Religious Studies, B.A.

Within the Bachelor of Arts Religious Studies major, students will study the history of religious traditions, rituals, and social practices; the political, cultural, and economic impact of religion; and the varieties of religious ethics. The department teaches courses on such traditions as Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Shinto, and Taoism, and provides additional context through historical studies about religions of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and America. 

PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS

• An internationally renowned group of teaching scholars present current research at departmental colloquiums and frequently collaborate with undergraduate students on their work.
• Small, hands-on learning environment with approximately 45 students in the major; most classes have fewer than 20 students.

THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE

• Concentration option in nonprofit management includes coursework in public affairs and a required internship.
• Jewish Studies and Islamic Studies programs within the department give students a breadth of additional resources in these areas, including guest lecturers and campus events.
• Study abroad programs include faculty-led programs in Cyprus, Malta, Istanbul, and Caesarea.
• Students can join clubs and organizations such as Theta Alpha Kappa (Religious Studies Honor Society) and Religious Studies Club.

AFTER GRADUATION

• Great preparation for a variety of careers including business, law, and medicine.
• Graduates hold positions including child/family therapist for Pro Behavioral Health (Boulder, Colo.); vice president for ResourceNet International; manager of pastoral care services for Carilion Health Systems; pastor at Long Branch Baptist Church (Charlotte, N.C.); UNCG development officer; mediator in the Center for Conflict Resolution (Chicago); and vice president at a branch of the Bank of America.
• Graduates have attended prestigious graduate programs at Princeton, Columbia, Duke, Emory, Harvard, Princeton Theological Seminary, Union Theological Seminary, University of Chicago, UNCG, Wake Forest, and Yale.
• Potential career options include:
  • Minister
  • Editor
  • Teacher
  • Lawyer
  • Lobbyist
  • Librarian 

AFFILIATED MINORS

The College of Arts and Sciences offers a minor in Videogaming and Esports that pairs well with this degree. Students complete one required course and 12 hours of electives in courses like Intro to 3D Animation and Fandom and Religion: Rituals, Texts, Communities. Learn More.

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