Program Overview
A religious studies major at the University of Kansas provides students with a deep and academically grounded understanding of the diverse religious traditions that shape societies, cultures, and personal identities across time and place. This interdisciplinary humanities program emphasizes the critical and comparative study of religion, exploring how religious ideas, rituals, institutions, and communities influence politics, ethics, art, literature, and public life.
As part of the religious studies program, students examine sacred texts, lived practices, historical developments, and contemporary expressions of religion from global perspectives. Courses investigate traditions such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and religions of the ancient Mediterranean, as well as new religious movements and religion in the modern world. Faculty members bring expertise in textual analysis, cultural history, social theory, and ethics to guide students through complex questions about belief, identity, power, and meaning.
Students pursuing a major in religious studies engage with interdisciplinary methodologies drawn from history, anthropology, philosophy, literary studies, and cultural analysis. The curriculum introduces students to both foundational theories and specialized topics, ensuring broad exposure to religious diversity while building depth in particular areas of interest.
Through coursework and guided research, the religious studies major develops strong analytical reading, research, and writing skills while encouraging thoughtful engagement with religious diversity. Students learn to interpret primary texts in translation, assess historical evidence, evaluate scholarly arguments, and apply theoretical frameworks to understand religion’s evolving role in public and private life.
A bachelor’s in religious studies prepares graduates for a wide range of professional fields while also providing excellent preparation for advanced study in religion, law, public policy, education, history, and related disciplines. By emphasizing intellectual rigor rather than devotional training, the program equips students with tools for critical inquiry that translate effectively across industries.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Religious Studies, BA/BGSKU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The Bachelor’s of Religious Studies is part of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, home to a collaborative and creative community making the world better through inquiry and research.Bachelor’s in Religious Studies Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the religious studies program will be able to:
- Analyze religious traditions using historical, cultural, and comparative perspectives.
- Interpret and critically assess religious texts, symbols, and practices within their social contexts.
- Apply interdisciplinary research methods to the academic study of religion.
- Communicate clearly and effectively about religion’s role in shaping societies and human experience.
- Demonstrate informed awareness of religious diversity in local and global contexts.
These outcomes ensure that students completing a bachelor’s in religious studies leave with both subject-matter expertise and transferable professional skills.
What Careers are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Religious Studies
A religious studies major equips students with advanced critical thinking, cultural literacy, research, and communication skills that apply across many professions. While some graduates pursue graduate study, many enter the workforce directly in fields where understanding belief systems, ethics, and social dynamics is essential.
Common pathways include:
- Education and academia
- Law and public policy
- Social work and counseling
- Museum and cultural institutions
- International relations and nonprofit organizations
Students exploring religious studies jobs often find opportunities in public service, nonprofit leadership, intercultural engagement, and policy analysis. According to Lightcast, professionals with a bachelor’s degree in religion pursue roles such as policy analysts, educators, community outreach coordinators, and program managers, with competitive salary outcomes depending on experience and geographic region.
Because the curriculum emphasizes research, ethical reasoning, and cross-cultural understanding, graduates are also well positioned for law school, graduate programs in the humanities or social sciences, and specialized training in ministry, public service, or counseling. Students interested in teaching may combine their coursework with additional preparation aligned with a religious education degree pathway.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU provides financial aid and scholarship opportunities for students pursuing a bachelor’s in religious studies. Visit KU Financial Aid for more information.Admission Requirements
All students interested in the religious studies major program must meet the standard University of Kansas admission requirements for incoming freshman and transfer students. This includes:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR 2.0 GPA and 21+ ACT
Transfer
- Assured admission with 24+ transferrable credit hours with a 2.5+ GPA from a regionally accredited higher education institution.
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experiences
The religious studies major encourages experiential learning and intellectual engagement beyond the classroom. Students may participate in:
- Faculty-led research projects
- Study abroad programs focused on global religious traditions
- Internships with museums, cultural institutions, religious organizations, and nonprofit agencies
- Public lectures, symposia, and interdisciplinary campus events
These opportunities allow students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts while building professional networks. Through these experiences, students deepen their understanding of the study of religion and gain practical skills valued across industries.
Bachelor’s in Religious Studies Sample Courses
The religious studies program offers a diverse curriculum reflecting global and historical breadth. Courses may include:
- Introduction to Religious Studies
- Magic and Myth in Ancient Egypt
- Introduction to Religious Ethics
- Religions, Epidemics, & Pandemics
Course offerings ensure that every religious studies major develops strong foundations in theory, method, and comparative analysis. For a full list of degree requirements, visit the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Religious Studies Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.