Our BA + MA in Religious Studies provides a dynamic approach to understanding how religious traditions shape and influence the world. By exploring the role of religion in topics such as politics, media, and journalism, you'll gain invaluable insight into the complexities of the modern world. You can tailor your degree to match your passions by choosing from five areas of specialization: lived religions; critical theory; sacred texts; religion and international studies; and philosophy and religion.
Our 4+1 program is the perfect way to earn both your BA and MA in just five years—saving you time and money. Starting in your fourth year, you'll integrate undergraduate and graduate-level courses, giving you a head start on graduate study.
Start Dates: Fall
Curriculum: 216 Total Credit Hours, 171 at the undergraduate level and 45 at the graduate level
How our Religious Studies BA + MA curriculum prepares you for your career
Pursue your interests through customize course plans
Different concentrations and pathways to degree completion allow you to tailor your education to meet your career goals.
Build a strong foundation in liberal arts
Sharpen your critical thinking skills and communication skills—both spoken and written
Find new perspectives on global issues
Gain a deeper understanding of contemporary issues in the complex global environment and the influence of religious traditions around the globe.
Prepare for careers in a variety of fields
You will be prepared to make contributions in business, government, social work, or journalism.
Dive deeper with doctoral studies in religious studies
When you graduate, you'll be well prepared to pursue top-tier doctoral programs in religious studies.
Religious Studies 4+1 Degree Requirements
For this dual-degree program, you will need to complete both the undergraduate and graduate level requirements, which total 216 credits minimum.
You will need to complete 171 credit hours at the undergraduate level and 45 credit hours at the graduate level.
You are required to complete a project, craft a thesis, or write a major research paper that is conceptually interconnected with that project. If you choose to write a thesis, you must successfully pass an oral defense.
Courses and Concentrations for BA + MA in Religious Studies
Required Courses
RLGS 3760 - Globalization and Religion: Theory and Methods
Elective Courses
RLGS 3814 - Modern Hinduism
RLGS 3820 - Buddhism
RLGS 3001 - Judaism
RLGS 3500 - Islam
RLGS 3203 - Christianity
The BA + MA in Religious Studies is for curious scholars seeking to understand the ways that religious traditions shape our world
Are you ready to learn more about Religious Studies at DU?
Go to the graduate admission application to submit your information. For information on admission requirements, visit the graduate academic programs page and locate your program of interest.