The University of Chicago | Graduate Admissions
Home > Academics & Research > Graduate Programs > Divinity School - AM/AMRS

Divinity School - MARS

Division: Divinity School
Degree Type: AMRS

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies (AMRS) program is designed for students who wish to pursue graduate study in religion but who do not intend to pursue the PhD degree in religion. It can be completed in one year.

Contact

Application Method

Applications should be initiated through the online application.

Deadlines

Deadline for admissions and financial aid: December 15, 2012

Campus Visits

The Department does not require interviews for applicants, but you are welcome to visit campus, sit in on classes, and meet with current students and faculty. You are welcome to contact faculty with questions. To arrange a campus visit, contact the Office of the Dean of Students.

Degree Objective

The Divinity School offers an AM in Divinity. It offers several types of degrees in various fields within the study of religion.

Application Requirements

  1. Online Application Form and Supplemental Form
  2. Non-refundable application fee: Domestic: $45; International: $50
  3. References: 4 letters of reference should be included with your application.
  4. Graduate Record Examinations and TOEFL Scores: Graduate Record Exam scores (general test only) are required of all applicants, including those with previous MAs. For information on additional examinations required of some international applicants, see the Test Requirements page on the Divisional website. The University GRE code is1832.
  5. Statement of Academic Purpose: All applicants must submit an essay reflecting intellectual influences and professional goals.
  6. Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary educational institutions should be submitted with your application.

Admissions Decisions

Admissions decisions are released in early March. No decisions will be given by phone or email.

Program Requirements

  1. Registration for, and completion of, a minimum of nine courses during one year of Scholastic Residence.
  2. Satisfactory completion of the course Introduction to the Study of Religion.
  3. Demonstration of competence in French or German.
  4. Satisfactory completion ("B-" or higher) of courses in at least three areas of study in at least two of the committees of the faculty. Students should consult with the Dean of Students concerning an appropriate range of coursework that meets this requirement.
  5. Completion of a one-hour oral examination based on a paper that represents the student's interests in the study of religion. This document is normally the revised version of a paper the student wrote to complete the requirements of a course.

In consultation with the faculty advisor and the Dean of Students, AMRS students are free to choose from the course offerings of the various areas of study in the Divinity School and other parts of the University to meet these requirements. In some cases, the consent of the instructor may be required.

Costs & Financial Aid

Quarterly Tuition Fee: $10,000

AMRS students are eligible for financial aid for one year of Scholastic Residence.

Divinity School financial aid awards, which are based on academic promise, consist of partial- and full-tuition scholarships and a small number of fellowships that cover the student's full tuition and provide a stipend toward living expenses. These awards are direct grants that require no service to the University in exchange.

The Committee on Admissions and Aid seeks to provide continuing support at a level consistent with the student's academic performance and financial aid eligibility. The Committee makes awards on the basis of a full-time academic program, unless otherwise specified in the financial aid application.