Syracuse University

What you'll study

The MA in Religion combines core work in religious studies methods and theory with specialised coursework across religious traditions, historical periods and thematic approaches. Students typically take seminars in areas such as sacred texts and hermeneutics, religion and politics, ritual and material religion, religion and gender, ethics, and the comparative study of religions. The programme offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks: the thesis option emphasises original research and culminates in a supervised dissertation, while the non-thesis option focuses on advanced coursework and a substantial capstone project or comprehensive examination.

Typical modules and seminar topics include:

• Methods and Theories in the Study of Religion (qualitative, historical and critical approaches)
• Scripture, Interpretation and Exegesis
• Religion, Politics and Public Life
• Ritual, Material Religion and Performance
• Gender, Sexuality and Religion
• Religion in the Global Modern World
• Research Design and Independent Research Seminar

Students may also pursue interdisciplinary electives drawing on departments such as History, Anthropology, Sociology, Politics and African-American Studies, and can engage in independent study, language training relevant to research, and archival or fieldwork practica.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (typically equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours degree). The application normally requires official academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and objectives, a writing sample that demonstrates analytical ability, and two academic or professional references. A current résumé or CV is also requested.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English; specific score requirements are set by the university and should be checked on the programme page. The GRE is not generally required for admission, but applicants should consult the department if they have questions about testing or qualifications from non‑US institutions.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Religion pursue a range of careers. Many continue to doctoral study in religious studies or related fields, while others move into teaching at the secondary or community-college level, museum and heritage work, archives and cultural institutions, publishing and journalism focused on religion and culture, or research and policy roles in non-profit organisations and government agencies.

Additional career pathways include chaplaincy and pastoral care (often requiring further professional qualification), interfaith and community relations roles, education and public programming at religiously affiliated organisations, and positions in consulting or communications where critical thinking about belief, identity and social values is an asset. The programme’s emphasis on research, writing and interdisciplinary analysis equips graduates for work that requires nuanced interpretation of cultural difference and public discourse.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University offers the MA in Religion in a setting that encourages cross-disciplinary engagement with strong links to programmes in history, anthropology, politics and cultural studies. Students benefit from faculty who are active researchers in diverse areas of religious studies and from small seminar formats that emphasise close faculty mentorship.

The university’s libraries and special collections provide important primary-source materials for research, and Syracuse’s location supports internship opportunities with regional museums, cultural organisations and non-profit groups. The department also supports professional development through workshops on academic publishing, grant-writing, pedagogy and career planning, helping graduates transition to academic and non-academic careers alike.