Philosophy and Religious Studies

Doctoral Programs in Philosophy and Religious Studies

The Doctoral program in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Cavalla International University (CIU) is the most advanced degree offered by a university. The doctoral program provides students with the opportunity to conduct advanced independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor. The program gives students the opportunity to conduct advanced research on topics such as Ethics, Philosophy and Religious Studies. Philosophy and Religion make-up one crucial aspect of human existence and, by studying how the ideas that make up these fields were absorbed, inherited, and developed, students can continuously improve their own capacities to think, feel, and express themselves.

The doctoral program in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies train students to become advanced practitioners of the study of philosophy and religion—researchers, scholars, professors, industry leaders, religious scientists, philosophers and facilitators of informed public discourse. The doctoral program also prepares the graduates to bring a nuanced, critical understanding of religion and its influences on such careers as medicine, nursing, legal studies, diplomacy, ministry, social advocacy, journalism, counseling, and informatics.

The study of Philosophy and Religion has the potential to deepen one’s understanding of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and morality. Students explore various philosophical theories and engage in critical discussions to develop their analytical and argumentative skills. Areas of research may include epistemology, logic, political philosophy, and aesthetics. Through research projects and seminars, students have the opportunity to delve into specific philosophical inquiries and contribute to the academic discourse within the field.
The critical thinking and analytical skills honed during the programs enable graduates to navigate complex ideas and contribute meaningfully to philosophical or religious discourse in diverse professional settings. Graduates with a doctoral degree in any major listed below often have an advanced competitive edge in dealing with complex issues of today’s society.

The program offers high quality and research-intensive education in philosophy and religious studies leading to a PhD in philosophy. PhD students conduct research projects in a variety of areas. Current fields of expertise include comparative philosophy, philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, philosophy of religion, Chinese philosophy, Middle Eastern philosophy, political philosophy, and critical theory. A dissertation or a doctoral capstone – with an oral defense is required for completion. However, students have the option to select a non – dissertation or doctoral capstone option to obtain an Executive Doctor of Philosophy Degree (ePhD), which requires candidates to conduct specialized research and to an exam.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree program is designed to be completed in 4 years for students enrolled in the standard semester of CIU. The University also has an accelerated track which enables students to complete the doctoral program in 2 years. The doctoral degree programs for the department are listed below: