An online Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies is well-suited for individuals interested in philosophy, the mores and tenants of humanity and its many belief systems, and/or the Christian Ministry. The myriad benefits of this degree, that can be attained from one of these 19 fine online and on-campus programs, prepares graduates to enter the work-force with an impressive array of skills in, and a solid understanding of, their field.
Those who have questions about the existence of humankind, God, and the many similarities and differences between the religions of the world, should seek an online Bachelors Degree in Religious Studies. Whether students wish to pursue a career in Christian Ministry, continue their education in a graduate program, or find a career in social, business, health, religious, and many other industries/agencies, there is a program on this list of the Top 19 Bachelor in Religious Studies Degree Programs that is just right in preparing for the future!
QUICK LINKS
- Top Bachelor of Religious Studies Degree Programs
- AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY
- COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY
- WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
- ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA
- ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY
- RHODES COLLEGE
- ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
- SEWANEE: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH
- SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
- SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
- REGENT UNIVERSITY
- GRINNELL COLLEGE
- LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
To learn more: 10 Best Online Schools for Ph.D. in Religious Studies
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Top Bachelor of Religious Studies Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: At OnlineSchoolsCenter.com we do not believe in ranking academic institutions from best to worst, or vice versa, as all the schools on our lists are unique in their own ways; therefore, in compiling this list, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose to list the schools in random order but instead chose to highlight the Top 19 Bachelor of Religious Studies Degree Programs, all of which have their own unique qualities and strengths.
- 100% Online or Hybrid Degree Programs,
- Offers programming in all studies of Religion, from all areas of the world,
- Delves deep into how religion is affected by politics, culture, social and spirituality,
- Promotes critical-thinking skills, as well as, open-mindedness and diversity,
- Ease of transfer credits into an accredited Master’s degree program,
- Designed to train in leadership, theological, spiritual and Biblical foundations,
- Financial Aid Opportunities,
- Online Student Support Systems and easy-to-use Learning Management Systems,
- Offers real-world work experience through internships and practicums.
For a deeper understanding, please see our Methodology page.
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AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. IN RELIGION
Program Standouts:
Graduates from this online Bachelor of Arts in Religion program have a critical understanding of a wide base of religions and religious practices throughout many tribes and nations across the globe. According to their website, “Students of this online program study the cultural, political, and spiritual aspects of religion while being exposed to the theological tenets of religious thought.”
Campus Location: Charles Town, WV
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission; Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Tuition and Fees:
- $270 per credit hour—tuition
- $50 per course—technology fee
Financial Aid: Grants, scholarships, private loans, military and Veterans’ benefits, and employer benefits
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Admission Considerations:
First-time applicants are not required to submit any application documentation. Transfer students must submit transcripts from all previous academic institutions. However, students are required to complete assessment tests to determine the most suitable placement within the university.
Students may complete the online application at no charge by clicking here!
Sampling of Coursework:
- Black Religion in America
- Religions of the Middle East
- Religious Existentialism
Course Flexibility:
Upon graduation from this incredibly affordable program that offers a low tuition cost per credit hour and very few fees, students will be well-suited for careers in “human services and pastoral assistance.” A 100% online program allows students the freedom and mobility to complete the curriculum at their leisure.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY SYSTEM’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGION DEGREE PROGRAM
COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY
ONLINE B.S. IN DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
The College of William and Mary offers many different options within their Bachelor in Religious Studies degree program. This allows students the freedom to explore and find an area of religion or a certain religion in particular that calls to them.
Campus Location: Williamsburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $13,978 per year—in-state tuition
- $5,394 per year—in-state fees
- $35,122 per year—out-of-state tuition
- $5,950 per year—out-of-state fees
Financial Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants; federal and state loans; student employment opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 35.9%
Admission Considerations:
All applicants to W&M must submit: The Secondary School Report form complete with a high school transcript and counselor letter of recommendation; the Midyear School Report form, available from The Common Application, should be submitted to the admission office with an updated transcript as soon as first semester grades are available; standardized test scores; a non-refundable application fee of $70.
Program Options:
- Introductory Studies in Religion
- Biblical Studies
- Studies in Asian Religions
- Judaic Studies
- Studies in Islam
- Studies in Religious Ethics
- Studies in Western History and Thought
- Studies in American Religion
Course Flexibility:
Aside from the concentration areas already available to them, students also have the option of building an Independent Studies curriculum with specific professors within their BA that focuses even more specifically in a certain area. Or, students may also write an honors thesis in their last two semesters of college.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY’S ONLINE BS IN DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Program Standouts:
Students concerned with the establishment and growth of the Christian Ministry will find a thoroughly satisfying online academic career at Wayland Baptist University. Christian Ministry students gain experience within many departments at Wayland University, making this degree program a good fit for curious students.
Campus Location: Plainview, TX
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $348 per credit hour—online tuition
Financial Aid: Federal and state grants, loans, and work-study; federal, state, and institutional scholarships; military benefits.
Acceptance Rate: 98.8%
Admission Considerations:
Students applying for admission must submit a $35 non-refundable application fee, as well as relevant standardized test scores, official high school transcript, and any other college transcripts.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Old and New Testament History
- Spiritual Formation
- Biblical Interpretation
Course Flexibility:
This major at Wayland Baptist University is meant for students with competency and experience within the Christian Ministry who are searching for a method of education that allows them the freedom to work when and where they please without the restriction of required class meetings.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
B.S./B.A. IN DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Abiding by Catholic theology, the University of Dayton gives students a chance to study religious experience in its many different forms, fashions, and belief systems. According to their website, the program “Enable[s] students to connect academic work with experience through practicums, liaison opportunities with campus ministry, and service-learning options.”
Campus Location: Dayton, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $19,545 per semester—full-time tuition
- $1,303 per credit hour—part-time tuition
Financial Aid: Federal and State scholarships and grants, external scholarships, federal student loans, and student employment opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 71.7%
Admission Considerations:
Students must complete and submit either the University of Dayton application or the Common Application, as well as an official transcript, SAT and ACT scores, and a counselor recommendation.
Program Options:
- Ministry
- Catholic Schools
- Graduate School Preparation
- World Religions
- General
Course Flexibility:
“The main concern of the department is an understanding and elucidation of the Judeo-Christian religious experience as it is exemplified in the Roman Catholic tradition.” Students may follow one of five tracks in this Religious Studies program and each track is rooted in Catholic traditions and principles.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON’S ONLINE DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIES
ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BA IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Built upon Florida’s rich and diverse culture, population, and religious backgrounds, this program allows students to explore the many different belief systems of the world. This program is designed for students who hold an Associate’s Degree in Religious Studies or a substantial number of transfer credits to apply toward this completion program.
Campus Location: Miami Gardens, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $13,980 per semester—full-time tuition
- $932 per credit hour
- $559 per credit hour—part-time tuition
- $100 one time—new student orientation fee
Financial Aid: Alternative and federal grants and loans, institutional merit-based scholarships, donor scholarships, and work-study.
Acceptance Rate: 48.7%
Admission Considerations:
Students must submit official SAT, ACT, and CLAST test results, or complete the University Placement Test. Students must also submit an official transcript or GED scores and a personal statement detailing why they wish to study at St. Thomas University.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Religious Dimensions of Nonviolent Action
- World Religions
- Reconciliation and Conflict
Course Flexibility:
This online program gives students the chance to finish their bachelor’s degree and open further career options in an affordable, well-reviewed Religious Studies Program. Students have the opportunity to concentrate in many different areas of religious study from Biblical to Systematic theology.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA) IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA
ONLINE B.A. IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
One of the highest-rated Religious Studies programs in the country by students, alumni, faculty, and USNewsandWorldReport.com, students at UC Santa Barbara learn under faculty members steeped in all world and tribal religions and provide a thorough education. The Department of Religious Studies has many exciting study abroad opportunities that all adventurous students should take advantage of!
Campus Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Accreditation: Western Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $12804 per year—tuition
- $23122 per year—non-resident student fee
- $902 per year—additional non-resident education fee
Financial Aid: Federal, state, and institutional: grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 32.8%
Admission Considerations:
Students must self-report grades when filling out an application, which is the only documentation required for admission consideration.
Program Options:
- Buddhist Studies
- South Asian traditions
- East Asian traditions
- Jewish, Islamic, and Near Eastern traditions
- Christian, Mediterranean, and European traditions
- America’s traditions (careful coursework selection)
Course Flexibility:
The coursework for this program is in-depth and complex, however, students may narrow down their curriculum to match their own interests, and many students often double major in something that will benefit the Religious Studies concentration.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA BARBARA’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES AND ETHICS
Program Standouts:
The Religion major at Athens State University has been sculpted and perfected since 1938. Today, this university offers a strong, highly relevant, and up-to-date, online curriculum of religious theory, philosophy, and practice. Whether students prefer to focus on Christian belief systems and Biblical Studies, or they would rather study world religions, Athens offers extensive coursework in many sectors of religious thought.
Campus Location: Athens, AL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $204 per credit hour—in-state tuition
- $408 per credit hour—out-of-state tuition
- $257 per credit hour—distance learning fee
- $27 per 3 credit hours—technology fee
Financial Aid: Student grants, work-study, student loans, parent loans, University Centers Aid.
Acceptance Rate: Unavailable
Admission Considerations:
Students must complete all required sections of the online Athens State University application, submit official and unofficial transcripts from all prior academic institutions, and pay the non-refundable application fee.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Psalms and Wisdom Literature
- Problems of Evil and Suffering
- Theology of Music
Course Flexibility:
As Athens incorporates new ideas and theories, and by incorporating new ideas, students gain massive exposure to religions of the world in a highly affordable online program.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE RELIGIOUS STUDIES AND ETHICS DEGREE PROGRAM
RHODES COLLEGE
B.S. MAJOR IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
At Rhodes College, there are many internship opportunities in health, social, and religious agencies, within the Department of Religious Studies of which all students have the opportunity to take advantage. According to their website, “The Department of Religious Studies offers an undergraduate curriculum designed to enhance awareness of diverse religious traditions among college graduates in modern, pluralistic society.”
Campus Location: Memphis, TN
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $42,914 per year—tuition
- $310 per year—miscellaneous college fees
Financial Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants, private and parent loans, student employment, scholarships, and fellowships.
Acceptance Rate: 51%
Admission Considerations:
Students applying to Rhodes are expected to have a strong background in volunteer and extracurricular actives and must submit a writing sample, teacher evaluation, counselor recommendation, SAT and ACT scores, and must also complete the Common App.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Social Issues in Ethical and Religious Perspective
- Pain, Suffering, and Death
- Religion in America
Course Flexibility:
The Department of Religious Studies at Rhodes strongly encourages interdisciplinary majors. This way students will have the opportunity to apply knowledge and insight gained in a Religion Major toward another area of interest such as social or physical sciences, politics, or business.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RHODES COLLEGE’S ONLINE RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE OPTIONS
ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES/RELIGIOUS CULTURE AND PUBLIC LIFE
Program Standouts:
Following no specific constraints or organized religious mores or practices, students within Arizona State University’s online Department of Religious Studies follow a track that conforms to their specific interests without having to deeply study an area that might not be as appealing. In this way, students are free to study religion in whatever capacity they please.
Campus Location: Temple, AZ
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $490 per credit hour—tuition
No additional program fees! Students have the opportunity for a 100% refund within the first week of a 7.5-week term.
Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, federal work-study, and outside sources.
Acceptance Rate: 84.1%
Admission Considerations:
Students are generally within the top 25% of their class and must score a 3.0 GPA on the equivalency exams. Required documents include a high school transcript, standardized test scores, and an individual review.
Program Options:
- Global Contexts
- Practice and Representation
- Modernity
Course Flexibility:
ASU strives to give students a thorough and affordable education that conforms to individual schedules and conflicts. As a 100% online program, students are never required to attend on-campus events or classes.
Recommended Schools
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BA IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES IN RELIGION, CULTURE, AND PUBLIC LIFE DEGREE PROGRAM
SEWANEE: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH
ONLINE B.S. IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES-SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
Program Standouts:
At the University of the South, students are required to build concentrations and themes within their major in religion, with the guidance of advisors and faculty. As an Episcopalian campus that also has an impressive and renowned School of Theology, students have the fantastic opportunity to expand the boundaries of their major within (and without!) Christian teachings.
Campus Location: Sewanee, TN
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $38,428 per year—tuition
- $272 per year—miscellaneous fees
Financial Aid: Federal, state, and institutional grants, loans, and scholarships, as well as work-study and work scholarship opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 46.7%
Admission Considerations:
Students applying to the University of the South typically have a cumulative high school GPA between 3.6-4.0. Students must submit the Common Application as well as an official transcript, one counselor recommendation, two teacher evaluations, and a mid-year grade report.
Program Options:
“Required for the major are Relg 301 and a concentration made up of at least three courses in the religion department that are united in theme. Students are required to create a theme in conversation with their advisor. Some examples include religion and social power, religion and the environment, the textual study in religion, and philosophical approaches to religion.”
Course Flexibility:
Because students are required to create concentrations and themes within their major, this requires them to break down the aspects of the major and the department that most impassions them. Upon graduation, students have an in-depth and well-formed understanding of many different areas and disciplines of religion.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SEWANEE: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH’S ONLINE SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY DEGREE PROGRAM
SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. DEGREE-RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Graduates of Saint Leo University’s online BA in Religious Studies have explored many career opportunities in business, social, health, and religious sectors, and all are well-prepared to continue into a graduate program or teaching position. While there is a strong foundation in Christian teachings, students have the opportunity to focus on their own needs within the program.
Campus Location: St. Leo, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $470 per credit hour/$11,280 per year—civilian tuition
- $250 per credit hour/$6,000 per year—military tuition
Financial Aid: Federal, private, and state loans, grants, and work-study opportunities, as well as institutional scholarships.
Acceptance Rate: 58.5%
Admission Considerations:
Students must complete the online application, submit a letter of recommendation, official transcripts, and standardized test results in order to be considered for admission at Saint Leo University.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Religions of the Old World
- History of Christianity
- History of Philosophy
Course Flexibility:
As an online program, students get to choose when and where to complete coursework, although there are deadlines during the week for assignments and projects. While there is a strong foundation in Christian principles, students may build a major that allows them to explore many areas of the discipline.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BA IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. IN MINISTERIAL LEADERSHIP-CHRISTIAN TEACHINGS
Program Standouts:
This program is intended for students with a passion for Christian teachings and ministerial leadership. Some students may not want to pursue a career as a pastor but are still interested in guiding others through the teachings and principles of Christ, a career path that can be attained through this institution. Students in this program also receive an education in the liberal arts with foundations in Christian teachings.
Campus Location: Lakeland, FL
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $10,920 per semester (based on 12-17 credits)—tuition
- $11,830 per semester (18 credit hours)—tuition
- $500 per 6 credit hours or more per semester—general student fee
Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, payment plans, and student employment opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 53.5%
Admission Considerations:
Students must submit all official transcripts from both high school and college institutions attended, as well as standardized test scores, a biographical essay, and a personal reference form.
Program Options:
- Children’s Ministry
- Youth Ministry
Course Flexibility:
Coursework at Southeastern University is broken up into four sections that each require a certain number of hours for completion. Students gain a solid education in the liberal arts while also having a core group of hours set aside for bible and church studies.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MINISTERIAL LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. IN RELIGION-CORE BIBLICAL STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Upon graduating from Illinois Wesleyan University, students “demonstrate a high degree of fluency with the critical methods used in studying religion.” While there are core courses in biblical studies, there are pathways within the major through which students can explore the mores of many different religious beliefs and cultures.
Campus Location: Bloomington, IL
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $40,664 per year—tuition
Financial Aid: Federal, institutional, and private scholarships, loans, grants, and student employment opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 60.9%
Admission Considerations:
Students must submit standardized test results, exhibit a GPA with a B average or higher, a personal essay, official transcripts, and a broad basis of academic study.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Religious Tolerance and Pluralism
- American Jewish Thought
- God & Post-Modernism
Course Flexibility:
While there are no concentration areas offered at IWU, the fascinating array of coursework will give students the necessary blend of classes to achieve a concentration area in an element or belief system of religious studies they are most passionate about.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ILLINOIS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE RELIGION DEPARTMENT
REGENT UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.A. IN BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Regent University offers two outstanding online bachelors of religious studies programs: a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies and a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministry. Either degree will prepare students for a fulfilling life in the Christian Ministry and will be well-suited for positions of leadership.
Campus Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $395 per credit hour—online tuition
- $250 per term—technology fee
- $19 per term—undergrad support fee
Financial Aid: Federal loans, state grants, private and institutional grants, loans, and scholarships.
Acceptance Rate: 78.3%
Admission Considerations:
Students must complete the online application. Students must also submit official high school transcripts, a signed Community Life Form, and a $50 non-refundable application fee.
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies—Biblical Studies Concentration or Theological Studies Concentration
- Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Course Flexibility:
Students at Regent University have the flexibility of completing classes and coursework at their own schedule while also having the support of dedicated and highly educated faculty members who act as advisors and mentors throughout a student’s academic career.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT REGENT UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE B.A. IN BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES – BIBLICAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
GRINNELL COLLEGE
ONLINE B.A.WITH A MAJOR IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
“Majors in religious studies will be required, above all, to develop the capacities fundamental to the liberal arts: clear communication, critical thinking, and the careful and open-minded exploration of ways of life different from one’s own.” By studying a religious studies curriculum in this way, students gain a broad understanding of the ways in which religious practices have impacted the human condition.
Campus Location: Grinnell, IA
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $58,398 per year—full tuition and fees
Financial Aid: Need and merit-based grants and scholarships, federal and state loans, and student employment opportunities.
Acceptance Rate: 28.9%
Admission Considerations:
There is no application fee, although students must submit standardized test scores, the Common Application, and though it is not required, interviews are highly recommended.
Sampling of Coursework:
- Religion in U.S. Public Life
- Gods of Bollywood
- The Hebrew Bible
Course Flexibility:
There are two main areas of focus within the Religious Studies curriculum: Asian Religions and Western Religions. Students may choose to concentrate their coursework in one over the other or create a blend of the two to gain a more well-rounded understanding of the many different religions of the world.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GRINNELL COLLEGE’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE B.S. IN BIBLICAL AND EDUCATION STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Of all of the institutions listed, Liberty University offers the most program options. In this 100% online program, students have the opportunity to focus their interest in the Bible, Christian principles, and/or the Christian Ministry, into an academic path that will broaden their horizons concerning career fields and an understanding of the field itself.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $360 per credit hour—full-time tuition
- $435 per credit hour—part-time tuition
Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, federal work-study, and external aid sources.
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Admission Considerations:
All students must either submit the online application or download the PDF and submit by mail. Students must also submit official high school transcripts as well as transcripts from any college institutions attended. Some students may be required to complete further documentation upon inspection of their official transcripts.
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Biblical and Educational Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership and Management
- Bachelor of Science in Religion
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Christian Counseling
- Christian Ministries
- Evangelism
Course Flexibility:
Students have many choices and paths to follow in their religion degree from Liberty University. As an online program, students will be able to complete coursework and classes while also dedicating valuable time to the Ministry.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIBLICAL AND EDUCATION STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
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UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
ONLINE BS MAJOR IN BIBLICAL STUDIES-RELIGION
Program Standouts:
This well-structured program allows students the freedom of designing their own study of religion, with a support system of advisors and faculty mentors who guide students along their academic path. Upon graduation, students have built their own projects, know how to employ many different techniques and skills in research, and have well-crafted critical thinking skills.
Campus Location: Rochester, NY
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education; Association of American Universities
Tuition and Fees:
- $23,075 per semester—tuition
- $138 per semester—activity fee
Financial Aid: Merit-based scholarships and awards, federal and institutional grants and loans, external aid sources.
Acceptance Rate: 34.2%
Admission Considerations:
Students are required to submit the Common Application, official transcripts, teacher and counselor recommendations, and it is highly recommended that students submit a graded paper and schedule an interview at Rochester prior to applying.
Program Options:
- Religion
- Classics
- Arabic
- Greek
- Hebrew
- Latin
- Sanskrit
- Turkish
Course Flexibility:
Students have a great opportunity to enter an Honors Program in the Department of Religion at the University of Rochester in which they will be responsible for a senior thesis project to be completed over 1-2 semesters and can involve many different sources, media, and themes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER’S ONLINE DEPARTMENT OF RELIGION AND CLASSICS-UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM
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CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BA IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Program Standouts:
“The study of religion at Case Western Reserve University is multicultural, non-sectarian, and interdisciplinary.” The curriculum requires students to take what they learn in the classroom and apply that to volunteerism and internships within the greater Cleveland community.
Campus Location: Cleveland, OH
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition and Fees:
- $1,840 per credit hour (up to 11 credit hours per semester)—part-time tuition
- $22,078 per semester (12 or more credits per semester)—full-time tuition
- $177 per semester—activity fee
Financial Aid: Institutional scholarships, federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities
Acceptance Rate: 33.1%
Admission Considerations:
Students must complete and submit the Common Application along with an official high school transcript, School Report (along with counselor recommendation), standardized test scores, and two teacher recommendations.
Sampling of Coursework:
- The Many Faces of Contemporary U.S. Catholicism
- The Holocaust
- Introduction to the Qur’an
Course Flexibility:
This degree will prepare students for a wide variety of career options which also means that the curriculum is very diverse and gives students a firm understanding of many world religions and beliefs, rather than just one. Students may branch out to discover the many corners of their major at CWRU.
LEARN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why should I pursue an online Bachelor of Religious Studies degree? Why not earn a degree in Ministry instead?
Many students have the calling or desire to pursue a ministry position; however, not everyone is called to preach. If this describes you, perhaps you would be interested in using your talents in other ways.
Earning an online Bachelor of Religious Studies degree will open many doors for you, without a doubt. Religious studies programs offer a wide array of information, such as a study of ALL types of religions, covering many cultural aspects, as well as, the many philosophical views of each religion.
Typically, the field of religious studies does not concentrate on one particular denomination but allows you the awesome opportunity to learn about diversity, respect, and open-mindedness within all religions; therefore, making you a well-rounded, intelligent, and considerate individual striving to make the world a better place for everyone.
What can I do with an online Bachelor of Religious Studies degree?
While becoming a pastor is indeed an option with this degree (along with seminary school), most students focus on other occupations, such as teaching or within the field of social or human services. Other careers may include an outreach leader or a church administrator who handles the daily operations of a church facility. Other options include a life skills counselor or a mental health aide. If you also enjoy the fields of communication or journalism, you may incorporate your religious knowledge to become a writer of religious educational materials. As a missionary, your skills would allow you to tell others about Christ in other countries if you are open to travel abroad.
Can I earn a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies through an online program?
Most bachelor’s degrees in this field can be earned through an online distance learning format. Online classwork can be completed through asynchronous classes; giving the student access to their coursework at any time they choose. In some instances, on-campus attendance may be required for workshops or teamwork assignments. Please be sure your online school of choice is appropriately accredited before beginning an online Bachelor of Religious Studies degree program.
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