Graduate Degrees in Religious Studies

Students with laptops in Religious Studies class

The faculty is highly interdisciplinary, encouraging students to explore their unique interests in ways best suited to their individual goals. Each student works closely with a faculty advisor to determine the best way to achieve those goals.

Student discussion in Religious Studies class

The department prides itself on the supportive, collegial environment created by graduate students and faculty.

Students typically find they quickly make friends with others and enjoy being part of the student community, a process that is encouraged by the open and accessible faculty.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Religious Studies

Religious Studies

Master of Arts

30 credit hours
All students must fulfill the residency requirement. In general this can be fulfilled by either two full-time semesters or four part-time semesters of study. A full-time program is defined as 5 credit hours of coursework at the 5000 level or higher, 8 credit hours of total coursework or at least one credit hour of thesis research.
In the second year of graduate study, students will select either the MA portfolio option or the MA portfolio with thesis option.
Students who complete the MA program in religious studies will have a broad understanding of the field, with special emphasis on issues of theory and method, as well as in-depth knowledge of their chosen area of specialization.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

GRE results are optional; not submitting a GRE score will not be held against your application.

Application Deadlines

International applications: Dec. 15.
U.S. applications: Jan. 3.

For program details, review the course catalog for the MA in religious studies.

Dual MA Program

The Department of Religious Studies participates in a dual master’s degree program with the Department of History and the Department of Asian Languages and Civilizations. Students interested in exploring this option should contact the graduate director of the department for specific requirements.

For program details, visit the department's dual MA webpage.

Research Areas

Religion, Media and Popular Culture
Religious Law, Ethics and Interpretation
Women, Gender and Sexuality
Ritual, Affect and the Body
Transnational Religion and Decolonization
Religious Minorities
Biblical Studies and Tradition
Religion, Science and Reason

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

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Graduate Degrees in Religious Studies

Degree Types