Course Overview

The Religion (Master's and Ph.D.) program at Vanderbilt University is designed to provide advanced study in religious traditions, theological inquiry, and interdisciplinary approaches to the study of religion. Offered through the Graduate Department of Religion, the program emphasizes critical analysis, historical context, and contemporary issues in religious studies. Students can specialize in areas such as ethics, historical studies, theology, and critical studies in Asian, Islamic, and Jewish traditions, among others. Unique features include a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and opportunities for engagement with diverse religious communities.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, religious leadership, non-profit organizations, and public policy roles related to religion and culture. The program equips students with skills in research, critical thinking, and communication, making them competitive in both academic and professional spheres.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program features distinguished faculty with expertise across various religious traditions and methodologies. Notable areas of research include Christian theology, Islamic studies, and religion and ethics, with faculty often contributing to global scholarly conversations in these fields.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to extensive library resources, including specialized collections in religious texts and archives. The university fosters partnerships with local and national religious organizations, providing opportunities for fieldwork and community engagement. Additionally, interdisciplinary centers at Vanderbilt support research in religion and its intersections with law, medicine, and social justice.