Overview

Key facts

Because religion has contributed to the human story of almost every culture, it is difficult to understand human behavior or to interpret world events without grasping how religion has helped to shape them. As United States Supreme Court Justices Clark and Goldberg wrote in their decision allowing the study of religion in public schools, “one’s education is not complete without a study of comparative religion or the history of religion and its relationship to the advancement of civilization.”

Part of the liberal arts, Religious Studies offered by San Diego State University, employs critical analysis and methods from a variety of disciplines to understand religious traditions as well as to the dogmas, stereotypes, and prejudices that may surround those traditions. In addition to investigating religious symbols, texts, practices, and belief systems, the study of religion examines the relationship of religion to ethics, contemporary social issues, politics, history, psychology, science, literature, and the arts.

What can I do with a major in religious studies?

A degree in Religious Studies prepares students for any career that requires critical thinking, analysis, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to reflect on questions of meaning and value. Majors find themselves well prepared for careers requiring imagination, problem solving, communication, self-understanding, and awareness of human diversity

Many majors go on to careers in law, teaching, medicine, counseling, social work, conflict resolution, international business, foreign service, journalism, various ministries and other careers in non-profit organizations and public service. Their department also prepares majors to continue at the advanced graduate level in a variety of fields related to the Humanities, Social Sciences, Business and Law.

It is important to keep in mind that your major does not necessarily dictate your career. Many things will contribute to your employability: well-chosen summer internships, level of academic performance in your field, work experience, volunteering, involvement in campus leadership and organizational responsibilities, and a well-tended network of contacts.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Exploring the Bible

World Religions

American Religious Diversity

Death, Dying, Afterlife

The Qur'an

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-12-02 00:00:00 , National
- Apply before 2026-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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PTE Academic

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TOEFL^® IBT

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Duolingo English Test

105

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Theology and Religious Studies View 893 other Bachelors in Theology and Religious Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

Free IELTS Mock Tests!

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

Check IELTS test dates and locations. Book an IELTS test now!

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at San Diego State University and/or in United States, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

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International

13320 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 13320 USD per year during 48 months.
National

13320 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 13320 USD per year during 48 months.
In-State

9180 USD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 9180 USD per year during 48 months.

Living costs for San Diego

1400 - 2455 USD /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Religious Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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