Augustana University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme combines courses in analytic and historical philosophy with study of world religions, theology and religious practice. Early modules introduce core skills such as critical reasoning, logic, academic writing and methods in the study of religion. Typical topics include ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, history of philosophy, philosophy of religion, and contemporary moral theory on the philosophy side; and scripture, Christian theology, comparative religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, religion in America, and religion and society on the religious studies side.

Students tailor their degree through electives and may pursue specialised seminars in areas such as bioethics, environmental ethics, feminist theology, interreligious dialogue, or religion and politics. The programme normally culminates in a senior capstone or honours project that involves independent research and a sustained written thesis or a supervised practicum. Many students also take advantage of study abroad options, internships with faith-based or community organisations, and cross-disciplinary courses in history, sociology, political science and the arts.

Entry requirements

Augustana considers applicants with a completed secondary-school qualification or equivalent. Typical candidates present a broad high-school curriculum with strengths in humanities and social sciences, demonstrated writing ability, and evidence of critical thinking. Admissions decisions also take account of letters of recommendation, personal statements and extracurricular involvement.

International applicants must meet recognised English-language proficiency requirements and provide an equivalent secondary credential. Transfer students should submit college transcripts and, where relevant, syllabi for philosophy or religion courses for placement. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the admissions office or the department for advice on preparing an application or on advanced standing for prior study.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies develop transferable skills valued by employers: clear written and oral communication, critical assessment of complex arguments, ethical reflection and cultural literacy. These skills support careers in education, social and community services, non-profit leadership, pastoral and chaplaincy roles, public policy, journalism, and advocacy.

The programme also provides excellent preparation for postgraduate study and professional programmes such as law, divinity or theology, public administration and graduate research in philosophy or religious studies. Many alumni move into roles in fundraising, programme coordination, human resources, mediation, and business where interpretive and ethical reasoning are important.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana is a small liberal arts university with a strong emphasis on close faculty-student interaction, small seminar-style classes and collaborative research. Philosophy and Religious Studies students benefit from personalised advising, opportunities to present research, and regular departmental events such as guest lectures, interfaith dialogues and ethics forums.

The campus offers practical learning through community-engaged internships, service-learning partnerships with local organisations, and access to campus ministry and cultural groups. The liberal arts setting encourages interdisciplinary study, helping students combine philosophy and religious studies with fields such as psychology, political science, history or biology to shape distinctive career and study pathways.