Religion, MA

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The Master of Arts in Religion is designed to give students a strong foundation in the scholarly study of religion. The degree provides preparation for doctoral studies in religion and other related disciplines. Career-wise, the program contributes a foundational background for those interested in a wide range of work and service in religious communities and other professional fields, including research and teaching in the field of religious studies.

Students admitted to the MA in Religion should refer to the Religion Student Handbook for the year in which they begin the program for complete details.

Degree Requirements

Coursework. The Master’s degree requires completion of 48 units. All MA students are required to take REL 362 - Theories of Religion. Further course requirements vary according to concentration. Addendum: Unit reduction approved for students entering during the 2017-2018 Academic Year and retroactively to any student active in the MA Religion degree program during the Summer 2017 term. Please see the 2017-2018 Bulletin for details.

Language Requirement/Research Tool. Primary text language requirements vary by concentration. All master’s students are required to complete a Research Tool. Generally this is done by demonstrating competency in at least one modern language, such as German, French, or Spanish. Competency is typically accomplished by passing a written translation exam. In some cases, according to concentration, students may take a research methodology course to satisfy the Research Tool requirement. This is at the discretion of the advisor.

Thesis. A thesis is required, the topic for which is selected in consultation with the student’s advisor or advisory committee.

University Policies. University policies detailed in the Academic Policies section of the Bulletin apply.

CONCENTRATIONS

Critical Comparative Scripture
History of Christianity and Religions in North America
Philosophy of Religion and Theology
Religion (general)
Religion for Professionals
Women’s Studies in Religion

Continental Philosophy Concentration

The Continental Philosophy concentration is available to MA and PhD students in the Cultural Studies, Philosophy, and Religion programs. Requirements for the concentration are as follows according to the department/program in which the student is enrolled.

Philosophy MA

Four courses in Kantian and post-Kantian continental philosophy with the approval of advisor (Note: the presumption is that pre-Kantian philosophies will not be considered a course in continental although, on an individual basis, may be considered upon the recommendation of the instructor)
Capstone/final paper on continental thought
French or German as a Research Tool

Philosophy PhD. Same as Philosophy MA above, plus one folio paper in the area of continental thought.

Cultural Studies MA or PhD

16 units in Kantian and post-Kantian continental philosophy with the approval of advisor (Note: the presumption is that pre-Kantian philosophies will not be considered a course in continental thought, although, on an individual basis, may be considered upon the recommendation of the instructor)
Final paper on continental thought
French or German as a Research Tool

Religion MA or PhD (available only to students in the Philosophy of Religion and Theology program). Four courses in Kantian and Post-Kantian Continental philosophy with the approval of advisor.