OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM

The master of religion and public life (MRPL) curriculum serves professionals in fields other than theology and ministry who are curious about the impact of Christianity and other religious traditions upon society or who seek a better understanding of religion in order to improve their professional capacity and effectiveness.

Students may develop an individually tailored curriculum within the general framework of the MRPL requirements. The 36-hour program may be completed in as little as three semesters of full-time study, or (for those whose professional commitments make full-time study impractical) may be spread out over as many as five calendar years.

Through their study for a Master of Religion and Public Life degree, students will gain the ability to:

• describe some of the ways religion functions in society;

• articulate the basic beliefs of Christianity and one other religious tradition; and

• describe the relationship between beliefs, attitudes, and practices of adherents.