Overview

The Religious Studies programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides a rigorous academic framework for investigating the diverse ways human societies conceptualise and interact with the sacred. Students engage in a secular, critical examination of rituals, traditions, and experiences within a global context.

This degree is designed to foster advanced skills in analytical thinking, writing, and public speaking. By exploring the intersection of religion and the secular world, participants gain a sophisticated understanding of the forces that shape modern civilisations and historical movements across different continents.

The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning to specific areas of interest.

Why Religious Studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The department was established in 1964 and has since become one of the most diverse and internationally recognised centres for the study of religion. It is home to a distinguished faculty that includes Guggenheim Scholars and former presidents of the American Academy of Religion.

Students benefit from the university's extensive network of research centres, including the Walter H. Capps Center and the Center for Middle East Studies. These affiliations provide unique opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and access to specialised resources that enhance the undergraduate experience.

The institution is also a hub for linguistic excellence, offering essential instruction in several critical languages. This allows students to engage directly with primary sources and gain a more authentic understanding of the cultural environments in which various religious traditions first emerged and evolved.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Religious Studies
Middle East Studies
American Indian and Indigenous Studies
Iranian Studies
Jewish Studies
Arabic
Hebrew
Persian
Sanskrit
Hindi
Turkish
Coptic
Kazakh
Tibetan

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths due to their training in critical inquiry and cultural literacy. Alumni frequently pursue successful careers within academia, taking up faculty positions at prestigious institutions both in the United Kingdom and abroad.

Beyond the education sector, the skills acquired during the degree are highly valued in diverse industries such as law, international relations, and social services. The ability to navigate complex cultural landscapes makes graduates ideal candidates for roles in global organisations and non-governmental agencies.

Programme Structure

We offer the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree through two majors:

Religious Studies, B.A.

Middle East Studies, B.A.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Area & Cultural Studies Theology and Religious Studies View 808 other Bachelors in Area & Cultural Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

The University of California sets slightly different criteria for applicants who are not California residents. If you are an out-of-state applicant, you must meet the same admission requirements as a California resident 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

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 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 Religious Studies.

Available Scholarships

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

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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