What it is
Religious studies & theology is the study of religion — its texts, history, beliefs, practices, and role in human life. Religious studies examines religions academically and comparatively; theology studies faith from within a tradition. Both build strong reading, writing, and cross-cultural understanding, and can lead to ministry.
Where it leads: this is a broad, analytical humanities degree. There isn't one job title attached to it — instead it builds reading, writing, argument, and critical-thinking skills prized in law, education, writing/publishing, business, nonprofits, and government. It's a leading pre-law major, and its value grows when paired with internships, a second skill, or graduate/professional study.
What you'll study
Coursework blends texts, history, and thought:
- CoreWorld religions, scripture/sacred texts, religious history and thought
- MethodsComparative religion, ethics, and the study of belief and practice
- Ministry trackFor clergy, a graduate Master of Divinity (MDiv) with field education
Concentrations & focus areas
- Comparative ReligionWorld religions
- Biblical / Textual StudiesSacred texts
- TheologyFaith within a tradition
- EthicsMoral & religious ethics
- Ministry / PastoralClergy preparation
- Religion & SocietyCulture & belief
Skills you'll build
- Reading & interpretationTexts and traditions
- Writing & analysisClear argument
- Cross-cultural understandingDiverse beliefs
- Ethical reasoningValues and meaning
- Empathy & communicationWorking with people
Careers & job titles
- Clergy / minister / chaplainWith ministry training (~$58,920)
- Religious educator / directorCongregations & schools
- Nonprofit / community servicesFaith-based & secular
- Teacher / professorWith graduate study
- Writer / editorReligion & ideas
- Counseling / social servicesWith further training
Job outlook & demand
Demand for clergy and religious workers is steady, tied to congregations and faith communities. Beyond ministry, the degree's humanities skills feed nonprofits, education, counseling, and writing. Ministry roles typically require a graduate MDiv.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clergy had a median around $58,920. Nonprofit, education, and chaplaincy pay varies; academic roles (professor) require a doctorate.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's supports many paths; ministry typically requires a graduate MDiv; academic roles require a PhD.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you are drawn to questions of meaning, belief, and human culture, enjoy reading and writing, and want work serving communities or studying religion.
Two paths: for ministry, plan for an MDiv; for other careers, treat religious studies as a strong humanities degree and pair it with skills for nonprofit, education, or writing roles.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusReligion, belief, sacred texts, and practice
- Two lensesAcademic (religious studies) & faith (theology)
- CareersClergy (via MDiv), religious educator, nonprofit, teaching
- OutlookMinistry steady (BLS)
- Pay~$58,920 (clergy, BLS); varies by path
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: