Religious Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies offers a comprehensive examination of global religious traditions, sacred texts, ethical systems, and the historical forces that shape spiritual life across societies. Students explore a wide range of beliefs and practices—from ancient mythologies and classical religions to contemporary movements—while studying how religious ideas influence culture, politics, literature, and social structures. Through coursework that integrates textual interpretation, comparative analysis, and critical theory, learners develop the tools needed to understand how religious worldviews address fundamental human questions. This broad foundation strengthens cultural insight, interpretive depth, critical reasoning, and contextual awareness, enabling students to analyze religious traditions with intellectual rigor.
Throughout four years, the program guides students through advanced study of theology, ritual practices, religious ethics, and philosophical approaches to spirituality. Learners examine intersections of religion with identity, power, modernity, and global interaction, gaining an understanding of how belief systems evolve and respond to societal change. Courses incorporate historical study, ethnography, interdisciplinary research, and writing-intensive analysis, allowing students to connect religious ideas to broader historical and cultural patterns. Through seminars, independent research, and cross-cultural investigation, students refine their ability to evaluate interpretations, compare diverse traditions, and understand the complexities of religious expression. This sustained academic engagement cultivates methodological rigor, research competence, analytical clarity, and scholarly independence, preparing graduates to engage meaningfully with global religious diversity.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Religious Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 02 January 2026
- Location: Yale University, United States
- Field of Study: Theology and Religious Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Religious Study
· Introduction to Religious Studies
· Global Religious Traditions
· Fundamentals of Textual Interpretation
· Methods in Humanities and Cultural Research
Year 2 – Core Themes in Theology & Practice
· History of World Religions
· Religious Ethics and Moral Thought
· Ritual, Symbol, and Sacred Space
· Research Methods in Religious and Cultural Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Inquiry into Belief & Culture
· Philosophy of Religion
· Religion, Identity, and Society
· Comparative Scripture and Interpretation
· Independent Study / Religious Research Project
Year 4 – Thesis & Scholarly Integration
· Senior Thesis / Religious Studies Research
· Advanced Seminar in Theology or Comparative Religion
· Topics in Modernity, Spirituality, or Global Religion
· Academic Portfolio & Presentation Skills
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue diverse careers requiring strong analytical reasoning, cultural understanding, and interpretive skill. Many work in education and academic institutions, nonprofit or community organizations, cultural and religious institutions, and public service sectors, where they contribute to research, program development, outreach, and intercultural engagement. Additional opportunities arise in journalism, counseling support roles, international organizations, social advocacy, and fields that value ethical awareness and cross-cultural communication. With training in textual analysis, qualitative research, and comparative interpretation, graduates can examine complex belief systems, collaborate with diverse communities, and support initiatives that address cultural understanding, social cohesion, and global awareness. Their ability to navigate diverse worldviews makes them valuable contributors in settings that depend on thoughtful communication and cultural literacy.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum grounded in comprehensive religious inquiry, offering a deep understanding of global belief systems and their cultural impact. Over four years, learners strengthen their analytical, research, and communication abilities through interdisciplinary coursework, critical interpretation, and independent study. The curriculum fosters industry-relevant expertise suited for careers in education, cultural programming, community engagement, and fields requiring nuanced ethical and cultural analysis. With its emphasis on intellectual breadth, comparative understanding, and reflective reasoning, the program cultivates strong intellectual judgment, preparing graduates to engage thoughtfully with diverse traditions and pursue academic or professional pathways connected to theology, culture, or global studies.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 203 432 2300
Email: admissions@yale.edu
Address: University of Yale, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
