Overview

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies at Florida International University (FIU) provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the academic study of religion alongside specialised research opportunities. This programme is designed to balance core theoretical knowledge with the flexibility for students to pursue their specific areas of interest within the field.

Students can choose between a thesis-based route, which is recommended for those intending to pursue further doctoral research, or a non-thesis track focused on broader elective coursework. The curriculum is structured to ensure that all graduates gain a sophisticated understanding of sacred texts and modern analytical methods used in the study of global religious traditions.

Why Religious Studies at Florida International University (FIU)?

The department offers a unique environment within the Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, fostering interdisciplinary connections. Students benefit from a diverse faculty with expertise in various traditions and themes, providing a rich academic setting for exploring the complex role of religion in society.

Qualified students may also access funded teaching assistantships. These competitive positions offer valuable professional development by allowing graduate students to gain teaching experience in exchange for a stipend or tuition remission, enhancing their academic and professional profiles.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 9507 per semester
National fee: USD 9507 per semester
Local fee: USD 4101 per semester

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

Syllabus

The programme requires 36 credit hours, including core seminars, track-specific courses, and electives. Students must complete a prerequisite course in World Religions by the end of their first semester. Modules may include:

Sacred Texts
Modern Analysis of Religion
Advanced Fieldwork in Religious Studies
Religious Studies Seminar

In addition to these core subjects, students select a four-course track focused on a specific religious tradition or a cross-cultural theme. This is supplemented by either nine hours of electives and a thesis or fifteen hours of elective coursework for the non-thesis option.

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a variety of professional paths or further academic study. The department provides dedicated advising to help students align their research specialisations with their future career goals. The analytical and research skills developed during the degree are applicable to roles in education, international affairs, and community organisation.

For those looking to bridge disciplines, the university offers pathways connecting religious studies with law or international relations. These connections highlight the practical application of the degree in understanding global sociocultural dynamics and legal frameworks.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

A four course track, either in one religious tradition, or one theme across religious traditions, approved by the Graduate Director.

The two graduate seminars taken in the senior year of the BA as well as the Focus courses taken at the Graduate level.

Six credits of electives selected from the Religious Studies Graduate Course Offerings.

Six hours of thesis, or six additional hours from the Religious Studies Graduate Course Offerings.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Miami, United States

Disciplines

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

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.2

GRE^®

156 _(verbal)

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

A graduate degree in the humanities or social sciences from an accredited college or university or
A score of 156 or higher on the verbal portion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or
A UG 60 GPA of 3.25
Online application and application fee;
Official transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework;
Official GRE scores;
Official TOEFL scores, if applicable;
A statement of research interests, including reasons for seeking the M.A./Ph.D., future career goals, and a summary of scholarly preparation for this program;
Three letters of reference from academic sources or others able to judge academic abilities and potential; and
A curriculum vitae.

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

19014 USD / year

≈ 19014 USD / year
Out-of-State

19014 USD / year

≈ 19014 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8202 USD / year

≈ 8202 USD / year

Living costs

Miami

United States

1508 - 2603 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

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Scholarships Information

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

Available Scholarships

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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

Living costs

Miami

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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