University of Iowa

What you'll study

The programme introduces students to major world religious traditions and to analytic approaches for studying religion, drawing on history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology and literary studies. Core topics include the historical development of religious movements, interpretation of sacred texts, ritual and material culture, religion and politics, ethics, and contemporary religious diversity. Students encounter courses such as Introduction to World Religions, History of Christianity, Islam and Muslims, Buddhism in Asia and the West, Judaism in Historical Perspective, Religion in America, Religion and Literature, and courses on religion and modernity.

Programme structure typically combines required foundational courses with elective seminars and methodological training. Undergraduates complete a senior capstone or seminar that emphasises sustained research and writing. Many students supplement coursework with language study (for example, Biblical Hebrew, Classical Greek, or modern languages), area studies modules, or practicum placements to gain hands-on experience with archives, museums, community organisations or chaplaincy settings.

• Foundations in the history and methods of religious studies
• Regional and tradition-specific courses (e.g., South Asian religions, East Asian religions, Abrahamic traditions)
• Textual and interpretive courses (scripture, hermeneutics, sacred narrative)
• Thematic courses (ethics, ritual, religion and politics, gender and religion)
• Senior seminar or capstone research project

Entry requirements

Applicants should have completed a secondary school qualification recognised by the University of Iowa. Admissions typically assess academic record, course preparation in the humanities and social sciences, and the strength of the overall application. For international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency is required through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college-level coursework and academic standing.

Recommended preparation includes coursework in history, literature, social studies or languages, and demonstrated ability in reading and writing. Some applicants may strengthen their application through personal statements that articulate interest in religious studies, letters of recommendation, or examples of prior research or community engagement.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Religious Studies pursue a wide range of careers. The degree develops skills in critical reading, writing, cross-cultural analysis and ethical reasoning that are valued across sectors. Common pathways include:

• Further academic study: master's or doctoral programmes in religious studies, theology, divinity, or related humanities and social sciences
• Professional schools: law, medicine, social work or public policy
• Education: secondary teaching (often with additional certification), museum education, or curriculum development
• Non-profit and community organisations: programme coordination, advocacy, interfaith dialogue and community outreach
• Public sector and international organisations: cultural affairs, diplomacy, human rights work
• Media, publishing and research: journalism, editorial roles, research assistantships
• Religious leadership and pastoral care: with appropriate professional or theological training

Why study at University of Iowa

The University of Iowa offers a liberal arts environment with an established Department of Religious Studies that emphasises interdisciplinary teaching and research. Students benefit from faculty whose expertise spans a broad range of traditions and approaches, and from small seminar-style classes that prioritise discussion and writing. The departmental programmes encourage independent research and offer opportunities to work with the university's library special collections and archives for projects involving historical texts and manuscripts.

Located in Iowa City, a designated UNESCO City of Literature, students find a lively intellectual and cultural community, access to campus internships, public lecture series and arts programming, and many opportunities for study abroad or community-engaged learning. These resources help students connect academic study of religion with practical experience and career development.