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"We don't have to take Jesus to prison; Jesus is there in the prison."

Duke Divinity School's Prison Studies Program gives students the opportunity to engage with people in prison and the system that imprisons them in the context of theological education and formation for ministry. A highlight of the program is Project TURN, courses taught on-site in a local prison where Divinity School students and incarcerated students learn alongside each other.

Hear from faculty, staff, and students about how Duke's Prison Studies Program has been transformational in their relationship with God.

More About Prison Studies at Duke Divinity

The Certificate in Prison Studies is available in the residential M.Div., M.T.S, and Th.D programs and provides students with the opportunity to engage specifically with people in prison and the system that imprisons them in the context of theological education and formation for ministry.
September 3, 2026
Part of Duke Divinity School's Prison Studies Program, Project TURN brings incarcerated students into classes with Divinity School students and faculty. We interviewed incarcerated students to hear about how the program has impacted them.
February 12, 2026
The course "Christianity and Politics in American History" questions the place of Christianity in American politics, with Duke Divinity students and incarcerated students learning alongside each other.
April 17, 2024
This year marks 15 years of transformative experiences intertwining prison and the academy at Duke Divinity School.