For Prospective Students: 

Successful applicants to this area of the doctoral program ordinarily possess an M.A. or equivalent in a related field, though exceptionally well-prepared B.A. students may also be considered. Students should have exposure to, or preliminary training in, the academic study of religion and culture, with particular interest in ethnographic and literary-performative approaches to modern South Asia, particularly India. Preparation in at least one South Asian/Indian language fitted to faculty expertise in South Asia at Brown, and background in anthropology, history, or literary studies are strongly encouraged. Graduate study emphasizes interdisciplinary analysis of religion, ethics, and cultural life, with attention to public scholarship, the arts, social justice, and environmental issues, while remaining open to new methodologies and conversations. Students work with affiliated faculty such as Leela Prasad and draw on strengths in South Asian studies at Brown across various disciplines. By the completion of coursework, students will have to demonstrate fluency in a South Asian language, that is, be able to read, write and converse in that language.