Religious studies and research
research-only PhD program in “ًReligious studies and research” is a comprehensive, specialized, educational package in line with the regulations and decisions made by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran. The program studies religion from anthropological, phenomenological, psychological, sociological, and theological perspective in addition to the the philosophy of religion. Today, research on religious studies is one of the most interesting areas of study for the researchers. Regarding the research-only PhD programs, the students are admitted after their proposals are reviewed and accepted. Then, they work on their thesis under the supervision of their advisers. This stage can be performed on campus or remotely depending on the project and at the discretion of the adviser.
Since there are various dimensions in religions, it should always be noticed from what perspective and approach the religion is viewed in a research. Religions can be analyzed either in whole or in part. Different questions raised in various areas of religious thoughts have resulted in an evolution in religious studies and creation of new fields related to religion. Some of the new fields in this area are psychology of religion, sociology of religion, history of religions, comparative study of religion, anthropology, philosophy of religion, new theology, phenomenology of religion, literature and religious art, mythology of religion, and religious epistemology. The PhD program in “religious studies and research” tries to review these different areas of education and research.
The graduates of this field can both teach at the academic institutes and do research on miscellaneous subjects of religious studies. In addition, they can be effective in providing critical infrastructure in humanities for the purpose of localization, review, and adaptation with Islamic and Shiite areas.
Holding a master’s degree or an equivalent is sufficient for enrollment in this program. The previous degree of the applicant must be verified by the consulate of Iran in the issuing country. Also, matching the applicants’ previous field of study with the current program is not necessary. Upon establishing the applicants’ scholarly competency and the committee’s agreement, the applicants are eligible to study in this program regardless of their previous field of study. Previous publications including books, research papers, and journal articles can positively influence the committee’s judgment.
- Total cost of the course for Iranian students who are admitted through the national entrance exam or internal university exam (2021-2022): 60 thousand dollars (The fee covers the student’s educational costs and does not include living expenses such as food and accommodations.
The applicants must submit the following documents to apply for the PhD programs (research-only) at the University of Religions and Denominations:
- A completed application form.
- An electronic copy of the passport or a valid residence permit (for the on-campus students).
- An electronic copy of the bachelor’s and master’s degree or their equivalent and a certified Persian, English, or Arabic translation of the transcripts.
- A recently taken photo of the applicant, size 30x40mm.
- Applicant’s CV, indicating education and work experience.
By clicking on the “Apply now” button next to each program, you will be transferred to the registration portal, where you can upload and submit your application documents. Your application will not be complete until all the required items are submitted.