Religious Studies, BA
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
Additional facts
STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
International students (F1), this program is not eligible for the STEM-OPT extension.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
ASU is not currently accepting applications for this program. Interested students should apply to the concentration in religion, culture and public life or the concentration in religion, politics and global affairs.
Degree description
Religion is an important part of human experience. Religious understanding informs and shapes politics, literature, philosophy, art and science as well as the daily life of millions around the globe. An understanding of religious traditions is critical to understanding a shared past and present and to navigating toward a shared future.
Students who pursue the BA in religious studies come from a wide diversity of faiths, cultural backgrounds and intellectual interests. What many find fascinating and exciting about religious studies is that it draws from a wide variety of disciplines --- history, philosophy, anthropology, literature, political science and theology, to name a few. Course offerings reflect a diversity of approaches (historical, anthropological, ethical and theological), regions (North America, South America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia) and traditions (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Native American traditions).
Students study global religious traditions to examine human interaction and explore the root beliefs and values of diverse cultures. This interdisciplinary program combines teachings of history, philosophy, anthropology, literature, political science and theology and helps students develop critical thinking and writing skills.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.
Courses
Course checksheet and curriculum archive
The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.
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See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)What you'll learn
The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.
- Formulate a thesis about a significant issue in religious studies.
- Address and analyze a scholarly issue in religious studies.
- Develop a sustained, evidence-based argument about a significant issue in religious studies.
Formulate a thesis about a significant issue in religious studies.Admission requirements
Here are the admission and application details
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.
Explore expanded study opportunities
When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (programs vary in length, from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students who wish to acquire global skills and knowledge in preparation for a career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and they may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. More information on available programs can be found on the Global Education Office website.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in religious studies.
Paying for college
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Get an estimateCareer opportunities
Students interested in careers in local, state, regional and national communities find transdisciplinary encouragement and support in the Bachelor of Arts degree program in religious studies.
Students who are attracted to international study find the undergraduate program rich in multicultural coursework and study abroad opportunities.
Religious studies students find many opportunities for practical experience leading to careers in the academic study of religion, in public service, in governmental and nongovernmental agencies, and in professional careers in a variety of organizations, including all of the helping professions.
Graduates have gone on to careers in such fields as diplomacy, development and teaching or have pursued professional degrees in areas such as law, public policy and counseling.
Contact information
Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.
Historical, Philosophical & Religious Studies, Sch
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COOR 4591
SHPRSadvising@asu.edu
480-965-8364
Frequently asked questions about degree programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
