RELIGIOUS STUDIES 2007/2008
WHY PURSUE A DEGREE IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES AT THE
UNIVERSITY OF DENVER?
An advanced degree in religious studies prepares students for further graduate work or teaching—or for careers in journalism, government and nonprofit organizations in which cross-cultural analytical skills are important. After all, the study of religions helps us understand different beliefs and practices. Just as important, it helps us see ourselves more clearly.
The religious studies program offers a wide range of thought-provoking courses in an atmosphere of diverse and balanced inquiry. Our strong faculty has expertise in many traditions.
Other advantages include:
- small classes
- opportunities to study and conduct research in original texts
- various financial aid options
- metro Denver’s diverse cultures and faiths
The Department of Religious Studies offers an MA and participates in a joint PhD program with the Iliff School of Theology.
The MA program explores the phenomenon of religion, as well as religious traditions around the world. The program provides an opportunity to acquire competence in the study of religions, broadly defined, and in areas of special interest. This degree prepares students to qualify for doctoral programs, teach religious studies in colleges and high schools, or bring cultural and cross-cultural analytical tools to business, government and nonprofit organizations. Course offerings and faculty appointments reflect the department’s commitment to a balance of traditions, methods and theoretical approaches. Religious studies faculty members are well published and have won several distinguished teaching awards. Several have served in leadership roles in national learned societies and have received grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the American Council of Learned Societies and the Guggenheim Foundation.
The joint PhD program, offered with the Iliff School of Theology, is taught by distinguished faculty from both DU and Iliff. The program enrolls students from across the nation and around the world. The facilities and libraries of both institutions are open to all students, offering considerable research and academic resources. The joint PhD program offers specialization in biblical interpretation, religion and psychological studies, religion and social change, and theology, philosophy and cultural theory.
Various forms of financial aid are available, including graduate teaching assistantships at the University of Denver and fellowship programs at the Iliff School of Theology.
Prospective students who do not have a master’s degree are encouraged to complete DU's MA in religious studies.