University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The BA in Religion combines historical, textual and social-scientific approaches to the study of religion. Core work typically includes survey courses in major religious traditions (such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and East Asian traditions), courses in theory and methods in religious studies, and focused classes on sacred texts, ritual, ethics and religion in modernity.

• Foundations: introductions to religious studies theory, comparative religion, and historical overviews of major world religions.
• Textual and linguistic study: classes analysing scripture and sacred literature; opportunities to study original languages or translations depending on interest (for example Biblical Hebrew, Koine Greek, Sanskrit, Classical Chinese, or Arabic through cross-departmental offerings).
• Thematic seminars: topics such as religion and politics, gender and religion, religion and law, ritual and material culture, religion and science, and religion in the Americas.
• Research methods and capstone: methods courses in qualitative and comparative approaches, and a senior capstone or honours thesis option for students pursuing an independent research project under faculty supervision.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary study: students commonly take electives in history, anthropology, sociology, philosophy, Asian studies, classics and theatre to build interdisciplinary perspectives.

The programme emphasises writing, critical thinking and research skills. Students are encouraged to pursue study abroad programmes, language study and internships to complement classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Massachusetts Amherst is handled by the university's undergraduate admissions office. Successful applicants to the BA in Religion typically present a strong secondary-school record with coursework in humanities, social sciences and languages where possible. Application materials normally include a personal statement, official transcripts and letters of recommendation; standardised test submission may be optional depending on current university policy.

International applicants should submit records equivalent to U.S. secondary-school qualifications and demonstrate English proficiency by the means required by the university. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and GPA, and may be advised on how previously completed courses map onto degree requirements in the Department of Religion.

Career prospects

A degree in religion develops analytical, research and communication skills that are valued across many sectors. Graduates commonly pursue:

• Further study in religious studies, divinity/theological schools, law, education, social sciences and humanities.
• Careers in education, community and nonprofit organisations, social services and public policy, where cultural literacy and ethical reasoning are important.
• Roles in museums, archives, cultural heritage organisations and libraries, leveraging skills in interpretation, research and curation.
• Publishing, journalism, and media work that requires strong writing and critical analysis.
• Business and human resources roles that benefit from intercultural competence and ethical decision-making.

Students who continue into graduate study may enter academic research and teaching, while others move into professional roles in government, advocacy, and international organisations.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers the BA in Religion within a large, research-active public university that supports interdisciplinary study. The Department of Religion provides a range of course offerings and faculty expertise across geographic areas and theoretical approaches, enabling students to tailor study to particular interests.

Students benefit from the university's extensive library resources, opportunities for undergraduate research, and links with related departments such as history, anthropology, philosophy and language programmes. The campus's location in the Pioneer Valley gives access to a lively regional cultural scene and internship opportunities, while study-abroad programmes and community partnerships expand practical and experiential learning options.

Small seminars and faculty-supervised projects are available for students seeking close mentorship, and the department encourages students to develop the critical, linguistic and research skills that support diverse career paths or advanced study.