Northeastern University United States

Religious Studies, BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The BA in Religious Studies at Northeastern University invites you to explore the profound impact of religion across diverse cultural, historical, and political landscapes. This undergraduate degree is ideal for intellectually curious students eager to understand the complexities of lived religion and comparative ethics, alongside theoretical and methodological approaches to academic study. You will develop critical thinking and interpretive skills, engaging with a wide array of religious traditions and their manifestations in human affairs, preparing you for a world increasingly shaped by global interconnectedness and diverse belief systems.

This full-time, on-campus program spans four years, offering you a flexible curriculum that includes foundational courses, comparative religion studies, and a wealth of electives. You will delve into topics ranging from Islam: Rituals, Traditions, and Debates to Race and Religion in Film, culminating in a capstone seminar. You will graduate from Northeastern University with a robust understanding of religious phenomena and the analytical abilities to pursue careers in fields such as education, non-profit work, public policy, or further academic research.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program offers a foundational course in the academic study of religion. Students will explore various religious traditions and practices through electives, including topics such as world religions, comparative ethics, and the intersection of religion with culture, film, and contemporary issues. The curriculum encourages a critical and comparative understanding of the diverse ways humans engage with the sacred and the meaning of life.

1 Required Foundational Course

Introduction to Religious Studies

2 Lived Religion Elective

Selling Spirituality
The Meaning of Death
Apocalypticism in Film
Sex in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Islam: Rituals, Traditions, and Debates
Science Fiction and Film: Moral Dilemmas and Ethical Analysis
Music and Religion
Cults and Sects
Possession, Sacrifice, and Divination in African Diasporic Religions
Race and Religion in Film
The Religious Worlds of Boston: Faith and Devotion in Urban Life

3 Comparative Religion

Introduction to World Religions
Comparative Ethics
The Meaning of Death
Sex in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Hinduism, Buddhism, and Beyond
Chinese Philosophy and Religion
Science Fiction and Film: Moral Dilemmas and Ethical Analysis
Japanese Buddhism
The Religious Worlds of Boston: Faith and Devotion in Urban Life

4 Electives

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 67,990.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 271,960.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,500.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Boston Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace Engineering & DesignAerospace ManufacturingAerospace Research & AcademiaAerospace Supply Chain & LogisticsAirport Infrastructure & Aviation SecurityAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityAviation Safety & RegulationCommercial AviationDefense & Military AviationSpace Exploration & Satellite Technology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

The Methodist Church

Why Study Religious Studies, BA at Northeastern University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Northeastern University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Northeastern University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Religious Studies, BA at Northeastern University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit. Working off-campus may be possible after the first year but requires university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English proficiency requirements, you can choose from several tests. Minimum scores include IELTS 7.5 overall, TOEFL 106 overall, or Duolingo with a score of 135 across all sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as religious studies educators, cultural analysts, faith-based organization leaders, community outreach coordinators, or researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Religious Studies program allows students to explore religion across cultural, historical, and political contexts. You'll engage with various religious traditions and learn theoretical and methodological approaches in the academic study of religion.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Religious Studies, BA program has an intake month in January. Make sure to prepare your application materials in advance to meet the deadlines.
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