The hallmarks of our PhD program in religion is creative interdisciplinarity, theoretical reflection, and the rigorous investigation of material, textual, cultural, aesthetic and political dimensions of religions. An intimate context and collaborative ethos nurture intellectual experimentation and growth. We strongly support teaching experience and pedagogical development.

We offer all admitted PhD students five years of stipend funding, including a full tuition scholarship, for working as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Religion.

Concentrations

The Department of Religion offers three graduate concentrations in the following interrelated areas that align with the distinctive research profile of its faculty. Each concentration gives sustained attention to religion, theory, bodies, gender and materiality.

COMMUNITIES AND IDENTITIES explores religion and spirituality in modern societies, both local and global, through the lenses of anthropology of religion and history of religions.

CRITIQUE, IMAGE AND POLITICS explores how religions shape and are shaped in aesthetics, ethics, psychology, sociology, philosophy, and political and culture theory.

TEXTS AND CONTEXTS explores literary and performative expressions of religion, including scriptures, through the lenses of history, philosophy, literary theory, and rhetoric.