BA in Religion in Boston United States | Boston University

The Department of Religion provides an interdisciplinary, cross-cultural examination of religious studies through critical analysis of diverse religious experiences and expressions. Alongside foundational courses covering global religious traditions and their historical development, the curriculum enables students to investigate religion's essence, interpretation challenges, behavioral patterns, societal impacts, and philosophical considerations. The program encourages term-long study abroad opportunities to enhance cultural awareness. High-achieving students may undertake honors research through an independent senior thesis project.

Religion majors acquire fundamental understanding of principal world religions, their historical contexts and sacred texts, while developing specialized expertise in one tradition alongside analytical skills for studying religion. This combination of religious literacy, insight into faith-based motivations, and refined critical thinking equips graduates for diverse career paths including international affairs, social work, journalism, legal practice, public service, and education, while making them competitive candidates for business roles and professional degree programs in medicine and other fields.

Learning Objectives
After completing the religion major requirements, students will:

Exhibit comprehension of various religious traditions, encompassing their historical development, core beliefs, ceremonial practices, and terminology.
Display proficiency in analyzing religious scriptures, ceremonial customs, and other manifestations of faith.
Apply key theoretical frameworks in religious studies to evaluate religious occurrences, concepts, phenomena, and texts.
Showcase specialized understanding of at least one religious tradition.