Rice University

What you'll study

The MA in Religion at Rice offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines historical, textual, ethnographic and theoretical approaches to the study of religion. Core work typically covers methods in religious studies, theories of religion, and advanced work in historiography and interpretation.

• Core modules: Research methods in religious studies, theory and interpretation, historiography of religion.
• Regional and tradition-focused seminars: Early Christianity and the New Testament, Judaism and Jewish thought, Islamic thought and history, South Asian religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism), East Asian religions, religion in the Americas.
• Thematic/specialist seminars: Ritual and material religion, religion and politics, religion and science, memory and testimony, religion and literature.
• Language and textual training: Options to study classical and modern research languages relevant to students' specialisms (for example, Greek, Hebrew, Arabic, Sanskrit, Pali, or modern languages), depending on supervisory approval.
• Capstone/thesis options: Most students complete a substantial research thesis under faculty supervision or satisfy a comprehensive examination requirement; coursework-only options are sometimes available depending on the programme pathway.

Students take seminars that emphasise close reading of primary sources, comparative analysis, and the development of original research. Faculty supervision supports independent projects that may include archival work, field research in local religious communities in Houston, or theoretical studies.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualifications: A recognised bachelor’s degree with strong performance in the humanities, social sciences or related fields (equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours or better is typical).
• Application materials: Statement of purpose outlining academic interests and research goals, academic transcripts, and two or three letters of recommendation from academic referees.
• Writing sample: A writing sample (such as an undergraduate essay or a research paper) demonstrating analytical ability and familiarity with scholarly argumentation.
• Language requirements: Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests include TOEFL or IELTS), and evidence of any relevant language preparation if your proposed research requires it.
• Standardised tests: GRE scores may be optional or not required; check the department’s admissions guidance for current policy.
• Interview: Some applicants may be invited to interview with faculty to discuss fit and research plans.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Religion pursue a range of careers that value advanced analytical, research and communication skills. Many continue to doctoral study in religious studies, theology, history or related disciplines.

• Academic and research careers: Progression to PhD programmes and entry-level teaching or research roles in higher education.
• Education and public humanities: Museums, galleries, cultural heritage organisations, and community education roles that interpret religious and cultural materials.
• Non-profit and policy work: Leadership and research positions in NGOs, faith-based organisations, interfaith initiatives and think tanks where understanding religion informs policy or programme design.
• Public engagement and communications: Publishing, journalism, and public outreach roles that require nuanced interpretation of religious issues.
• Chaplaincy and pastoral care: Entry to pastoral and chaplaincy training programmes (usually requiring additional professional qualifications and certification).
• Archives and libraries: Roles in special collections, archival management and curation, particularly where knowledge of historical texts and languages is an advantage.

Why study at Rice University

Rice offers a compact, research-intensive environment with close faculty supervision and interdisciplinary collaboration across the humanities and social sciences. Students benefit from access to the Fondren Library’s strong collections and the wider cultural and religious diversity of the Houston region, which supports archival research and fieldwork.

The Department of Religious Studies emphasises methodological breadth and theoretical rigor, and students can work with faculty whose expertise ranges across ancient Mediterranean religions, Asian traditions, American religion, ritual studies and religion’s intersections with politics, science and literature. Proximity to institutions such as museums, theological schools and policy centres in Houston creates opportunities for internships, community engagement and applied research.