Georgetown University

What you'll study

The Bachelor in Religion at Georgetown offers a comparative and interdisciplinary curriculum that combines historical, textual and theoretical approaches to the study of religion. Core areas of study typically include the history of religions, sacred texts and hermeneutics, religions of the world (for example Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism), religion and modernity, ethics and social justice, and the role of religion in politics and public life.

Students usually follow a mix of required core courses and electives. Typical modules and topics you can expect include:

• Introduction to Religious Studies: key methods and concepts in the academic study of religion.
• Biblical and Theological Studies: historical and literary study of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and New Testament texts.
• Comparative Religions: systematic comparison of beliefs, rituals and institutions across traditions.
• Religion and Politics: examinations of how religion shapes and is shaped by political life, public policy and diplomacy.
• Religion, Ethics and Social Justice: study of moral reasoning, religiously motivated activism, and ethical debates.
• Methods & Research Seminar: training in archival, ethnographic, historical and textual methods, often culminating in a capstone project or senior thesis.
• Language Study: instruction in one or more languages relevant to your research (for example Biblical Hebrew, Greek, Arabic or modern languages), which many students pursue to support textual work.
• Electives and Interdisciplinary Options: students frequently take complementary courses in anthropology, history, political science, theology, philosophy and global health.

Georgetown emphasises experiential learning: students can participate in internships with NGOs, policy organisations, faith-based groups and museums in Washington, DC, or pursue field research and study-abroad programmes to deepen regional or linguistic expertise.

Entry requirements

Admission to Georgetown's undergraduate programmes is selective and looks for academically strong applicants with demonstrated interest in the humanities or social sciences. Typical expectations include a strong high-school academic record with notable coursework in writing, history and languages where available.

Applicants are usually required to submit standard application materials including transcripts, a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Georgetown values extracurricular engagement, leadership, community service and intellectual curiosity—evidence of sustained interest in religious studies, such as related coursework, independent reading, volunteer work with community or faith organisations, or relevant internships, can strengthen an application.

English language proficiency requirements apply for non-native speakers; applicants may be asked to provide test scores or other proof of English ability. Specific programme or departmental recommendations, such as prior study of a relevant language, may enhance preparation for the major but are not universally mandatory.

Career prospects

A degree in Religion from Georgetown prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, cultural literacy and strong communication skills. Common career paths include:

• Public policy, government and diplomacy—roles where understanding religion’s public impact is an asset.
• Non-profit and NGO sectors—programme management, advocacy and community engagement, especially with organisations focused on humanitarian, interfaith or human rights work.
• Education and academic pathways—secondary teaching, or further study leading to graduate research and teaching in religious studies, theology or related fields.
• Journalism, publishing and media—reporting and analysis on religion, culture and international affairs.
• Law, business and public service—employers value the ethical reasoning and cross-cultural competencies developed by the major.
• Religious and community leadership—roles within faith communities or faith-based social services.

Graduates often combine the major with internships and language training to position themselves for specialised roles in international organisations, think tanks, and cultural institutions.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown offers distinct advantages for studying religion. As a Jesuit university, it has a long intellectual tradition that emphasises rigorous scholarship, ethical reflection and engagement with global challenges. The Department of Religion includes faculty with strengths across history, theology, comparative religion and religion in public life, enabling a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education.

Its location in Washington, DC provides unrivalled access to policy institutions, international organisations, museums, religious archives and a diverse range of faith communities. Students benefit from internship opportunities, guest lectures from practitioners and scholars, and events that connect academic study to real-world issues. The university also supports study-abroad programmes and research funding that help students develop language skills and regional expertise.

Together, Georgetown’s academic resources, faculty expertise and urban setting make it an especially strong place to study religion for those interested in the intersection of faith, public life and global affairs.