Earn Your MA in Religious Studies
Explore Humanity’s Connections to Religion
FLEXIBLE ONLINE FORMATS
LOWEST TUITION IN ALABAMA & TENNESSEE*
*among state universities
SMALL, ENGAGING CLASSES
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About Our Online Master of Arts in Religious Studies
Religion has existed since the dawn of humanity, with evidence showing our earliest societies engaging in some sort of religious practices. Considering this ever-present nature of religion, what does our everlasting devotion to higher powers say about the very nature of human beings? Athens State University’s online Master of Arts in Religious Studies allows you to explore that question to the fullest extent, fueled by a dedicated PhD-level faculty who will push you to develop the critical thinking and leadership skills you’ll need to passionately pursue research and career opportunities that explore humanity’s connections to religion.
As one of the few religious studies graduate degrees that are nondenominational and unaffiliated with any specific religious groups, our online religious studies master’s program examines religion from an objective, neutral perspective. Our faculty will help you uncover your own interests in the field of religion and work with you to develop research that aligns with areas you’re passionate about.
We offer our MA in Religious Studies in two tracks, based on your goals — thesis and non-thesis:
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The 30-credit thesis track is perfect for students who are interested in the academic pursuit of religious studies, as it is specifically designed to propel them toward doctoral degrees, teaching positions, or research-related careers.
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The 36-credit non-thesis track helps students develop the skills to advance to leadership positions in faith-based communities and nonprofits with additional courses such as Advanced Study of Social Change and Transformational Leadership and Advanced Study of Leading Change in Faith Communities and Other Nonprofits. Regardless of the track you choose, you’ll develop a greater understanding of the uniting tenets behind major religions and be able to cross-reference the beliefs and practices of various faiths to uncover deeper insights on human behavior. Our program focuses on three core concepts:
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The historical development of religion
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The cultural significance of religion
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Religious orientation’s relation to society
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Why Choose Athens State for Your Religious Studies Degree?
Athens State was the first university in Alabama to offer a religious studies master’s program and is one of the few to offer such a degree without affiliations with specific religious groups.
The majority of our religious studies faculty members are full-time professors, meaning you’ll get unparalleled attention and engagement — including frequent Zoom workshops that mimic the face-to-face experiences you’d receive on campus.
Whether you’re interested in furthering your scholarly pursuits at the PhD level, teaching at higher education institutions, or becoming a leader in a religious organization, our religious studies degree offers you a clear path to career advancement.
“Athens State will give a person a chance. This school makes a difference in lives. Remarkable things happen.”
Glenn Conner
Social Science 1977
Our Commitment to an Affordable Online Religious Studies Degree
We understand the biggest barrier to a graduate education is often the cost — that’s why we’re so proud to be the most affordable state university for both Alabama and Tennessee students. Whether you’re in state or out of state, our online MA in Religious Studies costs $348 per credit plus fees. Our tuition is so low that our alumni typically recover the costs of their education within six years of graduation, according to a 2019-20 economic impact study by Emsi Burning Glass.
About Athens State University
Athens State University, the oldest continuously operating higher education institution in Alabama, is an upper-division university that meets the needs of students often left underserved in other learning environments. We exclusively serve transfer students — whether they’re returning adult learners or younger undergraduate transfers — and provide them with career-focused education that will prepare them to enter the workforce. Our faculty members are uniquely attentive to the needs of both students and employers, and they develop curricula to serve each group equally. Students graduate from Athens State with the confidence to seize control of their careers and find success in their professional endeavors.
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