Program Overview

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Overview of the Master of Arts in Religion Program

The Department of Religion at Temple University offers a 30-credit master's program. This program provides intensive training in research methods and special fields of concentration in religion studies. It is designed for those seeking to qualify for the PhD program at Temple University or other leading universities, as well as for those who plan to teach religious studies in community colleges or high schools.

About the Program

The MA degree in Religion offers advanced training in methods of research and in-depth study of the world's major religious traditions. It is suitable for various forms of religious ministry, providing post-graduate training and exposure to the newest research methods and developments. The program also allows students to bring cultural and cross-cultural analytical tools to professions such as business, government, journalism, medicine, and social work.

Time Limit for Degree Completion

The time limit for degree completion is 3 years.

Campus Location

The program is located on the Main campus.

Full-Time/Part-Time Status

The degree program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.

Areas of Specialization

The MA program offers two areas of concentration:

• Religion, Values and Global Cultures: This concentration focuses on the world's religious traditions and various Western and Asian religious and values traditions.
• Religion, Values and Public Life: This concentration uses historical, philosophical, and social-science methods of study in the field of Religion and explores areas of interaction between religion and values in public life.

Job Prospects

The master's degree at Temple University is viewed as an enhancement of knowledge about religion for those already employed in various professional capacities or as the foundation for pursuit of a PhD degree.

Non-Matriculated Student Policy

Non-matriculated students may complete three graduate courses before being admitted into the degree program. Credit toward a subsequent degree program at Temple University is limited to 9 credits.

Financing Opportunities

University Fellowships, Graduate Assistantships, and Academic Internships are ordinarily reserved for PhD students.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadline

January 15. Applications are evaluated together after the deadline.

Letters of Reference

Three letters of reference are required, from former instructors or academic persons who know the applicant best.

Coursework Required for Admission Consideration

Applicants are invited to consult with the Graduate Director regarding specific academic preparation.

Bachelor's Degree in Discipline/Related Discipline

A baccalaureate degree is required, with a degree earned in a Liberal Arts discipline preferred. Applicants with no Liberal Arts background should consult with the Graduate Director.

Statement of Goals

In 2 to 3 pages, describe your background and specific interests and reasons for pursuing an MA in Religion, demonstrating knowledge of the scope and limits of the Department of Religion's offerings and outlook.

Standardized Test Scores

GRE scores may be submitted if available. The GRE is waived for international students whose native language is not English, but the minimum TOEFL must be achieved and reported.

English Language Requirements

Applicants who earned their baccalaureate degree from an institution where the language of instruction was other than English must report scores for a standardized test of English that meet the minimum requirements:

• TOEFL iBT: 100
• IELTS Academic: 7.0
• PTE Academic: 68

Resume and Writing Sample

A current resume and a writing sample are required. The writing sample should demonstrate the ability to research and write a scholarly paper, no more than 10 pages in length, and fully referenced according to a professional, scholarly style manual.

Transfer Credit

Courses taken at an accredited institution that are compatible with the offerings at Temple's Department of Religion and graded "B" or better are eligible for transfer credit. The maximum number of credits a student may transfer is 6.

Program Requirements

General Program Requirements

The program requires 30 credits beyond the baccalaureate.

Required Courses

The program includes:

• Foundations Courses: 12 credits
• Advanced Seminars and/or Independent Study: 12 credits
• Additional Courses: 6 credits

Students can take 3 to 6 credits of coursework outside the Department of Religion in a cognate field at Temple University.

Language Examination

Reading knowledge of a language relevant to the area of focus is required, although this can be waived for those who are planning to do graduate work that does not require foreign language proficiency.

Culminating Event

Students must choose either the thesis or portfolio option no later than upon completion of their first 18 credits of coursework. The choice must be approved by the Graduate Studies Committee.

Thesis Option

Recommended for students intending to apply to a doctoral program or planning to teach at the college level. Six credits must be taken in a 3-credit Independent Study that prepares the student to register the following term for a 3-credit MA thesis project under the direction of a thesis advisor. Reading knowledge of a language relevant to the thesis topic and oral defense of the thesis are required.

Portfolio Option

Recommended for students to augment their primary area of experience and professional training in fields other than Religion. Successful completion of coursework is required.

Conclusion

The Master of Arts in Religion program at Temple University offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum designed to meet the needs of students with diverse academic and professional backgrounds. With its strong focus on research methods, special fields of concentration, and areas of specialization, this program provides students with a solid foundation for advanced study or professional careers in religion and related fields.