Whether your interest in a divinity degree focuses on academic study, field work, ordained ministry, or other callings, the study of theology and religion can be a lifelong asset as you consider and reflect on some of the world's oldest and deepest questions in a supportive, empathetic community.
Visit Apply to HDS for more on the application process. Detailed information about the master’s programs requirements can be found in the HDS Handbook for Students. Applicants interested in the PhD program in religion should contact Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences directly, or visit the Committee on the Study of Religion website.
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Master of Divinity (MDiv) |
Master of Theological Studies (MTS) |
Master of Theology (ThM) |
Master of Religion in Public Life (MRPL) |
Doctorate (PhD) |
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Length of Full-Time Study |
3 Years |
2 years |
1 year |
1 year |
5-7 years |
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Size of Program |
147 |
172 |
3 |
12 |
63 |
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Financial Aid Available
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Institutional grant aid, work-study, federal loans (based on eligibility) |
Institutional grant aid, work-study, federal loans (based on eligibility) |
Federal loans and work-study for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens (based on eligibility) |
Federal loans and work-study for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens |
5 years of tuition/fee assistance plus stipend; summer stipends after years 1-4; years 3-4 stipend underwritten by Teaching Fellowships; year 5 funding allows students to complete dissertations. |
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Prior graduate study required for admission |
None |
None |
MDiv or equivalent |
None |
Is not required, but it is rare for candidates to be admitted without an AM. |
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Sample core requirements (see HDS Handbook for Students for full master's requirements) |
24 courses, field education, and senior seminar. |
16 courses, 6 of which are in the student’s chosen area of study |
8 courses, 4 of which are in the student’s chosen area of study |
8 courses, 4 of which are in the student’s chosen area of study |
Students register in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. See requirements and full timeline at the Committee on the Study of Religion. |
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Language requirement to be completed while at HDS |
3 courses in a language appropriate to the religious tradition the student is studying |
Intermediate competency in a language relevant to area of study, demonstrated through coursework or examination |
Intermediate competency in a language relevant to area of study, demonstrated through coursework or examination |
None |
Foundational language work for primary research in the area of specialization at the time of application. For more details visit the Committee on the Study of Religion. |