Overview

The M.A. Religious Studies at Indiana University Bloomington provides a rigorous foundation for students seeking to explore the academic study of religion beyond undergraduate levels. This programme is designed to help scholars understand how religious traditions inform and enrich the modern world through diverse cultural and historical lenses.

Why Religious Studies at Indiana University Bloomington?

Students benefit from the extensive resources of the Department of Religious Studies and the Center for Religion and the Human. The university provides a vibrant intellectual community in Bloomington, where faculty expertise spans numerous global traditions and theoretical approaches. The curriculum is structured to support those aiming for doctoral research or professional careers where religious literacy is essential.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33002 per year
National fee: USD 33002 per year
Local fee: USD 33002 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 30 credit hours and a significant research paper of 20–30 pages. Students must also demonstrate reading proficiency in a non-English language relevant to their scholarship. Modules may include:

Religious Studies
Research Methods
Theology
Ethnic Studies
Language for Scholarship
Advanced Research Seminar

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of professional paths and further academic pursuits. Many students continue their education in Ph.D. programmes to enter academia or research. Others apply their specialised knowledge of religious and cultural dynamics to roles in international relations, non-profit management, education, and public policy. The department provides dedicated career preparation and advising to help students translate their marketable skills into diverse industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Religions

Buddhist Studies

Ethics, Philosophy, and Politics in the Study of Religion

Religions of South Asia

Religion, Science, and Technology Studies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bloomington, United States

Disciplines

Ethnic Studies Theology and Religious Studies View 748 other Masters in Theology and Religious Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your ability to do scholarly work. If you are transferring from another US institution, two letters must come from the current US institution. One of these letters must come from your research advisor.

Application fee of US $65. You will pay this fee at the time you submit your online application. No fee waivers are granted

Evidence of financial support, such as a letter from your bank, if you indicate that you can attend without financial support or with only partial support

Complete the online application, which includes a 700 word personal statement.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33002 USD / year

≈ 33002 USD / year
Out-of-State

33002 USD / year

≈ 33002 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

33002 USD / year

≈ 33002 USD / year

Living costs

Bloomington

United States

1071 - 1733 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Religious Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Bloomington

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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