Santa Clara University

What you'll study

The Religion major at Santa Clara University combines historical and contemporary approaches to the study of religion. Core courses typically include introduction to religious studies, methods in the study of religion, sacred texts and interpretation, and courses that survey major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and Hinduism. Students encounter interdisciplinary offerings that explore religion and ethics, religion and politics, religion and science, ritual, gender and sexuality, race and religion, and religion in global context.

The programme frequently culminates in a senior capstone, thesis or seminar that integrates classroom learning with independent research. Practical learning options such as internships, community-engaged projects and field courses are available to connect academic study to public life and service. Students are encouraged to take complementary electives in philosophy, history, anthropology, sociology, psychology, ethics and area studies.

Typical modules and subjects

• Introduction to Religious Studies and Methods
• Sacred Texts: Bible, Qur'an and other scriptures
• History of Christianity; History of Islam; Buddhism and South Asian Religions
• Religion, Ethics and Social Justice
• Religion, Culture and Society; Ritual and Lived Religion
• Religion, Science and Technology
• Religion and Gender; Religion and Race
• Senior Seminar or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor’s programme is through Santa Clara University’s undergraduate admission process. Applicants are expected to have a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record, particularly in humanities courses such as history, English and social studies. Admission considers the whole applicant, including academic transcripts, personal statement, recommendations and extracurricular involvement.

Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on the university’s current policy; applicants should check the university admissions pages for the most up-to-date guidance. International students must demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or other university-approved evidence. Transfer applicants can apply for advanced standing with appropriate college-level coursework.

Career prospects

A degree in Religion provides skills in critical thinking, research, writing and intercultural understanding that are valued across many sectors. Graduates pursue careers in education, community and social services, non-profit organisations, public policy, journalism and cultural institutions. The programme also prepares students for professional training in law, social work, public administration and business roles that require ethical analysis and cultural competence.

Those seeking religious or pastoral vocations typically continue into graduate theological education, divinity school or ordination programmes. Other common paths include graduate study in religious studies, history or related humanities disciplines, as well as roles in ethics offices, diversity and inclusion teams, and public engagement within the tech and civic sectors—particularly given Santa Clara’s location in the Bay Area.

Why study at Santa Clara University

Santa Clara’s Jesuit tradition emphasises rigorous scholarship, ethical reflection and service to others—an approach well aligned with the study of religion. Small class sizes and a strong faculty-to-student mentorship culture mean undergraduates receive close guidance on research and career planning. The university’s core curriculum supports interdisciplinary inquiry and civic engagement, allowing Religion majors to pair their studies with complementary fields.

Located in Silicon Valley, Santa Clara offers access to unique internship opportunities in nonprofit organisations, ethics centres, museums and tech companies concerned with social impact and ethical practice. Students can also take part in study abroad programmes, campus ministry, and community-based learning projects that bring classroom study into direct service contexts. Resources such as specialised library collections and centres focused on ethics and public life enhance both research and practical experience for Religion students.