Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Dive into diverse beliefs and cultural perspectives with an Online Religious Studies Degree. Explore faiths worldwide, analyze religious texts, and prepare for meaningful roles in academia or community leadership.
Religious studies cover a broad exploration of major world religions. Undergraduates in this field cultivate critical thinking, cultural empathy, persuasive writing, and textual analysis skills through core coursework and general education. An online religious studies degree emphasizes comparative religion, placing Christianity in global religious contexts and examining diverse traditions. Graduates of the religious studies degree online gain an understanding of theology, church history, Christianity, and the Bible. They pursue careers in education, nonprofit and for-profit administration, community service, and as lay ministers.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: BA General Studies
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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Find the Best Online Religious Studies Programs
The best online bachelor’s in religious studies degree programs are distinguished by their accredited status and comprehensive offerings. They prioritize reputable institutions with experienced faculty, robust infrastructure, and excellent student support services. Affordability is another key factor, ensuring accessibility without compromising quality. Considering these criteria, the experts at FBD have developed a curated list utilizing their proprietary methodology. Here is the list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Oregon State University | 1500 SW Jefferson Avenue, Corvallis, Oregon 97331 | $13,494 | 71% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Degree in Religious Studies
The religious studies online degree comprises 120 credit hours and typically spans 3.4 to 4 years of study. This program enhances understanding of the Bible, Christian ministry, theology, and global religions. Students explore major belief systems, scriptures, and spiritual practices shaping human history and experiences. Most programs culminate in capstone courses, synthesizing learned knowledge. Colleges offer synchronous and asynchronous courses, accommodating independent study and lecture viewing. Graduates are prepared for roles like ministry leaders, counselors, and clergy. The program also serves as a foundation for advanced studies in chaplaincy, divinity, or professional schools and for those pursuing a master’s degree in counseling.
Curriculum and Coursework
Students in bachelor’s programs in religious studies can expect to gain a comparative, thorough, and comprehensive understanding of significant spiritual practices, belief systems, and sacred scriptures, including their historical origins and impact on human history and culture. The curriculum offers spiritual and academic growth opportunities by integrating theory and practice in religion.
Through the curriculum, students explore spiritual practices that promote peace and happiness. Most programs also include general education requirements such as English composition, social sciences, mathematics, natural sciences, communications, philosophy, history, fine arts, biology, etc. While specific curricula vary between colleges, typical courses found in online degrees for religious studies include:
Introduction to the New Testament
The course “Introduction to the New Testament” helps students understand various accounts of historical events, the life, resurrection, ascension, and ongoing influence of Jesus Christ. It explores his teachings as conveyed by the apostles sent into the world. Students may analyze Jesus Christ’s mortal life, teachings, and atonement as part of the curriculum.
World Religion
This course provides theoretical knowledge of the dynamics and components of religions, offering a specific understanding of religious practices and ideas. It emphasizes the utility of world religions’ paradigms developed by phenomenological scholars. Students also explore major international religious movements, such as Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, and Christianity.
Religion in America
Students in this course analyze religious and spiritual movements in the United States, focusing on Christianity as the predominant religion. They examine sacred texts and assess the significance of religion in American life. Topics covered include freedom of religion under the First Amendment, religious pluralism, diversity, indigenous beliefs, and more.
History of Christian Thought
Students enrolled in this course explore significant religious movements such as Protestantism, which reshaped the Christian landscape. They study the diverse missions carried out by the Catholic Church to propagate Christianity in the New World and the conversion efforts among indigenous peoples. Undergraduates learn from missionaries like Francis Xavier and the Augustinians, Dominicans, Franciscans, and others who played crucial roles in these historical developments.
Asian Religion
This course explores the diverse religions of Asia- encompassing Christianity, Confucianism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Shinto, Sikhism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and more. Students examine the practices of these major traditions in their respective regions of origin and trace their evolution over centuries. The course also delves into the principles and tenets of Islam and Hinduism adopted across different contexts.
Some other standard courses found across curricula are:
- Old Testament
- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
- Abrahamic Religions
- Indigenous and other religious traditions
- Society, ethics, and culture
- Art history
- Methods in the study of religion
- Religion and ethics
- Religion and social justice
- Theories and methods of religions
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Through the coursework, students explore rituals, sacred texts, and practices that have profoundly shaped human cultures and thought. Some colleges allow students to engage with expert practitioners such as mystics, gurus, bodhisattvas, saints, and others who have explored the spiritual realm and testified to its transformative effects.
The program prepares graduates for careers, including those of pastors, middle school teachers, writers, authors, social and community service managers, and more. Those completing a degree in religious studies online develop several skills, including:
- Demonstrating knowledge of major religious belief systems, principles, and practices;
- Critically interpreting religions academically, considering historical and cultural contexts;
- Exhibiting strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with people from diverse faiths and cultures;
- Applying analytical thinking and research abilities in the domains of religion and theology;
- Practicing ethical approaches to collaborate with diverse religious groups and individuals with varied beliefs;
- Pursuing academic curiosity in religious cultures and belief systems;
- Researching to explore how different religious beliefs influence and shape societies and cultures;
- Engaging in personal exploration of religious and faith concepts while exploring secular vocational interests;
- Establishing a foundation in advanced divinity or theology through theological studies and biblical exegesis.
Types of Degrees Religious Studies Students Can Obtain
Undergraduates can pursue two primary types of online bachelor’s degrees in religious studies: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religious Studies and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Religious Studies. Graduates from these programs can pursue careers in nonprofit administration, community service, education, lay ministry, and related fields.
Bachelor of Arts or BA in Religious Studies
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religious Studies gain a comparative, comprehensive understanding of central religious practices, sacred scriptures, and belief systems, exploring their historical origins and profound impact on human history and culture. Graduates can pursue roles as professors, chaplains, pastors, youth directors, cultural and religious historians, missionaries, etc.
Bachelor of Science or BS in Religious Studies
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Religious Studies is a 120-credit program typically completed in an average of 3.5 years. It prepares students for various ministry domains through courses in biblical studies, evangelism, theology, and related topics on religious beliefs and practices. The program fosters knowledge of fundamental principles in theology, church history, Christianity, and the Bible.
Areas of Specialization for Religious Studies Students
Bachelor’s programs in religious studies allow students to specialize in various fields. This allows them to tailor their academic journey, focusing on specific aspects of religious thought, practice, and cultural impact. Such specialization enhances their understanding and prepares them for diverse career paths within religious studies. Some specializations that students pursuing a religious studies online degree can undertake include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian Religions | This specialization helps students examine various religious compositions in South Asia, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. They also analyze the regions’ places, origins, and distribution of religions. | Secondary School Teacher Professor Researcher Historian |
| American Religions | This concentration explores religious groups in the United States by family, denomination, and tradition. It examines various traditions such as Evangelical Protestantism, Historically Black Protestantism, Catholicism, Mormonism, and Orthodox Christianity. | Clergy Historians Professors Religious Studies Educators |
| Buddhist Studies | This specialization highlights intersections of historical and traditional contexts. Students study Buddhism through classical source texts and analyze Buddhist meditation and contemplative practices. | Historian Researcher Archivist Museum Curator |
| Jewish Texts and Traditions | Those specializing in Jewish studies will explore Rabbinic literature, Jewish culture, and modern and medieval Jewish mysticism. They analyze various theories and contemporary methods within Jewish studies, focusing on critical theory, gender studies, ritual studies, etc. | Historian Writer Spiritual Care Counselor Program Director |
| Islamic Studies | Through these specializations, students learn about the fundamental principles of Islam and its historical significance within Islamic civilization and culture. They examine Islam’s interactions with other global traditions and engage with contemporary global issues affecting the Muslim community. | Teacher Program Director Spiritual Care Counselor Researcher |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
It typically takes 4 to 5 years to complete an online religious studies bachelor degree as a full-time student. Opting for an accelerated program reduces the time needed to complete the curriculum. Other factors influencing program duration include chosen specialization, number of credits taken per semester, transferable credits from previous degrees, and the mode of learning (online, offline, hybrid). Personal or work-related commitments may necessitate more time for some individuals. Part-time students may extend their studies beyond the usual four years, taking up to six years to fulfill the same curriculum requirements.
Accelerated Religious Studies Programs
Students can complete the curriculum requirements through an accelerated online religious studies degree in less than four years. They can pursue accelerated programs in several ways, such as taking more credits in a shorter period than stipulated, transferring credits from previous degrees, completing an integrated bachelor’s or master’s degree, etc. Acceleration of the program can significantly benefit individuals, who want to complete their education quickly and enter the workforce, as well as those transitioning from one career to another.
Many colleges across the United States allow students to accelerate their degrees. Here are a few Universities that provide accelerated online religious degree programs:
Requirements for Getting into an Online Religious Studies Degree Program
Before enrolling in an online bachelor’s degree in religious studies, prospective students should familiarize themselves with the various college and program requirements. Some institutions typically mandate prerequisites like Math and English at the high school level. Applicants lacking these prerequisites may need to complete additional credits alongside their regular coursework. Generally, each institution specifies its requirements, but common online religious studies degree admission requirements that every applicant should meet are mentioned below:
- Application form
- General education development scores
- Previous official transcripts from high school or college-level
- An undergraduate degree with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 is generally required
- ACT and SAT scores
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Personal essay (differs with institution requirement)
- Some colleges require PSAT scores (although it may be rare for a religious studies degree)
How to Ensure an Online Religious Studies Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that educational institutions meet quality standards recognized by employers and other institutions. It assures students of a credible education that is eligible for federal financial aid, and is recognized globally. The religious degrees online accredited enhances career prospects and credit transferability, validating academic programs’ quality and rigor. The Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools [3] accredits online religious degrees. The Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)[4] certifies programs focusing on Jewish studies. Some universities in North America offering undergraduate degrees in religious studies are accredited by the Association of Theological Schools[5].
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Religious Studies Bachelor’s Students
Free online courses in religious studies for bachelor’s students offer accessible education on diverse faiths, theology, and religious history. They provide foundational knowledge for careers in ministry, education, counseling, or social services within religious communities. These courses enhance understanding of cultural diversity, ethics, and global perspectives, preparing students for roles promoting interfaith dialogue and community leadership. Here are a few free religious studies courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Religion, Conflict, and Peace[6] | Students explore methods to identify and analyze how religious ideologies permeate various human activities intertwined with economic, political, and cultural spheres. Participants gain insights into how religions influence both conflict and peace-building efforts. | edX |
| Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion[7] | This course explores the relationship between religion and science, addressing fundamental questions. It examines topics such as how contemporary cognitive science explains concepts of God, methods of knowledge dissemination, and the intersection of belief with scientific inquiry. | Coursera |
| Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature[8] | This course analyzes a range of Christian texts and modern editions of the Bible, such as The New Revised Standard Version, The New Oxford Annotated Bible with Apocrypha, and The New English Bible. It features active engagement and written assignments to enhance comprehension of key concepts. | Open Yale Courses |
Ways to Pay for an Online Religious Studies Degree
Though religious studies aren’t typically expensive, students still incur costs for their program. Financial planning for an online religious studies degree includes budgeting for tuition, textbooks, and technology fees. Some programs may require additional resources like specialized software or fieldwork, necessitating careful financial management. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships provide financial aid to students based on academic achievement, financial need, or special talents. They ease the burden of tuition costs, enabling access to higher education. Scholarships foster academic excellence and diversity by supporting deserving individuals in their pursuit of education.
Grants are awards typically based on financial need, academic achievement, or specific criteria. They help cover tuition, fees, and living expenses, easing the financial burden of higher education. Grants promote accessibility and equity in education, supporting students in pursuing their academic goals.
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a form completed by students annually to determine eligibility for federal financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. FAFSA collects information about income, assets, and family size to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which determines financial need.
Scholarships for Online Religious Studies Degree Students
Scholarships for online religious studies degree students support academic achievement and career goals. These scholarships can alleviate financial burdens, making education more accessible. They recognize excellence in religious studies and may include awards for community service or research contributions, empowering students to pursue their academic aspirations with financial assistance. Here are some online religious studies degree scholarships students can apply to when looking for funding for their programs:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvester’s Scholarship Foundation[9] | The Harvesters Scholarship Foundation funds missionaries’ training and financial, emotional, and spiritual needs in their religious pursuits. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate institution in the United States. | Varies | May annually |
| Baptist Communicators Association Annual Scholarships[10] | The Baptist Communicators Association offers scholarships to a deserving undergraduate candidate, an applicant from a minority ethnic or international background, and a graduate student. Qualified applicants must have a vocational interest in Baptist communications. | $1,000 | March annually |
| Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship Program[11] | This scholarship aims to educate individuals to preach the Christian religion or pursue careers in vocational ministry. Priority will be given to those intending to serve in various religious capacities upon graduation. | Varies | February annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
After earning a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, graduates have diverse career opportunities across education, non-profits, and public service sectors. Salaries vary based on the specific role, industry, and geographical location. The degree equips individuals with critical thinking, cultural awareness, and communication skills, valuable in various professional settings. Graduates with an online religious studies degree can apply to various positions, including:
- Chaplain
- Church planter
- Coach
- Community outreach leader
- Community relations coordinator
- Conference director
- Domestic missionary
- Evangelist
- Ministry director
- Program director
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Senior Pastor
- Social worker
- Sociologist
- Spiritual care counselor
- Teacher
- Youth and children coordinator
- Youth director
Here are a some occupations explored further below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highschool Teachers[12] | High school teachers prepare students for future endeavors by delivering academic lessons and skills necessary for college or career readiness. They customize lessons to class dynamics, assess student progress, and communicate with parents. Teachers specialize in subjects like religious studies, fostering critical thinking and cultural understanding among students. | Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, and writing skills. | 1% (little or no change) | $65,220 |
| Social Workers[13] | Social workers support individuals, groups, and families facing life challenges by assessing needs, advocating for resources, and providing access to psychotherapy. They address issues like adoption, terminal illness, and substance abuse, ensuring clients’ well-being through crisis intervention and ongoing support while maintaining comprehensive records to track progress and outcomes. | Communication, compassion, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills | 7% (faster than average) | $58,380 |
| Social and Community Service Managers[14] | Social and community service managers oversee programs that support public well-being by coordinating services and evaluating their effectiveness. They collaborate with stakeholders to identify needs, manage administrative aspects, and propose improvements. Their role involves planning outreach activities, securing funding through proposals, and ensuring programs effectively meet community needs and challenges. | Analytical, communication, managerial, problem-solving, and time-management skills | 9% (much faster than average) | $77,030 |
| Chaplain[15] | Chaplains provide spiritual care and counseling in diverse settings such as hospitals, military units, and universities. They support individuals facing crisis or spiritual distress, perform religious ceremonies, and facilitate religious services. Chaplains also collaborate with healthcare professionals and community leaders to enhance holistic well-being. | Interpersonal, problem-solving, empathy, and more. | No Data Available | $67,802 |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Bachelor’s Students in Religious Studies
Graduates with an online degree in religious studies meet the basic requirements for pursuing various roles in the field. Specific state requirements vary, typically including completing a bachelor’s program and a designated number of semester hours. Those aspiring to professional roles in various teaching positions or in school counseling should refer to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Additional Resources for Bachelor’s Students in Religious Studies Degree
Additional resources for religious studies students, such as online forums, discussion groups, webinars, and professional associations, facilitate connections with peers and professionals. These resources enhance learning, provide networking opportunities, and support academic and career development, enriching the educational experience and fostering community. Below are several resources beneficial for students of a bachelor’s degree in religious studies online:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| North American Association for the Study of Religion | The North American Association for the Study of Religion (NAASR) comprises diverse groups of scholars working across disciplinary boundaries and various domains of expertise. They recognize the factors shaping scholars’ ability to curate, create, and critique the study of religion, and they invite proposals for papers on niche topics within religion. |
| Religious Education Association | The Religious Education Association provides its members various benefits, including access to the Religious Education journal, regular updates on association resources and news, the eReach newsletter, and special membership privileges at meetings. Membership is valid for one year, offering opportunities to connect with industry leaders through the organization. |
| American Academy of Religion | The American Academy of Religion aims to promote excellence in the academic study of religion and improve public understanding of religious studies. They offer awards that acknowledge exceptional contributions to the field of theology and related disciplines within the academy. |
| Society for the Scientific Study of Religion | The Society for the Scientific Study of Religion (SSSR) promotes collaboration and interdisciplinary dialogue among scholars from religious studies, psychology, economics, international studies, and gender studies. They offer members opportunities such as presentations, networking events, plenary sessions, and small group meetings to enhance scholarly engagement and exchange. |
| Society of Biblical Literature | The Society of Biblical Literature provides members access to the Journal of Biblical Literature, opportunities to volunteer as book reviewers and weekly email updates on job postings within the field. Members also receive discounts on registration and travel, and they can participate in the governance of the society through elections or appointments. |
FAQs About Online Religious Studies Degree Programs
Can you get an online religious studies degree?
Many universities across the U.S. offer online religious studies degrees with the same curriculum as traditional programs. Students can complete their courses at their own pace in asynchronous or synchronous formats. Without residency requirements, online programs provide the same benefits as regular curricula and are often more cost-effective.
What can you do with an online religious studies degree?
Is an online degree in religious studies worth it?
How much does an online bachelor’s degree in religious studies cost?
How much does an online bachelor’s degree in religious studies get paid?
Is religious studies different from divinity study?
Is it necessary to be religious to study for an online religious studies degree?
Citations:
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)
The Association of Theological Schools
Religion, Conflict, and Peace-edX
Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion-Coursera
Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature-Open Yale Courses
Harvester’s Scholarship Foundation
Baptist Communicators Association Annual Scholarships
Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship Program
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Highschool Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Social Worker
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Social and Community Service Managers