Clark University

What you'll study

The Religion major at Clark combines historical, textual and social-scientific approaches to the study of religion. Students survey world religious traditions and specialised topics while developing analytical skills in history, theory and ethnography. The curriculum emphasises critical reading of sacred texts, comparative perspectives, and connections between religion and broader social life.

• Core and introductory courses: introductions to the academic study of religion, methods and theory in religious studies, and courses on the history of religion.
• Area and tradition studies: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and other Asian and indigenous traditions, often taught through primary texts and long historical perspectives.
• Thematic courses: religion and politics, religion and gender, ritual and performance, religion and media, religion and law, and religion and modernity.
• Textual and language work: study of sacred texts, hermeneutics and opportunities to learn relevant languages (for example Hebrew, Arabic, Sanskrit, or modern languages offered by the university) to support primary-source work.
• Methods and research: training in ethnographic methods, archival research, comparative analysis and theoretical approaches to religion.
• Capstone or senior thesis: a substantial research project or thesis under faculty supervision that demonstrates independent research and critical synthesis of interdisciplinary approaches.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: courses in history, sociology, anthropology, philosophy, political science and area studies to tailor the major to individual interests.

Entry requirements

Entry to Clark’s undergraduate programme is based on a holistic review of your secondary school record. Typical expectations include a strong academic transcript with coursework in humanities and social sciences and demonstrated preparation in writing and critical thinking.

• High school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades in a broad college-preparatory curriculum.
• Personal statement or essay describing intellectual interests and fit with the programme.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or guidance counsellors who can speak to academic readiness.
• Evidence of engagement outside the classroom — for example, community service, extracurricular leadership, internships or independent projects — strengthens an application.
• Standardised tests may be optional; check the university’s current policy. International applicants should demonstrate English proficiency as required.
• Placement credit or advanced standing may be available for appropriate AP, IB or transferable college coursework; language preparation is often recommended for students planning textual work.

Career prospects

A Religion degree from Clark prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that value critical thinking, cultural literacy and research skills. Many students go on to graduate study in religious studies, divinity or related humanities and social-science fields; others move directly into professional roles.

• Graduate study and academic careers in religious studies, theology, history, anthropology or related fields.
• Careers in education, museum and cultural institutions, archives and libraries.
• Public service, policy analysis and community development, particularly in roles that require cross-cultural competence and ethical reasoning.
• Non-profit and advocacy organisations, including interfaith initiatives, human rights groups and community outreach programmes.
• Media, journalism and communications roles that require strong research and writing skills and contextual understanding of religious issues.
• Law, public health, social work and counselling — fields where interpretive skills and ethical perspectives are highly relevant.

Why study at Clark University

Clark offers a small, research-active liberal-arts environment within a university that emphasises inquiry, social responsibility and community engagement. The Religion programme benefits from close faculty-student mentorship, opportunities for senior theses, and interdisciplinary collaboration across departments.

• Small classes and faculty mentorship: personalised attention and opportunities for independent research and close advising on capstone projects.
• Research and hands-on learning: access to resources for archival work, ethnographic projects and community-engaged courses in the Worcester region.
• Interdisciplinary resources: easy cross-registration with history, sociology, anthropology, philosophy and international studies to broaden perspectives.
• Internships and career support: strong ties to local cultural institutions, non-profits and faith-based organisations, plus university career services to translate academic training into workplace skills.
• Global and local opportunities: study-abroad programmes and local practicum options allow students to study religion in varied cultural contexts.