The PhD in Theology & Religious Studies (Applied / Public Policy Focus) at NIRU is designed for advanced scholars and practitioners who seek to bridge the gap between religious thought, ethical traditions, and public policy practice. This program equips students to engage critically with global religious and ethical traditions while applying their insights to issues of governance, human rights, conflict resolution, social justice, and cultural diplomacy.
Delivered through a flexible online or hybrid format, the program combines rigorous academic training with policy-oriented research, interfaith dialogue, and partnerships with global institutions, preparing graduates to influence both scholarship and public life.
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualification: Master’s degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Philosophy, Ethics, Political Science, Law, or related disciplines.
Research Background: Demonstrated interest in theological or policy-relevant research (thesis, publications, or policy experience).
Application Portfolio:
Research proposal (1,500 words, policy-oriented theme encouraged)
Academic transcripts & degree certificates
CV/Resume with relevant experience
2–3 recommendation letters
Writing sample (academic essay, policy brief, or publication)
Language Skills: English required; knowledge of sacred or regional languages (Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Latin, Sanskrit, etc.) is advantageous.
Interview: Conducted virtually with NIRU faculty.
Program Structure
Year Focus Areas & Activities
Year 1 Core courses: Theology & Ethics in Global Context; Religion & Public Policy; Research Methods in Religious Studies; Comparative Religious Thought. Proposal development and defense.
Year 2 Electives: Interfaith Dialogue & Conflict Resolution; Religion, Law, and Human Rights; Faith & Development Policy; Applied Theology in Public Life. Begin fieldwork, policy research, or archival study.
Years 3–4/5 Dissertation research and writing with applied/policy dimension. Participation in policy labs, interfaith councils, or NGO collaborations. Present at online/hybrid conferences. Final dissertation submission & defense.
Assessment: Coursework, policy-oriented essays, proposal defense, annual progress review, research presentations, publications, and dissertation defense.
Program Delivery
This PhD follows NIRU’s standardized doctoral delivery model:
Online Learning: Courses, seminars, and supervision delivered via NIRU’s learning platform with access to theological databases, digital libraries, and policy archives.
Hybrid Residencies (Optional): Short intensive sessions at NIRU or partner institutions for doctoral colloquia, policy workshops, or interfaith roundtables.
Institutional Partnerships: Collaboration with seminaries, interfaith centers, NGOs, and policy institutes worldwide.
Workshops & Seminars: Regular events on religion in public policy, peacebuilding, ethics, and interfaith leadership.
Professional Integration: Engagement with policy forums, think tanks, religious councils, and global conferences on religion and governance.
Career Prospects
Graduates are equipped for roles such as:
University faculty and researchers in theology, ethics, and religious studies.
Policy advisors in government, international organizations, and NGOs.
Interfaith and peacebuilding practitioners.
Ethical consultants for public institutions, health organizations, and global governance bodies.
Leaders in religious institutions with public policy and advocacy dimensions.
Research Themes & Dissertation Areas
Theology, ethics, and public policy in a global context.
Religion, law, and human rights in comparative perspective.
Interfaith dialogue as a tool for conflict transformation.
Faith-based contributions to sustainable development.
Religious ethics and public health policy.
Sacred texts in dialogue with modern political thought.
Public theology and civic engagement.
Program Highlights
Unique policy-oriented approach to theology and religious studies.
Flexible online or hybrid model with global accessibility.
Applied training through policy workshops, interfaith collaborations, and NGO engagement.
Interdisciplinary and practice-oriented research that connects theology with global governance.
Preparation for careers that blend scholarship, policy, and public leadership.
Brochure-Style Summary
“The PhD in Theology & Religious Studies (Applied / Public Policy Focus) at NIRU (USA) bridges the worlds of faith and governance. Designed for global scholars and practitioners, the program equips candidates to engage critically with religious traditions while applying theological and ethical insights to public policy, interfaith dialogue, and social transformation. Delivered online or in hybrid partnership with global institutions, this doctoral program prepares leaders who will shape the future of religion and public life.”