Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Arts in Religious Studies (MARS) Program

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies (MARS) program is a unique and pioneering course offered by the Department of Cultural and Religious Studies at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Established in 1998, the program has graduated over 600 students and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various religious phenomena from an academic and comparative perspective.

Program Objectives

The MARS program aims to cultivate students' critical thinking and research skills, enabling them to understand and appreciate different religious traditions and their cultural contexts. The program emphasizes experiential learning, with field trips and workshops that allow students to engage with local and international religious communities.

Program Structure

The MARS program consists of a range of courses that cover various aspects of religious studies, including:

• Introduction to Religious Studies
• Research Methods in Religious Studies
• Comparative Religion
• Religion and Culture
• Religion and Society

Elective Courses

Students can choose from a range of elective courses, including:

• Buddhism and Chinese Culture
• Christianity and Western Culture
• Islam and Middle Eastern Culture
• Hinduism and Indian Culture
• Taoism and Chinese Culture

Research Areas

The MARS program covers a wide range of research areas, including:

• Comparative Religion
• Religion and Culture
• Religion and Society
• Buddhism
• Christianity
• Islam
• Hinduism
• Taoism

Admission Criteria

To be eligible for the MARS program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university
• Have a strong academic record
• Demonstrate a keen interest in religious studies
• Meet the language proficiency requirements (English or Chinese)

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for the MARS program are competitive and subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the university's website.

Graduate Testimonials

The MARS program has received positive feedback from graduates, who have praised the program's academic rigor, experiential learning opportunities, and supportive faculty. Some testimonials include:

• "The MARS program has been a fruitful learning experience, allowing me to explore different religious traditions and their cultural contexts."
• "The program has helped me develop my critical thinking and research skills, enabling me to pursue a career in religious studies."
• "The faculty are knowledgeable and supportive, providing guidance and mentorship throughout the program."

Conclusion

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies (MARS) program at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is a unique and comprehensive course that provides students with a deep understanding of various religious phenomena and their cultural contexts. With its emphasis on experiential learning, research skills, and critical thinking, the program is ideal for students who wish to pursue a career in religious studies or related fields.