University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The MA in Religion combines coursework in historical, textual and contemporary approaches to religion with methodological training and supervised research. Students study major world traditions (such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and religions of South and East Asia) alongside thematic fields like religion and politics, religion and ecology, ritual studies, religions in the Americas, ethics and religion, and theory of religion.

Typical modules cover subjects such as:

• Methods and Theory in the Study of Religion (qualitative and comparative approaches)
• Religions of the Americas and the American religious experience
• Buddhist traditions and texts; Hindu and South Asian religions
• Islamic thought, law and modernities
• Jewish studies and biblical/ancient Near Eastern contexts
• Religion, politics and public life; religion and environment
• Scriptural languages and hermeneutics (opportunities for study of Greek, Hebrew, Sanskrit, Arabic or other languages depending on research focus)
• Field research methods, archival research and public scholarship

The programme usually offers a choice between a thesis option—enabling a sustained piece of original research under faculty supervision—and a non-thesis option that may include an extended capstone project or additional coursework. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design a course of study that aligns with their research interests and professional goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution with a strong academic record. Typical applicants have an undergraduate background in religious studies, humanities, social sciences or related fields, though well-qualified candidates from other disciplines are considered.

Required application materials usually include:

• Official transcripts from prior institutions
• A statement of purpose outlining academic interests and goals
• Writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability in the study of religion or a related field
• Letters of recommendation (usually two to three academic references)
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include standard international English exams)

Prospective students should consult the department for any additional programme-specific guidance on language preparation, placement in language courses, and expectations for thesis or research-track applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Religion pursue a variety of career paths. Many use the degree as preparation for doctoral study and careers in university teaching and research. Others apply their training to roles in public humanities, museums, archives, cultural heritage, non-profit organisations, community and interfaith work, journalism, publishing, and education.

Alumni also find employment in government and policy roles where religion intersects with public life, in consulting and diversity initiatives, and in organisations that require expertise in cultural interpretation, ethics and community engagement. Some graduates combine this degree with additional professional training for careers in chaplaincy, counselling or law.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

The Department of Religious Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder is known for its interdisciplinary approach and strengths across historical, textual and contemporary studies of religion. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, a range of specialised faculty expertise, and opportunities to collaborate with related departments such as Anthropology, History, Philosophy, and area language programmes.

CU Boulder offers extensive research resources, including access to rich library collections and regional archives, and a vibrant intellectual community with regular colloquia, workshops and public events. The university’s location provides opportunities to study religious life in the Mountain West and to engage with civic and cultural organisations in Boulder and the broader Denver region. The programme emphasises research training, language learning, and public-facing scholarship, preparing graduates for further academic work and for careers in a range of sectors where nuanced understanding of religion is an asset.