Religious Studies

About the religious studies major

Religion deeply informs the human experience. People find identity and connection in practicing their religions. In this major, you'll learn how religious communities shape moral norms, wage war, and make peace, as well as influence what people eat, how they dress, how they live, and how they die.

The field of religious studies provides you the critical tools to understand the “why” of these meanings and motivations. Religious studies offers you opportunities to explore the patterns and dimensions of the many different religious traditions of the world from the perspectives of the academic study of religion.

Skills and abilities the major develops: problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and research (IU School of Liberal Arts, 2018).

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Service learning

We believe in our power and responsibility to help others. Each year, our students, faculty, and staff work to improve neighborhoods in Indianapolis and beyond through service learning courses, community-based research and service projects, and partnerships with local organizations. Join us if you want to make a difference.

Career services

The Office of Career Development prepares, supports, and advises students each step of their career paths—like finding internships and building your resume. They serve undergraduate students, graduate students, and alumni.

Study abroad

Choose among programs in over 50 countries and nearly 20 languages, including English. Both shorter and longer immersion programs are also available.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Christian religions
  • Comparative religions
  • Islam and modernity
  • Religion and culture
  • Religion and healing
  • Women and religion
  • Yuppie yogis and global gurus

Possible careers

  • Counselor*
  • Human resource generalist
  • Journalist
  • Ministry or missionary
  • Nonprofit management
  • Professor*

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Business development
  • Community and social services
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Religious ministries
  • Social work
  • State of Indiana
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Department of Religious Studies

American Academy of Religion

Liberal Arts Office of Career Development

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

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