Religious Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at University of Stanford offers a comprehensive examination of religious thought, history, and practice across cultures and historical periods. In the first year, students explore foundational topics such as religious texts, traditions, ethical frameworks, and introductory research methods, cultivating critical thinking, analytical skills, research proficiency, and cultural literacy. Through lectures, seminars, and collaborative projects, students develop the ability to critically engage with diverse religious ideas, understand their societal and historical contexts, and analyze the role of religion in shaping human behavior and cultural developments.
As students progress, the curriculum emphasizes comparative religious studies, theology, ethics, ritual practices, and applied research projects. Honors-level coursework and seminars refine students’ analytical reasoning, research methodology, ethical understanding, and interpretive skills. The program encourages students to conduct independent research, interpret primary religious texts, and examine the interaction between religion, society, and culture. By graduation, students are prepared for careers in academia, education, cultural research, interfaith dialogue, policy analysis, or advanced graduate study in theology, religious studies, or related fields.
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: 05 January 2026
- Location: Stanford University, United States
- Field of Study: Theology and Religious Studies
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Religious Studies
• Introduction to Religious Traditions and Texts
• Comparative Religion and Ethics
• Research Methods in Humanities
• Cultural and Historical Contexts of Religion
• Writing and Critical Analysis in Religious Studies
Year 2 – Core Religious and Theological Studies
• World Religions: History and Practice
• Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
• Rituals, Beliefs, and Society
• Seminar: Research Methods in Theology
• Electives in Religious Texts, Philosophy, or Cultural Studies
Year 3 – Advanced Applications
• Religion and Society
• Theology and Moral Philosophy
• Independent Research Projects
• Applied Studies in Rituals and Practices
• Electives in Specialized Religious Topics
Year 4 – Capstone and Honors Project
• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Advanced Seminar in Religious Studies
• Applied Research and Fieldwork
• Presentation and Academic Portfolio Development
• Specialized Electives in Comparative Religion, Theology, or Ethics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in education, research, interfaith dialogue, cultural consultancy, policy analysis, journalism, and non-profit sectors. The curriculum develops analytical reasoning, research skills, ethical understanding, and communication proficiency, enabling students to pursue roles as educators, cultural analysts, researchers, policy advisors, or interfaith coordinators. Hands-on experience through independent research, field studies, and applied projects ensures that graduates can interpret complex religious phenomena, assess societal impacts, and contribute to cross-cultural understanding. Additionally, the program provides a strong foundation for graduate study in theology, religious studies, ethics, or related fields, equipping students to lead in academic, cultural, and policy-oriented environments.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who wish to explore the historical, cultural, and ethical dimensions of religion through a research-focused and analytical curriculum. Its structure emphasizes critical thinking, research methodology, analytical proficiency, and applied problem-solving, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical research experience. Through seminars, independent research, fieldwork, and applied projects, learners develop the skills to analyze religious texts, interpret cultural practices, and assess the societal role of religion. Graduates leave with the expertise, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in education, cultural research, interfaith initiatives, policy analysis, or advanced graduate study in religious studies and theology.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States
