Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies – Religion, Politics and Global Affairs
Are you passionate about exploring how human beings have answered the “big questions” about life? What about combining philosophical and practical knowledge to understand today’s social problems? If so, the Bachelor of Arts in religious studies with a concentration in religion, politics and global affairs may be ideal for you.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/10/2022
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Religious Studies – Religion, Politics and Global Affairs (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
Major in the study of religion
When you pursue a bachelor’s degree in religious studies with a concentration in religion, politics and global affairs, you’ll explore how the study of religion has shaped the modern world. You’ll learn how religion influences political culture, communal formation, nationalism and citizenship in local and global contexts. You’ll also gain theoretical training and research skills. These will enable you to analyze the role religion has in shaping political values, social movements and communal norms.
What is religious studies?
Religious studies is rooted in the humanities and fosters an appreciation for how humans express themselves through religious beliefs, practices and traditions. The academic study of religion can illuminate the complex relationships between religion, social structures, political power and globalization.
What is religion? Religion is a social-cultural system that has an enduring impact on human community and identity. Religious traditions shape responses to global challenges, such as health, migration and the environment. Indigenous communities have used notions of sacred land and ritual space to secure land rights. Refugees, migrants and asylees have established new transnational networks of belonging and support through religious institutions. Faith-based nonprofit organizations are essential elements of public health in sub-Saharan Africa.
Many degrees in religion or religious studies focus on Christianity, with an emphasis upon preparation for Christian ministry. By comparison, Arizona State University’s religious studies degrees are global and comparative, examining multiple traditions, religions, practices and beliefs, including but not limited to Christianity. ASU also offers two concentrations: religion, culture and public life versus religion, politics and global affairs.
Does my religious studies major say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Please note your diploma will state the degree you earn: Bachelor of Arts in religious studies. Your concentration in religion, politics and global affairs will not appear on your diploma, but it will be noted on your transcripts.
Religious studies courses
Courses in the religion, politics and global affairs concentration tend to focus on the modern world, addressing topics and issues in the 20th and 21st centuries. You’ll learn about religions around the world, such as African American religion, modern Buddhism and Islam. You’ll also take courses on nationalism, ethnic conflict and moral issues. Browse some featured courses below.
REL 101: Religion, Culture and Public Life (HU & G)
REL 307: Religion: Theory and Practice (L or HU)
REL 406: Religious Studies Capstone I
REL 407: Religious Studies Capstone II
What can I do with a religious studies degree?
Graduates of the religion, politics and global affairs concentration are well positioned to pursue a career in journalism, foreign service, chaplaincy, public policy, education and nonprofit organizations. This degree responds to employers’ demand for employees who have highly transferable skills. These skills make employees flexible, adaptable and able to work with others.
Advocate
Counselor (General)
Lawyer
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
News Reporter
Politician
Religion Professor
Religious Education Director
Religious Leader
Learn from experienced religious teachers and professionals
From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members. Religious studies faculty have received fellowships at the National Humanities Center and research grants from the ACLS, Luce Foundation, Templeton Religion Trust and National Endowment for the Humanities.
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Learn from experienced religious teachers and professionals
From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members. Religious studies faculty have received fellowships at the National Humanities Center and research grants from the ACLS, Luce Foundation, Templeton Religion Trust and National Endowment for the Humanities.
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Admission requirements for religious studies
freshman student
You are considered a freshman for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Enroll in one of the leading schools in the study of religion and religious studies
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students.
$140
million in research expenditures in 2018.
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments.
95+
undergraduate degrees.
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