Program Overview
The PhD in Comparative Religion Studies at American AACTD University is a rigorous and interdisciplinary research program that explores the spiritual, philosophical, cultural, and historical dimensions of world religions. This doctorate prepares scholars to investigate and interpret religious traditions through critical methodologies and comparative analysis, fostering intercultural understanding and academic excellence.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the PhD in Comparative Religion Studies will be able to:
Conduct original and scholarly research in comparative religion using interdisciplinary approaches.
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of major world religions, including but not limited to Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous traditions.
Critically analyze religious texts, doctrines, rituals, and cultural practices within historical and contemporary contexts.
Articulate the interplay between religion and society, politics, ethics, gender, and globalization.
Publish peer-reviewed academic work and contribute meaningfully to interfaith and intercultural dialogue.
Apply ethical and academic integrity in teaching, research, and community engagement.
Program Goals
Advance global scholarship in comparative and interreligious studies.
Train the next generation of researchers, educators, and public intellectuals.
Foster a deeper understanding of religious diversity and its impact on global peace, policy, and development.
Support innovative research projects that address contemporary religious issues, conflicts, and spiritual transformations.
Pathways Available
Students can pursue the PhD through the following formats:
On-Campus (Full-Time/Part-Time)
Online (with asynchronous or synchronous research supervision)
Hybrid (fieldwork-based with online seminars and supervision)
Specializations may include:
Interfaith Studies and Dialogue
Philosophy of Religion
Sacred Texts and Hermeneutics
Religion and Globalization
Comparative Mysticism
Religion, Gender, and Society
Possible Career Options
Graduates may pursue careers in:
Academia – Professorships, research fellowships, and academic publishing.
Government and NGOs – Policy advising, conflict resolution, religious affairs consulting.
Interfaith Organizations – Dialogue facilitation, peacebuilding, and community engagement.
Media and Publishing – Journalism, editing, documentary work on religious issues.
Religious Institutions – Education, leadership, and theological consultation.
Museums and Cultural Centers – Curation and educational outreach on religious heritage.
Program Curriculum & Structure
The PhD is typically completed over 3–5 years and includes:
Year 1 – Foundation and Methodology
Core Seminar in Comparative Religion
Advanced Research Methods in Humanities
Religion and Modernity
Interdisciplinary Readings in Sacred Texts
Learning Outcome: Develop research questions, master theoretical tools.
Year 2 – Specialization and Fieldwork
Area Studies Seminars (e.g., Islam & the West, Hinduism & Ecology)
Teaching Practicum or Academic Publishing Workshop
Fieldwork/Archival Research Preparation
Learning Outcome: Formulate and defend a dissertation proposal.
Years 3–5 – Dissertation Phase
Independent Research and Supervision
Annual Research Presentation
Dissertation Writing and Defense
Learning Outcome: Produce a publishable, original doctoral dissertation.
Assessment Methods
Research Proposal and Oral Defense
Publication of Peer-Reviewed Article (prior to graduation)
Annual Progress Reviews
Fieldwork Reports and Ethical Reflections
Final Dissertation (80,000–100,000 words)
Public Dissertation Defense Panel
Entry Requirements
Applicants must possess:
A Master’s degree in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Anthropology, or a related field (with merit/distinction).
A strong research proposal aligned with the university’s academic strengths.
Two academic reference letters.
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 7.0 or equivalent, if applicable).
Writing sample (5,000–7,000 words) demonstrating academic rigor.
Proposed Awards and Recognitions
To raise the prestige and appeal of the program, the following awards may be promoted:
Local and Institutional Awards
AACTD Distinguished Dissertation Prize in Religion and Society
Dean’s Fellowship for Excellence in Religious Scholarship
Outstanding Contribution to Interfaith Education Award
Potential International Awards & Collaborations
Nomination for the British Association for the Study of Religions (BASR) Postgraduate Prize
https://basr.ac.ukFulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Research Exchange
https://fulbrightscholars.orgInternational Association for the History of Religions (IAHR) Early Career Research Award
https://www.iahrweb.org
Accreditation and Quality Assurance
This program is aligned with U.S. doctoral education standards and is delivered in accordance with international academic quality benchmarks. It follows a rigorous peer-supervised model and maintains partnerships with global institutions and associations for academic recognition and exchange.
