Overview

The Comparative Religion programme at Western Michigan University offers a sophisticated academic environment for the advanced study of global belief systems and cultural practices. This curriculum is designed to provide students with a robust foundation in at least two distinct religious traditions while examining the classical works that define the field. By focusing on the central issues of theory and method, the programme prepares scholars to navigate the complex discipline of religious studies with critical insight.

Why Comparative Religion at Western Michigan University?

Students benefit from a department where faculty members are actively engaged in diverse research areas, regularly contributing to the field through the publication of books and scholarly articles. The university provides a supportive environment for academic growth, offering various financial assistance opportunities including competitive graduate assistantships and scholarships. Furthermore, the Department of World Religions and Cultures fosters a deep understanding of the historical and contemporary issues that underlie the global study of religion.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15620 per year
National fee: USD 15620 per year
Local fee: USD 10414 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on methodological rigour and tradition-specific expertise. Modules may include:

Comparative Religion
World Religions and Cultures
Theory and Method in the Study of Religion
Religious Traditions
Spirituality, Culture and Health
Islam in Global Perspectives

Careers with Comparative Religion

Graduates of this programme are equipped with analytical and cross-cultural competencies that are highly valued in various professional sectors. The advanced understanding of diverse traditions and theoretical methodologies prepares students for roles in education, international relations, and community advocacy. Many graduates also choose to pursue further doctoral research, leveraging the strong academic foundation and research experience gained during their studies at the university.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Comparative Religion Professional Seminar

Theory and Method

Pedagogy: Teaching World Religions

Advanced Writing Seminar in Religion

Historical Studies in Religion

Comparative Studies in Religion

Readings in Religion

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kalamazoo, United States

Disciplines

Theology and Religious Studies View 750 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

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Copy of passport identification page

Proof of English language proficiency

Transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended or are attending, including diplomas, examination results, mark sheets and certificates

$100 non-refundable application fee

Proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study at WMU according to estimated cost of attendance

A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) is required;

This program requires three recommendations

Please prepare a statement

Please submit a writing sample of 10 to 15 pages.

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

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Out-of-State

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10414 USD / year

≈ 10414 USD / year

Additional Details

Local Summer: 2,386 International Summer: 3,579

Living costs

Kalamazoo

United States

1000 - 1500 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 Comparative Religion.

Available Scholarships

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

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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

Additional Details

Living costs

Kalamazoo

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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