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The University of Pennsylvania's Religious Studies graduate program provides exceptional research prospects for students aspiring to excel as scholars, educators, and interpreters in this discipline. Located within one of America's most prestigious research institutions, our program offers convenient access to numerous academic hubs along the East Coast. Simultaneously, the Religious Studies Department ensures personalized mentorship from professors and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among students specializing in various areas. Amidst these abundant resources and tailored support, every doctoral candidate collaborates with an advisor to craft their individualized academic path. Our PhD program features eight dedicated core faculty members, supplemented by a graduate group of Penn professors whose scholarly work focuses on religion and who actively contribute to shaping the next generation of Religious Studies scholars.
Applications are welcome from students from various academic backgrounds. Many applicants have already done extensive work in Religious Studies, either as undergraduates, or in post-baccalaureate or Masters programs elsewhere, while other applicants often will have majored in classics, philosophy, history, a modern language and literature, or area studies.
A strong command of the English language is necessary for successful study at Penn. Applicants whose families do not speak English at home, or applicants who have not attended a high school or secondary school where the primary language of instruction is English, are asked to take the TOEFL, the Test of English as a Foreign Language, administered by the Educational Testing Service. In the event the TOEFL is not readily accessible, Penn will accept results from the IELTS, the International English Language Testing System.