MA in Religious Studies - Thesis in Winston Salem United States | Wake Forest University

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies is a curriculum-focused program demanding 36 credit hours of classes along with a portfolio submission during the student's last term. A minimum of 12 credits must come from 700-level courses, including the mandatory REL 700: Theory and Method in the Study of Religion. The other 24 credits can be fulfilled through either 600 or 700-level courses.

Students must deliver their final portfolio to a review panel—comprising one faculty member they select and the graduate director—at least 30 days before their final semester concludes. This portfolio contains the student's CV, a personal essay, three academic papers (with at least one theoretical piece) from their graduate coursework, plus a 12-15 page reflective essay examining their academic journey, theoretical engagement, personal development across the selected papers, and evolving perspectives on religion. Students will also present their portfolio during a one-hour committee meeting. Evaluated on a pass/fail basis (with resubmission permitted), the portfolio assessment considers overall presentation, clarity, reflective depth, and the student's demonstrated learning throughout their studies.