Religious Studies

Religious studies seeks to develop understanding and empathy for diverse religious traditions and the people who practise them. Evaluators, here, will guide you through the study of religion from a multidisciplinary perspective, using methods drawn from various disciplines. The most common approaches are anthropological, sociological, historical, philological, and philosophical. In many cases, more than one method is used to illuminate a religion or a religious issue. Other approaches may include aesthetics and economics. Thus, the field is identified in terms of its subject matter, religion, and not the disciplinary approach used by scholars. Within the field, understanding is seen to precede criticism, with critical discussions of religious beliefs and traditions developing once understanding has been achieved.

Completing this program

• Courses: Topics include Western religions, Eastern religions, the nature of religion and advanced critical discourses in the study of religion.

• Language: Students demonstrate reading knowledge of at least two languages other than English prior to the candidacy examination.

• Thesis: Students will be required to submit and defend an original research thesis.

• Colloquium Course: Students participate in a PhD departmental colloquium.

• Candidacy: Students will complete both oral and written candidacy exams.

Specializations

• Western Religions
• Eastern Religions
• Nature of Religion

Outcomes

Former students have become academics, teachers, social workers, hospital chaplains, journalist and human relations professionals some have even entered the diplomatic service.

A PhD in religious studies is usually considered a final degree.