The MAR degree program requires 36 completed credits. The program can be completed in 18 months by full-time students but is flexible to accommodate students who plan to study part-time.
Six credits are granted for a thesis or project completed in consultation with a faculty advisor. Students gain a foundation in religious studies by completing four additional required courses in the areas of theology, ethics, leadership, and global religion. All students must elect a concentration in either Religious Education or Theology and Ethics. Students will complete 9 credits in their concentration of choice and another 9 credits of elective coursework. Students may transfer up to 6 credits from another institution. Such transfer credit is subject to approval in compliance with the transfer credit policy.
MAR Thesis or Project
All MAR Students are required to submit a thesis or project in support of completion of their Master of Arts (Religion) Degree. In order to begin the thesis, students must first submit a Thesis or Project Proposal. All submitted theses and project should follow the Submission Guidelines.
- The thesis should be approximately 30-40 pages (double-spaced, 12 pt.), with footnotes and a bibliography. The students should refer to the Chicago Manual of Style for proper methods of scholarly documentation. [Penultimate Draft of Thesis/Project Submitted by mid-March.]
- The Project is an option for students whose needs and purposes are not best served by a thesis. Students choosing this option might, for example, create Religious Education curricula; write, produce, or direct a theatrical production; or develop and implement a significant community service project. A brief scholarly Commentary (10-20 pp) must also be submitted by students choosing the Project. The Commentary is a brief interpretive paper that situates the Project culturally, pedagogically, and theologically. This paper should be footnoted and include a bibliography.
Transfer Credits
Students may request transfer credit by contacting the Registrar, who will complete a transcript evaluation to be approved by the faculty. Transfer credits do not impact a student’s cumulative GPA.
