Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

The B.A. in Religion combines historical, textual, ethical and social-scientific approaches to religion. Core study typically covers the study of sacred texts and interpretive methods, world religious traditions (such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, South Asian religions and East Asian religions), and courses in religious ethics and philosophy of religion. Students also take courses in the history of religion, religion and society, religion and gender, and comparative theology.

• Core modules: introduction to religious studies, methods in the study of religion, sacred texts and interpretation, history of religion.
• Regional and tradition-focused modules: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Indigenous religious traditions.
• Thematic modules: religion and politics, religion and gender, religion and culture, ethics, ritual studies, and religion in America.
• Skills and elective modules: critical writing and research methods, languages relevant to religious studies (e.g. Biblical languages, classical or modern languages where available), internships, and elective seminars on contemporary issues in religion.
• Capstone/Independent research: a senior seminar or independent research project allowing students to pursue a specialised topic under faculty supervision.

The programme encourages interdisciplinary work with courses in history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology and political science. Students may combine the major with minors such as history, philosophy, international studies or classics, and can often pursue internships at local cultural institutions, non-profits or faith communities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions decisions are based on a combination of factors including academic record, strength of curriculum, personal statement, and letters of recommendation where requested. Successful applicants typically demonstrate solid preparation in reading, writing and humanities or social sciences coursework.

Transfer students may apply with college-level credits; transfer credit evaluation follows institutional policies. Mature or non-traditional applicants with relevant life or professional experience are considered on the same academic basis. International applicants must meet IUP's general admission requirements for undergraduate study, including evidence of English language proficiency where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in religion develop strong analytical, research and communication skills valued across many sectors. Common career pathways include:

• Education and teaching (secondary education typically requires additional state certification)
• Religious and community leadership, pastoral and chaplaincy roles (often requiring further professional training)
• Non-profit and advocacy work, including programme coordination, community outreach and development
• Public service, social policy, and community relations positions
• Museum, archives and cultural heritage roles, particularly where knowledge of religious tradition and material culture is relevant
• Media, publishing, and communications roles that value research and interpretive skills
• Preparation for graduate study in religious studies, theology, divinity, law, social science disciplines, or professional programmes such as counselling

Many graduates combine the degree with further professional qualifications or postgraduate study to enter specialised careers.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania's Department offers a liberal-arts centred approach with opportunities for close faculty mentoring and small seminar-style classes. Students benefit from faculty whose research spans historical, textual and contemporary approaches to religion, allowing a range of supervisory expertise for independent projects.

The campus environment supports experiential learning through internship partnerships with local cultural organisations, community groups and faith-based organisations. IUP also provides resources such as a research library collection, interdisciplinary course options, study abroad opportunities, and academic support services that help students prepare for careers or graduate study in the field.