What are the basic requirements of the MA program?

MA students must satisfactorily complete (B- or better) at least 15 courses. All MA students take DVSC 30400- Introduction to the Study of Religion and at least one course in three of the four faculty committees. Students in the MA program are enrolled full-time for six quarters (Autumn, Winter, and Spring Quarters in each for two academic years).

MA students must also demonstrate academic reading competency in a modern research language, such as French, German, Modern Arabic, Modern Chinese, Modern Hebrew, or Spanish. 

What are the basic requirements of the AMRS program?

AMRS students must satisfactorily complete (B- or better) at least 9 courses. All AMRS students take DVSC 30400- Introduction to the Study of Religion and at least one course in three of the four faculty committees.  

As a capstone project, AMRS students will sit for a one-hour oral examination based on a paper written for a class with a faculty committee. AMRS students may enroll on a part-time basis, but have 9 quarters to complete the degree requirements. There is no language requirement for the AMRS program, but students may wish, and are encouraged, to take language classes if they relate to the student’s academic interests.

Can I only take courses in the Divinity School?

No–and this is one of the great things about pursuing an graduate education at the University of Chicago. Students in the Divinity School may take courses in any of the other graduate divisions and professional schools.

Will I have space in my schedule to do language work?

In both degree programs, students are able to pursue language work as part of their elective coursework. MA students, in particular, often dedicate substantial time to language work in preparation for the language competency exam or research course. MA students may also use elective coursework for language study to support admission to the PhD program.

What kind of advising do MA and AMRS students receive?

All students are assigned a primary faculty advisor with whom they meet to discuss their academic trajectory and course selection. Students receive advising from the Dean of Students Office and the Director of MA Studies for issues relating to degree requirements and registration. In partnership with UChicagoGRAD, the Divinity School offers an array of professional development programs to help students develop their career plans, acquire skills for the job market, and secure placement in a job or further education after graduation.

May I concentrate in one of the School’s areas of study?

MA and AMRS students do not formally declare an area of study. Students are able to use the flexibility of the curricula to explore the breadth of areas or depth in one specific area. 

I am not interested in pursuing doctoral work subsequent to my master’s program; what do graduates of the MA and AMRS programs go on to do?

Graduates of our programs go on to successful careers in consulting, non-profit administration, secondary education, community engagement, journalism, and advocacy. 

When do students start the program?

All Divinity School programs begin in Autumn Quarter. Enrolling AMRS, MA, and MDiv students may defer their enrollment one year to the following Autumn only. Two-year deferrals are never permitted. Students who defer are not guaranteed the same financial aid package. Financial aid will be reevaluated in the admission cycle for the following year. In rare circumstances, an individual may petition the Dean of Students Office and the Program Director to begin their program in Winter Quarter. Such a request must be made in writing and include documentation and rationale to substantiate the request. The petition should also include an outline of a plan to complete Autumn Quarter program requirements. Please note that students in all programs must complete at least one quarter of enrollment to be eligible for a Leave of Absence from the University.