Anthropology and Religion
The Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Religion is a four-year interdisciplinary program that explores the intersection of human societies, cultures, and religious practices. Students study cultural anthropology, religious traditions, rituals, belief systems, and societal structures, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills. The program emphasizes understanding how religion shapes human behavior, social organization, and cultural identity across historical and contemporary contexts. By integrating anthropological methods with religious studies, students gain a nuanced perspective on human experience and the diversity of worldviews, preparing them to analyze and interpret complex cultural phenomena.
Throughout the program, students engage in fieldwork, archival research, and interdisciplinary coursework that fosters cultural literacy, analytical reasoning, and communication skills. They examine the role of religion in shaping ethical systems, political structures, and community dynamics while exploring cross-cultural comparisons and historical developments. The curriculum encourages students to think critically about the interaction between cultural practices and religious beliefs, preparing them to address questions of meaning, identity, and social influence in both academic and professional contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Anthropology and Religion
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 January 2026
- Location: Emory University, United States
- Field of Study: Anthropology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Anthropology and Religion
• Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
• Introduction to World Religions
• Academic Writing and Research
• Introduction to Social Sciences
Year 2 – Core Disciplines
• Religion and Society
• Anthropological Theory and Methods
• History of Religions
• Elective: Myth, Ritual, and Symbolism
Year 3 – Specialized Topics
• Comparative Religious Practices
• Religion, Politics, and Social Change
• Ethnographic Fieldwork Methods
• Elective: Religion and Gender / Anthropology of Belief
Year 4 – Integration and Capstone
• Senior Seminar in Anthropology and Religion
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Applied Anthropological and Religious Studies
• Internship or Experiential Learning
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Anthropology and Religion are prepared for careers in education, research, museum and cultural management, public policy, non-profit organizations, social services, and international development. They may also pursue advanced studies in anthropology, religious studies, theology, sociology, international relations, or public policy, broadening academic and professional opportunities. Employers value graduates’ analytical reasoning, research proficiency, and cross-cultural understanding, equipping them to work effectively in diverse environments. Alumni are prepared to contribute to organizations that require expertise in cultural interpretation, religious literacy, and community engagement, making meaningful impacts in both domestic and international contexts.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students interested in exploring the relationship between culture and religion while developing strong research, analytical, and communication skills. Emory University offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum with access to expert faculty, field research opportunities, and experiential learning. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural literacy, and applied research, preparing graduates to navigate complex social and religious landscapes. Students leave the program with the knowledge, analytical skills, and practical experience needed to pursue careers, advanced studies, or professional roles that require an understanding of human societies and their diverse religious traditions.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
