Dr. Richard Layton

Associate Professor

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Biography

Richard Layton is an Associate Professor at the Department of Religion at the University of Illinois. His research interests focus on the history of early Christianity and the reception of the Bible within the context of Greco-Roman philosophy and religion. He has published works that explore the intricate connections between civic good and teaching religion in public schools, as discussed in his co-authored book with W. Feinberg. Layton's scholarship also addresses late-antique Alexandria and narrative biblical scholarship, revealing his deep engagement with both historical texts and contemporary interpretations. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and has a diverse educational background including a Master of Divinity from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts also from the University of Virginia. Additionally, he serves as the Acting Head of the Religion Department and has been involved in Medieval Studies, reflecting a broad academic scope. Layton teaches courses on world religions and the New Testament, contributing to students' understanding of complex religious ideas and their historical underpinnings.

Research Interests

Experience

Acting Head

— Present

Department of Religion, University of Illinois • Urbana, Illinois

Oversees the academic and administrative functions of the department.

Associate Professor

— Present

Department of Religion, University of Illinois • Urbana, Illinois

Engages in teaching and research related to religion and its various dimensions.

Courses

World Religion New Testament

Requirements for University of Illinois

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:19
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:103
GRE General
Prerequisites
Mathematical background Linear Algebra Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE is optional for admission to all graduate programs in Statistics. Full status admission requires higher language scores than limited status.