I. Required Course (3 credits)

• INTD 905 - 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 (AFAM)
• Religion and Ecology (ECO)
• Wesleyan/Methodist Studies (WESM)
• 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 800 - Language Exam Certification

• Continuous Registration As Needed:

  • GDR CR1F - LANGUAGE PREP 1ST SEMESTER
  • GDR CR2F - LANGUAGE PREP 2ND SEMESTER

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.

• GDR 810 - Comprehensive Exam Certification

• Continuous Registration As Needed:

  • GDR CR3F - COMP EXAM PREP 1ST SEMESTER
  • GDR CR4F - COMP EXAM PREP 2ND SEMESTER

VI. Dissertation (18 Credits)

Complete a dissertation prospectus and a doctoral dissertation.

• GDR 820 - Dissertation Prospectus Certification

• Continuous Registration As Needed:

  • GDR CR6F - DISSERTATION PROSPECTUS PREP 1ST SEMESTER
  • GDR CR7F - DISSERTATION PROSPECTUS PREP 2ND SEMESTER