FAQ
What is the ARGC?
The ARGC is a hub for the interdisciplinary study of American religions in a global context (hence: ARGC). We are faculty and students from across the university whose common interests are bolstered by a diversity of approaches.
What is the structure of the ARGC?
The ARGC is not a stand-alone program of study. We are not an undergraduate major, nor do we grant graduate degrees. We are fully integrated in a variety of academic departments and schools, which allows students the greatest possible flexibility in their approaches to the study of American religions in a global context.
I am a graduate student interested in studying American religions at Stanford. How do admissions work?
Admissions to graduate programs happen at the departmental or school level. Students who are interested in the ARGC should apply to a specific department for admission into that department.
What are the requirements for the Graduate Certificate in American Religions?
Students who wish to fulfill the Graduate Certificate in American Religions are required to:
a. Take six quarters of the 1-unit ARGC proseminar, which is run by core faculty, and which meets once a month for exchange and discussion of student and faculty papers, plus discussion of the work of one outside guest per quarter
b. Take Theories & Methods in Religious Studies (two quarters)
c. Take the US History Core in the period of proposed specialization (one quarter, although additional quarters of the Core are also recommended)
d. Take one additional relevant course in American religions offered by Core faculty (i.e. “Constructing Religion and Race in America,” “Ethnographies of Religion,” “The Education of American Jews”)
e. Take one general exam field in American religions (other exam fields to be determined by individual department requirements)
f. Attend conferences and lectures organized by the Center
g. Affiliated students will also be encouraged to contribute blog posts to the argc.stanford.edu site
The Graduate Certificate in American Religions is open to ARGC fellows and to interested PhD students across the University in consultation with associated faculty.
Can I study remotely?
No. We expect all students to be full, engaged participants in the intellectual life of the campus, to take courses with our faculty, and to collaborate with peers for the duration of your studies. If research requires you to study elsewhere for a period of time, we will support you, but the expectation is that students will be in residence at Stanford at least until they advance to candidacy.
Do you accept international students?
Absolutely.
What if I have other questions about the ARGC?
Please contact the director of the ARGC, Professor Kathryn Gin Lum, at kgin@stanford.edu.