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M-A in Religious Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Religious Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar?
This Religious Studies program at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, focuses on a comprehensive interdisciplinary exploration of world religions, their philosophies, histories, and societal impacts. With a strong emphasis on Indian religious traditions alongside global perspectives, it prepares students for academic pursuits and diverse careers in a culturally rich nation like India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities graduates, particularly those with backgrounds in philosophy, history, sociology, or literature, seeking a deep understanding of religious phenomena. It also caters to individuals passionate about cultural heritage, interfaith dialogue, and social dynamics influenced by religion, aspiring for careers in academia, journalism, or social work.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in teaching, research, cultural preservation, and interfaith initiatives within India. Potential roles include academics, policy analysts in NGOs, journalists covering religious affairs, or cultural heritage managers. Salary ranges for entry-level roles typically start around INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in specialized fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Foundation in Diverse Religions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the introductory courses on Indian and Semitic religions, focusing on their core tenets, historical development, and philosophical underpinnings. Create concept maps and comparative charts to grasp similarities and differences, which is crucial for interfaith understanding in India.
Tools & Resources
University library for primary religious texts, Reputable online encyclopedias of religion, Academic journals on religious studies
Career Connection
A robust foundational knowledge is essential for any academic or professional role in religious studies, enabling nuanced discussions and research in a diverse country like India.
Develop Critical Thinking and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate critical analysis skills by questioning assumptions, evaluating different methodologies, and engaging in constructive academic debates. Practice literature reviews and ethical research design early on, preparing for the more intensive research work in later semesters.
Tools & Resources
University workshops on academic writing and research, Academic databases like JSTOR, Project MUSE, Google Scholar
Career Connection
Strong research and critical thinking are invaluable for academic roles, policy analysis, and journalism, fostering informed perspectives on socio-religious issues.
Engage in Interfaith Dialogue and Cultural Exchange- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities to participate in interfaith dialogues, cultural festivals, and community outreach programs, both on and off-campus. This hands-on experience will provide practical insights into India''''s rich religious pluralism and develop communication skills vital for conflict resolution and understanding.
Tools & Resources
University clubs or student organizations, Local NGOs or community centers organizing interfaith events
Career Connection
These experiences are crucial for careers in diplomacy, social work, community development, and international relations, particularly in a multicultural nation like India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives and Deepen Philosophical Inquiry- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully select elective courses that align with your specific interests and career aspirations, whether it''''s Sikhism, Bhakti traditions, or environmental ethics. Use these courses to delve deeper into specific religious philosophies and their ethical implications.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship for specialized electives, Advanced texts and scholarly works in chosen areas
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for focused research projects, academic positions, or roles requiring in-depth knowledge of specific religious traditions.
Master Qualitative and Quantitative Research Techniques- (Semester 3-4)
Apply the research methodologies learned in theory to practical scenarios. This involves designing research questions, conducting interviews or surveys, analyzing data, and writing comprehensive reports, which are critical for the dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (if applicable) or qualitative analysis software, Feedback from professors on research proposals and literature reviews
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is vital for pursuing M.Phil./Ph.D. studies, working as a research associate, or in policy-making roles in NGOs and government bodies.
Present Research and Network Academically- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and potentially student conferences to present your research findings, even if preliminary. Engage with visiting scholars and senior students to expand your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Departmental seminars, university-level student conferences
Career Connection
Presenting your work builds confidence, hones communication skills, and opens doors to collaborative research, vital for an academic career and visibility within the field.
Advanced Stage
Execute and Defend a High-Quality Dissertation- (Semester 3-4 (Dissertation focus))
Dedicate significant time to the dissertation, ensuring rigorous research, clear argumentation, and meticulous writing. Work closely with your supervisor, incorporating feedback to refine your thesis and prepare for the viva-voce examination.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), Writing and editing tools, university guidelines for thesis submission
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a tangible proof of your research capabilities, significantly boosting your profile for Ph.D. admissions, research fellowships, or specialized roles in academia or think tanks.
Seek Mentorship for Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Engage proactively with professors and alumni to discuss career options beyond academia. Seek advice on how to leverage your Religious Studies degree in fields like journalism, cultural heritage management, public service, or international organizations in India.
Tools & Resources
University''''s career services department, Alumni networking events, informational interviews
Career Connection
Personalized mentorship helps in identifying niche opportunities, understanding industry demands, and tailoring your skills for specific job roles post-graduation, maximizing your career potential.
Explore Post-Graduate Opportunities and Certifications- (Semester 4)
Research further academic pursuits (M.Phil., Ph.D.) or specialized certifications that complement your degree, such as in peace and conflict resolution, museum studies, or interfaith leadership, which are increasingly relevant in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Research leading universities for advanced studies, Explore professional development programs from national/international bodies
Career Connection
Continuing education or specialized certifications can provide a competitive edge, opening doors to advanced research positions, specialized roles in cultural institutions, or leadership positions in faith-based organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree in any faculty with 50% marks (45% for SC/ST) in aggregate or Bachelor’s Degree with 50% marks in the subject concerned. Or B.A. with Honours in Religious Studies/Philosophy/History/Sociology/Political Science with 50% marks in aggregate or Master’s Degree in any faculty. (Source: GNDU Prospectus 2023-24)
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR-101 | Methodology of Religious Studies | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Religious Studies, Methods: History, Sociology, Psychology, Phenomenology of Religion, Anthropological Approaches, Philosophy of Religion |
| MR-102 | Introduction to World Religions I (Indian Religions) | Core | 4 | Hinduism: Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Jainism: Tirthankaras, Mahavira, Syadvada, Buddhism: Buddha, Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Sikhism: Gurus, Adi Granth, Mool Mantra |
| MR-103 | History of Religious Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Religious Traditions (Greek, Roman), Medieval Thought (Christianity, Islam), Enlightenment and Modern Religious Thought, Existentialism and Postmodernism, Key Philosophers and Theologians |
| MR-104 | Interdisciplinary Studies in Religion | Core | 4 | Religion and Culture, Religion and Science, Religion and Ethics, Religion and Politics, Religion and Art and Literature |
| MR-105 | Religion and Society | Core | 4 | Social Functions of Religion, Religious Pluralism and Secularism, Religious Fundamentalism, Religion and Globalization, Social Justice and Conflict |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR-201 | Hermeneutics and Religious Texts | Core | 4 | History and Theories of Hermeneutics, Interpretation of Sacred Texts, Exegesis and Contextual Interpretation, Myth, Symbol, and Ritual, Hermeneutical Circle |
| MR-202 | Introduction to World Religions II (Semitic Religions) | Core | 4 | Judaism: Torah, Prophets, Commandments, Christianity: Jesus, Bible, Trinity, Islam: Quran, Prophet Muhammad, Five Pillars, Zoroastrianism: Ahura Mazda, Dualism |
| MR-203 | Contemporary Religious Movements | Core | 4 | New Religious Movements (NRMs), Cults, Sects, and Charismatic Movements, Syncretism and Revivalism, Modern Indian Religious Movements, Religious Fundamentalism |
| MR-204 | Comparative Study of Religions | Core | 4 | Methods of Comparison, Universalism and Particularism, Interfaith Dialogue, Typologies of Religion, Common Themes in Religions |
| MR-205 | Research Methodology in Religious Studies | Core | 4 | Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Techniques (Qualitative, Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation, Ethical Issues in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR-301 | Philosophy of Religion | Core | 4 | Nature of God and Divine Attributes, Arguments for and against God''''s Existence, Problem of Evil and Theodicy, Faith, Reason, and Religious Language, Mysticism and Immortality |
| MR-302 | Ethics and Morality in Religions | Core | 4 | Sources of Religious Ethics, Ethical Systems: Deontology, Consequentialism, Virtue Ethics and Religious Laws, Bioethics and Environmental Ethics, Social Justice and Human Rights |
| MR-303A | Sikhism: Philosophy and Practice | Elective | 4 | Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, Sikh Gurus and Evolution of Sikhism, Adi Granth as Holy Scripture, Sikh Ethics and Values, Institution of Khalsa and Sikh Identity |
| MR-303B | Bhakti and Sufi Traditions | Elective | 4 | Origin and Development of Bhakti Movement, Major Bhakti Saints and Philosophies, Origin and Development of Sufism, Major Sufi Orders and Teachings, Mystical Experience, Poetry and Music |
| MR-304A | Religion and Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Religious Perspectives on Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Religious Freedom and Pluralism, Gender Equality and Minority Rights, Religion, Conflict, and Social Justice |
| MR-304B | Religion and Ecology | Elective | 4 | Sacredness of Nature in Religious Traditions, Religious Teachings on Environmental Ethics, Eco-theology and Spiritual Ecology, Sustainable Development and Conservation, Religious Responses to Ecological Crisis |
| MR-305 | Dissertation / Project | Core | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Extensive Literature Review, Methodology and Data Collection, Preliminary Analysis and Thesis Writing, Supervisor Consultation and Feedback |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MR-401 | Psychology of Religion | Core | 4 | Psychological Theories of Religion, Religious Experience and Conversion, Mysticism, Rituals, and Prayer, Major Theorists: Freud, Jung, James, Religious Development and Personality |
| MR-402 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 4 | Classical Sociologists: Durkheim, Weber, Marx, Religion and Social Structure, Secularization Debate, Religious Organizations and Movements, Religion in Modernity and Globalization |
| MR-403A | Mysticism and Spiritual Traditions | Elective | 4 | Universal Characteristics of Mysticism, Eastern Mysticism (Yoga, Zen, Sufism), Western Mysticism (Christian, Jewish), Paths to Enlightenment and Contemplation, Mystical Experience and Ecstasy |
| MR-403B | Gender and Religion | Elective | 4 | Gender Roles and Patriarchy in Religions, Feminist Theology and Critiques, Women''''s Religious Experiences, Sacred Texts and Gender Interpretations, Contemporary Issues: Gender Identity and Religion |
| MR-404A | Religion and Media | Elective | 4 | Media Representation of Religion, Digital Religion and Online Communities, Religious Broadcasting and Communication, Social Media and Religious Authority, Propaganda and Religious Messaging |
| MR-404B | Art, Architecture and Religion | Elective | 4 | Sacred Art and Iconography, Religious Architecture (Temples, Mosques, Churches), Music, Dance, and Rituals, Aesthetics and Religious Expression, Symbolism in Religious Art |
| MR-405 | Dissertation / Project (Continuation) | Core | 4 | Finalizing Dissertation Chapters, Data Interpretation and Conclusion Writing, Proofreading and Formatting, Preparation for Viva-Voce Examination, Submission of Final Dissertation |
