Graduate Program in Religious Studies

Admission Requirements
Requirements for admission are the same for both the M.A. and the Ph.D. degree programs:

• B.A. or equivalent degree from an accredited institution
• Cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above (4.00 scale)
• Satisfactory score on General Test of GRE
  (ordinarily a combined score on verbal and quantitative sections of 310 or above [new test] or 1200 or above [old test])
• Sufficient previous study in religion or related areas to prepare student to complete degree according to schedule.
• When English is not an applicant's native language, a satisfactory TOEFL score is also required:
  • Internet-based version, 79-80 or better (preferably 100 or better)
  • computer-based version, 213 or better (preferably 250 or better)
  • paper-based version, 550 or better (preferably 600 or better)

Application consists of:

• completed online application (available August 15-January 15)
• $75 application fee
• statement of purpose
• an official transcript from each school of higher education attended
• three statements of reference
• Writing sample, up to 25 pages
• official GRE score report
  (SMU institution code: 6660
  Dept./major field code for Religious Studies: 2904)
• official TOEFL score report (international applicants only)

Application deadline: The Religious Studies deadline for completed applications is January 15. All application materials must be submitted by that date.

How to Apply

Consult the General Instructions.

Submit Online Application (available August 15-January 15).

As directed in the instructions,

• Distribute the Statement of Reference form to three respondents who can attest to your academic ability and ask that they be sent directly to SMU.
• Send official transcripts, certified and translated if from a foreign institution, directly from each school of higher education you have attended. Only ONE copy from each institution is required.

Application is made online through the Dedman College Office of Research and Graduate Studies. Supporting materials sent to that office (address given in General Instructions) are forwarded to the Religious Studies Department. Alternatively, applicants may send materials directly to the Graduate Program in Religious Studies at the address shown below.

New Meningitis Vaccine Requirement
State Law effective Jan. 1, 2012: Any entering student at any Texas college or university who is under 30 years old must be immunized before attending classes (and must have received the vaccine within the preceding 5 years and at least 10 days prior to the first class day) or provide exemption information. Please visit the SMU Health Center web site for more information.