PhD in Religious Studies - East Asian Religions in Santa Barbara United States | University of California, Santa Barbara

East Asian Religious Studies for Ph.D. candidates encompasses Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, Shintoism, and indigenous folk traditions across China and Japan. Scholars specializing in this region should fulfill these requirements:

Language Proficiency:
Candidates may choose between track A or B below. With approval from their primary advisor, prerequisite language courses completed at other institutions may satisfy these requirements. Native Chinese or Japanese speakers must still complete classical language studies, though modern language requirements can be substituted with religion courses taught in English.

Historical Concentration: Two years (or equivalent) of Classical Chinese and/or Classical Japanese are mandatory.
Contemporary Concentration: Three years (or equivalent) of modern Chinese or Japanese language are required, plus one year of Classical Chinese or Japanese. Additionally, doctoral students focusing on modern religious practices must submit a 30-page analytical paper examining the historical roots of their chosen modern religious tradition, text, or practice.