History

In September 1981, the University of Denver (DU) and the Iliff School of Theology jointly inaugurated a program leading to the Doctor of Philosophy in Religious and Theological Studies. The University of Denver is an R-1 research institution accredited as a doctoral degree-granting institution by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association. The Iliff School of Theology is accredited by both the HLC of North Central Association and the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada. In addition to faculty from Iliff and DU's Department of Religious Studies, the Joint Doctoral Program has attracted faculty from the Graduate Schools of Professional Psychology, Social Work, Education, and International Studies, as well as faculty in the departments of Anthropology, Economics, English, History, Political Science, Philosophy, and the School of Art and Art History, shaping the JDP into a highly interdisciplinary enterprise.

After evolving over time the degree is now a PhD in the Study of Religion without majors or concentrations.  The curriculum features six required courses for all students in the program and beyond that offers a great deal of flexibility among various disciplines.  This structure gives educational breadth as well as opportunity for specialization. In 2015, the JDP adopted its current mission statement: "Drawing broadly upon the resources of both institutions, the DU/Iliff Joint Doctoral Program prepares globally minded scholar-teachers through dynamic, interdisciplinary training in the study of religion as theorized and lived."

In 2016-17 a pre-existing Latina/o certificate was formalized as a certificate in Latinx Studies, with a core faculty that includes four former Hispanic Theological Initiative fellows and a growing number of other Latinx scholars. A certificate for future faculty in religion was added to strengthen opportunities for students preparing to teach in universities, colleges, seminaries, and religious institutions.