Overview

The Religion programme at Columbia University provides students with a sophisticated framework for understanding the complexities of global belief systems and their cultural impacts. This master level course encourages rigorous academic investigation into the historical and contemporary dimensions of various faith traditions.

Students engage with diverse methodological approaches to examine how religious practices shape societies and individual identities. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and advanced research skills, preparing graduates for further doctoral study or professional roles requiring deep cultural literacy.

Why Religion at Columbia University?

Studying at this institution provides access to world-class faculty members who are leaders in the field of theological and religious research. The university offers an intellectually stimulating environment where students can explore interdisciplinary connections between faith, politics, and history.

The department is renowned for its extensive library resources and its location in a global cultural hub, offering unparalleled opportunities for field research and engagement with diverse religious communities. Students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that prioritises original scholarship and critical debate.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36728 per semester
National fee: USD 36728 per semester
Local fee: USD 36728 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on foundational theories and specialised areas of religious inquiry. Modules may include:

Theory and Method in the Study of Religion
History of Religious Traditions
Philosophy of Religion
Ethics and Society
Scriptural Analysis
Religion and Modernity
Comparative Studies
Theology and Culture

Careers with Religion

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for a variety of professional paths that value analytical expertise and cross-cultural understanding. Many alumni continue their academic journeys by entering prestigious doctoral programmes in the humanities or social sciences.

Beyond academia, the skills developed during the course are highly applicable to careers in international relations, non-profit management, and public policy. Graduates often find success in journalism, education, and community outreach roles where nuanced perspectives on global traditions are essential.

The programme also prepares individuals for leadership positions within religious organisations and interfaith initiatives. By mastering complex texts and social dynamics, students graduate with the versatility to excel in diverse professional environments globally.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of Christianity: Topics in Pre-Modern Papal History

Time, Modernity, Death

Modern Buddhism

Colonialism and religion in South Asia

Political Theology

South Asia and the Secular

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-30 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-05-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, 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

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

transcripts of all previous post-secondary education

a statement of academic purpose

a curriculum vitae or résumé

three letters of recommendation from academic sources

GRE scores and, if applicable, results of the TOEFL or IELTS examination to fulfill the English Proficiency Requirement

a sample of scholarly writing, if required by the department or program

payment of the application fee

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

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Out-of-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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 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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