Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

What you'll study

The Religious Studies major at MTSU combines classroom study of sacred texts and traditions with social-scientific and historical approaches to religion. Students follow a core of introductory courses that typically include surveys of world religions, approaches to the study of religion, and methods in religious studies and theology.

• Textual and historical courses — Biblical literature (Old and New Testament), histories of Christianity, Islam, South Asian and East Asian religious traditions.
• Comparative and thematic courses — Comparative religion, religion and ethics, religion and politics, religion and gender, and religion in America.
• Regional and tradition-focused options — Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, and indigenous religious traditions.
• Methods and skills — Research methods, critical reading of primary sources, argumentation, and courses that emphasise qualitative research and interpretation.
• Capstone and experiential learning — Senior seminars, independent study projects, and opportunities for internships or community-based learning through MTSU’s connections in Murfreesboro and the greater Nashville region.

The programme is often taken alongside electives in history, anthropology, philosophy, sociology, political science and languages to build interdisciplinary breadth. Students are encouraged to pursue study abroad, public history placements, or internships with museums, non-profits and faith-based organisations to apply classroom learning in professional settings.

Entry requirements

Admission to MTSU’s undergraduate programmes requires a high school diploma or equivalent and successful completion of the university’s general admission process. Applicants for the Religion major should meet the university’s standard undergraduate entry criteria; strong preparation in writing, humanities and social sciences is advantageous. Transfer applicants will need to submit college transcripts for evaluation.

Specific course prerequisites, minimum GPA expectations and application procedures are set by the university and may change; prospective students should consult MTSU’s undergraduate admissions and the Department of Philosophy and Religion for the most current requirements and guidance on course selection.

Career prospects

A degree in Religious Studies from MTSU prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, textual analysis, cultural literacy and communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Further study — master’s or professional degrees such as M.A. in Religious Studies, Master of Divinity, law, public policy, social work or counselling.
• Education and academia — secondary teaching (with additional certification), museum education, archival work and research assistance.
• Non-profit and community work — programme coordination, advocacy, community outreach and roles in faith-based organisations.
• Public sector and cultural institutions — roles in cultural heritage, public history, interfaith initiatives, and local government.
• Private sector and media — journalism, communications, human resources, and roles requiring cross-cultural competency and ethical reasoning.

Some careers, such as chaplaincy, counselling and teaching, typically require further graduate-level training and relevant certification.

Why study at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU’s Department of Philosophy and Religion offers a liberal-arts setting with accessible faculty, small upper-level seminars and opportunities for one-to-one mentoring. The university’s location near Nashville provides access to a diverse religious landscape, archives, museums and non-profit organisations where students can complete internships and community projects.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration — easy cross-registration with departments such as History, Sociology, Anthropology and Languages to build a customised programme of study.
• Experiential learning — practicum and internship opportunities through local cultural institutions and faith-based groups, and chances to present research in senior seminars.
• Faculty research and mentoring — faculty with expertise across world religions, ethics and religion in public life who supervise independent projects and honours work.
• Career support — university career services and departmental advising help students translate a Religion degree into graduate study and professional roles.

Overall, MTSU’s programme combines academic rigour with practical experience, making it suited to students who want to study religion in ways that connect to community engagement and a wide range of careers.