Why Study Religion?

Religion is central to the human experience.

Religion has been a central force in world history, and it continues to play a powerful role in the human experience. The dynamic traditions of world religions, the role of religion in global politics, the relationship of religion and science, and the religious dimensions of art and culture, are among the many issues that draw students to the study of religion at the University of Arizona. The faculty and associated faculty of the Religious Studies Program are committed to introducing students to a broad spectrum of religious traditions and their social and historical impact.

A Religious Studies degree can lead to almost any career.

Religious Studies majors have pursued careers in a wide variety of fields, including business, government, medicine, law, education, and social services. The Religious Studies major provides students with a broad understanding of human diversity, the complexities of social and cultural systems of thought, and the human pursuit of meaning. Combined with core academic skills in written and oral communication, the Religious Studies major prepares students to become independent thinkers and problem solvers in the twenty-first century.

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Mission

Religious Studies at the University of Arizona has the following mission: 

• To provide opportunities for students to learn about a broad range of religions from an academic, interdisciplinary perspective.
• To teach twenty-first century skills in religious literacy, intercultural competence, and critical thinking for thriving in a globalized world.
• To conduct original research in the wide range of subfields within Religious Studies and disseminate faculty expertise through peer-reviewed publications, public scholarship, presentations, and teaching.
• To strengthen the academic discipline of Religious Studies through national and international contributions to the field.