Cost & earnings at Augsburg University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
The Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Augsburg University is an interdisciplinary programme that examines religious traditions, texts, practices and their roles in culture, ethics and public life. It suits students interested in critical inquiry, community engagement and careers in education, ministry, non-profit work or further study in theology and related fields.
The Religion major combines historical, textual and social-scientific approaches to the study of religion. Core modules typically include Introduction to Religious Studies, Biblical Literature, Systematic Theology, and Religion and Society. You will study a range of world traditions such as Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism, and explore topics in ethics, ritual, gender and religion, and religion and politics.
Methodological training emphasises textual analysis, historical context, ethnography and critical theory. Language courses (for example, Biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek) are often available for students who wish to pursue primary-text work. The degree usually requires elective options across related departments—such as history, anthropology, sociology, philosophy and peace studies—and culminates in a capstone experience, which may be a senior seminar, research project or practicum.
Admission to Augsburg University’s undergraduate programmes requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a completed application with academic transcripts. Typical expectations include a competitive high school record and submission of a personal statement; letters of recommendation are recommended. Standardised tests may be optional in admissions decisions. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests or prior study in English.
For transfer applicants, the university evaluates previous college coursework for equivalence. No specific religious affiliation is required to apply; prospective students with an interest in theological work or ministry should note that professional ordination or specialised certification typically requires further training beyond the bachelor’s degree.
Graduates with a BA in Religion pursue a wide range of careers. Common paths include roles in education, community and social services, non-profit organisations, advocacy and public policy, pastoral ministry (with additional training), chaplaincy, and cultural institutions such as museums and archives. The programme also prepares students for graduate study in religious studies, theology, divinity schools, law, social work and international development.
Skills developed in the programme—critical reading, intercultural competence, ethical reasoning, research and communication—are valued by employers in journalism, public relations, human resources and business sectors that require cultural literacy and ethical judgment. Internships, community-engaged learning and campus career services can help translate academic experience into professional opportunities.
Augsburg University combines liberal arts teaching with an urban, service-oriented mission rooted in a Lutheran heritage. Students benefit from small class sizes, accessible faculty mentoring and an emphasis on experiential learning, including internships and community partnerships in the Minneapolis–St. Paul region. The university encourages interdisciplinary study, offering easy cross-registration with related programmes and opportunities for study abroad, fieldwork and civic engagement.
The Religion programme is suited to students who want a rigorous academic grounding in religious traditions alongside practical experience. Faculty typically engage in active scholarship and community projects, and the university’s location provides access to diverse religious communities, cultural institutions and policy organisations for research and professional development.
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