Welcome to the DU/Iliff Joint Doctoral Program in the Study of Religion!
The Joint Doctoral Program (JDP) combines the strengths and resources of the University of Denver (DU) and the Iliff School of Theology, separate institutions that have shared a campus and a passion for the public good since the 1890s. Together, we offer an innovative, interdisciplinary PhD program for those who have already obtained a master's degree in religion, theology, or a related field and want to pursue deeper study with a diverse, world-renowned faculty.
What does interdisciplinary mean and why is it important?
Interdisciplinarity for the study of religion involves developing expertise in different disciplines in constructive ways to create unique academic perspectives to benefit students, institutions, and the world.
JDP students are not limited to a predesigned field of study. They are free to pursue their unique interests using the resources and classes offered by a comprehensive research university and a school of theology. Students take 42 quarter credits of electives allowing them ample opportunity to explore many different academic disciplines. The result can be seen in the wide diversity of topics covered in our recent dissertations.
Who are our students?
Complementing the values of both the secular University of Denver and United Methodist-affiliated Iliff School of Theology, JDP students come from a wide diversity of religious traditions or have no religious affiliation at all. They are seeking to better understand how religion impacts the world around us, how it has affected the past and present, and how it might shape the future.
The Joint Doctoral Program (JDP) welcomes students into a community that encourages:
Intellectual curiosity to engage with stimulating ideas both past and present;
Eagerness to explore a variety of religious and spiritual perspectives;
Willingness to speak respectfully about their work and passions and listen respectfully to other perspectives;
Openness to working closely with a cohort that will include persons of different systems of belief, ethnic or racial backgrounds, nationalities, abilities, and gender and sexual identifications;
Commitment to embodying an ethos of social justice and wholeness.
Mission Statement
Drawing broadly upon the resources of both institutions, the University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology Joint Doctoral Program in the Study of Religion (JDP) prepares globally minded, socially-conscious scholar-teachers through dynamic, interdisciplinary training in the study of religion as theorized and lived.
VISIT US!
Prospective students are welcome to join us for a Virtual Visit Day on Dec. 4, 2024 from 9:00 -10:30 am Mountain Time. Please contact the JDP office at jointphd@iliff.edu to RSVP or for information.
Individual visits can also be arranged to meet with program staff, faculty, and students, contact jointphd@iliff.edu at least 2 weeks in advance and we will be happy to set up a visit for you.
Of course, we are also happy to chat about the program via zoom.