Master in the Study of Religions

The Master in the Study of Religions at Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities is a postgraduate program taught in English in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The study of religions is an academic discipline within the humanities that examines religious traditions, beliefs, texts, practices, and institutions from historical, comparative, and social scientific perspectives. Students pursuing this field typically study subjects such as comparative religion, the history and doctrines of major world religions, religious texts and their interpretation, the sociology and anthropology of religion, and the relationship between religion and society, politics, and culture. Coursework at the master's level usually combines close study of religious traditions with broader theoretical and methodological training, including approaches drawn from history, philosophy, and social science, and often includes a research component in which students investigate a specific topic within religious studies in depth. The discipline also frequently addresses contemporary questions such as religious diversity, interfaith relations, secularism, and the role of religion in public life. Graduates of programs in the study of religions commonly pursue careers in education, research, interfaith and cultural organizations, publishing, journalism covering religion and society, and government or non-governmental bodies working on religious affairs and cultural policy. The degree can also serve as preparation for doctoral study in religious studies or related humanities disciplines. The program is accredited by the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation. Abu Dhabi, the emirate where the program is based, hosts institutions dedicated to interfaith dialogue and the study of religion and culture, providing a relevant setting for this field of study. All instruction in the program is conducted in English.