Master of Arts - Religious Studies - Specialization in Medieval and Renaissance Studies (Thesis)

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies with a specialization in Medieval and Renaissance Studies at the University of Ottawa is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of religious phenomena through a multi-disciplinary approach. This program emphasizes the historical, sociological, psychological, and anthropological aspects of religion, allowing students to explore various religious traditions and their cultural contexts. The specialization aims to enrich students' training by integrating an interdisciplinary component focused on the Medieval and Renaissance periods. Students will engage in research that examines the relationships among different religious expressions, both past and present, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the religious landscape.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies with a specialization in Medieval and Renaissance Studies is structured to provide a robust academic experience over a two-year period, with a maximum completion time of four years. The program includes:

• Completion of a thesis or a major research paper related to the Medieval and Renaissance period.
• Participation in collaborative programs, which may include interdisciplinary courses.
• Core courses in medieval studies, with one course counting towards the main discipline.
• Regular participation in departmental research colloquia.

Students are expected to fulfill all program requirements, which include a combination of coursework and research, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The program also allows for a maximum enrollment of 15 units per term, providing flexibility in course selection.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Arts in Religious Studies offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

• Collaborative programs in Medieval and Renaissance Studies, providing a multi-disciplinary education.
• Opportunities for research that explore religious phenomena across different traditions and cultural contexts.
• Engagement in departmental research colloquia, fostering a vibrant academic community.
• Access to specialized resources and faculty expertise in the fields of anthropology, history, psychology, and sociology.
• Interdisciplinary research seminars that encourage exploration of various themes related to Medieval and Renaissance studies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Religious Studies with a specialization in Medieval and Renaissance Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Academic Researcher: Conducting research in religious studies, focusing on historical and contemporary religious phenomena.
• University Professor: Teaching courses in religious studies, history, or cultural studies at the post-secondary level.
• Museum Curator: Managing collections and exhibitions related to religious artifacts and historical contexts.
• Religious Studies Consultant: Providing expertise to organizations on matters related to religious diversity and cultural sensitivity.
• Nonprofit Sector Professional: Working with organizations that focus on interfaith dialogue, social justice, or cultural heritage preservation.

These career options reflect the diverse skill set and knowledge base that graduates acquire through their studies, preparing them for impactful roles in academia, cultural institutions, and community organizations.

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