Master of Arts (MA) in Religious Studies is a postgraduate program that offers students with academic education in the subject of religions. This program is an interdisciplinary one, as it critically examines religion in terms of its beliefs, practices, texts, and histories. The MA Religious Studies program is normally a two year program which is divided into four semesters. The planned curriculum entails introduction to the study of major world religions and other specific and comparative themes via lectures, seminars, field visits and dissertation studies.
The UGC NET Exam in the subject of Religious Studies refers to the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test, which is a standardized test in India for the recruitment and selection of candidates for the position of Assistant Professors and Junior Research Fellows in Indian universities and colleges.
MA Religious Studies Course Highlights 2024
| Feature |
Description |
| Full Form |
Master of Arts (MA) |
| Duration |
2 years (Full Time) |
| Course Level |
Postgraduate Degree |
| Eligibility |
Bachelor's Degree (preferably in Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences) |
MA Religious Studies Course Eligibility 2024
| Criteria |
Description |
| Minimum Qualification |
Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university in {2024}. |
| Preferred Background |
* Bachelor's Degree in Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences (e.g., Theology, Philosophy, History, Literature) is preferred. * Students with a Bachelor's degree in another field might be considered if they have relevant coursework or experience in religious studies. |
| Entrance Exams |
Most universities conduct their own entrance exams for MA Religious Studies programs. These exams might assess: * Knowledge of religious traditions (e.g., Hinduism, Christianity, Islam) * Research and analytical skills * Writing ability |
| Additional Requirements |
* Some universities might require a statement of purpose outlining your research interests and career goals. * An interview round might be conducted to assess your motivation and suitability for the program. |
Master of Arts [MA] (Religious Studies) Syllabus 2024
| Semester |
Subjects (Indicative) |
| Semester 1 |
* Introduction to Religious Studies * Philosophical Foundations of Religion * Comparative Religion (Major Traditions) * Methods of Research & Critical Analysis in Religious Studies * Classical Texts & Scriptural Traditions |
| Semester 2 |
* Religion & Society * Psychology of Religion * Sociology of Religion * Religion & Politics/Ethics * Elective Course I (e.g., Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam) |
| Semester 3 |
* Seminar in Religion (topic-specific) * Advanced Theories in Religious Studies * Interfaith Dialogue * Elective Course II (e.g., Gender & Religion, Religion & Ecology) * Dissertation Proposal Development |
| Semester 4 |
* Master's Dissertation Research & Writing * Viva Voce (Defense of Dissertation) |
MA Religious Studies Course Jobs and Salary 2024
| Job Title |
Description |
Average Salary (₹ per year) |
| College/University Professor |
Teach religious studies courses at the undergraduate or postgraduate level. Requires further education (Ph.D.) for most positions. |
₹5,00,000 - ₹15,00,000+ |
| Research Scholar |
Conduct research on religious topics, write articles or books, or work in research institutions. |
₹3,00,000 - ₹8,00,000+ |
| Museum Curator/Archivist |
Manage collections related to religion in museums, libraries, or historical societies. |
₹4,00,000 - ₹7,00,000+ |
| Religious Affairs Specialist |
Work for government agencies, NGOs, or interfaith organizations on issues related to religion and social development. |
₹3,50,000 - ₹6,00,000+ |
| Religious Education Teacher |
Teach religious studies in private schools or religious institutions. |
₹2,50,000 - ₹5,00,000+ |
| Content Writer/Editor |
Create content related to religion for websites, publications, or educational materials. |
₹3,00,000 - ₹6,00,000+ (depending on experience and expertise) |