Policies
Research Experience and Leadership in Religious Practices
Concentration in Religious Practices and Practical Theology
Graduate Division of Religion
The Concentration in Religious Practices and Practical Theology requires experience and study of contemporary religious practices in living faith communities. The form this takes will vary from student to student. However, in all cases, it must involve “on the ground” contact with communities or groups engaged in religious practices and must include an analytic report. In consultation with their program advisor, the student should develop a research experience, which can include, but is not limited to, the following possibilities:
- A research project studying religious practices in context (preferably an opportunity to test a possible dissertation topic or method, or to begin dissertation research).
- A research internship in a social service agency, religious institution, hospital, counseling center, school, or other setting, that provides an opportunity for the student both to engage first-hand in religious practices and to conduct critical analysis of these practices.
The research experience requirement is normally done in connection with seminars, independent study courses, or dissertation research; no additional academic credit shall be granted. Limited funds may be available to support approved research projects and internships.