Our department teaches students to analyze, understand and contribute to public conversations about the ways that religion and politics, economics, culture and society intersect in our world. Our faculty are productive, nationally recognized tenure-line scholar-teachers whose research engages a range of world religions. Our BA, MA, certificate and joint PhD programs prepare students to bring cultural and cross-cultural analytical tools to careers in business, human resources, social work, government, non-profits and journalism.
Our Mission
Our department encourages students to become intelligent spokespersons in their work and in their various conversations about religion in the public sphere. Our faculty's dedication to students and the study of religion is reflected through our mentoring, research and public service, as well as our critical interpretation and analysis of the world's religions.
Our bachelor's program aims to familiarize students with the histories, ideas and practices of at least four religious traditions, help develop an understanding of the religious dimensions of public and personal life, and analyze how religious beliefs and practices impact politics and societies in the U.S. and around the world. Students learn that how religion is defined and how we study it depends on the theoretical lens used, and the differences between religion as studied in the classroom and lived religion. Along with teaching practical and analytical writing skills, our program prepares students for graduate work in religion and for careers involving critical thinking, and great writing and research skills.
Our master's program provides students with the opportunity to hone their expertise in the study of religions, both broadly and in specialized areas. Our program prepares our students to qualify for doctoral programs, to teach religious studies subjects in colleges and high schools, and to cultivate cultural and cross-cultural analytical tools that will help them be successful in professions such as business, social work, journalism and government.
Our interdisciplinary doctoral program, in partnership with DU’s Iliff School of Theology, empowers students to develop as leaders in the study of religion. Students work closely with world-renowned faculty and pursue independent research, teaching and service opportunities. The program also offers certificate options that allow for further specialization.
Go to the graduate admission application to submit your information. For information on admission requirements, visit the graduate academic programs page and locate your program of interest.
