Harvard Divinity School

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Harvard Divinity School (HDS) is one of the constituent schools of Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is a nonsectarian school of theology and religious studies that offers a variety of degree programs, including the Master of Divinity (M.Div.), Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Master of Religion and Public Life (M.R.P.L.), and Doctor of Theology (Th.D.).

History

Harvard Divinity School was established in 1816, making it one of the oldest divinity schools in the United States. It was founded to provide a nonsectarian education in theology and to train ministers for the Unitarian and Congregationalist churches. Over the years, HDS has expanded its mission to include a wide range of religious traditions and academic disciplines.

Academics

HDS offers several degree programs designed to prepare students for various careers in ministry, academia, and public service. The primary degree programs include:

• Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
• Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.)
• Master of Religion and Public Life (M.R.P.L.)
• Doctor of Theology (Th.D.)

The school also offers joint degree programs in collaboration with other Harvard schools, such as the Harvard Law School and the Harvard Kennedy School.

Faculty

The faculty at HDS includes renowned scholars in various fields of religious studies, theology, and ethics. Faculty members often hold joint appointments with other departments at Harvard University, allowing for interdisciplinary research and teaching.

Research and Centers

HDS is home to several research centers and initiatives, including:

• Center for the Study of World Religions
• Women's Studies in Religion Program
• Religions and the Practice of Peace Initiative

These centers provide opportunities for scholarly research, public lectures, and community engagement.

Notable Alumni

HDS has a long list of notable alumni who have made significant contributions to theology, academia, and public life. Some of the distinguished alumni include:

• Ralph Waldo Emerson
• Theodore Parker
• Howard Thurman
• Cornel West

Campus

The HDS campus is located in the heart of Harvard University and includes several historic buildings, such as Andover Hall and Divinity Hall. The campus also features the Andover-Harvard Theological Library, one of the largest theological libraries in the world.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• Harvard Law School
• Harvard Kennedy School
• Unitarianism
• Congregationalist Church
• Ralph Waldo Emerson
• Theodore Parker
• Howard Thurman
• Cornel West

See Also

• List of Harvard University people
• List of theological seminaries