HDS - Program in Religious Studies and Education

Program in Religious Studies and Education

Admission to the Program

Students apply to the PRSE after they have been accepted into the master of divinity or master of theological studies degree program at the Divinity School. Criteria for selection include a strong undergraduate record culminating in a bachelor's degree in liberal arts, a passionate commitment to youth, and an understanding of education as vocation.

Download the 2008 PRSE application form (Adobe Reader required).

The deadline for fall 2008 admission for new students is April 7, 2008. If space permits, there is a December 8, 2008, deadline for matriculated students.

Special Students

This option is for experienced teachers or others who are interested in taking courses in the PRSE, but who do not wish to pursue a master's degree at this time.

The Special Student program affords the opportunity for nondegree students to do coursework at the Divinity School. Students in this category may enroll for the equivalent of up to eight half courses for credit within a period of up to two years. International students accepted under this status must enroll for a minimum of three half courses for credit each term. Students receive full credit for work completed in this program and may transfer these credits elsewhere, or in some cases may petition to have some or all of the work count toward completion of one of the degree programs of the Divinity School.

Special Students pay full regular tuition and are not eligible for School or University financial aid. Students may cross-register for as many as half of their courses in other schools of the University or within member schools of the Boston Theological Institute (BTI). Courses may also be audited with the permission of the instructor and payment of the auditor's fee ($365 per half course).

Application information: The requirements for admission and the application procedure are the same as those for the master of divinity and master of theological studies programs. Candidates should be aware that admission to Special Student status is not an indicator of future admission to other degree programs at Harvard Divinity School. For further information regarding the Special Student program, contact the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid at 617.495.5796 or admissions@hds.harvard.edu.