M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.A. in Religious Studies
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Religious Studies at Missouri State is a 30-credit-hour program that typically takes two years for full-time students to complete. It offers flexibility through both a "Traditional Master's" and an "Accelerated Master's" option for qualified Missouri State undergraduates. The program aims to enhance students' critical thinking, research, and writing skills, preparing them to engage with complex questions surrounding religion's role in society. It provides a strong foundation for those aspiring to further academic pursuits or professional roles requiring a sophisticated understanding of human beliefs and cultural dynamics.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.A. in Religious Studies is structured to provide a comprehensive exploration of the field. Core requirements often include foundational courses such as "Theories of Religion." Beyond the core, students have the opportunity to specialize by choosing electives from a wide range of topics, including "Biblical Studies," "Religions of Europe and the Middle East," "Religions of Asia," and "Religion and Culture." This allows students to delve into specific areas of interest, such as ancient religions, contemporary religious movements, or the intersection of religion with social and political issues. The program culminates in either a master's thesis or a research portfolio, along with a comprehensive examination, demonstrating scholarly ability and mastery of the subject.
Research Focus: Research is a fundamental component of the M.A. in Religious Studies program. Students are challenged to expand their critical thinking and research-based writing skills, working closely with faculty members who are nationally and internationally recognized experts in their fields. The program encourages students to pursue original research, culminating in a thesis or a substantial research portfolio that requires a formal defense. This emphasis on rigorous academic inquiry allows students to contribute to scholarly discourse and develop the analytical skills necessary for advanced academic work or careers requiring in-depth investigation and interpretation of complex information. Several theses from the program have received the "Distinguished Thesis Award" from the MSU Graduate Council.
Industry Engagement: While an M.A. in Religious Studies is primarily an academic degree, the skills developed are highly transferable and valuable across various professional sectors. The program emphasizes direct observation, critical thinking, effective communication, and cross-cultural understanding – competencies that are indispensable in today's multicultural workplace and global economy. Graduates are well-prepared for roles that require relating to diverse populations, interpreting complex information, and understanding human motivations. Although specific "industry engagement" in the traditional sense (like internships in corporate settings) may not be a formal part of the curriculum, the analytical and interpersonal skills acquired are directly applicable to careers in non-profit work, counseling, social work, law, education, and various other fields.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Religious Studies program at Missouri State University inherently offers a strong global perspective. By exploring diverse religious beliefs and practices from around the world – including biblical studies, religions of Europe and the Middle East, and religions of Asia – students gain a profound appreciation for global cultures and human experiences. The curriculum often examines the historical, social, and political contexts of various religions, fostering a nuanced understanding of their global impact. The program cultivates an ability to empathize with people from different backgrounds and understand varied perspectives, which is crucial in an interconnected world. This broad, international scope prepares graduates to navigate and contribute meaningfully to a globalized society.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 15914
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Religious Studies from Missouri State University equips graduates with a unique and highly valued set of skills, including critical thinking, advanced research, cross-cultural understanding, and sophisticated communication. While not a vocational degree in the traditional sense, the program's emphasis on interpreting complex information and understanding diverse human perspectives prepares individuals for a broad range of careers that require strong analytical, interpersonal, and ethical reasoning abilities.
Higher Education Instructor/Professor (Community College): An M.A. in Religious Studies can qualify graduates to teach religious studies, humanities, or related subjects at community colleges. It also serves as an excellent foundation for those who wish to pursue a Ph.D. and ultimately teach at four-year universities.
Archivist/Librarian (Special Collections): With strong research and organizational skills developed in the program, graduates can work in archives or libraries, particularly those specializing in religious texts, historical documents, or cultural artifacts. An additional Master of Library Science (MLS) might be beneficial for some roles.
Non-Profit Program Coordinator/Administrator: Graduates possess a deep understanding of diverse communities and ethical considerations, making them well-suited for roles in non-profit organizations. They can manage programs, coordinate outreach initiatives, or work in fundraising and development for social justice, humanitarian, or interfaith groups.
Journalist/Writer (Specializing in Religion/Culture): The ability to research, synthesize complex information, and communicate clearly is paramount in journalism. Graduates can work as journalists, editors, or content creators for publications, media outlets, or online platforms focusing on religion, ethics, social issues, or cultural trends.
Community Outreach/Relations Specialist: Understanding diverse belief systems and cultural nuances is invaluable for building bridges within communities. Graduates can work in community relations for government agencies, educational institutions, or large corporations, fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse groups.
Human Resources Professional (Diversity & Inclusion): The cross-cultural competence and ethical reasoning skills gained in religious studies are highly beneficial in HR roles, particularly those focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Graduates can help organizations build inclusive workplaces and navigate cultural complexities.
Ethical Leadership/Training Roles: Many organizations, from corporations to healthcare systems, seek professionals who can guide ethical decision-making and foster a values-driven culture. Graduates can work in corporate social responsibility departments, ethics committees, or as trainers in areas like diversity and cross-cultural communication.
International Aid/Development Worker: The global perspective and understanding of cultural contexts gained through religious studies are crucial for international aid and development. Graduates can work with NGOs or international organizations on projects that require sensitivity to local beliefs and social structures.
Museum Curator/Educator: Religious studies graduates can contribute to museums or cultural institutions by researching, curating, and interpreting exhibits related to religious art, history, or cultural practices. They can also develop educational programs for the public.
Further Professional Studies (Law, Social Work, Counseling): The critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills honed in an M.A. in Religious Studies provide an excellent foundation for pursuing further professional degrees in fields like law (e.g., specializing in civil rights or international law), social work, or counseling, where understanding human values and cultural contexts is paramount.
