ATHENS – Beginning with the fall 2016 semester, Athens State will be offering coursework towards a Master of Arts in Religious Studies. This is the second master’s degree offering the institution has inaugurated in the past year. A master’s degree program in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management was introduced with the current semester.
“This newly established path of study takes Athens State back to its roots as a liberal arts institution,” states Athens State Associate Professor of Religion Robby White. “Our students, alumni, and community members have been asking for master’s level coursework and we are pleased to offer this program that is specifically designed to encourage scholarly research and cultural discourse.”
The Master of Arts in Religious Studies program at Athens State is designed for anyone interested in the academic study of religion. This program is nondenominational and provides individuals an opportunity to learn about religious studies in a neutral setting. The program is designed to promote learning, critical thinking, and research in an open and honest environment.
Students may choose either a thesis or a non-thesis track. The thesis track will prepare those students interested in pursuing doctoral degrees in religious studies or employment in research-related careers. The non-thesis track is for students who are not planning on additional graduate work but need to improve their opportunities for employment in a related field.
Athens State President Bob Glenn said, “Offering master’s degree programs is a part of our strategic plan that was initiated in 2010. There is a third degree program in Technical Education through our College of Education that will begin with the fall 2017 semester. These three initiatives have resulted from input from students and alumni about what they needed from Athens State.”
Information about the program can be found at www.athens.edu/masters/religious-studies. Applications will be accepted starting April 1 and the registration deadline is July 15.
Media Release/Guy McClure, Jr.
Director of Marketing, Public Relations & Publications
