PhD in Religious Studies in Riverside United States | University of California, Riverside

The Ph.D. program provides specialized training for students pursuing academic careers as researchers or professors in a particular discipline. Alongside the Graduate Division's resources, it also equips students for alternative careers requiring advanced expertise in religious studies. All prospective Ph.D. candidates at UCR should apply to this program, irrespective of whether they currently possess or are pursuing an M.A. in religious studies. Those entering without an M.A. must fulfill the M.A.-I requirements while completing their Ph.D. Following UC policy, individuals with existing doctoral degrees in religious studies cannot enroll, though this restriction doesn't apply to holders of applied doctorates like the D.Min.
UC Riverside's Department for the Study of Religion actively champions racial equity, dismantling systemic oppression like white supremacy and religious discrimination, while working to decolonize academic spaces. We advocate reallocating resources from policing to community-based safety initiatives that ensure universal well-being. Our academic contributions focus on analyzing systemic racism, equipping students with tools to combat oppression, and cultivating classroom environments centered on transformative justice rather than mere equality.

For years, our faculty have collectively implemented these principles through research and curriculum development. Many investigate power structures intersecting with racism and colonialism. Since 2019, our redesigned graduate program features concentrations in transnational religions and power analytics, incorporating critical race perspectives. A forthcoming undergraduate program revision follows this model. We've added graduate courses examining pedagogical approaches to racial justice and decolonizing religious studies. Future initiatives include rebuilding expertise in African American religious studies and establishing an endowed chair in Native American religions to honor Dr. In's Talamantez's legacy. We strongly support UCR's Black Studies initiative and anticipate active collaboration.

Maintaining racial justice requires continuous action. We remain dedicated to ongoing education, critical analysis, innovative teaching, and strategic planning to foster an anti-racist academic environment and equitable society.