Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees

Badge for BEST FOR RELIGIOUS STUDIES RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • Studying religious studies is important because students gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural issues that arise throughout their lives.
  • Cultural awareness is increased by attending religious studies schools.
  • It is possible to develop tolerance and understanding through the study of religion.

Top 10 Research Universities Religious Studies Programs in 2025

  1. Harvard University
  2. University of California, Berkeley
    +7
  3. Columbia University
    +1
  4. Stanford University
    +3
  5. University of Chicago
    –2
  6. Yale University
    –4
  7. Princeton University
    –1
  8. University of Michigan
    +6
  9. New York University
    +6
  10. Cornell University
    +3

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Harvard University remains in the top spot and UC Berkeley gained 7 positions to move up to the number 2 spot in our 2025 ranking of the best research universities for religious studies.

Harvard has enhanced their Program for the Evolution of Spirituality, which explores emerging spiritual movements, offering a unique community for those interested in the intersection of academic study and spiritual practice. Additionally, the Center for the Study of World Religions will host the Psychedelic Intersections conference in early 2025, examining the relationship between psychedelics and spirituality.

UC Berkeley’s Center for the Study of Religion (BCSR) has made improvements to the Designated Emphasis in the Study of Religion (DESR) for PhD students. Graduate students can focus their dissertation work on religious studies in part because of a recent $1 million grant for the Asian Pacific American Religions Research Initiative.

Majoring in religious studies can mean different things to different students. Some religious studies degrees are secular, and approach the study of world religions like Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism from an academic perspective, delving into the history, literature, and beliefs of each.

Other degrees, particularly those with a concentration in divinity, are firmly rooted within a religion, with the goal of developing advanced knowledge and finding employment in the clergy. Whether your goal is a life in service to your faith, or you are just fascinated by world religions, a major in religious studies can be a rewarding path.

The best religious studies schools are those which are fully accredited, which align with your spiritual and professional goals, and which give you the chance to work with the best and most influential professors and classmates.

Taking part in religious research allows us to understand better how others view existence and our purpose. With religious studies degrees, graduates can become a religion teacher, advisor, counselor, or community service manager, earning a degree in religious studies is a useful qualification.

Among the topics studied in religious studies degrees at the best schools are comparative religions, the social impacts of religion, and religion’s history. Similar to Theology Divinity Religious Studies, research, writing, and communication skills, as well as critical thinking skills, are enhanced in this program.

Featured Programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Religious Studies Bachelor’s Degrees

While many will go on to work directly in religious settings as clergy, religious studies majors can find employment in various professions. Religious studies majors build knowledge and skills that can apply in social services, education, public relations, media, business, politics, and countless other professional settings. Moreover, many undergraduate religious studies degrees are rooted in a firm liberal arts education tradition. This means you get to study a bit of everything, and develop a well-rounded knowledge base, with the critical and analytical skills to navigate new challenges, and learn in unfamiliar situations.

Whether serving as clergy within a religion, or functioning as a culture critic, religious studies majors influence how we understand and interact with religion in our daily lives. Today, top influencers in religious studies are bringing light to topics like New Testament analysis, Christian apologetics, Science and Christianity, and much more.

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Religious studies is an idea major for those who have a practical interest in combining their faith and profession. Religious studies degrees are frequently offered by religious institutions. For instance, a Bachelor of Ministry (BM) may be offered by a Christian school, Bible school, or seminary. These degrees provide focused religious instruction for students who wish to apply their Christian faith to a leadership role within a religious community or organization. Similarly, degrees for aspiring clergy in the Jewish or Muslim faiths are likely to be offered by Rabbinical schools or Madrasa respectively.

By contrast, a bachelor of Theology (BTh) is more academically focused and more likely to be offered at a secular institution (as well as through most religious institutions). The Bachelor of Theology is designed for students who wish to engage with deep study of the scriptures, history and culture surrounding either a specific religion, or a variety of major world religions, without necessarily training for service in the clergy. The best religious studies degree for you will depend on both your career goals and religious affiliation.

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Once you’ve declared your major in religious studies, you will likely be required to complete a set of core courses in a number of related subject areas. While your concentration will give you a chance to choose from a wide range of highly-specialized religious studies electives, there are several common courses that most religious studies majors will be required to take, including:

  • Old Testament
  • New Testament
  • Church History
  • Introduction to Philosophy
  • Introduction to Theology
  • World Religions
  • Christian Apologetics
  • Jewish Diaspora
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A major in religious studies prepares you for diverse professions in academia, public service, and places of worship. Your religious studies major can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including these top jobs:

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Related: How to Major in Religious Studies

If you think a liberal arts college may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges for bachelor’s in religious studies degrees.

Ranking: Best Research Universities for Bachelor’s in Religious Studies Degrees

  1. #1

    Harvard University

    Cambridge , MA
    #1 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #1 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025 #1 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #1 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    3%

    Graduation

    98%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/35

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Harvard University

    Cost of Degree: $59,076
    Expenses: $27,629
    Starting Salary: $67,003
    Salary after 4 years: $82,760
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Harvard University known for?

    Harvard University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Harvard University Religious Studies Major Concentrations:

    • Comparative Study of Religion
    Source
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of California, Berkeley

    Berkeley , CA
    #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    48K

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of California, Berkeley

    Cost of Degree: $14,850
    Expenses: $30,203
    Starting Salary: $38,819
    Salary after 4 years: $58,336
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of California, Berkeley known for?

    University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UC Berkeley Religious Studies Major:

    • East Asian Religion, Thought and Culture
    Source
    Compare school
  3. #3

    Columbia University

    New York , NY
    #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Columbia University

    Cost of Degree: $68,171
    Expenses: $20,542
    Starting Salary: $55,683
    Salary after 4 years: $68,778
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Columbia University known for?

    Columbia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Columbia University Religious Studies Major Zones:

    • Time (History, Modernity)
    • Transmission (Tradition, Memory, Institutions)
    • Space (Place, Geography, Virtual Space)
    • Body (Materiality, Mind, Bio-ethics)
    • Media (Transportation, Information, Communication)
    Source
    Compare school
  4. #4

    Stanford University

    Stanford , CA
    #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Stanford University

    Cost of Degree: $62,484
    Expenses: $25,349
    Starting Salary: $68,063
    Salary after 4 years: $84,069
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Stanford University known for?

    Stanford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Stanford University Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    #4 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #4 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #5 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $65,619
    Expenses: $23,421
    Starting Salary: $49,614
    Salary after 4 years: $61,281
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Chicago known for?

    University of Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Chicago Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  7. #6

    Yale University

    New Haven , CT
    #5 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #5 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #6 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025 #6 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    98%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Yale University

    Cost of Degree: $64,700
    Expenses: $23,600
    Starting Salary: $59,922
    Salary after 4 years: $74,014
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Yale University known for?

    Yale University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Yale University Religious Studies Major:

    • Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Princeton University

    Princeton , NJ
    #4 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #6 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #6 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #7 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $57K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Princeton University

    Cost of Degree: $59,710
    Expenses: $24,330
    Starting Salary: $56,020
    Salary after 4 years: $69,194
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Princeton University known for?

    Princeton University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Princeton University Religious Studies Major:

    • AB in Religion
    Source
    Compare school
  9. #8

    University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor , MI
    #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $18K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    52K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of Michigan

    Cost of Degree: $18,309
    Expenses: $17,554
    Starting Salary: $38,819
    Salary after 4 years: $58,336
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Michigan known for?

    University of Michigan’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Michigan Religious Studies Major:

    • Religion: Religious history
    Source
    Compare school
  10. #9

    New York University

    New York , NY
    #8 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    65K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at New York University

    Cost of Degree: $60,438
    Expenses: $27,314
    Starting Salary: $37,861
    Salary after 4 years: $46,764
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is New York University known for?

    New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    NYU Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  12. #10

    Cornell University

    Ithaca , NY
    #1 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Cornell University

    Cost of Degree: $66,014
    Expenses: $22,126
    Starting Salary: $48,747
    Salary after 4 years: $60,210
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Cornell University known for?

    Cornell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Cornell University Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  13. #11

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $66,104
    Expenses: $22,924
    Starting Salary: $63,390
    Salary after 4 years: $78,297
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Pennsylvania known for?

    University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Pennsylvania Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  14. #12

    University of California, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles , CA
    #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    49K

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of California, Los Angeles

    Cost of Degree: $13,747
    Expenses: $24,284
    Starting Salary: $35,969
    Salary after 4 years: $54,053
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of California, Los Angeles known for?

    University of California, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UCLA Religious Studies Majors:

    • BA in Asian Religions
    • BA in Study of Religion
    Source
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #13 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Duke University

    Cost of Degree: $65,805
    Expenses: $21,267
    Starting Salary: $55,153
    Salary after 4 years: $68,123
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Duke University known for?

    Duke University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Duke University Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies

    Related:

    • Interdepartmental Major: Ancient Religion and Society
    Source
    Compare school
  16. #14

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #14 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #17 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $68,237
    Expenses: $22,216
    Starting Salary: $42,774
    Salary after 4 years: $52,833
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Southern California known for?

    University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    USC Religious Studies Majors:

    • Religion
    • Jewish Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  18. #15

    Northwestern University

    Evanston , IL
    #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Northwestern University

    Cost of Degree: $65,997
    Expenses: $25,293
    Starting Salary: $44,990
    Salary after 4 years: $55,570
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Northwestern University known for?

    Northwestern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northwestern University Religious Studies Major:

    • Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Brown University

    Providence , RI
    #10 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #16 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #17 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #17 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/35

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Brown University

    Cost of Degree: $68,230
    Expenses: $19,418
    Starting Salary: $42,918
    Salary after 4 years: $53,011
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Brown University known for?

    Brown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Brown University Religious Studies Major:

    • Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Georgetown University

    Washington , DC
    #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #18 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #18 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/33

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Georgetown University

    Cost of Degree: $65,081
    Expenses: $23,660
    Starting Salary: $60,307
    Salary after 4 years: $74,490
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Georgetown University known for?

    Georgetown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Georgetown University Religious Studies Major Concentrations:

    • Religion, Politics, and the Common Good
    • Christian Theology
    • Biblical Studies
    • Ethics
    • Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Boston University

    Boston , MA
    #19 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/32

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Boston University

    Cost of Degree: $65,168
    Expenses: $21,195
    Starting Salary: $36,560
    Salary after 4 years: $45,158
    Cost Recoup Time: 23 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Boston University known for?

    Boston University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Boston University Religious Studies Major:

    • Religion
    Source

    Boston University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Undergrad Completion Program
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  22. #19

    Dartmouth College

    Hanover , NH
    #18 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #20 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #21 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #24 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    6%

    Graduation

    95%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Dartmouth College

    Cost of Degree: $65,511
    Expenses: $22,054
    Starting Salary: $53,082
    Salary after 4 years: $65,565
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Dartmouth College known for?

    Dartmouth College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Dartmouth College Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religion
    Source
    Compare school
  24. #20

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Chapel Hill , NC
    #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Cost of Degree: $8,989
    Expenses: $17,120
    Starting Salary: $33,807
    Salary after 4 years: $50,804
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill known for?

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northwestern University Religious Studies Major Concentrations:

    • Jewish Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  25. #21

    University of Notre Dame

    Notre Dame , IN
    #3 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #21 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #22 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #25 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    13%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at University of Notre Dame

    Cost of Degree: $62,693
    Expenses: $20,578
    Starting Salary: $47,398
    Salary after 4 years: $58,545
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Notre Dame known for?

    University of Notre Dame’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UND Religious Studies Major:

    • Theology
    Source
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Emory University

    Atlanta , GA
    #4 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #25 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Georgia 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Georgia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1490/33

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Emory University

    Cost of Degree: $60,774
    Expenses: $22,848
    Starting Salary: $40,655
    Salary after 4 years: $50,215
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Emory University known for?

    Emory University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Emory University Religious Studies Major:

    • BA in Religious Studies
    Source
    Compare school
  27. #23

    Vanderbilt University

    Nashville , TN
    #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Tennessee 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    93%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Vanderbilt University

    Cost of Degree: $63,946
    Expenses: $25,644
    Starting Salary: $41,522
    Salary after 4 years: $51,286
    Cost Recoup Time: 22 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Vanderbilt University known for?

    Vanderbilt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Vanderbilt University Religious Studies Major Concentrations:

    • African-American Religious Traditions
    • Buddhism and Asian Religious Traditions
    • Christianity
    • Islam
    • Judaism
    Source
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  28. #24

    Rice University

    Houston , TX
    #19 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/35

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Rice University

    Cost of Degree: $58,128
    Expenses: $20,150
    Starting Salary: $44,123
    Salary after 4 years: $54,499
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Rice University known for?

    Rice University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Rice University Religious Studies Major:

    • Religion
    Source
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  30. #25

    Boston College

    Chestnut Hill , MA
    #3 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #5 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #9 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    17K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1487/34

    Career Outlook for Religious Studies degree at Boston College

    Cost of Degree: $67,680
    Expenses: $21,925
    Starting Salary: $44,556
    Salary after 4 years: $55,034
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Boston College known for?

    Boston College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Boston College Religious Studies Major:

    • Theology
    Source
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Career Outlook for Students with Religious Studies Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Religion/Religious Studies

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $26,597
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $39,969
  • * denotes ‘annually’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary4.08%$86,030
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary2.27%$79,930

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary$86,030
Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary$79,930
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Frequently Asked Questions About Research Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Online Colleges

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you will need to choose between three kinds of schools: research universities, liberal arts colleges, and online colleges.

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students.

Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines.

Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel.

  • Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well.
  • Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.
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Learn more about research universities by reading about the best research universities in the US.

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree.

  • Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students.

    • Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom).

  • Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers.

    • Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

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Learn more about liberal arts colleges by reading about the best liberal arts colleges in the US.

If you think a liberal arts college may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges for a bachelor’s in mathematics.

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available.

Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online.

Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college.

  • Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands.

    • Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain.

  • Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving.

    • If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc.

  • The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors.

    • Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions.

If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

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Go to all Research Universities for Religious Studies programs

The Best Religious Studies Schools in Your State

Go to the best religious studies schools in Alabama! Go to the best religious studies schools in Alaska! Go to the best religious studies schools in Arizona! Go to the best religious studies schools in Arkansas! Go to the best religious studies schools in California! Go to the best religious studies schools in Colorado! Go to the best religious studies schools in Connecticut! Go to the best religious studies schools in Delaware! Go to the best religious studies schools in District Of Columbia! Go to the best religious studies schools in Florida! Go to the best religious studies schools in Georgia! Go to the best religious studies schools in Hawaii! Go to the best religious studies schools in Idaho! Go to the best religious studies schools in Illinois! Go to the best religious studies schools in Indiana! Go to the best religious studies schools in Iowa! Go to the best religious studies schools in Kansas! Go to the best religious studies schools in Kentucky! Go to the best religious studies schools in Louisiana! Go to the best religious studies schools in Maine! Go to the best religious studies schools in Maryland! Go to the best religious studies schools in Massachusetts! Go to the best religious studies schools in Michigan! Go to the best religious studies schools in Minnesota! Go to the best religious studies schools in Mississippi! Go to the best religious studies schools in Missouri! Go to the best religious studies schools in Montana! Go to the best religious studies schools in Nebraska! Go to the best religious studies schools in Nevada! Go to the best religious studies schools in New Hampshire! Go to the best religious studies schools in New Jersey! Go to the best religious studies schools in New Mexico! Go to the best religious studies schools in New York! Go to the best religious studies schools in North Carolina! Go to the best religious studies schools in North Dakota! Go to the best religious studies schools in Ohio! Go to the best religious studies schools in Oklahoma! Go to the best religious studies schools in Oregon! Go to the best religious studies schools in Pennsylvania! Go to the best religious studies schools in Puerto Rico! Go to the best religious studies schools in Rhode Island! Go to the best religious studies schools in South Carolina! Go to the best religious studies schools in South Dakota! Go to the best religious studies schools in Tennessee! Go to the best religious studies schools in Texas! Go to the best religious studies schools in Utah! Go to the best religious studies schools in Vermont! Go to the best religious studies schools in Virginia! Go to the best religious studies schools in Washington! Go to the best religious studies schools in West Virginia! Go to the best religious studies schools in Wisconsin! Go to the best religious studies schools in Wyoming!
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Learn More About Religious Studies

If you want to know more about religious studies, then check out our related content:

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