Tuesday, December 08, 2009

RELIGIOUS STUDIES MA (in English) AT CENTRAL EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY

RELIGIOUS STUDIES MA (in English) AT CENTRAL EUROPEAN UNIVERSITY
The Central European University is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and unique setting for the study of religion in a historical and comparative perspective. Situated at the crossroad of Empires and of world religions, Budapest offers a microcosm of the interactions of religions, cultures and societies.

Specialization in Religious Studies
The Specialization Religious Studies, offered by the School of History and Interdisciplinary Historical Studies, awards a non-degree certificate in Religious Studies. Students will enroll and receive their degrees in either the Department of History or Medieval Studies. As part of their MA in History or Medieval Studies, students of this Specialization will engage in the study of religious phenomena from a historical point of view, from Late Antiquity to modernity, and a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives. The Specialization Religious Studies is a young teaching unit, launched in 2007 by the Religious Studies Program. Its diverse course offers cover the three monotheistic religions multidisciplinary perspectives. To this end, apart from the Departments of History and Medieval Studies, more departments participate through their course offerings, such as Philosophy, Jewish Studies Program, Sociology and Social Anthropology, International Relations and European Studies. In the past, students were successful in receiving prestigious international scholarships and in entering challenging professional fields.

Religious Studies Program
The Religious Studies Program (RSP) is a research program and an academic forum at CEU fostering the academic study of religion. The mission of the program is to initiate and to coordinate research, academic events, and publications that address in critical ways religion-related questions in critical ways. The RSP is integrated into the School of History and Interdisciplinary Historical Studies and collaborates with relevant departments and academic units at the CEU. It crosses the borders of academic disciplines, confessional and geo-political categorizations. With an international advisory board and contacts with institutions throughout the region, as well as worldwide, the RSP provides an important site in Eastern Europe for academic research and communication on religion.

Source Language Teaching Unit
It is expected that as of Academic Year 2010/2011, students specializing in Religious Studies will be able to take intensive, high-level courses in classical and modern languages. The offering will include Greek, Latin, Arabic, Hebrew, Syriac, Ottoman as well as Russian and modern Turkish and Greek.

About CEU and the School of History and Interdisciplinary Historical Studies
Central European University (CEU) is a graduate, English-language, research-intensive university located in Budapest, Hungary, and is accredited in the USA and Hungary. While concentrating on the social sciences and humanities, CEU also offers programs in Business, Economics, Law, Environmental Sciences and Mathematics. With students coming from 100 countries, CEU is proud of its international community with no predominant national majority. The university offers small, seminar-style courses with student/faculty ratio 7:1, and individual consultations with professors. The School of History and Interdisciplinary Historical Studies brings together the Departments of History and Medieval Studies, the Nationalism Studies Program, the Religious Studies Program and Pasts, Inc. Institute of Historical Studies, as well as other research centers and programs related to the three teaching units with the aim to strengthen interdisciplinary studies. See: http://www.ceu.hu/node/2684

Faculty in Charge of the Specialization
Aziz Al-Azmeh (Department of Medieval Studies)
Nadia Al-Bagdadi (Department of History)
Matthias Riedl (Department of History)

Sample Courses
Approaching Religion
Bookish Traditions: Authority and the Book in Scripturalist Religions
Political Theology - Ancient and Modern
Christian-Muslim Polemics in the Middle Ages
Messianism - From the Age of Revelation to the Age of Revolution Religion and Authority Secularism and Religion - Comparative Perspectives on Christianity and Islam
Philosophy and Theology in the Middle Ages

Scholarships
CEU is committed to sustaining a geographically diverse and multi-cultural student body. To further this goal, the university welcomes financial aid applications from students around the world. Full scholarships are available for the Specialization Religious Studies. For more detailed information on financial aid, please visit www.ceu.hu/admissions/financialaid.

How to Start the Application Procedure
Students interested in the Specialization Religious Studies have a choice of applying to a One Year MA, Two Year MA or PhD. For research topics that focus on the period up to the end of the 15th century apply to the Medieval Studies Department (medstud.ceu.hu), for later topics to the History Department (www.hist.ceu.hu). Applications are accepted through an on-line system at http://www.ceu.hu/admissions/apply beginning on November 10, 2009. Candidates applying by January 25, 2010 are eligible to take the CEU-administered institutional TOEFL. Candidates who can provide evidence of proficiency in English or will organize their own TOEFL examination may apply by March 5, 2009. Full scholarships are available!

Application Deadlines
Deadlines for application to the CEU History and/or the Medieval Studies Department are: January 25, 2010: For applicants who wish/are required to take the CEU administered admissions examinations and /or are requesting exemption from the English language proficiency requirement. March 16, 2010: For applicants submitting applications complete with language scores and other applicable test scores. March 2010: For CEU Master's students and graduates applying to doctoral programs.

For detailed information about the academic programs and course, specific entry requirements, and a list of faculty, visit our website or contact us directly. Religious Studies Program Central European University (CEU) Nádor u. 11, room 211 h-1051 Budapest Telephone :+36.1/327-3000 ex 2170 E-mail: mailto:rsp@ceu.hu / Website: http://www.ceu.hu/religion RSP Director Nadia Al-Bagdadi (mailto:albagdadin@ceu.hu) RSP Program Coordinator Esther Holbrook (mailto:holbrooke@ceu.hu) CEU Department of History Nador u. 9, 1051 Budapest Hungary Telephone :+36 1 327-3022 / Fax:+36 1 327-3191 E-mail: mailto:history@ceu.hu / Website: http://www.ceu.hu/history CEU Department of Medieval Studies Nador u. 9, 1051 Budapest Hungary Telephone :+36 1 327-3024 / Fax:+36 1 327-3055 E-mail: mailto:medstud@ceu.hu / Website: http://www.medstud.ceu.hu You can also visit the Religious Studies group on Facebook.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies

Symposium on Medieval and Renaissance Studies:

Wednesday, December 2 from 5:00 to 7:00pm
at Carnegie Mellon University, 237B Baker Hall (the long building across the bridge from Pitt).

An informal discussion with Pittsburgh faculty Allyson Creasman (CMU), Frank Toker (Pitt), Jen Waldron (Pitt), Dan Selcer (Duquesne), Adam Shear (Pitt), Renate Blumenfeld-Kosinski (Pitt), and Peggy Knapp (CMU), all of whom will briefly describe their fields of interest. Graduate and Undergraduate students can see who's doing what, what courses will be offered, and what books are hot.

As in Plato's day, a symposium is a festive occasion implying food as well as conversation; accordingly, the roundtable will befollowed by a light supper for everyone who comes, so we can converse in smaller groups. Please rsvp to Peggy Knapp at CMU, pk07@andrew.cmu.edu.

Sponsored by the Pittsburgh Consortium for Medieval and Renaissance Studies.

Friday, November 06, 2009

"Test Drive a Career"

The announcement below is from the advising center:

This upcoming Winter Break, Pitt students will have the opportunity to Test Drive a Career by shadowing an alum or employer.  Winter Break is an ideal time since your finals will be over!  What better occasion to participate in an a job shadowing experience that will give you the opportunity to shadow a professional and learn more about the potential field you want to enter.  If you are considering more than one career field then this is a great way to narrow down your options.  If you know what career you want to pursue, this is a great way to “reality check” that profession.

 

Job shadowing is especially important for sophomores as you will have to declare a major by the end of the academic year.  It is important to experience first hand a career field that you may be interested in before making this imperative decision.  Below are more details and instructions on how to sign up.  We look forward to hearing from you!

 

This is how the job shadowing will work:

  • You will be matched with an alum or employer near your Winter Break residence.
  • The experience can last from a half day to a full day of shadowing. 
  • You will earn OCC credit.
  • The shadowing dates are:
    • December 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, & 30

 

How to register:

  • RSVP to the Panther Shadow Program through FutureLinks.
    • Click on “events”, then
    • Click on “workshops”, then
    • Click on Panther Shadow Program

 

  • You must upload your resume on FutureLinks
    • Click on “documents”, then
    • Under the “documents” tab, then click “add new”

If you do not have a resume you can use the Resume Architect on FutureLinks or come to walk-in hours at the Career Development Office from 1 to 4, Monday – Friday, on the 2nd Floor of the William Pitt Union.

 

Email the following information to scottdl@pitt.edu – please use the subject “Panther Shadow Program Student”:

  • Year in school.
  • Industry/industries of interest – up to three.
  • Cities you will be near during your Winter Break that are an hour or less away.
  • Any dates listed above that you will not be available.

 

 

DEADLINE TO RSVP IS NOVEMBER 20, 2009

 

For any questions, please contact Danielle Scott at scottdl@pitt.edu.

Friday, October 09, 2009

Wittenberg in China

The following was posted on H-ASIA Oct 9 and will be of interest to those who want to study in China.

Wittenberg in China: On the Silk Road" summer program (mid-May 17 to mid-June).

This month-long program offers students an opportunity to explore China's past and present through a study of the historic and contemporary Silk Road through experiential learning activities, class discussions, and site visits. The program is flexibly designed so students can pursue their specific interests in business, medicine, education, art, religion, etc.. For example, Wittenberg Management students have received equivalency credit for International Business; art majors may complete their art history requirement; and pre-Med students can learn first hand about both traditional Chinese and Uigher medical systems. Students study as they travel along the Silk Road from Xi'an, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Turfan, Urumqi and Khotan; the program ends in Beijing. There are no prerequisites, and the program is open to all students regardless of their major or graduation year. Where translators arer equired, they will be provided. The program comprehensive fee of $4,780 to $5,780 (depending on number ofparticipants) includes all expenses in China (transportation, room, board,entrance fees, course materials, health & evacuation insurance, and anallowance) and six Wittenberg (four-hour) credits. Additional expenses arethe Wittenberg summer school application fee ($40), international travel,Chinese visa, and small gifts for Chinese hosts. Graduate students mayapply. For application materials, see www.wittenberg.edu/silkroad. Contact Dr.Marcia Frost at mfrost@wittenberg.edu or 937-327-7935 or Dr. Stephen Smithat srsmith@wittenberg.edu or 937-327-7506 or www.wittenberg.edu/silkroad formore information and application packets. Marcia J. FrostAssociate Professor of Economics & East Asian StudiesWittenberg UniversitySpringfield OH 45501

Monday, September 21, 2009

Grad School Fair

There will be an Idealist.org Graduate Degree Fair for the Public Good on Wednesday, September 23, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the William Pitt Union, Ballroom.

To learn more about it, see idealist.org/gradfairs

Monday, September 14, 2009

Self-Service Enrollment

Starting this October you will be able to self-enroll for courses in the spring term. This will enable you to register, add, and drop courses at your convenience. The School of Arts & Sciences has provided the following information on how students can get started:

1. Log on the Student Center through the http://my.pitt.edu Web portal

2. View details about their enrollment appointment

3. Contact their academic advisors for a pre-registration appointment BEFORE their enrollment appointment begins.

As the Director of Undergraduate Studies for the Department of Religious Studies, I will post later this month a sign-up sheet outside my office (CL 2610) so you can sign up to see me before your enrollment appointment.

Before you come to your appointment, please make sure you fill out two checklists:
"GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS CHECKLIST"
"CHECKLIST FOR THE RELIGIOUS STUDIES MAJOR"

Both are available through the departmental website at

http://www.religiousstudies.pitt.edu/undergraduate/checklists.php

I look forward to talking with you about your future academic life here at Pitt.

---Clark Chilson

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Career Kickoff

From the Vice Provost and Dean of Students:

"Career Kickoff with be held from September 14-18 and will provide students with a chance to network with employers and have their resume critiqued by seasoned professionals. Tables have been reserved in convenient locations across campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day to enable students to prepare for the career fair"

If you would like to learn more about this and the Student Employment and Placement Assistance (SEPA) offices, see http://www.hire.pitt.edu/.

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

A Peaceful and Orderly Transition in the Cathedral of Learning

Dear Religious Studies students,

As of today, I am relinquishing my duties as Director of Undergraduate Studies and closing up the Religious Studies advising office for the summer.

Professor Clark Chilson will take over as DUS and undergraduate advsisor for the department starting with the beginning of the fall term. He will post his office hours and contact information for the beginnning of the term on the blog soon.

In the meantime, if you have a question about advising--that cannot wait until the end of the summer--please e-mail Professor Chilson (chilson@pitt.edu) or Professor Orbach (orbach@pitt.edu).

I will be on leave in the fall term and back teaching in the spring.

I have enjoyed my time as DUS and I leave you in the capable hands of Prof. Chilson.

Sincerely,

Adam Shear

PS Two last notes about Peoplesoft which is not always up-to-date:

1) Prof. Chilson is the instructor for Religious Studies 1903 this coming fall term (2101) and not me.

2) A couple of you have asked me questions about the spring term schedule (2104). Although a "draft" version is now on Peoplesoft, this is simply the spring 2009 schedule carried over by the computer awaiting updates/corrections/deletions from the departments. Departments will submit schedule changes to Peoplesoft this month and next. You should not consider the schedule on Peoplesoft official until you get notification that the schedule has been published.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Harvard Divinity School Diversity and Explorations Program

Harvard Divinity School

Diversity & Explorations Program

November 3-5, 2009

“Exploring Opportunities in Ministry and Graduate Theological Studies”

What is “Diversity and Explorations”?

Harvard Divinity School’s DIVERSITY AND EXPLORATIONS PROGRAM is an initiative intended to increase students underrepresented in the graduate study of religion, with a particular focus on African American, Latino/a, Asian American and Native American students. The program invites applications from talented undergraduates whose background and experiences suggest a commitment to diversity and social justice issues as well as an interest in ministry, scholarship, or professional careers that are well served by the study of religion, theology, or ethics.

Who can participate?

Sophomores, juniors, and seniors enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities who have a commitment to diversity initiatives, social justice projects, faith-based programs and community outreach. Consideration will also be given to students who are the first in their family to attend college or those who have attended a community college as a part of a four-year degree program. Please note: Students who have already graduated from an undergraduate program and those who may be considering second career options will be considered on a space available basis.

How can I be considered?

Selection for the program is competitive. Students must submit a short application, a personal statement describing their interest in the program, a nomination from a professor, career mentor or faith-based leader, a résumé, and official transcripts. Applications must be submitted by Friday, September 18, 2009. There will be some grants available for travel, and all selected participants will be provided lodging for two nights and meals during the program. Travel grants will be decided during the selection process by the committee based on the numbers of participants selected for the 2009 program and the funding available. Information on the program is available at www.hds.harvard.edu/afa.

Schedule Summary / Program Information

Participants will receive a detailed itinerary at the time of admission to the program and again at registration. All meals are provided during the course of the three-day program. Some of HDS’s faculty, staff and departments will hold open office hours, including the offices of Student Life, Registrar, Career Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, and Ministry Studies. Program participants will have an opportunity to sit in on classes and meet current students, faculty, staff and alumni during meals and at other occasions throughout the program. Andover-Harvard Theological Library will be open to visitors and participants will be provided with information on events open to the public throughout Harvard University. The following schedule provides a summary of the program’s events:

Tuesday, November 3

§ Participants arrive throughout the morning and afternoon; registration; hotel check-in

§ Participants attend open classes throughout the day and HDS Community Tea in the afternoon

§ Participants attend an informal dinner with current HDS students, Diversity and Explorations alumni and staff. Diversity and Explorations alumnus to be featured speaker.

Wednesday, November 4

The second day of the program will include sessions especially designed for Diversity and Explorations participants as well as panels, presentations, and open classes offered during Theological Education Day, which will be hosted on campus to coincide with the second day of the DivEx program. The day’s activities will include:

§ Panels and presentations on HDS programs, resources, and student life

§ Information about admissions and financial aid

§ Open classes and panel discussions for visiting students throughout the day

§ An open house at the Center for the Study of World Religions

§ Lunch with faculty, staff and denominational counselors

§ Open office hours with faculty and staff

§ Campus and library tours

§ Pastoral Preparation and Ordination: Resources at HDS

The day will conclude with a dinner with the HDS dean, alumni, current students, faculty, and staff. The keynote address will be given by Davíd Carrasco, Neil L. Rudenstine Professor for the Study of Latin America in the Faculty of Divinity and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.

Thursday, November 5

§ Continuation of panel discussions, including preparing for GRE workshop

§ Lunch with Harvard University graduate/professional school representatives and invited guests from seminaries and divinity schools from across the country.

§ Final day of the program concludes by 2pm

§ Check-out of hotel; participants return home


Note: schedule is subject to change.

Application, Notification of Decisions, and Registration

Applications must be received by Friday, September 18, 2009. Students will be notified by Friday, October 5 regarding their selection. Participants register on November 3 at Harvard Divinity School, where they will receive program materials and a detailed schedule of program activities and other events at HDS and Harvard University. Applications will be available in July at www.hds.harvard.edu/afa.

Travel and Lodging

Once the Office of Admissions has received confirmation of attendance, arrangements will be made with participants for lodging (local students may waive lodging). Participants who receive travel grants will work with the Office of Admissions to arrange travel. Other participants must make their own travel arrangements and notify the Office of Admissions by October 16 along with a copy of the travel itinerary.

We welcome you to visit our website at www.hds.harvard.edu for information about Harvard Divinity School.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Amazing April 09 Grads: Your Diplomas may be a bit delayed

A message from the Registrar’s office:

"As a result of the severe thunderstorms in the Pittsburgh area on Wednesday
evening, 06/17/2009, a number of University buildings experienced major
flooding. The University Registrar’s Office in G3 Thackeray Hall was one
of those areas. Consequently, all of the diplomas for April graduates were
destroyed. We are in the process of working with our diploma vendor to
reprint the diplomas as quickly as possible. It is anticipated that we will
be able to mail the reprinted diplomas on or about July 2nd."
 

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