Overview

The Philosophy and Religious Studies programme at Stanford University offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding human thought and belief systems. This Bachelor of Arts degree combines the analytical rigour of philosophical inquiry with the deep cultural and historical exploration of religious traditions.

Students benefit from the exceptional resources of the School of Humanities and Sciences, gaining access to world-class faculty and specialised research centres. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, allowing undergraduates to engage with complex ethical questions and diverse global perspectives within a supportive academic environment.

The department provides a distinctive teaching feature through its combined major structure, which balances core requirements from both disciplines.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22577 per semester
National fee: USD 22577 per semester
Local fee: USD 22577 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 60 units of coursework, divided between core requirements and elective subjects. Modules may include:

Mind, Matter, and Meaning
Logic and Philosophy of Science
Ethics and Value Theory
Epistemology, Metaphysics, and Philosophy of Language
History of Philosophy
Theories of Religion
Senior Essay/Honors Thesis Research
Senior Colloquium

Philosophy core areas include logic, moral and political philosophy, and historical studies. The religious studies component requires a foundational course followed by intermediate modules in religious thought. Students also complete a capstone requirement to synthesise their learning through independent research or a dedicated seminar.

Careers with Philosophy and Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme are equipped for a wide range of professional paths due to their training in critical analysis and cross-cultural understanding. Many alumni pursue further academic study or enter fields such as law, education, and public policy. The ability to navigate complex ethical frameworks and diverse belief systems makes these graduates highly valued in international organisations and non-profit sectors. The department supports future paths by providing a strong foundation in research and independent inquiry, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving demands of the global workforce.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Belief and the Will

Freedom, Community, and Morality

Philosophy as Freedom

Tutorial: Morality and its Critics

Human Nature

Modern Philosophy: Skepticism and Scientific Rationalism

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Philosophy Theology and Religious Studies View 993 other Bachelors in Philosophy in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Coalition Application or Common Application

$90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request

ACT or SAT (Writing/Essay not required) (refer to testing for score reporting policies)

School Report and counselor letter of recommendation

Official transcript(s)

Letters of recommendation from two teachers

Midyear transcript (by February 15)

Standardized testing is one of the application requirements that can highlight academic preparedness. There are no minimum test scores required to be admitted to Stanford, and there is no score that guarantees admission. At Stanford, we review applications holistically, meaning every component of the application is valuable to us as we get to know each student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

45154 USD / year

≈ 45154 USD / year
Out-of-State

45154 USD / year

≈ 45154 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

45154 USD / year

≈ 45154 USD / year

Additional Details

Tuition per quarter. Students are typically enrolled in classes for three quarters: autumn, winter, spring.

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

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 Philosophy and 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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