Middle Eastern Studies or Divinity School?

[TXang143]

Greetings my fellow history nerds!

Let me start by saying that history buffs are awesome.

Now, onto the business at hand. I am trying to decide between applying for DS or MES for graduate school. I will be applying for PhD, not a masters. My aim is to research ancient religions and the impact Islam had on their development, as well as the impact ancient religions had on the advent of Islam. Specifically, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, and Christianty.

I am deeply interested in religion, although not religious myself. Islam intrigues me because it is newer and more controversial. The historical aspect is so fascinating. But also, I am intrigued by the comparisons of other religions and the similarities between them.

What do I do?

[dr. telkanuru]

Since most Div schools have a separate admissions process

 

[TXang143]

Interesting....

[Josh J.]

I agree, apply at both.  I'm doing my MTS in religious history right now, and hope to get a PhD in American History, but I'll be applying to PhD programs in religion as well. As competitive as it is, being able to apply at twice as many programs is a nice option. 

[TXang143]

This is probably a stupid question, but do I do both programs at the same time?

[xypathos]

This is probably a stupid question, but do I do both programs at the same time?

No. I'd suggest looking for a M* degree with particular focus on the ME. Yale and Harvard come to mind and I know Hartford is really big on Islam.

[TXang143]

Got it. Thank you.