University of Tulsa

What you'll study

The programme blends courses in philosophical reasoning and the academic study of religion. You will study core areas of philosophy such as logic, ethics, epistemology and metaphysics alongside religious-studies subjects including the history of religions, comparative religion, sacred texts and contemporary religious movements. The curriculum emphasises critical reading, argumentation and research skills and typically includes a mix of survey courses, topical seminars and a senior-level capstone or thesis.

• Philosophy modules: introductory and intermediate logic, history of western philosophy, ethics (normative and applied), epistemology, philosophy of mind and metaphysics.
• Religious-studies modules: introductions to major religious traditions (e.g. Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism), courses in the study of sacred texts and ritual, religion and culture, and religion in modern society.
• Skills and methods: textual analysis, qualitative research methods, comparative approaches, argument construction, and oral presentation.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: students may take related courses in history, anthropology, political science, literature or languages to complement their major.
• Capstone experience: a senior seminar, research project or thesis gives students an opportunity to pursue an in-depth study under faculty supervision and to synthesise philosophical and religious-studies methods.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school completion or equivalent. Successful candidates typically present a solid academic record, strong written and critical-reading skills, and preparation in humanities subjects such as English, history or social studies. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and evidence of satisfactory progress in previous post-secondary work.

International applicants must provide proof of English-language proficiency through a commonly accepted test or an approved alternative. The department values personal statements or essays that demonstrate intellectual curiosity, and applicants may be invited to discuss their interests with faculty as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates develop skills valued in a wide range of careers: clear writing and argumentation, critical thinking, cultural literacy and ethical reasoning. Common paths include continued study at graduate or professional schools (philosophy, theology, divinity, law, public policy), careers in education, non-profit and community organisations, public administration, journalism, publishing and communications.

Alumni also move into roles in business and management where analytical and persuasive skills are important, and some find vocational pathways in ministry, chaplaincy or counselling after appropriate professional training. Internships, research projects and community engagement while at Tulsa help students build practical experience and local professional networks.

Why study at University of Tulsa

The University of Tulsa offers a liberal-arts setting with small classes and close faculty mentorship, allowing sustained dialogue and individualised supervision on research projects. The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies emphasises interdisciplinary enquiry and provides opportunities to combine philosophical rigour with contextual knowledge about religion and culture.

Tulsa’s campus and metropolitan region provide access to museums, cultural organisations, community partners and legal and civic institutions that support internship and applied learning opportunities. Students benefit from a campus culture that supports undergraduate research, study-abroad options and collaboration across departments to tailor a programme to their intellectual and vocational goals.