An online bachelor’s degree in religious studies may provide students with the skills and training needed to understand cultural differences and religious convictions. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may study religion theory, human ideology, and the impact of religion on the world. Coursework within these programs may include several general education requirements along with electives and major-specific courses, such as Christian ethics, world religions, and Biblical themes.

Graduates may either pursue entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a graduate-level degree program in religious studies or similar field. Bachelor’s degree graduates may find employment opportunities in journalism, education, law, and pastoral services.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 25% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online bachelor’s-level program in religious studies may combine several general education requirements along with major-specific courses and electives. In these four-year programs, students may study religion’s impact on society, people, and the world as well as human history. Core online religious studies courses may include the following:

• Old Testament
• World Religions
• New Testament
• Life and Teachings of Jesus
• Introduction to Theology
• Christian Ethics
• Biblical Themes

Career Options

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in religious studies may seek careers in global development, law, business, education, journalism, and pastoral leadership. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing a career as a social worker are expected to increase by 25% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Clergy Member
• Chaplain
• Religious Education Teacher
• Social Worker
• Religious Counselor

Continuing Education

Graduates of online baccalaureate-level programs in religious studies may continue their education and enroll in a master’s degree program in religious studies. These upper-level programs may provide students with knowledge on Christian and non-Christian traditions as well as Catholic theology.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook