At this time, the Graduate Program in the Study of Religion only offers direct admission to its PhD. Students may earn an MA en route to the PhD, but we do not offer a standalone MA.
Degree Requirements
The Study of Religion Ph.D. program is designed as a 6-year program that includes the following components. For the full requirements, please see the Approved Degree Requirements (2022)PDF.
Coursework
a) Core Courses (16 units):
REL 200A. Historical Roots of the Study of Religion (4 units)
REL 200B. Foundational Theories of Religion (4 units)
REL 200C. Contemporary Approaches to the Study of Religion (4 units)
REL 200D Field Profile Seminar I-II (2 units each; 4 units total)
b) Elective Courses: minimum 44 units
As they develop their graduate studies, students will choose one Regional Area of Specialization (RAOS), one Thematic Area of Specialization (TAOS), and one Area of Competence (AOC). The Area of Competence will normally be a secondary religious tradition chosen to complement the primary Regional Area of Specialization (RAOS). It is expected that at least one course will count toward both Regional and Thematic Areas of Specialization unit requirements.
c) In addition to the requirements for the RAOS, TAOS and AOC, students must take 20 units of elective graduate level courses; students may count up to 12 units of advanced language study in a primary language of research as part of their elective units, and may count up to 12 units of directed research with a GGSR faculty member as part of their elective units.
Language Requirement
Competence in the languages of primary research (as determined by the Major Professor, in consultation with the Graduate Committee) must be demonstrated prior to advancement to candidacy. In addition, students must demonstrate competency in a second language, the language of scholarship.
Optional Designated Emphasis
Students may choose an additional specialization with one of the affiliated Designated Emphases (graduate minors).
Exams
- Preliminary Exam: Taken at the conclusion of the second year. Students are eligible to earn an MA when they successfully complete their Preliminary Exam. Guidelines for the Defense can be found under Resources.
- Qualifying Exam: Taken at the conclusion of the third year. Students Advance to Candidacy after successfully completing their Qualifying Exam. Guidelines for the Defense can be found under Resources.
Dissertation and Final Oral Exam (Defense)
A dissertation and a final oral defense are required. Guidelines for the Defense can be found under Resources.