Ursinus College

What you'll study

The Religion major at Ursinus combines historical, philosophical and social‑scientific approaches to the study of religion. Core work typically includes an introduction to the academic study of religion, courses in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and the New Testament, and survey courses in world religions.

• Foundations: Introduction to the study of religion, methods in religious studies, and theory of religion.
• Textual and historical courses: Biblical literature and interpretation, early Christianity, Jewish history and other historical developments shaping religious traditions.
• Comparative and global perspectives: Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, indigenous religions and modern global religious movements.
• Ethics and philosophy: Religious ethics, philosophy of religion and courses on religion and morality.
• Contextual and contemporary topics: Religion and politics, religion and gender, secularisation, interfaith relations and religion in public life.
• Research and capstone: Advanced seminars, independent research projects and a senior thesis or capstone experience that emphasises close faculty mentorship.
• Experiential learning: Internship possibilities with congregations, non‑profits, archives or community organisations; opportunities to integrate study abroad, fieldwork, or service learning into the major.

Students are encouraged to take related courses across the curriculum—for example in history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology and languages—to deepen contextual understanding and research skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to Ursinus College is competitive and based on a holistic review of each candidate. Typical requirements for first‑year applicants include a high school diploma or equivalent, a strong academic record with college‑preparatory coursework, and submission of a personal statement. Admissions may consider standardised test scores if submitted; check current college guidance on testing policy.

• Academic record: Solid grades in humanities and social‑science courses demonstrate preparedness for a Religion major.
• Supporting materials: One or more letters of recommendation, and a personal essay that highlights intellectual interests and motivation to study religion.
• Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students should provide college transcripts; advanced placement (AP) or IB credits may satisfy introductory requirements depending on exam scores and departmental policy.
• Language skills: Competence in a modern or classical language is beneficial for certain courses; language placement may determine course choices.

Career prospects

A degree in Religion from Ursinus prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, writing, cross‑cultural awareness and ethical reasoning. Common pathways include:

• Professional ministry and chaplaincy: Many graduates pursue theological seminary or divinity programmes leading to pastoral or chaplain roles.
• Education and outreach: Teaching, youth work, community education and roles in cultural institutions, museums or heritage organisations.
• Non‑profit and public service: Programme management, advocacy, community organising and policy work with NGOs and government agencies.
• Law, journalism and business: The analytical and communication skills developed in the major are well suited to law school, media careers and positions in the private sector.
• Graduate research: Preparation for MA and PhD programmes in religious studies, theology, ethics, history or related fields.

Why study at Ursinus College

Ursinus offers a small liberal‑arts environment where Religion students benefit from close faculty mentoring, small seminar classes and opportunities for independent scholarship. The college emphasises interdisciplinary inquiry, allowing students to combine religious studies with history, languages, philosophy, sociology and other fields.

• Faculty access: Students work directly with faculty advisors on research projects and senior theses, gaining hands‑on training in methods and interpretation.
• Experiential opportunities: Proximity to the Philadelphia region and a supportive campus network make internships, community partnerships and study‑away programmes accessible.
• Career and postgraduate preparation: Advising from the college and department helps students connect coursework to internships, graduate applications and career planning.