The Masters Degree in Religious Studies introduces students to some of the primary areas in the contemporary academic study of religion. Our interests include religion and media, secularity and religious pluralism, and the transformation of religious traditions in modernity. After graduating our students typically go on to PhD programs or jobs in a number of fields, including journalism, publishing, education, and non-profit work.<br><br>Students take courses in two areas: 1) our MA seminars, which provide rigorous training in social theory and the formal study of religion, and 2) seminars students select in consultation with us in empirical or disciplinary areas covered by the wide range of courses offered across graduate school. The MA thesis (or exam), which is planned with our faculty and those faculty members in relevant fields, allows students to develop some of the ideas and skills they have acquired during their time in residence with us.<br><br>In close coordination with the Carter Journalism Institute the Department of Religious Studies offers an MA in Religious Studies with a Concentration in Journalism and Religion. This degree provides education and training for students seeking careers as professional newspaper, magazine, or broadcast journalists with an expertise on religion. By completing a masters in Religious Studies, students should: be conversant in the theoretical conversation concerning religion that has taken place since the Enlightenment., be able to read difficult texts closely, speak about them in a seminar setting, and engage in academic-style research and writing., have a developed empirical commitment for future study after completion of the degree.