Religious Studies, MA

Mark Given, Graduate Program Director
Strong Hall, Room 266; Phone 417-836-6261
MarkGiven@MissouriState.edu

Program Description

This program will develop sound knowledge and professional skills in the discipline of Religious Studies, as well as in the broader context of related disciplines in the humanities. The following areas of emphasis are available: Religions of Asia; Religions of Europe and the Middle East; Biblical Studies; and Religion and Culture. Upon completion of the program, students will have acquired a foundation of knowledge, skills, and perspectives for working in a variety of vocations where a high degree of versatility in human affairs, knowledge in humanities, and an ability to negotiate among various religious perspectives are required. The program provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies and teaching, and it can enhance preparation for such professional careers as non-profit work, counseling and ministry.

Admission Requirements

1. A bachelor’s degree in religious studies or a related program in the humanities or social sciences. Some coursework in religious studies is desirable.
2. A minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale. Students who do not meet the GPA requirement may opt to take the GRE and normally will be expected to score a minimum of 158 on the verbal section (580 under the old scoring system before August 1, 2011) and a minimum of 300 (1,000 under the old scoring system) on the combined verbal and quantitative sections.
3. There are additional university requirements for international applicants, including documentation of financial support and demonstration of proficiency in the English language if your primary language is not English. See International Services Requirements for Graduate Admission for more information.
4. Applicants lacking the appropriate qualifications for the program may be admitted but will be required to rectify deficiencies with appropriate course work. Usually these courses will not count toward the master’s degree. Students who do not meet the GPA or GRE standards outlined above may be granted admission to the program at the discretion of the Graduate Program Director.

Accelerated Master’s Degree Option

Eligible undergraduate majors in Languages, Cultures and Religions or an equivalent department from an accredited institution may apply for early admission to the Master of Arts in Religious Studies. Once accepted for early admission, students will be able to take up to twelve (12) credit hours at the 600- and 700-level that apply to both their undergraduate and graduate programs. Before enrolling in courses to be counted for both undergraduate and graduate credit, an undergraduate student must be accepted into the accelerated master’s program AND receive prior approval from the Graduate Program Director, Department Head, and the Graduate College Dean (on a Mixed Credit Form).

Admission Requirements for the Accelerated Master’s Program

1. Junior standing, with an overall GPA of 3.4.
2. Major in Religious Studies or an equivalent, having completed fifteen hours in the department, including at least six hours at the 300-level or above, with a GPA in the major of 3.5.
3. Recommendation by a faculty member in Languages, Cultures, and Religions or an equivalent department at another institution.
4. Admission by the Graduate Committee of the Department of Languages, Cultures, and Religions.