Overview

The Religious Studies programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) provides a critical multidisciplinary lens into world religions, history, and global philosophies. Students engage with a wide array of traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Indigenous practices, to understand their impact on modern society. This degree fosters essential skills in cross-cultural dialogue and research for global citizenship.

Why Religious Studies at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The university features a dedicated Religious Studies student research hub that connects faculty mentors with undergraduates. This initiative allows students to participate in active research projects across campus, enhancing their academic experience. The curriculum is designed to provide interdisciplinary rigor, helping students navigate complex global issues with professional comfort.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 12 courses to complete the major, focusing on both foundational knowledge and thematic specialisations. Modules may include:

World Religions
Religious Dialogue
Thinking about Religion: Theories and Methodologies
Global Themes in Sikh Studies
Arabs and Muslims in the US
Ancient India
History of Antisemitism
History of Zoroastrianism
Philosophy and Religion

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in multicultural environments, including roles in nonprofit leadership, mediation, and education. The programme provides a strong foundation for journalism, technology, and business sectors. Many students also progress to graduate study in law, medicine, public health, or diplomacy, benefiting from their cross-cultural fluency.

The UCI Division of Career Pathways supports alumni with career counselling and workshops on resume preparation. These services help graduates transition into professional roles by highlighting their interdisciplinary skills. The combination of religious literacy and analytical training makes graduates highly competitive in the global job market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

World Religions

Religious Dialogue

Thinking about Religion: Theories and Methodologies

Judaism/Christianity/Islam

World Religious Traditions

Thematic Approaches to Religion

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Theology and Religious Studies View 871 other Bachelors in Theology and Religious Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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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

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

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

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 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

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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