Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Unlock profound insights and deepen your understanding with an Online Ph.D. in Religious Studies. Flexible, rigorous, and interdisciplinary, this program prepares you for academic, spiritual, and professional excellence.
An online Ph.D. religious studies focuses on the field’s history, theory, methodological research, and applications. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal role of humanities in shaping society and politics, alongside the significant impact of religion in today’s global landscape. A Ph.D. in religious studies enables scholars to explore spiritual approaches and research in diverse areas such as the anthropology of religion, Islam in international contexts, religion in Asia and America, global Christianity, and more. Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths, including book editing, roles in foreign service, case management, church administration, nonprofit management, and university instruction.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: MBA with concentration in Engineering Management
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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National University
PROGRAM: Find Best Degree
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
Find the Best Online Ph.D. Religious Studies
Finding the best online Ph.D. in Religious Studies can be daunting. Prospective students should evaluate program quality, faculty expertise, accreditation, and duration. Ensuring these aspects are top-notch ensures a comprehensive education, practical experience, and excellent career prospects in Religious Studies. The teams at FBD have researched the best online Ph.D. programs in religious studies using their proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Denver | 2000 E. Asbury Ave. Sturm Hall, Room 266, Denver CO 80208 | NA | 78% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Ph.D. Religious Studies
The online Ph.D. in religious studies typically requires an average of 48 credits beyond the master’s degree (equivalent to 72-75 credits beyond a bachelor’s program). This doctoral program is designed to prepare exceptional candidates for successful careers in teaching and research at the university level. Graduates can complete this degree in approximately four years, gaining expertise in various methodological perspectives within the theological domain and interpreting biblical religions with a focus on their theological, ethical, and historical heritage. Most institutions offering this program provide flexibility through online, on-campus, and hybrid learning formats. Doctoral candidates participate in coursework, teaching assistantships, and graduate colloquiums. Potential roles for graduates include university instructor, professional writer, researcher, nonprofit manager, global affairs analyst, case management director, and more.
Program Structure, Coursework, and Dissertation
The typical Ph.D. in religious studies online is structured into coursework, specialization, preliminary exams, dissertation research, final oral examination, and dissertation defense. Students collaborate with a supervisory committee, including a faculty advisor, to tailor their program of study. Essential components include:
Coursework
Coursework requirements vary among institutions. Typically, colleges mandate at least four-credit courses covering approaches to religion, social sciences, philosophical and theological systems, and scientific methods in religion. Students delve into religious ideas using core texts and themes from world religions. Upon completing coursework, candidates typically prepare for a preliminary exam.
Language Examination
All candidates pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Studies must demonstrate graduate-level reading proficiency. Some institutions additionally mandate proficiency in modern foreign languages such as French or German, especially if pertinent to the dissertation topic. Completing a non-credit graduate-level foreign language course or passing a language examination can improve proficiency.
Qualifying Examination
Ph.D. candidates, upon fulfilling their curriculum and language requirements but before proceeding to the dissertation phase, must undergo three to five qualifying examinations. These exams typically include an oral component, with at least two exams having a written component. Candidates are expected to complete these examinations, by the end of their third year of study, or within the first year, after finishing their coursework.
Dissertation
For their research, candidates submit a proposal to the research committee. They then undergo oral preliminary exams and defend their proposal to faculty members. Upon completing the dissertation, they prepare it for publication and present their findings to the department.
Final Evaluation
After completing their dissertation, candidates must undergo a final oral examination, which includes defending their dissertation and demonstrating how it contributes to knowledge in the field. They are also expected to show mastery of their religious specialization relevant to their dissertation.
Some common topics for consideration in pursuing a Ph.D. in religious studies include:
- Impact of Religious Law Morality
- Concept of soul and religion
- The Contrast Between Christian and Islamic History
- Influence of Religion on American Culture
- Gender and religion
- Future of Religion
- Religion and science
- Creationism
- Nordic mythology
- World without religion
- Implication of forced religion
- Totemism and animalism
- Evolution of Confucianism
Please refer to the Guide to Ph.D to learn more about doctoral programs.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The doctorate in religious studies online equips students with theories and methods essential to the field. Participants in such Ph.D. programs develop advanced knowledge of religious traditions across multiple faiths. The program prepares scholars to excel in teaching, research, and service roles within global educational institutions, including colleges, seminaries, and universities. Upon completion of the degree, graduates develop several skills, including:
- Demonstrating comprehensive mastery of religious studies and proficiency in various professional tools and techniques;
- Making a significant contribution to knowledge in religious studies through specific research skills;
- Possessing foundational knowledge for future research and the ability to teach broad courses in religious studies;
- Upholding professional and ethical standards in academia, ensuring fairness in interactions with peers, students, and others in religious studies;
- Proficiency in biblical or other relevant ancient languages;
- Understanding the role of religion in society and devising solutions to field challenges;
- Staying current with contemporary theories and methodologies in religious studies and generating new knowledge for dissemination to professionals and the general public;
- Conducting a critical evaluation of faith by formulating research questions, linking them to secondary literature, and analyzing qualitative data.
Areas of Specialization for Religious Studies Ph.D. Students
Specializations in doctoral programs enable students to concentrate extensively on a specific area of study, enhancing expertise and research capabilities. This focused approach allows for in-depth exploration and mastery of specialized knowledge within the field, preparing students for advanced careers in academia, research, and professional practice. Some specializations that students pursuing a Ph.D. religious studies online can undertake include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian Religions | This specialization focuses on the diverse religious traditions of the region, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and others. Students explore these traditions’ historical, philosophical, and cultural dimensions, preparing for scholarly research and teaching roles centered on South Asian religious practices and beliefs. | Secondary School Teacher Professor Researcher Historian |
| American Religions | This specialization explores the diverse religious landscapes of the United States, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, indigenous religions, and new religious movements. Students examine these traditions’ historical, sociological, and cultural aspects, preparing for research and teaching roles focused on American society’s unique religious expressions and developments. | Clergy Historians Professors Religious Studies Educators |
| Buddhist Studies | This specialization focuses on Buddhism’s diverse traditions, teachings, and practices across historical and cultural contexts. Students explore Buddhist philosophy, literature, art, and rituals, preparing for scholarly research and teaching roles centered on the profound impact of Buddhism on global spiritual and cultural landscapes. | Historian Researcher Archivist Museum Curator |
| Jewish Texts and Traditions | This specialization explores the rich and varied textual and cultural heritage of Judaism. Students study biblical texts, rabbinic literature, Jewish philosophy, law, and customs. This specialization prepares scholars for in-depth research and teaching roles focused on the evolution and impact of Jewish thought and practices throughout history and contemporary society. | Historian Writer Spiritual Care Counselor Program Director |
| Islamic Studies | This specialization comprehensively explores Islam’s diverse traditions, beliefs, and practices. Students delve into Islamic theology, jurisprudence, history, literature, and contemporary issues. This specialization equips scholars for advanced research and teaching positions focused on understanding the complexities and contributions of Islam to global cultures and societies. | Teacher Program Director Spiritual Care Counselor Researcher |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
On average, completing a Ph.D. religious studies in the United States could take four to six years full-time. During the initial two years, students focus on completing coursework. The remainder of the time is dedicated to writing and defending the dissertation. The overall program duration varies based on the time required for individual components such as coursework (42-45 credits), passing the qualifying exam, oral defense of the thesis proposal, approval of the written thesis by the department, and oral defense of the dissertation. Factors such as these collectively determine the program length. Accelerated formats may allow completion in less than four years, while part-time study may extend beyond six years.
Accelerated Religious Studies Ph.D. Programs
Students can expedite their Ph.D. programs through various methods to achieve quicker completion. While many institutes offer trimester-based or quarter-based coursework, online accelerated doctoral programs may have continuous classes throughout the year, including summers. This approach allows completing required coursework in one year instead of the two or three years typical in traditional programs. An accelerated Ph.D. in religious studies appeals particularly to working professionals aiming to enter the job market swiftly or managing other commitments such as health or family issues.
Requirements for Getting into an Online Religious Studies Ph.D. Program
Ph.D. programs are highly competitive, given their advanced nature, leading to rigorous scrutiny during student selection. Prospective applicants should thoroughly understand admission requirements for religious studies Ph.D. programs to prepare effectively. While a master’s in Religious Studies is often preferred, candidates from related fields may also be accepted. However, some of the standard admission requirements for online Ph.D. religious studies programs across the United States have been highlighted below:
- Completed graduate admission form and fee
- Minimum 3.0 CGPA or cumulative grade point average
- Undergraduate or graduate degree in religious studies or a related field
- Official transcripts from previous universities
- GRE scores (optional in many institutions)
- Statement of purpose
- Writing sample of approximately 15-25 pages on average
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Proof of English language proficiency
No GRE Online Ph.D. Religious Studies
GRE scores have historically been crucial for doctoral program admissions in the United States. However, many institutions are now waiving this requirement or making it optional. This shift reflects a broader trend toward evaluating applicants based on holistic criteria beyond standardized test scores, aiming to attract a diverse pool of qualified candidates. Here are a few universities that provide online Ph.D. religious studies with no gre requirements:
How to Ensure an Online Religious Studies Ph.D. Program is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that educational institutions and programs adhere to recognized standards of quality and rigor, offering students a credible education eligible for financial aid and respected by employers. It fosters continuous improvement and institutional accountability, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes. Some national faith-related accrediting organizations for Ph.D. religious studies online include the Association for Biblical Higher Education[3], the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools[4], the Association of Theological Schools[5], and the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)[6]. If a program lacks specific programmatic accreditation, universities may hold national accreditation or accreditation from one of the six regional accrediting agencies mentioned below:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Religious Studies Ph.D. Students
Free online courses offer Ph.D. students in religious studies valuable opportunities to broaden their knowledge base and enhance specialized skills. These courses can supplement formal education, provide access to diverse perspectives, and facilitate networking with scholars globally. They are particularly beneficial for staying current with emerging trends and expanding research methodologies. Here are a few free religious studies courses that students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Religion, Conflict, and Peace[7] | This course helps students understand religions’ internal diversity, evolution, and transformation. It enables them to interpret the roles of beliefs in addressing contemporary challenges and their integration within human cultures. | edX |
| Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion[8] | This course helps students explore various questions, such as how current cognitive science explains concepts like God, knowledge sharing, and belief in science. It also examines the relationship between different religious beliefs and brain sciences. | Coursera |
| Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature[9] | This course enables students to examine the differences between early Christianity and early Christian documents as foundational sources for historical studies. It also involves analyzing various Bible versions, such as The New Revised Standard Version, The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha, The New English Bible, and others. | Open Yale Courses |
Ways to Pay for an Online Religious Studies Ph.D.
Ph.D. programs in religious studies can be financially challenging, with students seeking affordable options. Finding programs with lower tuition rates is crucial for managing costs and ensuring accessibility to quality education. Here are a few ways Ph.D students in religious studies can fund their programs:
Scholarships provide financial aid to students based on merit, need, or specific criteria, easing the burden of education costs. They foster academic excellence and opportunity, enabling access to higher education for deserving individuals, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Grants for students are financial awards typically based on need or merit, provided by institutions, governments, or private organizations. They alleviate financial barriers to education, supporting students in pursuing their academic goals without accumulating debt.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships offer financial support to graduate students in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative duties. They provide valuable professional experience and mentorship, sometimes including tuition waivers or stipends, enhancing academic and career development opportunities.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form students complete annually to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. It’s a critical tool in accessing financial assistance for higher education, aiding in affordability and access to college education.
Fully Funded Online Ph.D. Religious Studies
Fully funded online Ph.D. programs in Religious Studies enable students to explore diverse religious traditions without financial burden. This advanced education fosters critical thinking, research skills, and cultural understanding, equipping graduates for careers in academia, the nonprofit sector, or interfaith dialogue while allowing them to balance personal and professional commitments. Here are a few colleges that provide fully funded Ph.D. programs in religious studies:
| University | Description |
|---|---|
| Brown University[10] | Students enrolled in full-time religious studies Ph.D. programs receive both external and internal funding opportunities through fellowships, research grants, and other financial means. Doctoral candidates also benefit from teaching assistantships, along with a total of six years of funding. |
| Boston University[11] | Students admitted into the Doctor of Philosophy program receive a full tuition fellowship along with a stipend for the first year of study. They are also provided eight semester-long internships and the option to serve as a resident or graduate resident assistant. Fully funded students can also be employed as researchers, center or program assistants, graders, and more, with additional payment. |
| University of Dayton[12] | Doctoral applicants in this program receive full funding for up to five years, including complete tuition remission and a substantial assistantship stipend. They are considered for graduate assistantships and other teaching positions. |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
Graduating with a Ph.D. in Religious Studies opens diverse career opportunities with competitive salaries. Advanced expertise in religious, cultural, and ethical studies is highly valued across various sectors. Graduates can expect roles that leverage their deep analytical, research, and communication skills, often leading to rewarding and impactful professional paths with the potential for steady income growth. Students graduating from the online Ph.D. religious studies can apply for a variety of positions, including:
- Teacher
- Spiritual care counselor
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Evangelist
- Domestic missionary
- Program director
- Ministry director Youth director
- Youth and children coordinator
- Sociologist
- Social worker
- Senior Pastor
- Conference director
- Community relations coordinator
- Community outreach leader
- Coach
- Church planter
- Chaplain
Here are a few more occupations explored further below:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highschool Teachers[13] | Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, and writing skills. | $65,220 | 1% (little or no change) | High school teachers are vital in preparing students for life beyond graduation. They design lessons, assess students’ progress, and adapt teaching to class dynamics. Teachers also guide students through academic challenges, administer tests, and communicate with parents. Their role extends to fostering skills essential for college and careers, ensuring a well-rounded education. |
| Social Workers[14] | Communication, compassion, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills | $58,380 | 7% (faster than average) | Social workers provide crucial support by identifying needs, assessing situations, and helping clients navigate life’s challenges like illness or unemployment. They advocate for resources, respond to crises, and provide therapy. Social workers also work at a macro level, shaping social policies and programs to improve community well-being and access to services. |
| Social and Community Service Managers[15] | Analytical, communication, managerial, problem-solving, and time-management skills | $77,030 | 9% (much faster than average) | Social and community service managers oversee programs supporting public well-being, coordinating services, analyzing effectiveness, and proposing improvements. They manage outreach, write funding proposals, and collaborate with stakeholders. Managers work across diverse organizations, addressing needs from homelessness and mental health to substance abuse and hunger relief. |
| Chaplain[16] | Interpersonal, problem-solving, empathy, and more. | $67,802 | No Data Available | Chaplains provide spiritual guidance and support in various settings, including hospitals, military bases, and universities. They offer counseling, perform religious rites, and facilitate religious services for individuals and groups. Chaplains often work with diverse religious beliefs, providing comfort and assistance during crises and needs. |
| Clergy[17] | Interpersonal, problem-solving, empathy, and more. | $60,180 | Not provided | Clergy are religious leaders who typically serve within specific religious traditions or denominations. They conduct religious services, perform ceremonies such as weddings and funerals, and provide their congregations spiritual guidance and pastoral care. Clergy often play a central role in community outreach, advocacy, and promoting religious teachings and values. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Ph.D. Students in Religious Studies
Those graduating from a religious studies Ph.D program can meet the minimum requirements for pursuing various roles in the field. Doctoral candidates typically need to fulfill specific requirements for different occupations. Professionals aiming for teaching or counseling roles can review the criteria outlined by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Additional Resources for Ph.D. Students in Religious Studies
Additional resources for Ph.D. students in Religious Studies, such as academic journals, conferences, and online forums, foster connections with professionals and peers. These resources enhance knowledge through exposure to the latest research and collaborative opportunities, aiding graduates to stay updated, network effectively, and advance their academic and professional careers. Below are several resources beneficial for religious studies doctoral program students:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| North American Association for the Study of Religion | The North American Association for the Study of Religion (NAASR) has a working papers series in which students are encouraged to write and submit papers exploring broader social structures such as race, class, occupational history, religious background, and more. The members include scholars working across disciplinary boundaries and various domains of expertise. |
| Religious Education Association | Members of the Religious Education Association convene to explore scholarship collaboratively, utilize practical approaches to religious education, and promote substantive research. They offer various benefits, such as event announcements, job openings, proceedings from annual meetings, historical documents, and archives of past newsletters. |
| American Academy of Religion | The American Academy of Religion develops and implements programs to engage various audiences, including resources tailored for public scholars and a biennial lecture series. Their efforts are dedicated to fostering excellence in the academic study of religion and promoting a broader public understanding of religious studies. |
| Society for the Scientific Study of Religion | The Society for the Scientific Study of Religion (SSSR) offers a range of opportunities to its members, including presentations, networking events, plenary sessions, and small group meetings. Their mission is to promote, communicate, and stimulate social scientific research on religious experiences and institutions. |
| Society of Biblical Literature | The Society of Biblical Literature offers a wide array of educational resources, encompassing teaching materials for the Bible and religious texts and access to resources like the Bible Odyssey and biblical fonts. Members can also utilize the SBL Press, which publishes biblical scholarship and supports the development of biblical studies, including seminary courses and related content. |
FAQs About Online Ph.D. Religious Studies
Can you get a Ph.D. in religious studies online?
Yes. It is possible to earn a Ph.D. in religious studies online. Several accredited universities offer online programs that allow students to pursue advanced research and scholarship in religious studies through virtual coursework, seminars, and supervised research projects, facilitating flexibility for working professionals and distance learners.
Is a Ph.D. in Religious Studies worth it?
Is a master’s degree necessary for an online Ph.D. in religious studies?
What can you do with a Ph.D. in religious studies?
Where are graduates of religious studies programs typically employed?
Can students with a Master of Divinity be admitted into the Ph.D. of religious studies?
Citations:
Association for Biblical Higher Education
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Association of Theological Schools
Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)
Religion, Conflict and Peace-edX
Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion-Coursera
Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature-Open Yale Courses
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Highschool Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Social Worker