PhD in Religious Studies in Vancouver Canada | The University of British Columbia

The Religious Studies PhD program offers specialized education in ancient Judaism, Christian beginnings, and Late Antique Mediterranean religions. During the first two years, students build foundational knowledge through coursework and comprehensive exams, then transition to concentrated research to achieve global expertise in their selected dissertation area.

This program stands as Canada's sole doctoral opportunity specializing in ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern religious traditions. Doctoral candidates undertake diverse coursework and interdisciplinary investigations exploring material artifacts, spiritual practices, ancient languages, and historical contexts of these regions. Our department boasts four dedicated professors focusing on Hebrew Scriptures, Judaic studies, and early Christian/New Testament scholarship. Additional faculty from Classical, Near Eastern, and Religious Studies departments contribute cross-disciplinary perspectives, frequently examining religious narratives and mythology, including Roman religious archaeology and Greek mythological studies.