The doctoral program involves three years of course work, followed by a qualifying examination in the field and area of specialization, and writing the dissertation. Total time to degree varies considerably, but most students take at least six years. (To fund extra years, many students apply for outside fellowships.)
Please note that the most up-to-date requirements are listed in Exploredegrees. Exploredegrees requirements detail that is guaranteed to be accurate. material listed on this site.
Curriculum
Although course requirements may vary according to field, in general, the doctoral program encourages students to design their own curriculum, including work outside the department. All students take
- two seminars in theories and methods,
- a reading course on recent scholarship in religious studies,
- two courses in a field outside their own, and
- a pedagogy seminar.
Foreign Languages
Reading competency in two modern foreign languages (one of which must be French or German) is required of all students. Additional languages, both modern and classical, may be required by particular fields and areas of specialization.
Publishing
The program emphasizes preparation for both scholarship and teaching. During the third year, students work with the faculty to prepare a publishable paper in their area of specialization.
Teaching Requirements
In addition to working as Teaching Assistants, they will also at some point serve as a Teaching Intern for a course in their field.
