Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines historical, textual, ethical and social-scientific approaches to religion. Students engage with primary sources and contemporary theory to examine religious traditions, interreligious encounter, and the role of religion in public life. Teaching typically mixes seminars, language work, and a supervised research project or thesis.

• Core topics: methodologies in religious studies, theory of religion, history of major religious traditions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam, South Asian religions), and comparative religion.
• Textual and language training: opportunities to study original-language materials (for example, Biblical Hebrew, Koine Greek, Classical Arabic, Sanskrit, or other relevant languages) depending on focus and previous preparation.
• Field and applied options: courses on religion and public life, ethics, ritual and practice, religion and politics, and qualitative research methods including ethnography.
• Research component: a supervised capstone, research paper or thesis that allows students to develop a sustained project under faculty guidance.
• Electives and interdisciplinary study: students can take electives across departments (history, anthropology, political science, theology, and international affairs) and collaborate with research centres on campus.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree and demonstrate strong academic preparation in the humanities or social sciences. Selection is based on the overall strength of the application rather than specific numerical cut-offs.

• Academic transcript showing undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• Letters of recommendation, typically two or three academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
• Statement of purpose outlining academic interests, experience with religious studies (or related fields), and proposed research goals.
• Writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability in religious studies, history, philosophy, theology or a related discipline.
• Language proficiency: applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency; additional language preparation may be expected for certain research tracks.
• Relevant experience such as coursework, fieldwork, ministry, or professional experience can strengthen an application but is not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of paths that draw on critical thinking, research skills and knowledge of religion in social and political contexts.

• Academic and research careers: progression to doctoral programmes and positions in higher education and research institutes.
• Public policy and advocacy: roles in government, think tanks, and NGOs where expertise in religion, ethics and cultural literacy informs policy and programming.
• Non-profit and community leadership: positions in interfaith organisations, humanitarian agencies, and advocacy groups.
• Museums, archives and cultural institutions: curatorial, education and public engagement roles that require skills in historical interpretation and outreach.
• Teaching and education: secondary and adult education, religious education, and curriculum development (may require additional certification for some school systems).
• Chaplaincy and pastoral work: with additional professional or denominational training and credentials, graduates may enter pastoral care and chaplaincy roles.
• Media and communications: positions in journalism, publishing, and public-facing communications dealing with religion and culture.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown offers strong strengths for advanced study in religion: a long-standing Jesuit intellectual tradition that emphasises rigorous scholarship and ethical reflection, a distinguished faculty whose work spans historical and contemporary topics, and vibrant interdisciplinary exchange across the university.

• Location: being in Washington, D.C. provides exceptional access to policy organisations, international institutions, think tanks and religious archives for internships and research collaboration.
• Research centres: opportunities to engage with campus centres and initiatives focused on religion, peacebuilding and global affairs, which enhance research and practical experience.
• Library and resources: access to extensive research collections and specialised libraries supporting primary-source work and advanced study.
• Interdisciplinary network: ready access to related programmes in theology, international affairs, government and cultural institutions facilitates customised study paths and professional connections.