I. Required Course (3 credits)

• INTD 700 - Theories and Methods in the Academic Study of Religion

II. Electives (33 Credits)

Eleven courses from existing 600- and 700-level Theological School offerings as well from Caspersen School programs with approval by advisor. Students select electives depending on their area and in order to ensure breadth and depth of study.

III. Optional Transdisciplinary Concentration

Three courses from one of the following fields, or certification of focused work on the Concentration theme in any three courses. Additionally, one comprehensive exam should focus on the area of concentration.

• Africana and African American Religion (AAAR)
• Religion and Ecology (CECR)
• Wesleyan/Methodist Studies (WMS)
• Women’s and Gender Studies (WSTT)*

* = Must also complete the following:

• INTD 712 - Interdisciplinary Seminar in Women and Gender Studies

IV. Languages (0 credits)

Before beginning comprehensive exams, PhD students must pass examinations or demonstrate competence through coursework in research languages, as outlined by faculty in the area of study.

• GDR 994 - Doctoral Exams

V. Comprehensive Exams (0 credits)

Complete four comprehensive exams demonstrating capacity in disciplinary and interdisciplinary subjects, as outlined by faculty in the area of study. Comprehensive exams are generally completed during the course of a calendar year. Additional semesters of comprehensive exam preparation must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies.

• GDR 994 - Doctoral Exams

VI. Dissertation (18 Credits)

Complete a dissertation prospectus and a doctoral dissertation.

• GDR 995 - Prospectus Preparation

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• Required:

• GDR 996 - Dissertation Research I
• GDR 997 - Dissertation Research II
• GDR 999 - Dissertation/Thesis Completion

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• Continuous Registration As Needed:

• GDR 998 - Dissertation Continuation FT