Religious studies major: What to expect and where it can take you

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Key takeaways about a religious studies major

A religious studies major explores global belief systems, ethics, and cultures.
You’ll build skills in critical thinking, writing, and cultural analysis.
Common career paths include education, counseling, and nonprofit work.
Salaries vary by role, with teaching and ministry among the top fields.
Scholarships are available specifically for religious studies majors.

What is a religious studies major?

Think of a religious studies major as a deep dive into how humans make meaning. You’ll explore the world’s religions—past and present—through history, philosophy, literature, and culture. But it’s not about preaching or converting. It’s about understanding. You’ll ask big questions, challenge assumptions, and learn how belief systems shape societies.

This major is perfect if you’re curious about people, ideas, and how they connect across time and place. Whether you’re religious, spiritual, or just interested in how religion influences the world, this degree gives you the tools to think critically and empathetically.

Types of religious studies degrees

You can usually choose from:

Bachelor of Arts (BA): Focuses on humanities, languages, and cultural studies.
Bachelor of Science (BS): May include more social science or research components.
Associate degrees: Offered at some community colleges as a foundation for transfer.
Graduate degrees: For careers in academia, ministry, or specialized research.

What courses will I take for a religious studies major?

Courses vary by school, but here’s a taste of what you might study:

World Religions
Religion and Ethics
Sacred Texts (like the Bible, Quran, or Bhagavad Gita)
Religion and Politics
Philosophy of Religion
Religion in Pop Culture
Gender and Religion

Some programs also offer fieldwork, language study (like Hebrew, Arabic, or Sanskrit), or study abroad.

Common double majors or minors to pair with religious studies

Religious studies pairs well with a lot of other majors. Some popular combos:

Psychology: Great for counseling or mental health careers.
Philosophy: Deepens your critical thinking and logic skills.
History or Anthropology: Adds cultural and historical context.
Political Science or International Relations: For careers in diplomacy or policy.
Education: If you’re thinking about teaching.

What skills will I learn as a religious studies major?

This major is a soft skills powerhouse. You’ll build:

Critical thinking: Analyze complex texts and ideas.
Communication: Write clearly and argue thoughtfully.
Cultural literacy: Understand diverse perspectives and traditions.
Research: Dig deep into historical and contemporary sources.
Empathy: See the world through others’ eyes.

These skills are super transferable—employers in many fields value them.

What can I do with a religious studies degree?

You’ve got options. Graduates go into:

Education: Teaching at the K–12 or college level (with additional certification or grad school).
Nonprofits and NGOs: Especially those focused on social justice, community outreach, or global development.
Counseling or social work: Often with further training.
Ministry or chaplaincy: For those pursuing religious leadership.
Writing, journalism, or publishing: Especially on culture, ethics, or religion.
Law or public policy: With additional schooling, your analytical skills are a big asset.

How much can I earn with a religious studies degree?

Your salary depends on what job you choose after graduation. Some religious studies majors become teachers, counselors, or work in nonprofits. For example, college-level religion professors earn around $80K a year, while religious workers and nonprofit roles usually pay between $40K–$50K. If you go into teaching, expect to earn $50K–$70K, depending on your location and experience.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025

Notable schools for religious studies

If you're looking for a strong religious studies program, these schools are known for their academic depth, faculty expertise, and diverse course offerings:

Yale University – Offers a globally respected program with interdisciplinary options.
Harvard University – Known for its Divinity School and broad religious studies curriculum.
University of Chicago – Features rigorous training in theology, ethics, and philosophy.
Stanford University – Combines religious studies with cultural and historical analysis.
Jewish Theological Seminary of America – Specializes in Jewish studies and interfaith scholarship.

You can use Scout College Search to explore more schools that match your interests and goals.

Scholarships for religious studies majors

Good news: there’s money out there to help you pay for your degree. You can start with scholarships for religious studies majors, which are tailored to students in this field. You should also check out the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship if you want something quick and easy to apply for. For more options, browse Scholarships by Major or use Scholly Scholarships, a tool that matches you with scholarships based on your profile.