Curriculum in Goddess-Focused Religious Studies: A Trans-Inclusive Feminist Approach to Scholarship and Spiritual Leadership
Program Philosophy: This curriculum integrates rigorous academic scholarship with devotional practice, preparing students to serve as both scholars and spiritual leaders in goddess-centered traditions. It emphasizes decolonial perspectives, trans-inclusive feminism, and contemporary voices while honoring ancient wisdom.
It seems in the wintertime I’m very drawn to scholarly and spiritual pursuits, so this year I’ve decided to combine the two! There is a trend on social media amongst middle-aged women to create a “personal curriculum” and in very me-fashion I went ahead and just created an entire doctoral/seminary program.
The calls of over-achievedom aside, it’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while. I would really like to get a PhD of Religion. Cost is the major factor holding me back, but so are time and opportunity. I can’t quit my job to do it and I don’t live close to any major universities, much less one that has a program that would fit me. As we know, education is expensive.
In the spirit of just getting started, this is just that - a starting place. The first “semester” I created combines syllabi from a large range of courses that I found that fit my interests and random recommendations - it resulted in some very interesting results. There’s books I haven’t heard of and books I've read over and over. In this field, that’s not entirely unexpected as it’s saturated with content from one particular end. I'm very happy to read new-to-me books and materials I haven’t heard of!
The idea, regardless, is never to take education at purely face value. I wouldn’t do that if I were in a formal PhD program. It’s not my nature, and would be against the tenants of critical thinkinganyway. The intent is not just to read and ingest - but to explore.
The first semester, then.
THEO 101: Introduction to Goddess Thealogies
This foundational course surveys goddess-centered religious philosophies from ancient times to contemporary practice. Students will examine thealogy (rather than theology), explore concepts of immanence versus transcendence, and engage with the reclamation of the divine feminine across multiple traditions. The course balances academic study with personal spiritual reflection.
HIST 110: Herstory - Women's Spirituality Through The Ages
This course traces women’s religious leadership, mysticism, and goddess worship from prehistory through the 21st century. Students will examine archaeological evidence, textual sources, and the politics of historical interpretation. Special attention will be given to historiography - how history is written, by whom, and what biases shape our understanding of women’s spiritual past.
PRAC 100: Foundations of Practice I - Sacred Space and Ritual Design
Hands-on exploration of creating sacred space, ritual structure, seasonal celebrations, and personal devotional practices. Emphasizes accessibility, inclusivity, and adaptation.
FMST 101: Foundations of Feminist Thought
Introduction to feminist theory from first-wave through contemporary intersectional and transfeminist thought. Essential theoretical grounding for all subsequent work.