Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life
September 22, 2026 2026-09-22 10:30Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life
An interdisciplinary graduate program designed to examine the relationship between religion, cultural systems, social institutions, and public life. The program integrates religious studies, cultural analysis, social theory, ethics, public discourse, community engagement, and the study of religion's influence on societies, identities, and civic life.
Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life
US$ 5,940
36 Credit Hours
18 Months
9–12 Months
3 Credit Hours
US$ 5,940
Explore Religion, Culture, and Public Life
Integrate religious studies, cultural analysis, social theory, ethics, public discourse, and community engagement to understand religion's influence on societies, identities, and civic life.
The Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture, and Public Life is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to examine the relationship between religion, cultural systems, social institutions, and public life. The program integrates religious studies, cultural analysis, social theory, ethics, public discourse, community engagement, and the study of religion's influence on societies, identities, and civic life.
Students examine religious traditions, cultural practices, religion and politics, public ethics, social movements, identity formation, globalization, and the role of religion in shaping communities and public institutions. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, intercultural understanding, ethical reflection, research skills, and the exploration of how religious and cultural perspectives influence contemporary social issues.
Graduates develop advanced competencies in religious and cultural analysis, public engagement, research, communication, community leadership, and social understanding, preparing them for careers in education, public service, nonprofit organizations, cultural institutions, research centers, faith-based organizations, policy-related fields, and community development programs.
Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life
18 Months — Traditional Learning Track
9–12 Months — Fast-Track Learning Program
3 Credit Hours per Course
US$ 5,940
Exclusive of applicable University administrative fees
Required Courses
The Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life requires 36 total credits.
| Course No. | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| RCP 6000 | Foundations of Religion, Culture, and Public Life | 3 |
| RCP 6010 | Comparative Religion and Global Traditions | 3 |
| RCP 6020 | Religion, Culture, and Social Identity | 3 |
| RCP 6030 | Religion and Public Ethics | 3 |
| RCP 6040 | Religion, Politics, and Civic Engagement | 3 |
| RCP 6050 | Cultural Anthropology and Religious Expression | 3 |
| RCP 6060 | Religion, Social Movements, and Community Change | 3 |
| RCP 6070 | Media, Communication, and Public Representation of Religion | 3 |
| RCP 6080 | Research Methods in Religious Studies and Cultural Analysis | 3 |
| RCP 6090 | Contemporary Issues in Religion and Public Life | 3 |
| RCP 6100 | Master's Thesis | 6 |
| Total Credits | 36 | |
Course Descriptions
Select a course to view its description.
RCP 6000 – Foundations of Religion, Culture, and Public Life
Introduces the interdisciplinary study of religion, culture, and society. Students examine theories and approaches for understanding religious beliefs, cultural practices, and the role of religion in public life.
RCP 6010 – Comparative Religion and Global Traditions
Examines major world religions, belief systems, sacred traditions, rituals, and cultural expressions of faith through comparative and historical perspectives.
RCP 6020 – Religion, Culture, and Social Identity
Explores the relationship between religion, culture, identity formation, ethnicity, community belonging, and social experiences in diverse societies.
RCP 6030 – Religion and Public Ethics
Examines ethical frameworks, moral reasoning, social responsibility, and the influence of religious perspectives on public debates and social decision-making.
RCP 6040 – Religion, Politics, and Civic Engagement
Explores the relationship between religion and political life, citizenship, governance, public participation, and the role of religious communities in civic affairs.
RCP 6050 – Cultural Anthropology and Religious Expression
Examines cultural anthropology perspectives on religion, symbols, rituals, traditions, social structures, and the ways communities express meaning and identity.
RCP 6060 – Religion, Social Movements, and Community Change
Explores the role of religion in social movements, community development, activism, social transformation, and responses to contemporary challenges.
RCP 6070 – Media, Communication, and Public Representation of Religion
Examines how religion is represented in media, public communication, cultural narratives, and digital environments. Students analyze the influence of communication on public understanding of religion.
RCP 6080 – Research Methods in Religious Studies and Cultural Analysis
Develops advanced research skills, including qualitative methods, cultural interpretation, textual analysis, field research approaches, and scholarly inquiry.
RCP 6090 – Contemporary Issues in Religion and Public Life
Examines current issues involving religion, culture, and society, including globalization, migration, social justice, religious diversity, technology, and public discourse.
RCP 6100 – Master's Thesis
Students complete an original research thesis addressing a significant issue related to religion, culture, or public life, including religious identity, social change, public ethics, cultural studies, or community engagement. Under faculty supervision, students conduct research, analyze social and cultural issues, and contribute scholarly knowledge to the field.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for advanced research, cultural analysis, education, public engagement, and community leadership roles.
Employment Sectors
Graduates may pursue employment in universities and research centers, educational institutions, religious organizations, faith-based organizations, government agencies, public policy organizations, nonprofit organizations, community development agencies, cultural institutions, human rights organizations, social advocacy organizations, international development organizations, museums and cultural centers, research institutes, media and communications organizations, public affairs organizations, professional training organizations, and community outreach programs.
Ready to Explore Religion, Culture, and Public Life?
Explore the Master of Arts in Religious Studies, Culture and Public Life and take the next step toward understanding religion's role in culture, society, and civic life.
Apply for This Program →
