RELIGION MATTERS
Religious studies majors and minors examine religious beliefs, institutions, and practices using approaches from the humanities, arts, social sciences, and sciences. This is your opportunity to understand new dimensions of the human experience. It may help you better understand your faith (if you have one) or understand the powerful ways religions shape our world. Religious studies, combined with appropriate courses in other fields, provides an excellent background for any professional career—including law, engineering, medicine and health care professions, journalism, social work, and others—and for graduate studies in a number of fields.
Degrees
Religious Studies (B.A.)
Major
Religious Studies
Minor
Why Study Religious Studies?
Morningside University’s Religious Studies program explores the beliefs, traditions, and cultures that shape societies around the world. Students develop critical thinking, cultural awareness, and research skills while gaining a deeper understanding of religion’s role in history and contemporary life.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- Flexible curriculum that pairs well with many majors
- Experiential learning through internships and site visits
- Small class sizes with personalized faculty mentorship
- Emphasis on critical thinking and cultural understanding
THE MORINGSIDE DIFFERENCE
Internships
Opportunities exist for students to take on internships both on and off campus in a variety of Morningside departments and services, local and national nonprofit and community organizations, churches, religious organizations, and more.
Travel
You will have the opportunity to travel regionally, nationally, and even internationally for professional conferences, industry field trips, or May Term courses. Travel grants and special scholarship eligibility may be available.
Research & Active Learning
Research is encouraged and celebrated in Religious Studies; majors pursue independent research in an individual capstone project. You may choose to study alongside a professor and participate in events such as the Morningside University Palmer Research Symposium. Visit local congregations, churches, synagogues, mosques, and sacred sites. Discuss important religious issues at Religious Studies Club. Learn from visits from religious leaders, service and social justice groups, and nonprofit organizations.
What Can I Do With This Degree?
A Religion degree prepares you to explore faith, ethics, culture, and the human experience while developing strong skills in critical thinking, communication, leadership, and ethical decision-making. Graduates are equipped to serve in ministry, education, nonprofit leadership, counseling, public service, and many other fields where understanding people, values, and diverse perspectives is essential. Potential careers include:
- Minister, Clergy Person, or Religious Leader
- Chaplain (Medical, Military, Campus, or Organizational)
- Nonprofit Officer
- Social Worker or Counselor
- Teacher or Religious Education Director
- Lawyer or Public Policy Executive
- Human Resources Manager
- International Relations Director or NGO Administrator
Religion graduates make an impact in organizations that value ethical leadership, cultural understanding, and service to others. They lead congregations, support communities through nonprofit and healthcare organizations, teach and mentor future generations, and help shape public policy and community initiatives at the local, national, and global levels. Graduates work in:
- Churches and Religious Organizations
- Hospitals and Healthcare Systems
- Colleges and Universities
- Nonprofit Organizations and Charities
- Federal, State, and Local Government Agencies
- Museums
- Cultural Heritage Organizations
- Mission Organizations
- Community Outreach and Social Service Agencies
- International Relief and Development Organizations
Religion students examine the beliefs, practices, and traditions that have shaped cultures throughout history while exploring the ethical questions facing society today. Coursework includes the study of world religions, Christian ethics, religion and public life, and contemporary topics such as religion and food systems. Through discussion, research, and experiential learning, students develop the analytical, ethical, and communication skills needed to lead thoughtfully and serve effectively in a wide range of professions.
WHY STUDY AT MORNINGSIDE?
13:1
student/faculty ratio so you’re assured a quality education focused on you
99%
employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation
65+
majors & pre-professional programs available
Related Majors & Minors
Still looking for the right fit? Check out some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.
Explore Related Programs
MEET THE FACULTY
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