University of Chicago Divinity School
History
The University of Chicago Divinity School was established as one of the first graduate professional schools of the University of Chicago in 1891, with its roots tracing back to the old University of Chicago, which was founded in 1856 and ceased operations in 1886. The Divinity School was designed to be an interdenominational institution, welcoming students from a variety of religious traditions and promoting the academic study of religion.
Academic Programs
The Divinity School offers a range of academic programs, including the Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Arts (M.A.) in Religious Studies, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Religious Studies, and dual degree programs with other professional schools within the University of Chicago. The school also offers a certificate program in Religious Studies for students not enrolled in a degree program.
Faculty and Research
The faculty of the Divinity School is composed of scholars from a wide range of religious traditions and academic disciplines. The school is known for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to the critical and historical study of religion. Faculty members regularly publish in leading academic journals and contribute to the broader academic and public discourse on religion.
Student Life
Students at the Divinity School are part of a vibrant academic community. They participate in a variety of student organizations, attend regular lectures and symposia, and have access to the resources of the larger University of Chicago community. The Divinity School also hosts an annual lecture series, the Martin Marty Center for the Public Understanding of Religion, which brings distinguished scholars to the campus to discuss issues of religion and public life.
Facilities
The Divinity School is housed in Swift Hall, a Gothic-style building located on the main campus of the University of Chicago. The building includes classrooms, faculty offices, a chapel, and the Divinity School Library, which houses a significant collection of books and manuscripts related to the study of religion.
Notable Alumni
The Divinity School has produced many notable alumni, including scholars, religious leaders, and public intellectuals. These include Paul Tillich, a prominent theologian and philosopher; Martin Marty, a historian of American religion; and Elaine Pagels, a scholar of early Christianity.