Religion studies is a field of study that looks at the different religious traditions and beliefs around the world. It covers a wide range of topics, including history, texts, practices, and beliefs. Religion studies seek to understand and appreciate the diversity of religious traditions and to understand how culture shapes religion.

As a whole, religious studies has many opportunities to grow and learn. You can explore how religion shapes our world, or learn about different religions and cultures even more, with master’s in religious studies. 

What is a Master’s Degree in Religious Studies?

Master’s in Religious Studies is a graduate-level academic program devoted to studying religion and its various aspects through scholarly research. From a critical and analytical standpoint, this field explores different religious traditions’ beliefs, practices, history, culture, texts, and impact. Rather than advocating or promoting any particular religious viewpoint, this type of program focuses on the academic study of religion.

During your Master’s program, you will take a variety of courses that cover the history, texts, practices, and beliefs of different religions. The course covers historical origins, development, key texts, beliefs, and practices of the major world religions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism. As well, you will explore how religion shapes culture and politics in society.

Why get a Masters in Religious Studies?

It is important to note that a Master’s degree in Religious Studies can be pursued for a variety of reasons:

1. Intellectual Exploration:
   Having a strong interest in religion, spirituality, as well as the cultural, historical, and philosophical aspects of different faith traditions, a Master’s degree in Religious Studies offers you the opportunity to deepen your understanding of these topics in an academic and critical way.
2. Career Opportunities:
   Graduates of this program may choose to pursue academic or research careers, but they may also choose to pursue a variety of other career paths. It is likely that graduates of this program will go on to work in a number of fields, such as education, journalism, social work, non-profit organizations, interfaith dialogue, counseling, and more. Those who have completed this program are likely to be able to apply their analytical and critical thinking skills to a wide range of careers.
3. Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue:
   As a result of the program, graduates may engage in interfaith dialogue, diplomacy, or work in organizations that promote tolerance and understanding among different religious communities, as well as exhibit a greater understanding and appreciation of the diversity of religious perspectives.
4. Preparation for Further Study:
   It is important to note that a Master’s in Religious Studies provides a solid foundation for students who plan to pursue a Ph.D. in Religious Studies and an academic career in academia.
5. Cultural Competence:
   Like how our world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is important to have a solid understanding of different cultures and religious traditions in order to be able to work effectively and communicate effectively in culturally diverse environments.
6. Contributing to Society:
   The knowledge and skills of graduates can be applied to address social issues, promote social justice and contribute to discussions on ethical and moral dilemmas within the context of a global society.
7. Respect for Diversity:
   There is no doubt that studying religious studies can cultivate a respect and empathetic attitude towards people from various backgrounds and backgrounds and beliefs.

Best masters in religious studies online

You need to find a university that provides comprehensive training in both defending Christianity and engaging with philosophical, theological, and cultural issues. Despite the fact that program offerings may have evolved, the following institutions are recognized as offering Master’s programs in Religious Studies.

• Boston University – Master of Arts in Religious Studies

The MA in Religious Studies program is designed to equip students with a dual proficiency – familiarity with the methodologies of academic religious studies and advanced knowledge in a specialized field. This comprehensive training positions graduates to either pursue doctoral programs in religious studies or seminary degree programs, or to secure positions where a refined understanding of global religions is valued.

A distinctive feature of the program is the selection of one of four tracks, each offering a unique focus:

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

An essential requirement for all MA in Religious Studies students is to exhibit graduate-level reading proficiency in either French, German, or another pertinent foreign language before completing the degree. This proficiency can be demonstrated through a language examination or successful completion of a noncredit graduate-level foreign language reading course available at Boston University.

• Trinity College of Arts and Sciences – Master of Arts in Religious Studies

The M.A. in Religious Studies program attracts a diverse range of applicants, including recent graduates with Religious Studies backgrounds seeking direction for their careers, individuals from various disciplines intrigued by religious studies, and local professionals aiming to broaden their horizons through advanced studies in religion. Applicants are not obliged to submit writing samples, but they have the option to include one, with a recommended length between 10 and 20 pages. The program requirements entail the completion of 30 units of credits, which can be achieved through either of the following methods:

Thesis Option:

• Completion of 8 courses (24 units)
• 2 research components (6 units)
• The research components involve supervised research conducted under the guidance of a Department of Religious Studies faculty member
• A Master’s thesis that requires defense before an examination committee comprising at least 3 members, including a Department faculty member as the committee chair.

Research Paper Option:

• Completion of 10 courses (30 units)
• Completion of 2 Research Papers
• At least 2 of the courses involve crafting a research paper, with one supervised by a Department faculty member
• Both papers must have received a grade of B or better
• The 2 research papers necessitate defense before an examination committee consisting of 3 to 4 members, with a majority being Duke faculty and at least 2 being Religious Studies faculty. A Department faculty member chairs this committee.

Choosing between the two options is a prerequisite before the penultimate semester. During this phase, students are required to complete a form indicating their chosen option, along with details about their intended writings and the proposed members of their examination committees. 

• New York University – Master of Arts in Religious Studies

With a master’s in religious studies, students learn about religious cultures and effective research methods. The program entails 32 points of coursework (eight courses) and offers two capstone options: a thesis project or a written comprehensive exam. RELST-GA 1001, Theories and Methods in the Study of Religion (4 points) is a core requirement. Seven elective courses (28 points) explore religious life and practice from disciplinary and cultural perspectives. Students create a balanced course trajectory with faculty guidance. At graduation, students should demonstrate mastery of one disciplinary focus and a working understanding of one cultural area.

In order to fulfill the degree, students choose a thesis adviser from the Religious Studies faculty or another NYU department. The student works with the adviser to develop a thesis paper that is reviewed by two faculty members, including one from the Religious Studies program. Although the paper is ungraded, students may enroll in a Master of Arts program.

• Arizona State University – Master of Arts in Religious Studies

This program offers candidates an avenue to cultivate a profound comprehension of diverse religious traditions within their historical and cultural contexts, all while acquiring essential research methodologies. While students frequently choose to focus their thesis work on a specific religious tradition, the program’s essence lies in fostering a comprehensive, comparative grasp of religions, transcending specialized training in a solitary tradition.

Degree Requirements:

• Completion of 30 credit hours, including the requisite applied project course (REL 593) and a foreign language examination, or
• Completion of 30 credit hours, a thesis, and a foreign language examination

• Missouri State University – Master of Arts in Religious Studies

Those wishing to deepen their understanding of diverse religious traditions and cultures can benefit from Missouri State University’s comprehensive and dynamic graduate program in Religious Studies. This program offers students the opportunity to critically analyze the intricate tapestry of human belief systems and the impact they have on society through rigorous academic exploration and practical application.

The program strives to foster a holistic understanding of religions that transcends traditional boundaries. Using this approach, students gain a broader perspective, helping them navigate the interconnected world of religious diversity.

Through specialization and research, students can tailor their academic career to fit their interests and goals. Students are empowered to explore their chosen focus, whether it is the historical foundations of faiths, philosophical underpinnings of religious thought, or dynamic interactions between religion and society.

What careers are linked to Master’s in Religious Studies?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are ten potential career options for someone with a Master’s degree in Religious Studies, along with salary information from each of those jobs:

1. Clergy:
   There is a wide range of job duties performed by clergy, including offering spiritual guidance to a congregation and performing religious ceremonies. The median annual salary for clergy is $48,990.
2. Religious Educator:
   In several different settings, such as churches, schools, and community centers, religious educators teach students about religious studies, theology, and religious practices to them. The median salary for religious educators is $48,990 per year.
3. Theological Librarian:
   There are many tasks that a theological librarian is responsible for, such as curating and maintaining religious studies collections in libraries as well as other research institutions.
4. Non-profit/Community Organization Director:
   Many religious organizations have community outreach programs and non-profit arm that help to serve the needs of the community, graduates of a master’s degree in religious studies are well suited to these roles. Median annual salary: $67,890
5. Academic Researcher or Professor:
   Those who hold a Master’s degree in religious studies may also be employed in academia as researchers or professors in universities and colleges, teaching and conducting research in the field of religious studies. Median annual salary: $79,540
6. Museum Curator or Archivist:
   As a graduate of a master’s program in religious studies, you may also be employed as a curator or archivist in a museum or historical society. In these positions, you will be assisting with the preservation and interpretation of religious artifacts and documents.
7. Social Worker:
   An individual who has completed a Master of Arts in Religious Studies degree can also utilize their degree in the field of social work to help provide assistance and support to individuals and communities that are in need. The median salary for this position is $49,470 per year.
8. Writer or Journalist:
   Graduates of a Master’s degree in religious studies can also work as writers or journalists, covering topics related to religion or spirituality for publications, or work as reporters for media outlets, whose median annual salary is $41,260.
9. Counselor:
   In addition to working as counselors, individuals with a Master’s degree in religious studies can also work as social workers who provide guidance and support to individuals and families. The median salary at this level is $56,040 per year.
10. Human Resources:
    An individual who has completed a Master’s degree in religious studies can also use their degree to work in human resources, ensuring that the policies and practices of the organization are in harmony with the values and missions of the organization. Median annual salary: $63,490.

This is just a small sample of potential career options and salary information provided by BLS, and actual job opportunities, duties, and salaries may vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the location, the employer, the experience, and the skill set of an individual.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many years for a masters degree in religious studies?
   It depends on a number of factors, including the structure of the program, whether you are studying full-time or part-time, and the requirements of the institution, whether you will be awarded a Master’s degree in Religious Studies within one or two years. It typically takes one to two years to complete a Master’s degree in Religious Studies. Here’s a general breakdown of the different program options:

• Full-Time Programs: In most universities, a Master’s degree program in Religious Studies can be completed in 1 to 2 years of continuous study, which may include coursework, research projects, and a thesis.
• Part-Time Programs: Some institutions also offer part-time options for students who want to balance their studies with other commitments. Part-time programs may extend the duration of the degree, often allowing students to complete the program in 2 to 3 years or more.
• Thesis vs. Non-Thesis Options: Students may be required to complete a thesis, a piece of original research and scholarly writing, or they may have the option of completing coursework and taking a comprehensive exam in a non-thesis program. A thesis usually takes more time to complete due to the research and writing involved.
• Online and Distance Learning: Almost anywhere in the world, students can complete their Master’s degree in Religious Studies with online and distance learning options. Usually, these programs have a similar duration to traditional on-campus programs.