PhD Religion at Emory University

Programme overview

The PhD in Religion is offered by the Graduate Division of Religion within the Laney Graduate School, drawing on the Department of Religion, Candler School of Theology and other units. It is organised into twelve courses of study with specialised options for focused research in four further areas, and aims to educate the next generation of religion and theology scholars.

Faculty: Laney Graduate School | Department: Graduate Division of Religion | Duration: Coursework two years; qualifying exams in year three; dissertation usually completed in year five or six | Study mode: full-time | Location: Atlanta, GA, United States

What you will study

Students take at least five doctoral seminars over two years, the equivalent of two seminars in an area outside their specialisation leading to a qualifying exam, and a non-graded first-year colloquium. They must demonstrate reading mastery of two research languages besides English and complete the TATTO teaching programme (summer workshop, second-year teaching seminar, two assistantships and one associateship).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Online application with a December 1, 2026 deadline. Up to four letters of recommendation, one uploaded transcript from each institution attended (official transcripts if accepted), a statement of purpose of about four pages double-spaced, and a writing sample of about 20 pages. GRE is not required but scores may be submitted.

USD 74,700 a year (2026-27). Laney Graduate School tuition band (full-time, 9 or more credit hours: $24,900 per term over fall, spring and summer). Tuition only; excludes fees, housing, health insurance and living costs. Emory publishes one tuition rate for all students. Source

The Laney Graduate School is accepting applications for all PhD and master's programmes for Fall 2027.

Laney Graduate School application fee is $75 (non-refundable, paid by credit card online; limited fee waivers available). Deadlines are set by each programme and fall at midnight US Eastern time on the programme's deadline date. GRE requirements vary by programme.

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