UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Philosophy and Religious Studies, B.A.
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 30Major Credits
- 120Total Credits for Graduation
- Interdisciplinary approachStudy Focus
- Khatib Program in Religion & DialogueSpecial Program
The Religious Studies major at the University of Mary Washington provides a comprehensive exploration of the religious dimensions of human experience across history and cultures. You will engage with major world traditions, sacred texts, and influential figures, learning critical methodologies to analyze diverse themes and theories within religious studies. This B.A. program offers significant flexibility and close faculty guidance, allowing you to tailor your studies to your individual interests. Graduates develop strong critical thinking, research, and communication skills, preparing them for a wide range of careers and further academic pursuits.
Curriculum
The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religious Studies requires 120 credits for graduation. The major itself requires 30 credits, including foundational courses in world religions and the study of religion, specific selections from Abrahamic and Non-Abrahamic traditions, additional electives (with a focus on upper-level courses), and a guided research project. The curriculum encourages an interdisciplinary approach, with various courses in other departments counting towards the major. A suggested plan of study outlines a typical four-year course progression.
- Year 1
- First-Year SeminarFSEM 100
- Introduction to World ReligionsRELG 101
- Introduction to the Study of ReligionRELG 102
- Year 2
- Abrahamic Religions course (e.g., Jews, Christians, Muslims)RELG 103, RELG 205, RELG 206A, RELG 208, RELG 210, or RELG 252
- Non-Abrahamic Religions course (e.g., Native American Religions, Hinduism, Buddhism)RELG 251, RELG 283, or RELG 284
- Any Level Religion Course
- Year 3
- Any 300 or 400 Level Religion Course
- Any 300 or 400 Level Religion Course
- Year 4
- Guided ResearchRELG 401
- Any 300 or 400 Level Religion Course
Careers
Graduates of the Religious Studies program are equipped with a broad cultural awareness and strong critical thinking, research, and communication skills, making them well-prepared for diverse career paths and further academic study. The interdisciplinary nature of the major allows students to apply their knowledge in various professional settings.
- Public Relations
- Journalism
- Teaching
- Library Science
- Service Organizations
- Business
- Arts
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for international students for the Philosophy and Religious Studies B.A. program?
- International applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of Mary Washington's general undergraduate admission requirements. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) are also required.
- How long does the Philosophy and Religious Studies B.A. program take to complete?
- The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religious Studies requires 120 credits for graduation and is typically completed over four years of study.
- Are there any scholarships available for students in the Religious Studies program?
- Yes, upper-level Religious Studies majors may be eligible for the Khatib Award, a merit-based scholarship that provides educational and financial opportunities through the Khatib Program.
- What career paths can I pursue with a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies?
- Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as Public Relations, Journalism, Teaching, and Business. Many also pursue further academic study in Graduate School, Divinity School, Law School, or Social Work programs.
- How do international students apply to the Philosophy and Religious Studies program?
- International students should complete the University of Mary Washington's undergraduate application, submit official academic transcripts and standardized test scores, provide essays, letters of recommendation, and financial documentation, and pay the application fee. Specific deadlines are available on the university's admissions website.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentStandard undergraduate admission requirements apply.
International students must meet the University of Mary Washington's general admission requirements. Specific English proficiency scores are not listed for this program, but standard university requirements will apply.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Specific tuition and living cost figures for international students are not provided on the program page. Prospective students should consult the university's official admissions and finance sections for current international student fees.
How to apply
1. Complete the ApplicationSubmit the appropriate undergraduate application form, which may include the Common Application or the university's specific application portal.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all previously attended secondary and post-secondary institutions, translated into English if necessary.
3. Submit Standardized Test ScoresProvide scores from required standardized tests, such as SAT or ACT, and English proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if applicable.
4. Write Essays/Personal StatementsComplete any required essays or personal statements as part of the application.
5. Obtain Letters of RecommendationSubmit letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can speak to your academic abilities.
6. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
7. Financial DocumentationInternational students may need to provide documentation of financial support.
Scholarships
Khatib AwardEducational and financial opportunity
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for international students for the Philosophy and Religious Studies B.A. program?
+
International applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of Mary Washington's general undergraduate admission requirements. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) and English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) are also required.
How long does the Philosophy and Religious Studies B.A. program take to complete?
+
The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religious Studies requires 120 credits for graduation and is typically completed over four years of study.
Are there any scholarships available for students in the Religious Studies program?
+
Yes, upper-level Religious Studies majors may be eligible for the Khatib Award, a merit-based scholarship that provides educational and financial opportunities through the Khatib Program.
What career paths can I pursue with a B.A. in Philosophy and Religious Studies?
+
Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in fields such as Public Relations, Journalism, Teaching, and Business. Many also pursue further academic study in Graduate School, Divinity School, Law School, or Social Work programs.
How do international students apply to the Philosophy and Religious Studies program?
+
International students should complete the University of Mary Washington's undergraduate application, submit official academic transcripts and standardized test scores, provide essays, letters of recommendation, and financial documentation, and pay the application fee. Specific deadlines are available on the university's admissions website.