Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies – Religion, Politics and Global Affairs
Are you passionate about exploring how humans have answered life’s big questions? Arizona State University's Bachelor of Arts in religious studies with a concentration in religion, politics and global affairs examines how religious communities, traditions and beliefs impact and are impacted by globalization and world events. Upon graduation, you’ll understand how to observe and analyze religion’s complex roles in conflict, peacebuilding, health care and politics.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
What you’ll learn as a religious studies major
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.
Many degrees in religious studies focus on Christianity, with an emphasis upon preparation for Christian ministry. Differently, ASU’s religious studies degrees are global and comparative, examining multiple traditions, religions, practices and beliefs, including but not limited to Christianity.
As a religious studies major, you’ll analyze 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 needed to analyze the role religion has in shaping political values, social movements and communal norms.
Is the religion, politics and global affairs concentration right for me?
If you’re interested in exploring religion’s impact on all aspects of life, this program may be a great fit. Throughout this program, you’ll examine cultural diversity and investigate issues from different perspectives. Your coursework may cover a variety of themes, such as bodily norms, dietary practices and the rites marking life transitions.
Will my diploma 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.”
Courses for this religious studies major
Courses focus on religion’s impact on the modern world and 20 and 21st century topics and issues. 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.
The careers this religious studies major prepares you for
Graduates are well positioned to pursue a career in journalism, foreign service, chaplaincy, public policy, education and nonprofit organizations. Upon completion of this degree, you’ll be equipped with important transferable skills that are valued highly by employers. Examples of potential careers include, but aren’t limited to:
Advocate
Lawyer
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
Mental Health Counselor
News Reporter
Politician
Religion Professor
Religious Education Director
Religious Leader
Learn from experienced faculty in religious studies
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. Our 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. Our faculty also include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Learn from experienced faculty in religious studies
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. Our 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. Our faculty also include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at 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 Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at 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 Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
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 become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
31,572
students enrolled as of fall 2024
$161 million
in research expenditures in FY23
21
interdisciplinary schools and departments
100+
undergraduate degrees
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
