University of Southern Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme combines core courses on major world religions and the academic study of religion with thematic and regional electives. You will study foundational topics such as the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and the New Testament, religion in America, religious ethics, and comparative religion. Methodological training in research and interpretation—including courses on religious studies theory and qualitative research methods—is a central feature.

• Core survey courses: introduction to the study of religion, world religions (including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and others).
• Text and tradition: courses dealing with sacred texts and interpretive traditions, such as Biblical literature and scriptural interpretation.
• Thematic electives: religion and gender, religion and politics, religion and the arts, religion and social justice.
• Regional and historical studies: American religious history, religion in Africa and Asia, or the history of Christianity.
• Skills and methods: courses in critical theory, ethnographic methods, and research design; writing-intensive classes prepare you for independent work.
• Capstone or senior project: independent research project or seminar allowing you to develop a sustained piece of scholarship under faculty supervision.
• Optional experiences: opportunities for internships, community-engaged projects, study abroad and language study to complement your degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification or equivalent. Typical applicants present a broad foundation in the humanities and social sciences, and the department looks for evidence of strong written communication and critical thinking skills. The university accepts transfer students and mature applicants; international applicants must meet the university's requirements for academic equivalence and English language proficiency.

Specific departmental expectations may include satisfactory academic references and, where relevant, a writing sample or statement of purpose outlining your interest in religious studies. Applicants should consult the university’s admissions guidance for precise general-entry criteria.

Career prospects

A degree in religion develops analytical, research and communication skills that are valued across many sectors. Graduates commonly move into:

• education and teaching (with additional certification as required)
• non-profit and community organisations, including faith-based and interfaith initiatives
• public service and policy roles where cultural and religious literacy is important
• journalism, publishing and media roles that require critical interpretation of belief systems and cultural trends
• further study in graduate programmes such as theology, religious studies, law, social work or public policy
• museum, archival and cultural heritage work, particularly in regions where religion shapes local history and identity
• ordained ministry or chaplaincy, typically following additional professional training

Why study at University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a liberal-arts environment with small-group seminars and faculty who teach courses across historical, textual and contemporary approaches to religion. The department provides opportunities for applied learning through internships and community partnerships in the Gulf South, and benefits from campus resources such as library collections and interdisciplinary centres that support research into regional culture and religion.

Students gain personalised mentoring from faculty, the option to combine religious studies with complementary majors or minors, and access to study-abroad and fieldwork opportunities that enhance cross-cultural understanding—preparing graduates for both professional life and further academic study.