places you in a habitual place of thought about your actions that gives the "why" as much attention as the "how." You’ll leave knowing the practice of action-reflection, as well as on the road to becoming a “doctor” of ministry.

You’ll produce your Ministry Project Proposal in the fourth semester of the two-year Colleague Seminar series. You’ll prepare and share a literature review in the anticipated substantive area of your project and explore the basics of action research design to select appropriate methods by which they might engage stakeholders and evaluate and assess the success of their project actions, as well as explore the theological foundations of your project venture. By the end of the Seminar, you’ll present and defend your project proposal.

The Value of Experience

As a DMin degree student, you’ll complete a ministry project that analyzes the religious and social dimensions of real-world contexts and enables you to propose new approaches to religious leadership tailored to your specific area of ministry, chaplaincy, vocational setting, or calling.

Learn from professors with decades of experience leading organizations across religious traditions and fields. You’ll explore contemporary issues and emerging trends in ministry using the latest resources and insights from scholar-practitioners who encourage thoughtful discussion in a multifaith classroom.

Opportunities & Highlights

A pioneer for muslim-christian relations.

The Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations is the country’s oldest center for such study, opening in 1973.

Theological Consortium

Our students can take classes through the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium, a consortium of seminaries and theological schools including Boston College, Boston University, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary, Harvard Divinity School, Hebrew College, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Seminary, and St. John’s Seminary & Theological Institute.

Accreditation

Hartford International is dually accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, the New England Commission of Higher Education, and approved by the Office for Financial and Academic Affairs for Higher Education of the State of Connecticut.

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Graduate Profile: Christopher Siuzdak, ThM '24

How I've Changed  

Studying in such a pluralistic setting as Harvard Divinity School has expanded my religious horizons. Learning about religious traditions on their own terms and learning from such a vast array of religious voices has broadened my understanding of religions and cultures and has enriched my faith. 

Favorite Class or Professor 

The most insightful and enjoyable course that I had the pleasure of taking was “Trends in World Christianity, 1900-2050” offered by Dr. Gina Zurlo, Yang Visiting Scholar in World Christianity. The course explored shifts in Christian confessions around the globe from a historical and social scientific perspective, including such diverse dynamics as colonial/post-colonial realities, contextual theologies, religious freedom, and how the climate crisis is factoring into shifting demographics. 

Message of Thanks  

I’m profoundly grateful to my parents who, as immigrants from Poland, have made countless sacrifices investing in my education. The strong work ethic and perseverance they instilled in me has proved invaluable to my success as a first-generation American and a first-generation student in higher education. 

What I Hope to Be Remembered By 

One of my signature strengths is a love of learning. I hope to be remembered by my intellectual curiosity and studiousness. A poignant quote that has motivated me comes from "The Intellectual Life" by A.G. Sertillanges: “The athletes of the mind, like the athletes of the field, must be prepared for privations, long training, a sometimes superhuman tenacity. We must give ourselves from the heart, if truth is to give itself to us.” 

Future Plans 

It’s nice to be graduating without having to say goodbye. I’m pleased to share that I’ll be studying bioethics at Harvard Medical School as a Master of Science candidate. 

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Presenting PhD research abroad

Alexandra participated in the 2024 Notre Dame Graduate Peace Conference, hosted by the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame in Indiana, and the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution Graduate Research Symposium 2024 Program, at Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University in Arlington, Virginia.

These conferences provided an opportunity for Alexandra to expand on her research examining the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda. Her work delves into the UN's understanding of gender and gender equality within this policy framework, exploring how the UN addresses individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities (SOGIE) in WPS concepts, policies, and practices. Alexandra is supervised by Prof. Gillian Wylie.

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Slaughter Defends Ph.D.

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Combining ancient, energy and spirit knowledge with scientific evidence for personal growth and world understanding. Step into a magical and real realm to explore how to be, live, and move through life on this earth. Our blend of interests, expertise, and quirkiness promises an experience that is not just educational, but downright entertaining. With Host Sherry Bainbridge PhD - 3 time Author, Holistic Health Dr., Hypnotherapist, Intuitive, Reiki Master/Teacher, Speaker and Spiritual Teacher: and Cohosts: Leslie Arboleda, 2 masters degrees in Psychology, an MBA, and certified Quantum Human Development expert; and Leland Holgate the founder of The Willful Warrior also working on degrees and cured himself from being a quadriplegic makeup this amazing trio. We provide raw insights into living through practical growth and tips that are doable and fun! Hop aboard this investigative detective train as we explore this earth and beyond for guidance and clarity. 1 Hour episode airs first Thursday of every month.

The Looking Veil Sherry Bainbridge PhD

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8 Billion Animated Meat-Suits

We every person to step up and raise the vibration of the world, their lives, and yourself, for each other and our survival.

Aura Gifting

Don't let yourself go into fear mode because you cannot think and act while being present with the situation. Instead, put up gifts around your aura to feed energy and defuse fear.

Brain Hi-Jack

Everyone has a different brain processing timeline. Be patient!

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You got brain balls!

Perception Playground

The tri of Veil Investigators are: Host Sherry Bainbridge PhD; Co-host Leslie Arboleda and Leland Holgate Sr. Combining ancient, energy and spirit knowledge with scientific evidence for personal growth and world understanding. The Universe grants us a playground in perception. Perception is powerful with belief and other influences. Molding how a person chooses to think. You can choose how you use your brain to help make life more meaningful and fun. There are secrets hidden in how some words are formed and we share a couple shocking ones for you to wrap your mind around. We come here to find specific pieces of ourselves and perfect them. Life is meant to be discovered and that includes you and the world you live in. The superpower of using positive and compassionate imagination, visualization, and creativity in the arts engages the mind, body and spirit toward the goals. Sherry is a 3-time author, Holistic Doctor, Hypnotherapist, Intuitive, Podcast Producer, Reiki Master, Speaker, SpiritualTeacher: https://holisticcollaboration.com Leslie has 2 psychology degrees, an MBA and Quantum Human Design expert with high intuitive skills in astrology and tarot: https://www.kizenlife.com Leland Holgate - Working on his Neurochemical Degree and founder of the Willful Warrior: https://www.thewillfulwarrior.org The Looking Veil Website: https://thelookingveil.com Email Signup for email prize drawings: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b8j5l8 Prize drawings for comments and email Other Social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelookingveil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelookingveil Original music by Sachen Karki at [email protected] Announcer Extraordinaire, Kirk M Samuels https://kirkmsamuels.com Sherry Bainbridge Equipment and Software: HP 34" curved Computer with HD webcam; Dracast Lighting; Rode Pro Microphone; Pinnacle Studio 26 Ultimate Editing; Sound Forge Software; recorded on Streamyard.

What's, Why's and Time Dilation

Host Sherry Bainbridge PhD owner of Holistic Collaboration, Cohost Leslie Arbodela MS MBA owner of the Kizen Koach, Co-Host Lelant Holgate founder of the Willful Warrior. We talk about how we met, time-dilation, and the reasons we are excited to bring you this podcast. The 1-hour episode comes out on the first Thursday of every month. Sherry is a 3-time author, Holistic Doctor, Hypnotherapist, Intuitive, Podcast Producer, Reiki Master, Speaker, SpiritualTeacher: https://holisticcollaboration.com Leslie has 2 psychology degrees, an MBA and Quantum Human Design expert with high intuitive skills in astrology and tarot: https://www.kizenlife.com Leland Holgate - Working on his Neurochemical Degree and founder of the Willful Warrior: https://www.thewillfulwarrior.org The Looking Veil Website: https://thelookingveil.com Email Signup for email prize drawings: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/b8j5l8 Prize drawings for comments and email Other Social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelookingveil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelookingveil Original music by Sachen Karki at [email protected] Announcer Extraordinaire, Kirk M Samuels https://kirkmsamuels.com Sherry Bainbridge Equipment and Software: HP 34" curved Computer with HD webcam; Dracast Lighting; Rode Pro Microphone; Pinnacle Studio 26 Ultimate Editing; Sound Forge Software; recorded on Streamyard.

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