Religious Studies

Welcome, current and future Cyclones!

From radical movements like the KKK and Al-Qaeda/ISIL to the rise of the Religious Right in America, it is clear that religions shape our world in powerful ways. What do the world’s many religions teach, and why do people find their teachings compelling? How do religions shape societies, promoting peace, social change, or even violence? How do religions help maintain or seek to change existing social relations, gender norms, racial or social inequalities or attitudes toward the environment? These are just a few of the timely and critical questions that religious studies scholars address.

General requirements

In addition to general education course requirements in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS), all Religious Studies majors must complete at least 27 credits of additional coursework, with a minimum of 120 total credits, including a minimum of 45 credits at the 3000/4000 level, required for graduation. These courses allow you to design your own unique program of study by taking courses that spark your interest. Religious Studies emphasizes exploring religion objectively, critically, and empathetically. A degree in religious studies equips you to apply academic theories and methods to understand how religions shape and are shaped by history, politics, culture, society, and human psychology. As your religious literacy increases, you will develop your own ideas about the nature of religion, life’s big questions, and the wide range of human ideas, practices, and motivations.

Religious Studies Minor

The religious studies minor may be earned by completing a total of 15 credits in religious studies including either RELIG 2050 World Religions or RELIG 2100 Religion in America. Nine hours must be in courses at the 3000 level or above (no more than 3 hours of seminar and no more than 3 hours of independent study). The minor must include at least 9 credits that are not used to meet any other department, college or university requirement.

Connections and experiences

Iowa State is home to many other different clubs and organizations, many of which are available to students in any major. Visit the ISU Student Organizations website to find something that interests you!

LAS Study Abroad provides international study, work, and service opportunities for all Iowa State students. Through their partnerships, they provide short-term, semester-length, and academic year programs abroad.

Think you have the next big idea? The Start Something LAS Academy, part of the ISU Start Something network, provides hands-on learning experiences for students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship. As an academy member you’ll build community with other innovators as you become a changemaker for the world around you.

Your future in the making

Where your future takes you is up to you. Graduates of our program have a variety of career opportunities available. Here are just some examples of the careers religious studies majors pursue:

• Healthcare jobs: doctor, nurse, other medical professionals
• Creative jobs: writing, entertainment, game development, marketing, communication
• Educational jobs: Teaching, libraries, museums, public history
• Service-oriented jobs: social work, nonprofits, philanthropy
• Government jobs: State department, data science, administration
• Internationally focused jobs: Business, international development
• Hospitality jobs: tourism, recreation, guest services
• Graduate & professional school: religious studies, area studies, medicine, law, theology, library and data science

Your degree in religious studies opens up a world of possibilities. Contact us today to learn more and become a Cyclone in the making!