Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The Religion major provides a broad, comparative introduction to world religious traditions alongside more specialised study of religion in specific historical periods, geographic regions and thematic areas. Core topics typically include the study of sacred texts and interpretive methods, the sociology and anthropology of religion, history of religions, and philosophical approaches to religion and ethics.

• Core courses: introduction to the academic study of religion, methods in religious studies, and courses that develop skills in critical reading and interpretation of religious texts.
• Area and tradition courses: surveys and advanced classes on Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, East Asian religions and Indigenous/Native American religious traditions.
• Thematic courses: religion and politics, religion and gender, religion and law, ritual and material culture, religion and science, and religion in modernity.
• Research and writing: opportunities for upper-level seminars with sustained research papers, and an option for an undergraduate honours thesis or independent study under faculty supervision.
• Interdisciplinary options: students commonly combine religion courses with history, anthropology, philosophy, sociology, gender studies or languages to tailor the degree to specific interests.
• Experiential learning: internships, community-based projects and study abroad programmes are available to apply classroom learning to museums, archives, NGOs, religious communities and international sites.

Entry requirements

Admission to Indiana University Bloomington is based on a holistic review of secondary school academic performance and other supporting materials. Typical requirements for incoming undergraduates include a completed secondary school diploma or equivalent and a strong academic record in humanities and social sciences. Applicants are usually expected to present:

• Academic preparation: a collegiate secondary school curriculum with strong grades; coursework in history, literature, languages or social studies is particularly relevant.
• Standardised tests: compliance with the university's testing policy (where applicable) — applicants should check current guidance on test submission.
• English language competence: for international applicants, proof of English proficiency through recognised tests or university-approved alternatives unless exempt.
• Supplementary materials: a personal statement or essay that outlines interests in religious studies and any relevant extracurricular or volunteer experience; letters of recommendation may strengthen an application.

Transfer students need college transcripts and typically must meet minimum GPA thresholds; students interested in honours work should consult department guidelines for additional requirements.

Career prospects

A BA in Religion develops critical thinking, research, cross-cultural literacy and written and oral communication — skills valued across many sectors. Graduates pursue a wide range of careers, often combining their degree with practical experience or further training.

• Education and academia: secondary school teaching (with appropriate certification), graduate study in religious studies, theology, history or related fields.
• Public service and non-profit: roles in community organisations, advocacy groups, cultural heritage institutions and faith-based organisations.
• Law, public policy and government: positions requiring analysis, ethical reasoning and cross-cultural competence, with many graduates moving on to law school or public administration.
• Media, publishing and communications: research, editorial and communications roles that require clear writing and critical analysis of complex subjects.
• Museums and archives: work in curation, interpretation and outreach where knowledge of religious traditions and material culture is valuable.
• Business and consulting: roles in human resources, diversity and inclusion, and international business where cultural literacy and ethical reasoning are assets.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a well-established Department of Religious Studies within a large, research-intensive liberal arts environment. Students benefit from a diverse faculty whose research covers many world regions and methodological approaches, providing strong supervision for undergraduate research and senior projects.

• Breadth and depth: a curriculum that balances comparative surveys with specialised seminars, allowing students to pursue both breadth and concentrated study.
• Research resources: access to extensive library collections and special collections on campus, as well as support for undergraduate research and conference participation.
• Interdisciplinary connections: easy collaboration with related departments and centres for students interested in combining religion with history, languages, philosophy, anthropology, or public affairs.
• Experiential opportunities: study abroad, internships and community partnerships in the Bloomington region and beyond to translate classroom learning into practice.

These features make Indiana University Bloomington a strong choice for students seeking a rigorous, flexible and research-informed undergraduate education in religious studies.