Ohio University

What you'll study

The Master’s in Religion at Ohio University offers a balanced combination of coursework, language or methodological training, and supervised research. Core study areas typically include world religions, the history of religions, contemporary religious movements, scriptural interpretation, religious ethics, and theoretical approaches in the study of religion.

• Coursework in fields such as Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Indigenous religions, and religion in America
• Methods and theory seminars covering topics like comparative religion, critical theory, ethnography, and the history of religious ideas
• Training in research skills, including historiography, textual analysis, qualitative methods and, where relevant, modern languages or classical languages for source work
• An independent research component — either a supervised thesis or a capstone research project — allowing students to develop and present original scholarship
• Opportunities for teaching experience as a graduate instructor or research assistant, depending on funding and departmental needs

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in religious studies, humanities, social sciences or a closely related field, with a strong academic record. US applicants often present a cumulative GPA at or above the common departmental threshold; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or other institutional evidence of ability to study in English.

• Official transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended
• A personal statement outlining academic interests, research experience and career goals
• A writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability in religious studies, history, philosophy or a related discipline
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic referees
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Some applicants may be asked to provide additional material such as a sample syllabus or evidence of language preparation if their proposed research requires it

GRE scores are not universally required and applicants should consult the department for current testing policies. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of an MA in Religion move into a range of professional and academic roles. The degree prepares students for further doctoral study as well as for careers that value advanced critical thinking and research skills.

• Academic paths: PhD programmes, research assistantships, and teaching at community colleges or in secondary education (where licensure permits)
• Public and non‑profit sectors: roles in cultural organisations, museums, archives, NGOs, interfaith and community relations, and human services
• Public policy and advocacy: positions that require expertise in religion and public life, cultural competency, or community engagement
• Communications and media: writing, editing, or research positions for publications and organisations covering religion, ethics and culture
• Chaplaincy and pastoral support: some graduates move into chaplaincy or pastoral work, often coupled with additional professional training or certification
• Private sector: roles in diversity, equity and inclusion, corporate social responsibility, and consulting where nuanced understanding of belief systems and ethics is valuable

Why study at Ohio University

Ohio University’s programme is housed in a department with faculty expertise across historical, textual and contemporary approaches to religion, enabling students to pursue diverse research interests. The department emphasises close faculty mentoring and small seminar classes that support advanced scholarship and professional development.

• Interdisciplinary opportunities with neighbouring departments such as History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Classics, supporting comparative and cross‑disciplinary projects
• Access to the university’s research resources, including the main library collections and support for archival or field research
• Graduate assistantships and fellowships that provide teaching experience and financial support when available
• A campus community in Athens that encourages involvement with local cultural institutions and regional archives, useful for applied research and internships
• Preparation for a range of career trajectories through professionalisation workshops, teaching practica and guidance on pursuing doctoral study or non‑academic careers