online phd in religious studies

• Utility Menu

GA4 Tracking Code - DO NOT REMOVE

Site name and logo, harvard divinity school.

• Prospective Students
• Give to HDS
• PhD Program

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program is jointly offered by HDS and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Find detailed information about PhD fields of study and program requirements on the Committee on the Study of Religion website.

With a focus on global religions, religion and culture, and forces that shape religious traditions and thought, the PhD prepares students for advanced research and scholarship in religion and theological studies. 

Resources for the study of religion at Harvard are vast. We offer courses in the whole range of religious traditions from the ancient Zoroastrian tradition to modern Christian liberation movements, Islamic and Jewish philosophies, Buddhist social movements, and Hindu arts and culture. Some of us work primarily as historians, others as scholars of texts, others as anthropologists, although the boundaries of these methodologies are never firm. Some of us are adherents of a religious tradition; others are not at all religious. The Study of Religion is exciting and challenging precisely because of the conversations that take place across the complexities of disciplines, traditions, and intellectual commitments.

• Master of Divinity (MDiv) Program
• Master of Religion and Public Life (MRPL) Program
• Master of Theological Studies (MTS) Program
• Master of Theology (ThM) Program
• Dual Degrees
• Nondegree Programs
• Ministry Studies
• Professional and Lifelong Learning
• Finding Courses
• Academic Advising

AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL UNIVERSITY UNDER UNITED NATIONS TS 49006/7 — EUCLID RESPONSIVE SITE —

• Overview | Legal Status
• Memberships | Partnerships
• Accreditation | Recognition
• Officials | Administration
• Participating States
• EUCLID Institutes
• HQs and Offices
• History | Timeline
• Annual Reports
• Groups and Procedures
• General Public
• Government Officials
• Scholarship Programs
• Why choose EUCLID?
• ECOWAS Region Applicants
• Registrar’s Office
• Master’s Programs @ EUCLID
• PhD Programs @ EUCLID
• Tuition and Fees
• Pedagogical Approach
• Faculty Profiles
• Academic Standards
• Joint and Dual Degrees
• Online Programs @ EULER
• Alumni Profiles and Quotes
• Academic Journal IRPJ
• News & Events
• EUCLID Institutional and CMS
• EUCLID Treaty Site
• LinkedIn (Academic)

Online PhD in Interfaith Dialogue and Diplomacy

Quick access, program type, school / institute.

Online (Asynchonous)

USD 169 per credit hour

Scholarships

Full (officials of PS); 15% off (ECOWAS and IGOs)

EUCLID is in a unique position to offer the world’s leading online PhD in interfaith studies, specifically labeled as "interfaith dialogue and diplomacy":

• as an intergovernmental university with a specific mandate in inter-religious dialogue
• as the winner of the UN World Interfaith Harmony Week Prize

It is the only doctoral program in interfaith studies organized by an international intergovernmental organization and officially used by active diplomats over 4 continents, currently counting senior diplomats (to France / UNESCO) as a program graduate .

This PhD program is a balanced and in-depth zero-residency program delivered by a treaty-based and treaty-practicing institution, and as stated by the United Nations in a rare instance of explicit confirmation, “the UN Secretariat recognizes Euclide- Pole Universitaire Euclide and the other four UN institutions … as being accredited.”

Academic Presentation

This specialized PhD focuses on the intersection of theology, interfaith practice and diplomacy, including the actual application of interfaith skills in the community, rather than the advancement of academic knowledge for its own sake. Both programs place a special emphasis on contemporary Islam, Muslim-Christian dialogue, secularism and “Laïcité,” as well as de-radicalization and mediation.

Within certain parameters, this online PhD in interfaith studies is customizable, with elective courses focusing on:

• Specific world religions
• Inter-cultural issues
• Mediation and conflict resolution
• Inter-ethnic and inter-religious relations
• Radicalization and de-radicalization
• “A Common Word” and Muslim -Christian relations

INTERFAITH VISIBILITY IN ACTION

EUCLID is very active and widely recognized for its leadership in interfaith studies. In 2016, EUCLID was awarded the First Prize of the  UN World Interfaith Harmony Week  from the hands of  H.M. King Abdullah of Jordan . EUCLID maintains a dedicated web site at  http://interfaith.euclid.int

Photo above: The  award ceremony held at the Royal Palace in Amman, Jordan (2016). Below: EUCLID’s  Pr Laurent Cleenewerck  was honored with the responsibility of delivering the opening speech in front of the distinguished audience.

MORE INFORMATION:

• Admissions Checklist
• Accreditation
• Admissions Group
• Alumni Profiles

Requirements

Featured video, program outline.

Note: to consult the current and official curriculum/list of courses from the EUCLID CMS database, please visit: EUCLID Available Degree Programs and follow the program link.

Employment Outlook

Why Study @ EUCLID?

EUCLID is the only intergovernmental, treaty-based university with a UN registered charter and recognized expertise in diplomacy. Join the alma mater of ambassadors and senior officials globally.

Note: if the PDF brochure is unavailable (or outdated by 2 years), please contact [email protected]

EUCLID AT WORK: RECENT NEWS AND ARTICLES

EUCLID publishes 2023 Annual Report

The EUCLID Secretariat General is pleased to announce the release...

EUCLID Secretary-General Dookeran delivers UN ECLAC lecture

As part of the commemoration of the seventy-fifth anniversary of...

EUCLID Delegation at COP28

EUCLID (Euclid University) was officially approved as an intergovernmental observer...

EUCLID Convocation and Graduation held in Gambia

On November 29, 2023, EUCLID (Euclid University) organized a recognition...

The appropriate office and officials will reply within 2 business days. If calling a EUCLID office, make sure to call the correct location based on your profile.

The application review process takes 4-6 business days after receipt of documents.

EUCLID (Pôle Universitaire Euclide |Euclid University) A treaty-based organization with international liaison and representative offices in: New York, Washington DC, Montpellier (France)

Headquarters: Bangui, Central African Republic Commonwealth / ECOWAS Headquarters: Banjul, The Gambia

Studying with EUCLID

• Ph.D. / Doctorate
• Master's degrees
• Bachelor's degrees
• Habilitation and Post-Doc
• Specialized Certificates

Quick Access

• News and Events

Legal Protection Switzerland

About EUCLID

• Legal Status
• Offices and HQs

The EUCLID Charter in UNTS

EUCLID | WWW.EUCLID.INT: THE GLOBAL, INTER-DISCIPLINARY, TREATY-BASED UNIVERSITY

Hand-Picked Top-Read Stories

Why you should or shouldn’t get a phd, what is self-plagiarism and how can you avoid it, what’s the difference between a dissertation and a thesis, trending tags, best online ph.d. programs in religious studies, table of contents hide, studying flexibility, lower travel or moving costs, wider choice of schools, personalized approach to education, better time management opportunities, virtual collaboration possibilities, customizable learning environment, anthropology, asian religions, christian theology, hebrew bible, new testament, amridge university, euclid university, calvary university, christian leadership university.

A Ph.D. in religious studies can give you a wide variety of benefits. With it, you have the opportunity to enhance your research skills and increase your prospects for career advancement. Additionally, you get a chance to strengthen professional connections and elevate your communication abilities while studying something you enjoy.

However, not all potential Ph.D. students have the opportunity to focus solely on their studies. Many of them already have full-time jobs and family responsibilities. That’s where an online Ph.D. in religious studies comes in.

By taking your studies online, you can get all the benefits of a doctorate degree in religious studies without disrupting your work-life balance. A closer look at choosing Ph.D. in religious studies online can help you make the right choice.

Benefits of Getting a Ph.D. in Religious Studies Online

The trend of getting an online education is spreading quickly . In recent years, it extended to doctoral programs. Pursuing a Ph.D. in religious studies online offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for individuals who seek advanced education.

One of the key advantages of pursuing an online Ph.D. in religion is the flexibility it offers. Online programs allow students to study at their own pace. You enjoy the freedom to balance your academic pursuits with personal and professional responsibilities.

This flexibility enables you to continue working, caring for your family, or engaging in other commitments while following your doctoral studying goals.

Traditional Ph.D. programs often require students to relocate or commute to the campus, which can be both financially and logistically challenging.

By choosing to get a Ph.D. in religion online, students can save on commute. You can study from the comfort of your own home and eliminate the need to visit the campus daily.

Since not all schools offer doctorate degrees in religious studies, offline studying often requires relocation. This doesn’t just lead to excessive costs but also disrupts the life of the student and their loved ones.

Another significant benefit of online Ph.D. programs is the wider choice of schools available. Since geographical location is no longer a limiting factor, students can choose from a variety of reputable institutions that offer online programs.

This allows you to find a program that aligns with your specific research interests and academic goals. You can also compare the costs and select a school that fits your needs seamlessly.

Online Ph.D. programs often emphasize a customized approach to education. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members who provide individualized guidance.

This personalized attention can enhance the learning experience and allow students to accommodate their research interests. A customized program means that you will get tailored feedback on your academic progress at the pace you need.

Time management is crucial for doctoral students, especially when they have to juggle multiple responsibilities. Online Ph.D. programs in religion give you a chance to hone your time management skills.

You have an opportunity to create a study schedule that suits your needs, allocate dedicated time for coursework and research, and maintain a balance between academic and personal commitments.

This flexibility allows for effective time management and increased productivity. By the time you get your degree, you can put many new skills related to time management on your resume.

Contrary to the misconception that online education is isolating, online Ph.D. programs often provide ample opportunities for virtual collaboration. Through discussion boards, video conferences, and collaborative projects, you can engage with faculty members and peers.

Throughout your studies, you can foster intellectual exchange and build professional networks. This virtual collaboration opens up diverse perspectives and enriches the learning experience.

Choosing to pursue a Ph.D. in religious studies online allows you to create a customizable learning environment. You can choose where to study, whether it’s a quiet home office or a local library.

You can also tailor the study environment to suit your specific preferences. For example, you can adjust lighting and noise levels or play background music. This customization fosters a comfortable atmosphere for successful learning.

Common Specializations of Online Ph.D. Programs in Religious Studies

Online Ph.D. programs in religious studies offer a wide range of specializations that allow students to focus their research and expertise in specific areas of interest. These specializations cater to diverse academic and professional goals while helping a student pursue their passion.

The specialization in anthropology within religious studies explores the intersection of religion and culture. Students study the history of religious rituals, beliefs, and practices within different societies. They also examine how religion shapes social structures.

Topics covered may include the anthropology of religion, religious symbolism, and the role of religion in shaping cultural norms.

The specialization in Asian religions focuses on the study of religious traditions originating from various countries in Asia, such as:

• Confucianism

Students gain a deep understanding of the beliefs, practices, and historical developments of these religions. Topics covered may include the philosophy of Asian religions, religious texts, and the impact of Asian religions on global society.

Christian Theology is a popular specialization that allows students to explore the beliefs, doctrines, and practices of Christianity.

Students engage in critical analysis of biblical texts, theological debates, and the historical development of Christian thought.

Topics covered may include systematic theology, biblical hermeneutics, and the relationship between faith and reason.

The specialization in Hebrew Bible focuses on the critical study of the Old Testament scriptures. Students conduct a historical and literary analysis of the Hebrew Bible. They examine its cultural context, theological themes, and textual interpretation. Usually, the analysis is conducted in the original language.

Topics covered may include biblical archaeology, biblical Hebrew language, and the literary genres of the Hebrew Bible.

The New Testament specialization centers on the critical study of the texts and teachings of the early Christian movement. Students explore the historical context, literary analysis, and theological implications of the New Testament writings.

Topics covered may include the life of Jesus, Pauline theology, and the development of early Christian communities.

In addition to these specializations, a Ph.D. program in religion can cover a wide range of topics that intersect with various disciplines. They are:

• Anthropology and Sociology of Religion – examining the social and cultural dimensions of religious practices.
• Ethics – exploring ethical theories and their application to religious contexts.
• Modern and Ancient Languages – acquiring proficiency in languages such as Greek, Hebrew, Sanskrit, or Latin to engage with religious texts in their original form
• Religious Movements in History – investigating the emergence, development, and impact of religious movements throughout history.

When choosing the best program for getting a doctorate degree online, make sure to find out whether it has the desired specialization and covers the topics you want to study.

Admission Requirements for Getting an Online Ph.D. in Religious Studies

Pursuing an online Ph.D. in Religious Studies requires meeting specific admission requirements set by universities offering these programs. Here are the most common prerequisites.

• Application – online application form where you fill out personal information. The application serves as an initial introduction to the applicant and their intent to pursue a Ph.D. in religious studies.
• Degree Requirements – the majority of programs that offer Ph.D. in religious studies online require applicants to hold either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. The degree should be from an accredited institution.
• GPA – schools usually have a minimum GPA requirement for admission to their online Ph.D. programs. Usually, it should range from 3.0 to 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Different programs can have different GPA requirements or none at all.
• Transcripts – applicants are usually required to submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. The goal is to provide evidence of the applicant’s academic performance in the past.
• Autobiographical Statement – an autobiographical statement, also known as a personal statement or statement of purpose, allows applicants to express their academic and professional goals related to religious studies. It provides an opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their passion for the field and their alignment with the program’s objectives.
• Academic Writing Sample – some universities ask to submit an academic writing sample that demonstrates their ability to engage in scholarly research and critical analysis. This sample may be an excerpt from a previous research paper, thesis, or published work.
• Letters of Recommendation – these letters should come from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities. Universities can ask for two or three such letters.
• Research Proposal – some online Ph.D. programs in religious studies may require applicants to submit a research proposal outlining their intended research topic, objectives, and methodology.

Always keep in mind that even if you don’t meet the exact admission requirements, there is still a chance to enroll in the school of your choice. Speak to the school’s representative to find out what you can do to prove your suitability for the program, even if your GPA is lower the necessary or you have an unrelated degree.

Top Online Ph.D. Programs in Religious Studies

These online programs can become an excellent choice for students who are seeking a remote opportunity for getting their Ph.D. in religious studies.

Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Amridge University has a robust online Ph.D. program in Biblical Studies .

The purpose of this program is to provide students with the necessary skills for academic teaching, research, and scholarly writing in the fields of Old Testament or New Testament.

The Biblical Studies program prepares students for roles such as teaching the Bible and biblical languages in universities, seminaries, theological schools, and colleges. It also aims to equip students to teach in related academic fields at the college level and become specialists in scholarly biblical teaching.

The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC)

Located in Washington DC, Euclid University has an impressive Ph.D. in Comparative Christian Theology Program . To get admitted into a program, you need a Master’s degree or an international equivalent of a Master’s degree. You should also be fluent in English. This will be tested during the admissions process.

During your studies at Euclid University, you will focus on Greek philosophy, Great World religions, Old and New Testament, and American religious history.

The school is accredited by the National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Authority (NAQAA).

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, Calvary University has an online Doctor of Philosophy in Bible and Theology program. You can complete the Ph.D. program in just four years and choose an online format if necessary.

To be admitted into the program, you need a Master of Arts in Bible and Theology, a Master of Divinity, or a Master of Theology degree. The minimum GPA is 3.0. You would also need to provide transcripts and a writing sample.

In this program, you will enjoy advanced biblical and theological research and education options and learn how to critically evaluate scholarly opinions. You will also be analyzing biblical text in the original language.

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association for Biblical Higher Education

Located in Cheektowaga, New York, Chrisitan Leadership University has various religious studies Ph.D. programs . You can finish the program remotely without visiting the campus.

These programs are designed for Christian ministers and workers seeking to engage in the systematic study of Scripture. What sets these programs apart from other Ph.D. degrees in religion is their unique emphasis on practical courses. The Word of God is presented in a manner that is accessible to all.

The curriculum offers a range of courses, including Basics of Christianity, Law and the Spirit, and Bible Research Methods. In order to fulfill the program requirements, students must complete 30 credits of specific courses and get ten more credits dedicated to practical ministry work.

The school is privately accredited by Christian Accreditation International.

Overall, getting a Ph.D. in religious studies online is an excellent option for students who want to leverage their work, family time, and education. By choosing the online program that suits you best, you are making a significant investment into your career and well-being.

PHD in Economics, Associate Professor, Department of Business Process Management, Faculty of Market Technologies IOM

2024 Best Online PhD in Religion [Doctorate Guide]

For those who want to study the history or societal influence of religious belief, an online PhD in Religion could be a fitting program.

You might explore the teachings, traditions, ethics, and cultures associated with particular religious groups. As you do, you may gain a better understanding of your own faith tradition or religion in general.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Religion studies can be a fascinating topic for your advanced degree and your career as a scholar or practitioner.

Online PhD in Religion Programs

The field of religion explores the influence of religious beliefs and practices. Religion plays a key role in the world. It sways politics, culture, literature, and art. Understanding the power and position of religion in society can help you better understand the world.

A PhD or Doctor of Religion is a terminal degree in this field. It’s a strategic choice for those who want a scholarly career in this humanities field. It can also be a suitable degree program for those who want to work in cultural organizations, religious institutions, or other settings.

The topics that religion students study can include:

• Anthropology and sociology
• Modern and ancient languages
• Religious movements in history
• Research and writing
• Sacred artifacts and texts

Religion PhD students typically focus their studies around a particular area of the field. Concentration options may include Jewish studies, early Christian church, philosophy and religion, Christian theology, Asian belief systems, and Islamic studies.

Writing a dissertation is an essential part of most doctoral programs in religion. This scholarly research project often takes several years to complete. The first years of coursework can prepare students for this project, and the last several years of the program are spent on research and writing. Career options related to this field include professor, social science researcher, author, minister, and museum curator.

Common Online PhD in Religion Concentrations and Specializations

Considering the long history of religious practices and the variety of religious traditions in the world, it probably comes as no surprise that religion is an incredibly diverse field.

For religious doctorate degrees, it’s common to select an area of specialization to narrow down your studies. Here are a few examples of religion concentrations:

• Anthropology and Religion . This field of study addresses the connections between societal values, cultural traditions, political choices, and religious beliefs.
• Asian Religions . Your focus might be on one or more religions from a particular region of Asia and their associated literary works, art, languages, and cultural traditions.
• Christian Theology . You could spend your PhD program investigating ancient, medieval, or modern theological beliefs based on the Bible and church traditions.
• Hebrew Bible . In this track, you can study literary and cultural practices of ancient Israel and her neighbors, and you can consider the implications for reading and interpreting the Old Testament.
• New Testament . In addition to engaging in textual criticism practices, you may study the development of various schools of New Testament interpretation during one or more historical periods.

The above list represents only a small selection of the many concentrations that online doctoral programs in religion offer. If you’re interested in another focus area, such as an online doctorate in theology , you can take a look at various universities to see if that sort of program is available.

Theology and Religion Careers & Salaries

Those who earn a religion studies PhD tend to pursue careers as social scientists. Depending on their area of expertise, professionals in the field can work as historians, archaeologists, anthropologists, or sociologists. Because these areas often overlap, you may find that your work touches on several of them.

Some people with doctorates work in museums or libraries. They might research religious artifacts or preserve ancient manuscripts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , careers related to the life, physical, and social sciences pay a median annual salary of $69,760.

A doctoral degree can be a qualification for academic positions as well. Working at a university might entail teaching classes and engaging in research projects. Some scholars write books or articles to present their research findings to peers and lay people alike.

Studying religion at the doctoral level could also enhance a ministry career. Whether you’re currently a denominational leader, a clergy member, or a religious educator, this degree program can shape the way you approach your job and guide your parishioners. Some people engage in scholarly work while also continuing as practitioners in churches, museums, schools, or other settings.

Ph.D. in Religious Studies Curriculum & Courses

Your college may require you to earn 48 or more credit hours in pursuit of a doctoral degree in religion. To accomplish that, you might take courses such as:

• Ancient Church History : In this class, you’ll study the first several centuries of the Christian church and analyze religious literature from that period.
• Approaches to Religion Study : To prepare you for further studies, you’ll engage in an overview of approaches to studying religion, including evaluating religious beliefs and practices from anthropological and theological perspectives.
• Asian Religious Thought : This course covers one or more Asian religious traditions, such as Hinduism or Buddhism, along with their sacred texts.
• Christianity in America : From early colonial days to modern church movements, you will evaluate the role of Christian values and practices in the United States.
• Creeds and Councils : This class covers early church controversies, the councils held in response, and the creeds and commands they produced.
• Dissertation Preparation : Topics in this course include determining an area of study, conducting research, or writing a prospectus.
• Ethics in Western Religions : You may explore the interplay between religious teachings and ethical beliefs and how a culture’s predominant attitude toward religion influences laws and cultural practices.
• European Reformation : You’ll study Martin Luther and other reformers and discuss the immediate and long-term implications of their reformation efforts.
• Hebrew Bible : A class on the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Testament, may include an exploration of interpretive theories, cultural settings, or linguistic challenges.
• Synoptic Gospels : A critical course on Matthew, Mark, and Luke will compare and contrast these similar Gospels and discuss theories about authorship, composition, and interpretation.

If your school’s religion department offers a wide variety of courses, you may have the latitude to select the ones that are best for your doctoral focus.

How to Choose a Doctorate in Religious Studies Online Program

Figuring out which university to choose for a doctoral program is a big decision, but these factors may help guide the process:

• Accreditation . Choosing a college with regional accreditation is a critical step in ensuring that you’ll earn a reputable doctoral degree.
• Concentrations . As you weigh various school options, you can search for a program that offers concentration choices that align with your area of interest.
• Faculty . If there’s a particular scholar or faculty member whose research area interests you, that may influence your decision-making process.
• Funding . Doctoral programs vary in the financial support they have available for students. Some colleges provide not only discounted or free tuition but also insurance subsidies, travel support, research funding, or other types of financial help.
• Length . If your priority is to earn your doctorate quickly, then you may want to find a school with no dissertation requirement or with other accelerated features. If you’d prefer to have as much time as possible to complete your program, then you may want to look for a school that allows students to stay enrolled for more than 5 years.
• Research opportunities . Schools have various research resources available for their graduate students. It can be beneficial to consider the collection of materials available at a particular institution.

Other factors that can influence your decision might include location, online learning options, or the reputation of the school.

Religion Doctorate Programs Admissions Requirements

Applying for a PhD program can be a rigorous process. For a doctoral degree in religion, your required application materials might include:

• GRE or GMAT scores (not required by all colleges)
• Official college transcripts from your previous studies
• Proof of proficiency in select modern and ancient languages
• Sample of your writing abilities

If you can’t meet the language requirement before beginning the program, some programs allow you to enroll in non-credit language courses early in your doctoral studies.

Religious Studies PhD Programs Accreditation

Regional accreditation confirms that a school can be counted on for a quality education. To maintain its accreditation status, a college must be regularly evaluated by one of the seven regional accrediting agencies in the US. If a school fails to meet the evaluation standards, it can lose its accreditation status.

Because of this thorough process, you can feel confident about investing in a doctoral program at a regionally accredited college. A regionally accredited degree will hold meaning and value among peers, employers, and other educational institutions. In particular, if you plan to work in academia, a regionally accredited degree is essential.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Many graduate students are eligible for financial aid to help offset their college costs. Just like you might have done earlier in your college journey, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

Based on your FAFSA results, you may qualify for state and federal student assistance programs. As a doctoral student, your main form of government aid will probably be loans. Grants are less common for those in graduate school. Your college may be a key source of doctoral funding. Some schools offer a full ride to doctoral candidates in exchange for teaching or research assistance. Others offset a portion of the costs.

You may also have the chance to win scholarships or fellowships from outside organizations. These may contribute toward tuition, conference attendance, or research expenses. If you remain a full-time employee while going to school, your workplace may even contribute to the cost.

Is There a PhD in Religion?

Yes, both faith-based and secular colleges offer PhD programs in religious studies. This can be a valuable degree program for people who are interested in a scholarly approach to the study of religion and its effects in the world.

Some colleges specialize in religious studies related to one particular people group or faith tradition. For example, the department may focus on studies in the Hebrew Bible and ancient Israel. Other colleges have diverse religion departments. Students there may be able to choose any number of focus areas, including American religious expressions, global Islam, Asian religions, and New Testament studies.

What Can You Do with a PhD in Religious Studies?

People often pursue a doctoral degree in religious studies with an academic career in mind. Some want to become professors or lifelong researchers, and their work can overlap with studies in archaeology, history, or philosophy.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are historians who work for the government, consulting firms, research institutions, or museums. Other museum job titles include archivist and curator. Religious leaders can also earn this degree.

Getting a PhD can help people become more insightful ministers or more knowledgeable religious educators. Some professionals with a PhD also write books and articles for scholars or the general public.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Religion Online?

It’s common for full-time students to spend up to 5 years in a doctoral program when a dissertation is required. The first 2 to 3 years are mostly devoted to coursework. Toward the end of that time, you can begin to transition into the dissertation process. The fourth and fifth years may be invested in writing the dissertation and possibly teaching some classes.

Some programs allow students to extend this timeframe if they are in school part-time or need an extra year for dissertation work. On the other hand, programs without a dissertation requirement can typically be finished in just 3 years with full-time study.

What’s the Difference Between Philosophy vs. Religion?

For a humanities doctorate, you can choose to study philosophy or religion.

Some universities offer a religion PhD with a philosophy concentration.

What’s the Difference Between an Online PhD in Theology vs. Religious Studies?

Theological and religious studies sound similar. At some universities, they may even be housed in the same school. Even still, the two programs have different approaches to the study of faith.

Typically, religious institutions, such as either brick-and-mortar or online Christian colleges , are more likely than secular ones to offer theological studies. In fact, a number of students who have work or other outside obligations often pursue an online degree in theology or in religious studies.

Is a Doctorate in Religion Worth It?

Yes, a doctorate in religion is worth it for many students. This degree program could be the culmination of many years of study in religion or a related field. It may be essential to earn a PhD if you want to be a tenure-track professor or a respected social scientist.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for professors are expected to increase at a 12% rate over the next decade. That’s faster than the national average for job growth. Also, a 19% growth rate is predicted for museum occupations, such as curators, archivists, and conservators.

Universities Offering Online Doctorate in Religion Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Amridge University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies. Students may also choose to add a concentration in the Old Testament or the New Testament. Both tracks require students to complete 51 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.0 to graduate. Those interested in the program may apply online with official transcripts.

Amridge University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Anderson University offers a Ph.D. in Leadership with a concentration in Christian Ministry. The program requires the completion of 48 credit hours to graduate and can typically be completed in 24 months. All classes can be taken online. Those interested in the program may apply online through the school’s website.

Anderson University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Bethel University offers a Doctor of Ministry. Students can choose a concentration in Biblical and Theological Engagement, Church Leadership, Congregation and Family Care, or Transformational Leadership. The program can be completed fully online or online with on-campus intensives. Applicants can apply by contacting an enrollment counselor and submitting an application through the school’s website.

Bethel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Bob Jones University offers a Ph.D. in Theological Studies. Students must select a concentration in Biblical and Systematic Theology, New Testament Interpretation, or Old Testament Interpretation. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours. Online classes are 7 weeks long. An application can be submitted through the school’s website to apply.

Bob Jones University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

California Institute of Integral Studies offers a Ph.D. in Ecology, Spirituality, and Religion. Students must complete 36 credit hours, a dissertation, and 2 comprehensive exams to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit 2 letters of recommendation and a writing sample.

CIIS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Calvary University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Bible and Theology. To graduate, students must complete 36 credit hours. Those interested in the program must have a master’s degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must submit transcripts from all schools attended, a writing sample, and 2 references and complete an interview.

Calvary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Clarks Summit University offers a Doctor of Philosophy. Concentrations in Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, or Bible Exposition are available. Students must complete 60 credit hours to graduate. Those interested in the program may apply online through the school’s website. Admissions counselors may be contacted to help through the admissions process.

Clarks Summit University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Columbia International University offers an online Ph.D. in Biblical Studies. Students must complete 45 credit hours to graduate. Those interested in the program must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5, submit copies of their master’s thesis and 2 academic references, and complete an interview.

CIU  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Evangelical Seminary offers a Doctor of Theology. Students must choose one of the 11 tracks offered by the school, such as Missional Track, Historical Track, or Biblical Track. To graduate, students must complete 39 credit hours. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Evangelical Seminary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Faulkner University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies. To graduate, students must complete 55 credit hours, including a dissertation. All classes are offered online. Applicants must have a master’s degree in a related field with a GPA of 3.0, submit 3 letters of recommendation and official transcripts from all schools attended, and complete an interview.

Faulkner University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

George Fox University offers Doctor of Ministry degrees in Leadership and Spiritual Formation and Semiotics, Church, and Culture. Both programs require students to complete 38 credit hours and a project portfolio to graduate. Applicants must submit an online application with official transcripts from all schools attended.

George Fox University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Johnson University offers a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with concentrations in Educational, Ministry, Missional, Organizational, Philosophy, or Theology leadership. Students must complete 60 credit hours to graduate. Those interested in the program may apply online through the school’s website. Applicants must submit official transcripts, 3 letters of reference, a writing sample, and an admissions essay.

Johnson University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Lancaster Bible College offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies. To graduate, students must complete 60 credit hours, including 20 hours dedicated to a dissertation. Applicants must have a master’s degree and need to submit a personal statement, transcripts, 3 references, and MAT or GRE test scores.

Lancaster Bible College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Liberty University offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Bible Exposition. Students must complete 60 credit hours to graduate. All classes can be completed online and are 8 weeks long. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a master’s degree in a related field, submit a writing sample, and complete a questionnaire.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Luther Seminary offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology with the option to add a concentration in topics such as Christian Ethics or Church History. The program requires students to complete 12 courses, exams, and a final thesis to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree related to theology to be eligible for the program.

Luther Seminary  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Theological Schools.

Oral Roberts University offers a Ph.D. in Contextual Theology. Students must complete 47 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.25 and a final dissertation to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.25 and submit official transcripts, GRE test scores, 4 references, and a vocational essay.

Oral Roberts University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Regent University offers a Ph.D. in Renewal Theology with an emphasis in Christian Theology. Students must complete 60 credit hours to graduate. While classes are offered online, a residency must be completed. Applicants must submit an online application, an admissions questionnaire, and an academic writing sample.

Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

South University offers a Doctor of Ministry. To graduate, students must complete 96 credit hours and one of the following: dissertation, ministry project, or supervisory clinical pastoral education. Those interested in the program must have a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and need to complete an admissions interview.

South University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Ph.D. in Theology. Students may choose to focus on Biblical Studies, Theological Studies, Ethics and Philosophical Studies, or Pastoral Studies. To graduate, students must complete 65 credit hours. Applicants must submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and official test scores.

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with a concentration in Religion. Students must complete 66 credit hours and a dissertation to graduate. Applicants must have a master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit official transcripts.

The University of the Cumberlands  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your PhD in Religious Studies Online

Professionals with advanced degrees in religious studies often explore the connections between religion and history, anthropology, sociology or archaeology. A religion doctoral degree can lead to a fulfilling career in research, academics, writing, or leadership.

Whether you’re interested in the study of Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, or another belief system, this degree might suit your goals. Online religious studies degree classes can be a flexible, convenient option as you work toward a doctoral degree. Enrolling online can often enable you to work and go to school at the same time.

To get started, you can take a look at accredited colleges that offer online PhD programs in religion.

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

Share this page

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

Questions about the program.

Doctoral Program

Religious Studies typically admits three or four doctoral students each year, and at any one time has about twenty-five students in the program.  Learn more through the below boxes.

Requirements

Fields of study, graduate handbook.

Ph.D. in Religious Studies

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 43
• Students: 45
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadlines: December 13

Ross Wagner Director of Graduate Studies Graduate Program in Religion Duke University Box 90964 Durham, NC 27708-0964 Phone: (919) 660-3512

Email:  [email protected]

Website: http://graduateprograminreligion.duke.edu

Program Description

The Graduate Program in Religion offers degrees in the following fields: American Religion; Asian Religions; Christian Theological Studies; Early Christianity; Hebrew Bible/Old Testament; History of Judaism; Islamic Studies; New Testament; Religion, Aesthetics, & Society; and World Christianity. Each field is described in detail on the web site where a field convener also is listed ( http://www.duke.edu/web/gradreligion ). Inquiries related to specific fields should be directed to that individual. Applicants should make clear the specific area in which they wish to concentrate (for example, Medieval Islam, early Judaism, contemporary Christian ethics).

Students are required to take an internal and/or an external minor, which gives them the opportunity to work in areas that complement their primary intellectual agenda, both within the religion program as well as in areas outside the program (see GPR website for details by field). This structure allows students not only to strengthen their dissertation area, but also prepares them to be teachers and scholars. Because the program draws on the Department of Religious Studies, the Divinity School, and other departments and professional schools in the University, it offers one of the most rigorous and wide-ranging Ph.D.'s in the country. An excellent job placement record has helped graduates obtain positions not only in teaching, but also in ministry, in publishing, and in educational administration.

• Religion: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statisics
• Religion: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Religion: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Religion: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadlines:  December 13

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required (See departmental guidance below)
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required
• Writing Sample: Required (See departmental guidance below)

Statement of Purpose Guidelines Your application statement should clearly match your interest with the resources of faculty in the GPR. You must apply to one track within the program and your interests need to overlap with those among the track’s faculty. It is important to know that Duke University highly values interdisciplinary study, so demonstrating how your interests will also be served by the strength of faculty in other programs at Duke is something to include in your statement. You will be evaluated in terms of how your intellectual interests match our strengths. So indicating what areas of study you want to work in, what intellectual skills you wish to acquire through coursework and research will be very relevant.

Writing Sample A sample of scholarly work of 15-20 pages, double spaced, should be submitted as part of the application.

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

Secondary Menu

• 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

Learn More about the Ph.D. Program

• Affiliated Programs
• Books By Our Faculty
• Statement of Solidarity
• B.A. in Religious Studies Requirements
• Interdepartmental Major Requirements
• Minor Requirements
• Message from DUS
• Career Paths
• Certificate Program in Jewish Studies
• Three Religious Traditions
• Foreign Language Study
• Independent Study
• Graduation with Distinction
• Trinity Ambassadors
• Islamic Studies Certificate
• Graduation Forms & Deadlines
• Graduate Mentorship Program
• How to Apply
• All Courses
• Buddhism Tradition
• Christianity Tradition
• Confucian and Daoist Traditions
• Hinduism Tradition
• Islam Tradition
• Judaism Tradition
• Research Professors
• Associate Professors
• Visiting Instructors
• Secondary Appointments
• Graduate Students
• Alumni Profiles
• For Current Students
• Assisting Duke Students

• marquette.edu //
• Contacts //
• A-Z Index //
• Give to Marquette

Marquette.edu // Graduate School // Programs  //

PhD in Religious Studies

A higher calling. discover an integrated approach to religious studies..

The Theology department offers a doctoral program aimed at giving students an integrated approach to theological studies, emphasizing, within theological specialties, the interaction of Judaism and Christianity in antiquity, and in historical, systematic and ethical approaches to theology. 

The PhD program seeks to develop scholars who can make significant contributions to theological research and writing, and college and high school teachers who can teach a broad range of courses. This broad theological background has enabled program graduates to enjoy enviable success in securing teaching positions in over 200 colleges and universities, in church work and ministry, and in a variety of other education-related institutions.

Students may choose to specialize in one of our department's four principal areas of research:

• Judaism and Christianity in Antiquity
• Historical Theology
• Systematic Theology
• Theological Ethics

Students also may choose one of our interdisciplinary tracks:

• Theology and Society
• Healthcare Mission and Ethics

The Healthcare Mission and Ethics concentration, within our Theology and Society specialization, is designed to provide students interested in careers in Catholic healthcare with a deep grounding in the major theological disciplines along with academic training in practical issues related to the provision of healthcare and immersion in healthcare environments. 

Take the next step towards your future

Learn more about Marquette's religious studies PhD program.  

• Request Information
• Admission Requirements
• Application Details
• Application Deadline
• Aid & Fellowships

Submit the form below and our admissions expert will respond to you shortly.

To be eligible for admission to the Graduate School at Marquette University, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent must be completed prior to starting graduate school.
• A master's degree or equivalent graduate degree in theology, religious studies, or another field appropriate to their academic interests. A Master of Divinity degree is acceptable for prospective applicants to the doctoral program. 
• Proficiency in a classical language relevent to an applicant's area of research.
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
• Demonstrated English proficiency for non-U.S. citizens.

Application Requirements

Read all application instructions prior to beginning an application.

• A completed online application form and fee . (Applicants for the PhD should apply for the Religious Studies program on the application.)
• If coursework was completed within the United States, submit copies of all current and previous college/universities except Marquette 1
• If coursework was completed outside of the United States, a transcript evaluation is required. A copy of a course-by-course evaluation is approved for the application process. 2

A statement of purpose indicating the applicant's reasons for wanting to enter the program,areas of academic interest, vocational objectives, reasons for selecting Marquette's program, and/or how the applicant stands to contribute to the program's demographic diversity.

Applicants with language study experience should indicate formal graduate-level language course work reflected in their transcripts and/or private language study, along with estimations of present abilities reading, writing, and speaking the language or languages studied.

• An academic writing sample approximately 20 pages in length.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• GRE scores, general test only (Waived for international applicants)
• International applicants from non-English-speaking countries who have completed a master's degree or anticipate completing a master's degree at an English-speaking higher education institution prior to enrolling in the PhD program may request a waiver of this requirement.

1 Upon admission, final official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities, with certified English translations if original language is not English, must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record. 

2Upon admission, an official course-by-course transcript/academic record evaluation must be submitted to the Graduate School within the first five weeks of the term of admission or a hold preventing registration for future terms will be placed on the student’s record. 

December 15: Application and application materials should be received to be considered for the fall term. Applicants will be notified of an admission decision by March 31.

Financial Aid

The Department of Theology draws on the university's considerable financial aid resources to offer a variety of assistance opportunities to qualified students. These resources include teaching assistantships (TA), research assistantships (RA), minority student fellowships, graduate teaching fellowships, dissertation fellowships, M.A.C.D. scholarship, Smith family fellowships, Arthur J. Schmitt fellowships, John P. Raynor, S.J., fellowships, and Marquette University scholarships. For a comprehensive listing of merit-based aid (graduate assistantships/fellowships), visit the   departmental financial aid webpage .

Private scholarships   may also be available. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may be eligible to apply for   student loans   to help fund their educational expenses as well.

Quick Links

Application Deadline: December 15  

Full-Time or Part-Time Options: Full-Time

Online Options: No

Theology Department Website

Program Course Work

Start Your Application

QUICK LINKS

• Why Choose Marquette?
• Application Instructions
• Graduate Forms
• Request Program Information
• Contact the Graduate School
• Schedule a Campus Visit
• Visit Milwaukee

Graduate School on  Social Media      

Alumni Success

See how students and alumni like Tyler are Being the Difference on-campus and beyond.

Religious Studies Department

Visit the Theology Department and learn more about how we are Being the Difference .

Our Mission

We define ourselves as Christian, Catholic, Jesuit, urban, and independent. Learn more about our mission. 

Marquette University Zilber Hall, Room 205 Milwaukee, WI 53233 Phone: (414) 288-7137

• Campus contacts
• Search marquette.edu

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Privacy Policy Legal Disclaimer Non-Discrimination Policy Accessible Technology

© 2024 Marquette University

College of Arts & Sciences

Graduate Program

Georgetown offers a Ph.D. in Theological and Religious Studies, an interdisciplinary program that allows students to pursue the critical and comparative study of theology and religion. With over twenty full-time faculty members, the Theology and Religious Studies Department has specialists in Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. Our faculty have particular expertise in the following areas: religion and public life, comparative theology, philosophy of religion, religious ethics, scriptural interpretation, and religion and globalization. The Doctoral Program welcomes applications from students whose research interests grapple with questions of interreligious understanding and contemporary issues of religious pluralism in an increasingly globalized and multicultural world.

Students admitted to our program receive five years of full funding, which includes tuition, health coverage, and a generous stipend. Our program also allocates funding for conference travel, and our current students regularly present at national and international conferences. Current students have also received grants and awards from outside fellowships for summer language study and dissertation research.

Academic Resources

Our Ph.D. students join a vibrant scholarly community–both within the department and beyond. Our strengths as a department are augmented by a wealth of other resources at Georgetown, including the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding , the Center for Contemporary Arab Studies , the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs , the Program for Jewish Civilization , the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures , and the Department of Arab and Islamic Studies .

Thank you for your interest in Georgetown University’s Ph.D. in Theological & Religious Studies program.

To learn more please fill out the Theological & Religious Studies Inquiry Form here .

Application Deadline: December 15th

Administration

• Chair: Ariel Glucklich
• Department Administrator: Margit Silva
• Director of Graduate Studies and Director of Admissions & Recruitment, Graduate Program: Michael Slater
• Director of Intellectual Life, Graduate Program: Brandon Dotson
• Director of Undergraduate Studies: Stephen Wilson

Graduate Department of Religion

  Alert Content Goes Here

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.

Your Vanderbilt

• Current Students
• Faculty & Staff
• International Students
• Parents & Family
• Prospective Students
• Researchers
• Sports Fans
• Visitors & Neighbors

• Request Information
• Schedule a Visit
• Archived Lectures
• The Spire Monthly E-News

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.

Ph.D. (Interreligious Studies)

Hartford International University’s Ph.D. program provides advanced study in the knowledge and practical application of relations between religious traditions. Current areas of study include  Christian-Muslim Relations , Contemporary Muslim Studies , Islamic Studies, Jewish Studies, and Christian Studies.  Ph.D. graduates gain rigorous research skills and comprehensive knowledge in their field(s) of study, culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution.

Our Ph.D. program continues this long legacy of educating and training experts in various fields by providing exceptional candidates with the opportunity to complete a research-driven, highly customizable program of study under the method of interreligious studies. Students will acquire:

• comprehensive knowledge in their chosen discipline of study
• skills and competence to teach in these subjects in religious communities and academia
• ability to produce original research and written works to advance the scholarship for the benefit of religious communities, academy, and society

Program Structure

The curriculum is comprised of two first-year seminars; a first-year initial literature review; four tutorials, three methods/language courses, two comprehensive exams, a teaching portfolio, a dissertation proposal exam, a final dissertation, and oral defense. Each of the tutorials and methods/language requirements are customizable to the particular research needs of the student, under the guidance of a faculty mentor. This program has limited classroom instruction and places high emphasis on rigorous, supervised research and academic writing.

Residency is only required for two weeks each semester for Stage One. The remainder can be completed via synchronous online tutorials.

F-1 International Students who are legally residing in the US and need to meet residency requirements, must live within 50 miles of the campus and demonstrate through their tutorial contracts that they are meeting in person with their advisor.

Stage One: First-Year Seminars and Literature Review (18 Credits)

Students will complete four, 3-credit seminars during the first year of the program, and two, 3-credit literature reviews with their advisor. These courses are offered in a hybrid manner, with Fall and Spring semester two-week face to face intensive sessions, followed by hybrid synchronous sessions throughout the semester. For the hybrid synchronous format, students may be present in the classroom or remote.

The Research Methodology and Scholarly Development I and II seminars are focused on research design and culminate in the creation of a program research plan. 

The Methodological Studies in Jewish/Christian/Muslim Relations I and II seminars provide the necessary scriptural, historical, and theoretical foundations to support student identification of issues directly related their specific research interests.

Literature Review I and II are taken under the direction of the student’s faculty mentor. This requirement is intended to demonstrate broad mastery of the literature relevant to the student’s specific research and the identification of an opportunity for an original contribution to research along with the theoretical or conceptual framework(s) the student expects to use in making this contribution.

Stage One culminates in a program research plan and two comprehensive exams based upon the chosen field of research and methods of approaches to the religious traditions, which can be completed in the Spring of Summer sessions. All students are expected to register for a full-time course load in the first year and residency during this stage is recommended, but not required. However, all students are required to be present on campus for two weeks in the Fall semester and two weeks in the Spring semester for the required seminar intensive sessions and for face-to-face advising sessions with faculty.

Stage One Curricular Overview

• Research Methodology and Scholarly Development I (PHD-900, 3 credits)
• Methodological Studies in Jewish/Christian/Muslim Relations I (PHD-906, 3 credits)
• Literature Review I (PHD-908, 3 credits)
• Research Methodology and Scholarly Development II (PHD-901, 3 credits)
• Methodological Studies in Jewish/Christian/Muslim Relations II (PHD-907, 3 credits)
• Literature Review II (PHD-909, 3 credits)

Stage Two (39 Credits)

In stage two, students refine their research plan and conduct the building blocks of their research projects, including completing four tutorials and three methods/language courses, and compilation of their teaching portfolio.

Tutorials (24 credits) are directed writing projects that are customized to fit the student’s specific research focus and are supervised by HIU faculty or external faculty whose expertise matches the focus of the tutorial. Students will complete four tutorials (6 credits each). These tutorials represent the building blocks of the student’s research. Tutorials provide the opportunity to engage the wider literature and use the research methods appropriate to their research plan. The final outcome of a tutorial is usually a final paper between 40-60 pages in length.  When appropriate to the student’s research plan, and with the agreement of their advisor, students may substitute one tutorial with credited, graduate courses at HIU or another accredited graduate school that equal 6 credit hours; courses may be taught face-to-face or synchronously online

The Methods/Language Courses (9 credits) are customized to fit the students research plan and pre-program language competency. Scholars need linguistic tools to deal with primary sources and secondary scholarly literature to pursue the research. Students are required to acquire or demonstrate linguistic proficiency at the needed level of advanced level research in at least two languages. Students may take language courses at partner institutions (usually at the intermediary level) or pass a language comprehension exam. Those students with prior language skills and knowledge and will not need to complete one or more language requirements and may petition for Advanced Standing. The language requirements must be completed before the student’s research proposal defense.

In some cases, the student may choose to pursue focused and extensive engagement with a particular method or analytical approach related to their research. In these cases, the methods courses are expected to go beyond the methods literature and give students the opportunity to put their research skills into practice. Both the focused methods and language courses can be fulfilled via independent study or through graduate classes offered at HIU or the BTI in particular methodologies or languages.

The teaching portfolio  (3 credits) will consist of a written teaching philosophy, evidence of pedagogical training, sample course syllabi, and experience as a TA or instructor.

Stage two can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis with a maximum of four years; full-time students can expect this stage to take two years. Stage two culminates in the submission and defense of a PhD dissertation proposal.

Stage Two Curricular Overview (2-4 years)

• Tutorial I (PHD-920, 6 credits)*
• Language/Methods I (PHD-930, 3 credits)
• Tutorial II (PHD-921, 6 credits)*
• Language/Methods II (PHD-931, 3 credits)
• Comprehensive Exams I and II (PHD-910 & 911, 0 credits, P/F). Must pass before registering for Tutorial III.
• Tutorial III (PHD-922, 6 credits)*
• Language/Methods III (PHD-932, 3 credits) –if needed due to student’s research plan.
• Tutorial IV (PHD-923, 6 credits)*
• Teaching Portfolio (PHD-933, 3 credits) (Should be registered for in the semester prior to the defense)

                 * or two 3-credit graduate level courses

• Dissertation Proposal Defense (PHD-940, 3 credits). Must pass before entering stage three.

Stage Three (15 credits)

After passing the proposal defense, the student will move on to the dissertation stage of the program. Dissertations should be approximately 80,000-100,000 words, excluding bibliographies. Students will register 6 dissertation credits each the first and second semester and will register for a 3-credit dissertation defense. Students who have not defended their dissertation by the end of the second semester will need to register for a dissertation continuation as they continue to work on the dissertation until it has been defended. Students are allowed up to a total of two years to complete and defend their dissertation. Students are allowed up to a total of seven years to complete the program.

Stage Three Curricular Overview (1-2 years)

• Dissertation (PHD-995 & 996, 6 credits)
• Dissertation (PHD-997 & 998, 6 credits)
• Defense (PHD-999, 3 credits)

Students will acquire:

These learning objectives will be assessed through a Ph.D. portfolio which includes supervised teaching at the graduate level and significant engagement with a community of scholars.

Application Deadline:

Completed applications are due by January 31st.   

Admission Requirements:

All completed applications will be reviewed by the Ph.D. Committee. Applicants are required to have earned the Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Master of Theology, Master of Divinity, or an equivalent post-graduate degree from an accredited institution, prior to their enrollment into the program.

The following materials are required:

• Prior Education: Official transcripts from all previous institutions must be submitted to the Admission's Office.  Applicants are required to present transcripts in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. NOTE: Admitted students with non-U.S. transcripts are required to submit evaluated transcripts completed by a credential evaluation service. We recommend Spantran as the most economical option for transcript evaluation. HIU will be notified directly when the transcript evaluations are completed.  
• Writing Sample: a sample scholarly paper, thesis, or other publication.  
• Research Proposal: an approximately 2,000 word proposal that includes the topic and scope of a proposed research project, including the proposed faculty member with whom the applicant wishes to undertake advanced level research.  
• References: three academic letters of recommendation.  
• English Language Proficiency: Students who do not have English as a first language, or as a primary language in previous academic studies, are required, prior to application, to take either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination and achieve a minimum score of 550 (written version), 213 (computer version) or 80 (internet version), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and achieve a minimum score of 6.5, or the Duolingo English Test (DET) and achieve a minimum score of 110 (or demonstration of completion of a previous degree in the English language).

Where Your Journey May Lead

Ph.d. in interreligious studies.

Teaching in a college, university, or seminary

Serving as a specialist for your religious community

Providing public leadership in non-profit, business, and interreligious settings

The Value of Experience

Hartford International University Ph.D. candidates have immediate access to mentors and advisors among our faculty. They have been where you are, and they are more than happy to share their experiences, their guidance, and their encouragement.

Why choose Hartford International University’s Ph.D. program? Because you’ll have access to come of the best minds in the field of Islamic Studies and Christian-Muslim relations. We have, for example, the only faculty chair in North America devoted to Shi’a studies.

Research opportunities

Our Ph.D. candidates have access to our excellent library, along with online platforms around the globe. Learn with faculty members who regularly publish and present at conferences, including those of the American Academy of Religion and the Middle East Studies Association.

Admission Information

Completed applications are due by Jan. 31. The committee will accept students into the program by cohort for the 2022, 2024, and 2026, etc. academic years.

Related Blog Posts

From the Blog

Learn about Active Listening and Trauma-Informed Approaches to World Events

In response to the complex world events of the last few months, Continuing and Professional Education at Hartford International University created two webinars that address how we talk to each other about difficult and nuanced...

The post Learn about Active Listening and Trauma-Informed Approaches to World Events first appeared on Religion & Peace .

Potential Pitfalls Of Interfaith Dialogue

One of the main purposes of interfaith dialogue is to engage with people in a way that expands your heart and mind and provides insight and understanding into religious practices outside of your own. Inevitably,...

The post Potential Pitfalls Of Interfaith Dialogue first appeared on Religion & Peace .

Changing U.S. Demographics and the Impact on Interfaith Dialogue

We’ve changed as a nation – that’s very clear. Though Protestant Christians are still the single largest religious group, the Pew Research Center measured their share of the population as 40 percent of all Americans...

The post Changing U.S. Demographics and the Impact on Interfaith Dialogue first appeared on Religion & Peace .

Take the Next Step

Broaden your perspective. Deepen your ability to make a difference. Hartford International University programs prepare religious leaders and peacemakers who go beyond their own beliefs to embrace people of all faiths.

General HIU News

International Student Finds Grandmotherly Bond in Hartford

April 4, 2024

The first Sunday after Philip Fonjoh arrived at HIU, in August 2023, to begin his MA in International Peacebuilding, he walked through Hartford looking for a church to worship God. With no luck, on his way back, he walked past a bus station where Marion, an 89-year-old lady, was standing. Phillip said, "Hi," and they started a conversation. She told him she was going to church and insisted he come with her. They have been friends ever since. "Meeting her, I felt, was God's providence leading me to her."  

Harford Institute for Religion Research Releases New Clergy Wellness Report

March 26, 2024

Journal of Interreligious Studies Releases New Issue Honoring Dr. Lucinda Mosher

Join our mailing list.

Keep up with all the latest happenings at Hartford International.

• Religious Studies

Students must enroll in one of the following fields of study: American Religious History, Asian Religions, Early Mediterranean and West Asian Religions, Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Islamic Studies, Medieval and Modern Judaism, Philosophy of Religion, Religion and Modernity, Religious Ethics, and Theology.

• Programs of Study
• PhD - Doctor of Philosophy
• Combined PhD

Linn Tonstad

Director of Graduate Studies

• [email protected]

Heather Roberts

Departmental Registrar

• [email protected]
• 203-432-0830

Admission Requirements

Standardized testing requirements.

GRE is not accepted.

Program-Specific Application Requirements

A writing sample is required by this program. 

English Language Requirement

TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic is required of most applicants whose native language is not English.

You may be exempt from this requirement if you have received (or will receive) an undergraduate degree from a college or university where English is the primary language of instruction, and if you have studied in residence at that institution for at least three years.

Combined Degree Program Application Deadline

*The deadline to submit an application to a combined program is always the earlier deadline of the two individual programs, or December 15, whichever comes first.

Academic Information

Combined phd information.

Religious Studies offers a combined PhD in conjunction with African American Studies .

Program Advising Guidelines

GSAS Advising Guidelines

Academic Resources

Academic calendar.

The Graduate School's academic calendar lists important dates and deadlines related to coursework, registration, financial processes, and milestone events such as graduation.

Featured Resource

Registration Information and Dates

https://registration.yale.edu/

Students must register every term in which they are enrolled in the Graduate School. Registration for a given term takes place the semester prior, and so it's important to stay on top of your academic plan. The University Registrar's Office oversees the systems that students use to register. Instructions about how to use those systems and the dates during which registration occurs can be found on their registration website.

Financial Information

Phd stipend & funding.

PhD students at Yale are normally full-funded for a minimum of five years. During that time, our students receive a twelve-month stipend to cover living expenses and a fellowship that covers the full cost of tuition and student healthcare.

• PhD Student Funding Overview
• Graduate Financial Aid Office
• PhD Stipends
• Health Award
• Tuition and Fees

Alumni Insights

Below you will find alumni placement data for our departments and programs.

Doctor of Philosophy

Learning competencies:.

• Learners will develop a focused program of study in a specific area.
• Learners will interact with the content of the chosen program through analysis, critical evaluation, and synthesis, culminating in a Dissertation.
• Learners will conduct independent scholarly analysis and implement research findings in ministry context.

Dissertation

General Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with Focus Core Information

Trinity offers the following degrees at the doctor of philosophy level in the school of biblical and theological studies:.

Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Studies

Doctor of Philosophy in Theology

Trinity Offers the following Degrees at the Doctor of Philosophy level in the School of Christ-Centered Counseling:

Doctor of Philosophy in Biblical Counseling

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling

Trinity Offers the following Degrees at the Doctor of Philosophy level in the School of Integrated Apologetics:

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Apologetics and Philosophy

Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy of Religion

Trinity Offers the following Degrees at the Doctor of Philosophy level in the School of Practical Ministry:

Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Management and Leadership

Doctor of Philosophy in Preaching and Pastoral Ministry

Student and Graduate Testimonials

812.602.3320

[email protected]

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES

The Department of Religious Studies at Northwestern offers a small, highly flexible, interdisciplinary Ph.D. program that takes full advantage of faculty strength within our department as well as ancillary fields of the humanities and social sciences.  In the spirit of the inherently interdisciplinary character of religious studies, we train scholars both in the history of theory and method in religious studies and in important complementary approaches like ethnography, textual study, philosophy, historiography, and art history.  Our exceptional faculty’s wide training and diverse interests provide a rich foundation for future scholarship and teaching in a field that demands deeply trained specialists who are nonetheless avidly engaged in broad methodological and theoretical conversations of interest to the whole discipline.

Graduate students take at least two years of course work, including seminars, tutorials, and independent studies. All students take a two-quarter sequence in theories and methods in the study of religion and at least one course in comparative study of religion. Examples include "The Study of Religion as Vocation," "Classical Theories of Religion," "Sin, Salvation, and Racialization," and "Secularities: Thinking with, through, and against 'Religion'."

In addition, all students expand their circles of mentors and colleagues by taking up to half their course work in other departments.  Many students join an entering cohort in an affiliated department by participating in its standard first-year program, e.g. writing a first-year paper in History, taking the Introduction to Graduate Study in English, or taking the introductory seminars in cultural anthropology and anthropological research. But not all external coursework need be done in the same department. Rather, classes are chosen flexibly in consultation with the student's adviser in order to take full advantage of faculty resources in the field. To guarantee appropriate cross training, each examining committee and dissertation committee includes at least one faculty member from outside the department.

The third year is devoted to written and oral qualifying exams, to the preparation of a prospectus, and to additional course work if desired; the fourth and fifth years are dedicated to dissertation research and writing. Most students complete the degree within five years, although dissertations that require extensive fieldwork or archival research might take longer; additional competitive funding is available for longer projects.

• Academics /

Religion and Society Graduate Certificate

Build a multidisciplinary foundation for understanding the complex religious influences in modern societies at the local, national, and global level.

Get Started

No Application Required

Online and On Campus Options

What You'll Learn

• Apply an interdisciplinary, multicultural, and critical theory methodology to the study of religion in society from a nonsectarian perspective. 
• Understand the historical origins, central teachings, devotional practices, and social/political influences of religious traditions. 
• Explore ways that religions shape—and are shaped by—society, culture, and politics.  
• Consider the ways in which a foundation of religious literacy can improve the ability of professionals in the public and private sectors to work effectively.

Earning Your Certificate

To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:

• Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
• Earn at least a B grade in each course.
• Complete the courses within three years.

Learn more about pursuing a certificate  and the process of requesting your certificate .

Certificate Courses

The graduate certificate in Religion and Society requires 4 courses:

• 2 core certificate courses
• 2 certificate elective courses

Search For Courses

You can browse courses by term — fall, spring, or summer — in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.

Upcoming Term: Summer 2024

Summer course registration is open through June 20. Learn more about how to register →

Fall 2024 courses and registration details will be live in June.

Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.

This graduate certificate stacks to the following degrees:

• Religion Master’s Degree Program

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

Ph.D. in Religious Studies

Written by John Stafford

Masters of Arts in Religious Studies – University of Chicago

Upon earning a master’s degree in religious studies, graduates may choose to pursue a Ph.D. A graduate degree equips students with a particular set of skills and expertise that will enable them to conduct extensive research and build a career in their chosen field.

Especially in today’s globalized world, a Ph.D. in Religious Studies can deepen a student’s understanding of religion’s crucial role in politics and society. In addition to courses on religions in America, Asia, and Islam, students can study anthropology and religion in a global context.

Higher education enables graduates to refine their research and communication skills, opening up opportunities in academia, the private and public sectors, as well as in religious leadership. To find the best program that fits your interests and goals, it is important to investigate the various Ph.D. in religious studies programs available. 

What is Ph.D. in Religious Studies

A Ph.D. in Religious Studies program is an advanced academic degree program that builds on the knowledge gained through undergraduate and graduate studies. Research-intensive, it requires a high level of dedication and commitment to religion. Using different methodologies and perspectives, Ph.D. students can examine religious traditions from different cultures and societies in depth. 

As with a master’s degree, a Ph.D. in religious studies aims to equip students with a higher level of knowledge and expertise. Religion shapes social, cultural, and political systems in a complex and intricate manner.

How do you get a Ph.D. in Religious Studies?

It’s time to apply for a Ph.D. program now that you have decided to pursue a higher level of education in religious studies after completing your master’s degree. The following steps will help you through the application process for a Ph.D. in Religious Studies.

Transcripts

You need to supply official transcripts from all your undergraduate and graduate institutions when applying to a Ph.D. program in Religious Studies. Obtaining an admission to a Religious Studies Ph.D. program depends heavily on your official transcripts, which demonstrate your academic performance. 

Request official transcripts from each institution you attended and submit them to the programs you’re applying to.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic ability and potential are usually required by most programs. Request letters of recommendation from individuals who are able to comment on your academic ability and potential. Be sure to provide them with all necessary information, such as deadlines and instructions for submitting the letters, so that they have plenty of time to write them.

Statement of Purpose

A compelling statement of purpose is essential to a Ph.D. application in Religious Studies. It gives the admissions committee an idea of your academic and research interests, goals, and motivations. Your unique perspective and passion for the field can be highlighted in a well-written statement of purpose, which will help you stand out from other applicants.

GRE scores may be required as part of the application process for some Ph.D. programs. Although not all programs require GRE scores, submitting high scores can strengthen your application. The GRE is a standardized test that measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.

Writing Samples

Writing samples are required in many programs as part of the application process. These samples should demonstrate your ability to conduct research, write, and contribute to religious studies. Typically, you’ll be asked to submit a sample of your academic writing, such as a research paper or thesis chapter. Just make sure you proofread your sample and make sure it complies with any formatting requirements.

Structure of Religious Studies Ph.D. Programs

If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career in Religious Studies, a Ph.D. program might be right for you. The program typically consists of three core components: coursework, research, and teaching. Continue reading to find out more about what you can expect.

As PhD students, you will have the opportunity to conduct original research in your chosen field. In addition to adding value to the field, students also demonstrate their ability to conduct meticulous and thorough research as they undertake fieldwork, data collection, and analysis. 

A requirement of their Ph.D. program in Religious Studies is that students conduct original research in their area of specialization in order to complete their dissertation. Students establish themselves as experts in their field when they can conduct rigorous research and demonstrate a deep understanding of their area of interest.

As part of many programs, students are required to acquire teaching experience by serving as teaching assistants or instructors for undergraduate courses.

Courses in PhD Religious Studies

A PhD program in Religious Studies requires a variety of specific courses. The courses you take may vary depending on the institution, the area of specialization, and other factors. However, a few of the courses offered by Religious Studies Ph.D. programs are:

History of Religion

Ph.D. programs in Religious Studies provide a comprehensive study of the historical development of several religious traditions through the course History of Religion. Through this course, you will learn about the origins, key figures, and significant events that have shaped religions over the centuries. 

By studying religion’s history, students gain a deeper understanding of the contexts and influences that shape religious beliefs and practices over time. By using this knowledge, they can improve their research skills and enhance their overall knowledge of the field of Religious Studies.

Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Theology and Philosophy of Religion is another course offered in Ph.D. programs in Religious Studies. In this course, we will explore fundamental questions about God, religious belief, and the relationship between faith and reason, as well as the theoretical and philosophical aspects of religion.

The course may also cover the historical development of philosophical and theological traditions such as Aristotelianism, Thomism, and Kant, as well as contemporary debates within these traditions. 

Comparative Religion

For those pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Studies, one course to look forward to is Comparative Religion. This fascinating course delves into the study of various religious traditions across cultures and regions, analyzing their beliefs, practices, and cultural contexts. 

Through the lens of comparison, students explore similarities and differences between religions, and how these can contribute to a deeper understanding of religion’s role in society. 

Religion and Society

Religion and Society is a course in Religious Studies that examines the relationship between religion and society. Various social structures, institutions, and practices, such as politics, economics, gender, race, and culture, are examined in relation to religion as well as how religion affects and is affected by them.

Taking a close look at religion in its social context can help students gain a deeper understanding of the role religion plays in our world, as well as how it might have a positive or negative impact on society.

Mysticism and Spirituality

As a means of providing insight into the subjective experiences of individuals within different religious traditions, mysticism and spirituality are essential for scholars in religious studies. This course helps students understand how personal experiences, emotions, and intuition shape religious beliefs and practices. 

Moreover, this course can help students acquire a deeper understanding of cultural and regional diversity in terms of religious experiences and practices.

Religious Literature

In this course, you will explore the written works that have shaped religious traditions across cultures and regions. From the Bible to the Quran, the Bhagavad Gita to the Tao Te Ching, you will examine the texts that have influenced religious beliefs, practices, and identities. 

You will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical contexts shaped by religious literature and the religious traditions it represents by studying it. As a result, your research and overall expertise in the field of religious studies will be enriched, giving you a more comprehensive understanding of the role religion plays in shaping the world around us.

Religion and the Environment

Want to explore the fascinating relationship between religion and the natural world? Look no further than “Religion and the Environment” – a course offered in many Ph.D. programs in Religious Studies. 

As well as providing a unique understanding of how religion has played a role in promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability, this course examines how environmental concerns have become central to many religious traditions. Taking a closer look at the complex connections between religion, culture, and the environment offers students valuable insight into the current problems facing our world.

Religion and Conflict

Through this course, students explore how religious beliefs and practices can often become intertwined with political, economic, and social issues, resulting in conflict and unrest. Additionally, they examine case studies from around the world to illustrate how religion can be used to resolve conflict and build peace.

Ph.D. in Religious Studies (On-Campus & Online)

You can find suitable programs locally or online that suit your needs. To learn more, view the list below and contact the admissions office.

• Vanderbilt University – Ph.D. in Religion

Those interested in advanced study in religious studies can pursue a Ph.D. in Religion at Vanderbilt University. Admission requirements include a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, strong academic performance, research experience, and a detailed research proposal. As part of the application process, the university also considers letters of recommendation, personal statements, and GRE scores.

Students are required to complete a minimum of 72 credit hours of coursework, as well as a dissertation based on original research. They may also have the opportunity to participate in research projects and colloquia, attend conferences and workshops, and gain teaching experience as graduate assistants.

• Catholic University of America – Ph.D. in Religion and Culture

An academic program that prepares students for careers in research and teaching is the Ph.D. in Religion and Culture offered by the Catholic University of America. This program provides students with the necessary tools to analyze and interpret religion and culture in society as well as a broad understanding of the intersection between religion and culture.

The program requires a completed application, official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work, GRE scores, a writing sample, and three letters of recommendation. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in previous academic work.

In addition to required classes in theology, religious studies, philosophy, and cultural studies, students must complete 72 credits of coursework. In addition to a comprehensive exam, students need to write a dissertation.

• Oral Roberts University – Ph.D. in Contextual Theology

You can earn an online PhD in Contextual Theology from Oral Roberts University. In addition to the inspiration of the Bible by the Holy Spirit and the history of Christian doctrine, the program also examines four facets of theological reflection. In addition, it examines global trends in Spirit-empowered Christianity as well as the cultural context of particular nations or regions. The university also offers an online Christian counseling degree for students interested in this career field. Oral Roberts University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Regent University – Ph.D. in Renewal Theology

Getting a PhD in Renewal Theology from Regent University involves adding four concentrations: Biblical Studies, Christian Theology, Church History, or Practical Theology. In order to graduate, you need 60 credits. You need a master’s degree and a recommendation from a clergy member. The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits Regent University.

• Christian Leadership University – Doctor of Theology

It takes 60 credits, an internship at a ministry, and a dissertation or ministry project to get a Doctor of Theology at Christian Leadership University. You can transfer 20 credits from previous courses and life experiences. Christian Leadership University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. You have to have an on-campus or online master’s in theology.

• Columbia International University – Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies

Students can complete the Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies online at Columbia International University in three years. Of the 45 credit hours required to graduate, 36 of them come from completing a dissertation. The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools requires applicants to have a master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and 2 academic references, as well as to complete an interview.

• Evangelical Seminary – Doctor of Theology

A Doctor of Theology degree can be obtained in three years at the Evangelical Seminary, which requires 39 credit hours. The degree can be earned in 11 different tracks, including the Personhood Track and the Biblical Track. A master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for applicants. Evangelical Seminary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

What can you do with a Ph.D. in Religious Studies?

It is possible to find employment in a variety of ways as a Religious Studies Ph.D. holder. Here are some examples:

I. Academia

If you choose the academic career path and have a Ph.D. in religious studies, you may be able to:

• University Professor: With a Ph.D., you can become a professor or faculty member at a college or university, teaching courses in religious studies, theology, ethics, or related fields. You would also have the opportunity to conduct research, publish academic papers, and contribute to the academic community.
• Religious Educator: You could teach religious education at the secondary school level or in faith-based institutions, providing students with a deeper understanding of different religious traditions and ethical principles.
• Researcher: Many research organizations, think tanks, and academic institutions hire individuals with Ph.D. degrees to conduct in-depth research on religious topics, cultural trends, and social issues. Your research could contribute to a deeper understanding of religious practices, beliefs, and their impact on society.
• Public Speaking and Lecturing: With a Ph.D., you could become a public speaker, delivering lectures, seminars, and workshops on religious and ethical subjects to diverse audiences.

II. Nonprofit Organizations

PhDs in Religious Studies are also suited to work in nonprofit organizations focused on religion, such as:

• Nonprofit or NGO Work: Religious studies graduates can work in nonprofit organizations or NGOs that focus on social justice, humanitarian work, advocacy, and community development, leveraging their understanding of religious contexts and ethical principles.

III. Government

Also, Religious Studies PhDs can work in government agencies that specialize in religious and cultural matters, including:

• Museum and Exhibition Curator: Museums and cultural institutions sometimes hire religious studies scholars to curate exhibitions and educational programs related to religion, spirituality, and cultural heritage.
• Consulting and Advising: You could work as a consultant or advisor for organizations, businesses, or individuals seeking to understand religious customs, beliefs, and practices for various purposes, such as marketing or cross-cultural communication.

IV. Media and Communications

In addition to their expertise in religious and cultural issues, Religious Studies Ph.D. graduates may also find careers in media and communications. Potential roles include:

• Author and Writer: A Ph.D. can provide you with the expertise to write scholarly articles, books, and other publications on religious and theological subjects. You might contribute to academic journals, popular magazines, or even write books that engage a broader audience.
• Cultural Consultant: Corporations, government agencies, and international organizations often require experts in religious and cultural matters to provide insights into global business practices, policies, and diplomatic relations.
• Media and Journalism: Religious studies experts can contribute to media outlets by providing commentary, analysis, and insights on religious topics, cultural shifts, and ethical issues.

V. Church Settings

It is also possible to use the knowledge of religion and culture gained through a PhD in Religious Studies to implement in church settings. Potential roles include:

• Interfaith Dialogue Coordinator: With a strong understanding of various religious traditions, you could work as an interfaith dialogue coordinator, fostering understanding and collaboration among people from different faith backgrounds.
• Chaplain: Some institutions, such as hospitals, military organizations, universities, and correctional facilities, hire chaplains with advanced degrees in religious studies to provide spiritual support and guidance to individuals in various settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does a PhD in Religious Studies take?

On average, the program requires three years of full-time study, during which students conduct extensive research on a specific topic that culminates in a thesis of no more than 80,000 words. For those who prefer a more flexible approach, it is possible to complete the degree part-time over a period of five years.

• Is religious studies the same as philosophy?

While Religious Studies and Philosophy share some topics, they have distinct focuses. They are related, but not the same. Religion Studies is the study of different religions, beliefs, practices, and their impact on society and culture. 

Unlike philosophy, which examines fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and logic, it examines different faiths, rituals, texts, and historical contexts. In spite of philosophy of religion intersecting with Religious Studies, philosophy in general covers a wide range of topics.

• phd in religious studies salary?

According to PayScale , the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Religious Studies commands an average base salary of $68,000 per year

© 2023 Religious Degrees

Privacy Policy | Terms of Condition

Graduate Studies