can you get a phd in religion

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Ph.d. in the study of religion.

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

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Graduate Department of Religion

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Religion

Areas of study.

Degree programs are offered in:

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

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

Degree Requirements

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

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

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PhD Program

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The PhD program is a rigorous, interdisciplinary course of advanced study that prepares students for careers in research, teaching, and publicly-engaged leadership.

Doctoral students conduct original and advanced research in pursuit of expert knowledge about the human phenomenon of religion. Students study the world's religions using a variety of methods including constructive, historical, social scientific, and modes of literary and visual analysis. Students may focus their work in one of the School's Areas of Study or through a multidisciplinary course of study. Students develop a sophisticated grasp of methods and theories in a chosen Area of Study, gain a broad understanding of religion as a phenomenon, and join others in the creation of new knowledge. 

Program Overview

The program consists of coursework, languages, pedagogical training with teaching, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation. All doctoral students work with a faculty advisor and area faculty to progress through the program. 

OUR CURRENT PHD STUDENTS

PHD HANDBOOK

Admission Information We offer admission to the doctoral program annually.  Applicants to the PhD program must have a Master’s degree in religion or closely related field. 

Application Deadline     

January 4, 2024

Beginning in the 2020 PhD admissions cycle, there  will not  be an internal doctoral admission petition process for current Divinity School MA or MDiv students and recent alumni. Current and former students are required to submit the same documentation as external candidates, using the same deadline. 

Admission & Funding Information

Students admitted to the PhD program in 2016 and beyond receive a fellowship package that includes full tuition coverage, health insurance coverage for the student through the University Health Insurance Plan (U-SHIP), and an annual living stipend. The doctoral student fellowship is renewed annually for the maximum registration period. 

Required Application Materials

Applicants to the PhD program must have a Master’s degree in a program of study related to the proposed area of doctoral study.

• Divinity School Application for Graduate Admission
• Candidate Statement 
• Academic Transcripts 
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Current Resume or CV
• Writing sample, should not exceed 25 pages
• Application fee: $75 (waiver available)
• International students:  TOEFL or IELTS score

Director of Doctoral Studies, Dr. Richard A. Rosengarten is Associate Professor of Religion and Literature; also in the College.

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• Ph.D. Program in Religion

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

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

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Ph.D. in Religion

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 12

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 12

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 20-25 pages (12 pt. font, 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

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

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

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

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

I. Areas of Study

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

Geographical Complexes

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

II. Methodologies or Approaches

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

Admissions Requirements

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

Academic Background

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

Writing Sample

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

Statement of Purpose

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

Personal Statement

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 and Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Religion

See list of Religion faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

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Description of PhD Program

The Religion PhD program provides an opportunity for qualified students to do graduate work in this discipline at the highest level and in the university setting. It provides preparation for research and teaching in graduate theological education and in the college and university setting where religion is taught as one of the liberal arts and in relation to other such disciplines, particularly the humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences. The Baylor program offers work in four areas: New Testament, Old Testament, Historical Studies, and Theological Studies (Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, Christian Ethics, Contemporary Theology, Religion and Literature).  Jump to:

I. Course Work II. Modern Foreign Languages III. Preliminary Examinations IV. Ph.D. Candidacy V. Teaching Colloquy VI. Dissertation VII. Calendar for Ph.D. Program Completion

I. Course Work

For the Ph.D. in religion, a total of forty-five (45) hours is required; nine (9) dissertation hours and thirty-six (36) semester hours (minimum) as indicated here:

• Major:  Thirty-three (24) semester hours (minimum) in the field declared as the area of concentration (Old Testament, New Testament, Historical Studies, Theological Studies). All courses in the major must be at the 5000 level.
• Elective Courses:  A total of six (9) semester hours of graduate courses within the Religion Department (but not in major or cognate field) or graduate courses in other departments. Electives should be chosen in consultation with area faculty, to enhance the research or teaching interests of the student.
• REL 5398:  Theories of Religion

II. Foreign Languages

The requirement of foreign languages as research tools is related to the major field of study and to research needs. The basic requirement is intermediate proficiency in two foreign languages, one of which must be attained prior to the fall semester. Methods for achieving the proficiency are described in the Graduate School Catalog. The following statements indicate the basic policy in each area:

• Old Testament and New Testament: The requirement is German and French. The area faculty may approve the substitution of another language for French if the student's research needs justify the substitution.
• Historical Studies: Students concentrating in Historical Studies will achieve intermediate proficiency in two languages, other than English, necessary to their chosen field of research. The two languages will be negotiated with Historical Studies Faculty and conveyed to the Office of Graduate Studies.
• Theological Studies: The requirement is German and French. The area faculty may approve the substitution of another language for French if the student's research needs justify the substitution.

Additional language study may be required in relation to research needs. One language must be completed before the beginning of course work in the fall semester, and the faculty recommends that all language work be completed in summer sessions. All foreign language requirements must be completed before students begin the last twenty-four semester hours of course work.

III. Qualifying Examinations

Doctoral students will pass qualifying events at the completion of course work as laid out by the faculty in each area. Each area will distribute their expectations to students at new student orientation.

IV. Ph.D. Candidacy

Admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. with a major in religion requires 1) satisfaction of foreign language requirements; 2) satisfactory completion of qualifying examinations; 3) approval of student's dissertation prospectus by Religion Graduate Faculty; and 4) certification by the Dean of the Graduate School.

V. Teaching Colloquy

The purpose of the teaching colloquy is to help students 1) gain insights into the intellectual development of students; 2) learn practical approaches to classroom instruction of REL 1310 and 1350; 3) receive exposure to modern theories of teaching and learning.

Graduate Ph.D. students normally receive the opportunity to teach courses within the religion department. Students wishing to teach must meet the following requirements:

• Successful completion of qualifying examinations
• Current enrollment or completion of REL 5399 (Teaching Colloquy)
• Attendance of mentoring sessions with appointed supervisor in their first semester of teaching.

VI. Dissertation

The final stage in the doctoral work is the satisfactory completion of a dissertation in accordance with  guidelines provided by the Department and by the Graduate School .

VII. Calendar for Ph.D. Program Completion

Department of Religion

College of Arts & Sciences

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PHD, Religion

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

Degree Type: Doctoral

Degree Program Code: PHD_RELI

Degree Program Summary:

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

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

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences

346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602

706-542-8776

Department:

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Derrick Lemons

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Department of Religious Studies

Doctoral programs (ph.d).

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

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

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

Asian Religious Traditions (ART)

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

Prospective applicants are welcome to direct inquiries to Prof. Kera Street ([email protected] ), Prof. Nancy Khalek, Director of Graduate Studies ( [email protected] ), Nicole Vadnais, Graduate Program Manager ( [email protected] ) and/or any faculty member in the listed areas.

Graduate Advisors

Shahzad bashir, mark cladis, jason protass.

Truly Unconventional Wisdom

In 1968, our department was established to critically study religion at a time when it was standard to think about religion only as the study of theology and ethics in philosophy departments.

About the Ph.D. in Religion

The Department of Religion at Rice University is a research program dedicated to describing and analyzing all forms of religion and religious behavior with a wide variety of philosophical, historical, social-scientific, theological, and literary methods.

What makes our Ph.D. program stand out among other top tier programs?

• Significant financial support - all admitted students receive an annual stipend of $34,000 + full tuition waiver for five years. Students also have a variety of opportunities for competitive sixth-year funding, based on teaching and research interests.
• Training in specific religious traditions and methodologies
• Our graduates receive an apprentice experience
• A faculty deeply involved in scholarship of international scope while remaining attentive to the intellectual projects of individual students
• Opportunities to participate in certificate programs that enhance training and provide additional funding
• The ability to work in an interdisciplinary manner through easy access to other departments in the Humanities and Social Sciences

One of the benefits of working within a small, well supported, and distinguished department is the ability to tailor the program to meet the needs and interests of each student. Requirements for the Ph.D. degree reflect this unique dimension of the training offered.

For questions related to general PhD requirements in the School of Humanities, please contact Humanities Graduate Admissions . For questions regarding the particular requirements and opportunities within the Religion Department, please contact Dr. William Parsons , Director of Doctoral Studies.

Home > Degree Programs > Doctor Of Philosophy (PhD) in Religion

Doctor of Philosophy in Religion

Your role in the evolution of religious tradition begins here. And the way in which communities change, and are changed by, religious tradition is frequently mediated, moderated and inspired by students like yourself – students who are ready to research, write and formulate their unique, original interpretations. In turn, that knowledge and interpretation forms the basis for inspired leadership and teaching.

One could go so far as to say that you will learn from your religious study, and your religion will learn from you. It’s the way of spiritual and theological growth. It’s the way of community growth.

Personal growth. This is why Claremont offers concentrations in contextual or comparative theology and philosophy, Jewish studies, Christian origins, religious ethics, and Whiteheadian process studies. The PhD is an advanced degree because it requires discipline, dedication and vision. Knowledge and imagination. It requires you.

PhD in Religion

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Customize your program

Comparative Theology and Philosophy

Contextual theologies (global phd), philosophy of religion and theology, process studies, hebrew bible and jewish studies, new testament and christian origins, ready to experience claremont.

Department of Religious Studies

About the phd program, about the ph.d. program.

Our Ph.D. program is designed to prepare the very best candidates for successful careers in research and teaching at the university level. We have been ranked among the top 5 doctoral programs in Religious Studies in the country, and admissions is highly selective to produce incoming classes of 4 to 8 students. All doctoral students are admitted into one of the Department’s fields of specialization and must fulfill the specific requirements of that field:

Ancient Mediterranean Religions

• Ancient Near East
• Hebrew Bible
• Early Judaism
• Archaeology
• Greco-Roman Religions
• Early Christianity (including New Testament)
• Religions of Late Antiquity

For more on this field of specialization, click here .

Core Faculty:

Bart D. Ehrman ; Joseph Lam ; David Lambert ; Jodi Magness ; Hugo Méndez ; Zlatko Plese

Associated Faculty:

Evyatar Marienberg

Islamic Studies

Additional resources for the comparative study of Islam in the area include the following:

Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies programs at UNC and in the Triangle are coordinated by the  UNC Center for Middle East and Islamic Studies , housed in the  Global Education Center .  The Middle East Center collaborates with the Duke University Middle East Center to form the Consortium for Middle East Studies  at Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a federally funded Title VI National Resource Center. Another affiliated resource is the  Duke Islamic Studies Center .

University of North Carolina Press  has launched a  book series  on Islamic Civilization and Muslim Networks edited by Bruce Lawrence and Carl Ernst.

For more detailed information on the Islamic studies field, see the remarks of Carl Ernst on “ Graduate Admission Information for Islamic Studies at UNC .”

Youssef Carter ; Carl W. Ernst ; Juliane Hammer ; Waleed Ziad

Jodi Magness

Affiliated Faculty:

Charles Kurzman , Sociology (UNC); Omid Safi , Asian & ME Studies (Duke)

Medieval and Early Modern Studies

Jessica A. Boon ; Evyatar Marienberg

Barbara R. Ambros ; Carl W. Ernst ; Brandon Bayne

Religion and Culture

Andrea Dara Cooper ; Randall G. Styers

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

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

Religion in the Americas

Scholars in other Departments or programs at UNC such as Afro-American Studies, American Studies, Anthropology, English, Folklore, History, Latin American Studies, Political Science, and Sociology, regularly offer courses and participate in graduate examinations in the field.

There is a large and well-developed program in American religious history at nearby Duke University. Students at both institutions routinely enroll in each other’s graduate courses and participate in a series of jointly sponsored colloquia each semester.

The Southern Historical Collection, the North Carolina Historical Collection, and the folklore and ethnomusicology collections at UNC attract researchers from all parts of the nation. Specialized resources such as the Wesleyan collection at Duke, the Primitive Baptist collection at Elon College, the Friends collection at Guilford College, and the Southern Baptist collections at Wake Forest and at Southeastern Baptist Seminary, are easily accessible.

Yaakov S. Ariel ; Brandon Bayne ; Todd Ramón Ochoa ; Brendan Jamal Thornton

Juliane Hammer

Jason Bivins , Philosophy and Religion (NCSU)

Religions of Asia

Barbara Rossetti Ambros ; Lauren G. Leve

Carl W. Ernst

Across these specific fields we have a range of strengths in regions, traditions, methodologies, and themes. Graduate students regularly develop expertise in these areas by taking thematically-focused courses within and beyond the graduate fields in which they were admitted. We encourage applicants to consider how faculty strengths across concentrations provide resources for projects situated in a particular concentration:

In addition to pursuing your interests in your concentration through coursework in our department, other UNC departments, and at Duke, students will also receive a broad grounding in Religious Studies as an interdisciplinary field. All incoming students enroll in RELI 700 (“Theory and Method in the Study of Religion”), and all take “gateway” courses that introduce important themes and methodologies relevant to a particular concentration. For more information about coursework, please see the graduate program’s Policies and Procedures .

For more information about language requirements and doctoral exams, please click on the specific concentration above. For more information about the dissertation process and time to degree, please see the graduate program’s Policies and Procedures .

All students must have earned a bachelor’s degree prior to registration. In addition, note that:

• We admit students for Fall semester only (not for the Spring).
• We can accept only full-time students who will be in residence.
• Students admitted to the program who have not already earned an M.A. in the study of religion must earn an M.A. in the Department before advancing to the Ph.D. phase of the program. (We offer the M.A. only as the beginning of work for the Ph.D.; we do not offer a terminal M.A. degree.)
• Students enrolled in the Department’s M.A. program can petition to enter the Ph.D. program after successful completion of all M.A. requirements, or they may be admitted into the Ph.D. program after successfully petitioning to bypass the M.A. degree. Information about our M.A. requirements, including the process for bypassing the M.A., can be found here .

Because our department is committed to bringing a broad range of perspectives into the study of religion, we particularly encourage applicants from minority perspectives.

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

Curriculum plan options.

• 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

Christ-centered academic inquiry and spiritual leadership Biblical & Theological Studies (Ph.D)

Wheaton College trains evangelical scholars to serve the church worldwide as teachers, researchers, pastors, and leaders.

Our Biblical & Theological Studies Ph.D program fosters faithfulness to the teaching of Scripture and theology in combination with creative and critical reflection on its significance for the church and contemporary culture. 

Credential Type

Major credits required.

• Residential

6 Students Admitted

Small cohorts enable us to provide more opportunities and attention to each Ph.D. student. 

17 Countries

Our 90+ Ph.D. graduates serve churches and communities around the globe.

100% Funding

All Ph.D. students receive full tuition funding plus a research fellowship and travel stipends. 

Request Information

Or reach out to us anytime at [email protected] .

Contact a Program Mentor

It’s not too early! Connect with one of our program mentors to discuss dissertation topics, learn program distinctives, and explore vocational pathways.

Why Wheaton for Your Biblical and Theological Ph.D.? A Holistic Approach to Biblical-Theological Studies

In a world of highly specialized scholarship, we are intentional about bridging the scholarly gap between the Old and New Testaments, and especially between the disciplines of Biblical Studies and Theology.

Concurrent Coursework

Unlike most doctoral programs in North America that operate with a sequential, step-by-step model, our program is concurrent. This means students begin work on their dissertation proposals during their first semester, while taking seminars, honing their modern language skills, completing required readings for breadth and depth of knowledge in their field, and engaging in fellowship work.

Globally Minded Curriculum

Students will be exposed to perspectives from around the world through class discussions, the periodic presence of visiting international scholars, and an academic community engaged in global issues. Additionally, Wheaton is a member of the Hispanic Theological Initiative, a consortium of 25 institutions dedicated to increasing the the number of Latino/a Ph.D. candidates and graduates in related fields.

Integrated Research

Wheaton's Ph.D. program emphasizes the connections between disciplines. Our dissertation requirements call for original research that has integrative, biblical-theological significance.

Program Goals

In today’s academy, Biblical Studies and Theology are often treated as separate, autonomous subjects, but our Ph.D. program is designed to hold them together: We want our students to engage the entire canon of Scripture to discern its unified message. Likewise, our program explores the scriptural roots of theology and the theological roots of Scripture.

Our Curriculum

The length and specific components of the program will vary from student to student, but will include seminar-style courses and directed independent studies.

Ph.D. candidates also will write a dissertation that is distinctly theological in nature. This original research will focus on one of the traditional academic areas: Old Testament, New Testament, Systematic Theology, or Historical Theology.

View Curriculum

Sample Courses

Much of the Ph.D. program is rooted in independent studies, but common seminars include:

• Biblical Interpretation and Theology
• Old Testament Ethics
• Gender and the New Testament
• Doctrine of Creation
• Christ and Culture

Our Faculty Compassionate and Intelligent Educators

From the very start of their program through their dissertation defense, Ph.D. students will build strong personal and academic relationships with the program faculty. The following professors are the primary Ph.D. mentors.

Andrew Abernethy, Ph.D.

M. Daniel Carroll R. (Rodas), Ph.D.

Marc Cortez, Ph.D.

Esau McCaulley, Ph.D.

Rev. Amy Peeler, Ph.D.

Richard Schultz, Ph.D.

Daniel Treier, Ph.D.

Dr. Andrew Abernethy to Serve as New Ph.D. Mentor in Biblical Theological Studies

The Ph.D. Committee in Biblical and Theological Studies is pleased to announce the addition of  Dr. Andrew Abernethy as a new Ph.D. Mentor in Old Testament. His areas of interest are Isaiah, Psalms, and the Prophets, Theological/Canonical Interpretation, Literary-thematic approaches to the Old Testament, Old Testament theology, Integration of ancient context, literary analysis, and reception. 

Meet Faculty Mentors

Success After Wheaton What Can You Do With a Ph.D. in Biblical and Theological Studies?

In partnership with our Center for Vocation and Career, many find employment in higher education, as well as church and parachurch agencies.

Who Hires our Graduates?

• Colleges and universities
• Parachurch agencies
• Religious organizations
• Publishing houses

Where are Our Ph.D. Alumni Serving?

Alumni from the program have gone on to work at the following organizations and many more:

• Reformed Theological Seminary
• Institut Biblique et Missionnaire
• Northern Seminary
• Talbot School of Theology(Biola University)
• The Urban Ministry Institute
• Oak Hill Theological College
• Grace Theological Seminary
• Zondervan Publishing
• Gordon College
• Singapore Bible College
• Bethlehem Bible College and Seminary
• Crossway Books
• Planetshakers College
• Knox Theological Seminary
• Visoko Evanđeosko Teološko Učilište, Croatia
• Truett Seminary (Baylor University)
• Africa International University
• Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
• Moody Bible Institute
• Taylor University
• Liberty Presbyterian Church
• Life on the Vine Christian Community

What Career Paths Have Our Alumni Taken?

Alumni of the Ph.D. in Biblical & Theological Studies program have gone on to faithful careers in a variety of different fields. Many hold teaching positions at seminaries as well as both Christian and secular colleges and universities around the country and the world. Beyond that, our graduates pastor churches large and small here in the local area, on both coasts of the country, and in many other countries across the globe. A number of graduates also serve in publishing and other media-related fields.

See alumni placements

Author & Educator

“Wheaton was an ideal place in which to prepare for a lifetime of scholarship and teaching.”

Dr. Carmen Imes, an associate professor of Old Testament at Biola University in Alberta, Canada, is the author of Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters. She has appeared on more than 50 podcasts and radio shows and is a guest blogger for Christianity Today , The Political Theology Network, and The Well . Imes frequently speaks at churches, conferences, and retreats, and she's even launched a YouTube channel where she releases weekly "Torah Tuesday" videos.

Before earning her Ph.D. from Wheaton College, Imes and her husband served as missionaries in the Philippines with SIM International.

Congratulations, Ty!

Ty Kieser , Ph.D. 2020  was recently hired as Assistant Professor of Theology and the Program Director of the M.A. in Theological & Biblical Studies at Criswell College in Dallas, Texas. His teaching is split between undergraduate and graduate theology and church history classes. Ty has published and presented extensively within his areas of research: Christology, trinitarian theology, post-Reformation theology, and theology of the atonement, including his forthcoming co-authorship, with Kelly M. Kapic,  John Owen Among the Theologians (Under Contract; due 2024).

See where our alumni are now

More About This Program Frequently Asked Questions

We've put together a few common questions (and their answers) about this graduate program.

What do you look for in applicants to this program?

Our program is highly competitive and intensive and seeks six scholars per year who can serve the church worldwide as teachers, researchers, pastors, and leaders.

A full tuition scholarship, as well as a research fellowship, for each of the six students accepted per year, will allow you to devote yourself to advanced learning as a fully involved member of the academic community.

See full admissions requirements.

Can I complete this program without living in Chicago?

The Ph.D. in Biblical and Theological Studies is a residential program.

What advice do you have for Ph.D. applicants?

Considering Ph.D. work is an important decision. Our faculty member Dr. Daniel Treier has written advice to evangelical students who are pursuing doctoral programs. Read his advice, here.

Financial Wellness

The Biblical & Theological Studies Ph.D. program offers full tuition scholarships, as well as a research fellowship, to each of the six students accepted per year.

This financial award enables Ph.D. candidates to devote themselves to advanced learning as a fully involved member of the academic community.

Interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Biblical and Theological Studies at Wheaton? Request more information or start your application today.

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Degree Programs

Harvard divinity school offers four masters-level divinity degree programs and a joint hds/gsas phd program..

Read more about the PhD program on the  Committee on the Study of Religion  website.

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

Master of Theological Studies (MTS)

Master of Theology (ThM)

Master of Religion and Public Life (MRPL)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Learn About HDS

The divinity degree admissions process, the Harvard Divinity community, and how to apply for financial aid.

Visit HDS Admissions & Aid

Whether your interest in a divinity degree focuses on academic study, field work, ordained ministry, or other callings, the study of theology and religion can be a lifelong asset as you consider and reflect on some of the world's oldest and deepest questions in a supportive, empathetic community.

Visit Apply to HDS for more on the application process. Detailed information about the master’s programs requirements can be found in the HDS Handbook for Students . Applicants interested in the PhD program in religion should contact Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences directly, or visit the Committee on the Study of Religion website .

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.

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• PhD in Religious Studies

New applications for the PhD in Religious Studies are not being accepted at this time. Students interested in graduate study in this field may wish to consider the PhD program in Religion described here . Requirements for students currently enrolled in the PhD program are listed below.

The purpose of the PhD in Religious Studies program is to train scholars of religion who will distinguish themselves through research, teaching, and service to universities, colleges, seminaries, and the world at large. All students will choose an area of specialization within one of the program’s four tracks:

Track 1: Texts and Traditions Track 2: Religious Thought Track 3: Religion and Society Track 4: Religion and Science

The guidelines for each track are meant to ensure that students are well-prepared to produce high-quality academic work in their chosen areas of specialization while also remaining fully engaged in the broader trends in the study of religion most relevant to their work. Each track is guided by a group of faculty that includes, among others, members of the Religion Department, the School of Theology, and faculty from other schools and departments related to the focus of the track. For more information on each of these tracks and the requirements for the PhD in Religious Studies, see the Graduate Division of Religious Studies (GDRS) page .

Students entering the PhD program will have majored in religious studies (or a related discipline) or otherwise show transcript evidence of advanced coursework in a single religious tradition and introductory coursework in multiple religious traditions.

Learning Outcomes

• Produce an original and substantial contribution to knowledge in the field of religious studies, utilizing appropriate skills of research.
• Demonstrate a rich, generalized mastery of the field’s subject matter and the variety of methods employed by its practitioners.
• Obtain the necessary knowledge for future research and to teach broad introductory undergraduate courses in religious studies.
• Comport oneself according to the highest ethical standards of the academy, exhibiting collegiality and fairness in treatment of teachers, peers, students, and subjects of study.

Course Requirements

In addition to any prerequisites required upon admission, sixteen 4-unit courses (64 units) are required as a minimum for the PhD. This includes at least two 4-unit courses in Approaches to Religious Studies:

• CAS RN 795 Humanities Approaches to Religion
• CAS RN 796 Social Science Approaches to Religion
• CAS RN 797 Philosophical and Theological Approaches to Religion
• CAS RN 798 Scientific Approaches to Religion

Course requirements by track:

Track 1: Texts and Traditions

Track 2: Religious Thought

• CAS RN 723 Core Texts and Motifs of World Religions: West
• CAS RN 724 Core Texts and Motifs of World Religions: East

Track 3: Religion and Society

• CAS RN 796 Social Scientific Approaches to Religion

Track 4: Religion and Science

• Two terms of science literacy and scientific boundary questions

Additional courses may be required at the discretion of the advisor or track coordinator.

Language Requirements

All students pursuing a PhD degree in Religious Studies are required to demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency in two modern foreign languages during the first two years of graduate study, one of which will usually be French or German. The second language, if not French or German, should be a modern foreign language clearly related to the dissertation research. Additional language competencies may be required, depending on a student’s research and track specialization. Language proficiency can be demonstrated either through a language examination or successful completion of a noncredit graduate-level foreign language reading course offered by Boston University.

Students in the Religion and Society track may be permitted, with the approval of their advisor, to substitute for the second modern foreign language demonstrated competence in a relevant research methodology (such as statistics, ethnographic fieldwork methods, or other forms of qualitative or quantitative research skills).

Students in the Religion and Science track will be required to substitute, for the second modern foreign language, an exam in a science skill (such as cognitive and neural modeling, ecological modeling, mathematics, computer programming, or statistics for empirical research), depending on the direction of research. For additional lab requirements pertaining to this track see the GDRS Track 4 page .

Qualifying Examinations

PhD candidates, after successful completion of all coursework and language requirements but before proceeding to the dissertation, are required to pass three to five separate qualifying examinations. At least one of these examinations should have an oral component. At least two of these examinations must have a written component. Exams should be completed within the third year of study (normally within one year after completing coursework).

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the readers, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the Department Chair/Program Director. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation as a valuable contribution to knowledge in their fields and demonstrate a mastery of their fields of specialization in relation to their dissertation. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree , and the GDRS student handbook for program-specific advice and procedures.

If a student chooses not to continue in the PhD program and has otherwise fulfilled the course and language requirements for the MA degree , they may apply for the master’s degree. The required thesis or comprehensive examination for the degree will be determined by the student’s advisor, in consultation with related faculty, and with the approval of the Director of the GDRS.

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PhD in Religion

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

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

Also required for the PhD are Research Skills:

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

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

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

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

Why Study Religion at UGA?

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

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