Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies

The doctoral training in religious studies is aimed at imparting high-caliber research skills person and knowledge acquisition in religious, ethical and other cross-cutting interdisciplinary issues.

Doctoral training and research stimulate the learners to adopt a scientific attitude which includes the ability to formulate questions and adequate methods and theories for tracking global issues and contribute to finding solutions for nationals and beyond.

Training in the Doctoral of Philosophy in Religious Studies will lead to the production of high-calibre teaching staff in universities, other institutions of higher learning, secondary schools, religious leaders, and competent research fellows who will engage effectively with societal problems.

Target Group

The target group shall include:

• University and other tertiary institution lecturers in the fields of Religious Studies, Peace and conflict management studies, humanities, social sciences, and education
• Research fellows in ethical, philosophical and Religious Studies
• Religious leaders and other leaders of civil society and organisations.

General Objectives

To produce graduates who are competent and well-grounded in the theory, research, and practical realities of society.

Specific Objectives

By the end of the programme, the students should be able to:

• Generate new knowledge in the field of religion, humanities and Social Sciences acquire new knowledge in the field of Religious Studies, ethics, peace and conflict management.
• Apply the acquired knowledge and skills to address moral, and social conflicts and other problems of society.
• Demonstrate a solid intellectual understanding of religious traditions that influence society.
• Conduct credible and high calibre research that can contribute to solving human problems.
• Acquire knowledge and skills that can help them competently organise knowledge-dissemination intellectual activities such as conferences, workshops, seminars and synopsis that meet international standards.
• Apply the Religious theories and research skills to write credible research proposals and dissertations within or outside the area of specialisation.
• Apply the acquired knowledge, skills, and competencies to write and publish scholarly articles and books in the field of religion, the humanities, and social sciences.

Admission shall be done in accordance with the Kyambogo University admission procedures and regulations with minimum qualifications:

• Possession of a Master’s degree in Religious Studies and related fields in humanities or social sciences
• A statement of purpose
• A synopsis (statement) of the intended research (maximum 1000 words)
• Two letters of reference (one from an academic institution)

Duration:

The programme is full-time, running for a minimum of 3 academic years of two semesters each and a maximum of five years.

• Demonstrate having generated new knowledge in the fields of religion, education, humanities social sciences and ethics.
• Demonstrate the capacity to conduct research that can contribute to solving human problems.
• Demonstrate the skill to disseminate knowledge via conferences workshops and seminars.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply acquired knowledge to solve moral, social, and other problems in society.
• Demonstrate the capacity to write and publish articles and books.

1. University Professor/ Lecturer: Graduates can pursue careers as professors or lecturers in universities and tertiary institutions, teaching Religious Studies, Peace and Conflict Management Studies, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education. They contribute to the academic community by imparting knowledge and fostering critical thinking among students.

2. Research Fellow: Individuals can work as research fellows in various institutions, focusing on ethical, philosophical, and religious studies. They engage in cutting-edge research, contribute to the academic literature, and address contemporary issues through their research findings.

3. Religious Leader or Spiritual Advisor: Graduates may become religious leaders, providing spiritual guidance and leadership within religious communities. They can contribute to the ethical and moral development of their followers, promoting peace and understanding.

4. Civil Society and Organizational Leaders: With a deep understanding of ethical and moral principles, graduates can take on leadership roles in civil society organizations, non-profits, and other institutions. They can contribute to societal well-being by addressing moral and social issues.

5. Conflict Resolution Specialist: The program’s focus on peace and conflict management equips graduates with skills to work as specialists in conflict resolution. They can play key roles in mediating disputes, promoting dialogue, and fostering reconciliation in various contexts.

6. Educational Consultant: Graduates can serve as consultants in educational institutions, advising on curriculum development, ethics in education, and promoting interfaith dialogue. Their expertise can enhance the overall educational experience.

7. Author and Scholar: The program prepares students to conduct high-caliber research and publish scholarly articles and books. Graduates can pursue careers as authors, contributing to academic literature and influencing discussions in the field of religion, humanities, and social sciences.

8. Knowledge Dissemination Specialist: Graduates can organize conferences, workshops, and seminars to disseminate knowledge in the international arena. They can contribute to intellectual discourse and bridge the gap between academia and society.

9. Policy Advisor on Religious and Ethical Matters: With a solid understanding of religious traditions and ethics, graduates can work as policy advisors, influencing decision-making processes related to religious and ethical matters at the governmental or organizational levels.

10. Social Entrepreneur: Graduates may explore entrepreneurial ventures focused on addressing societal issues, incorporating ethical and religious perspectives into their initiatives.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies program prepares individuals for multifaceted roles where they can apply their deep understanding of religion, ethics, and social sciences to contribute positively to academia, society, and various professional sectors.