University of North Florida

What you'll study

The Religion major at the University of North Florida offers a broad, comparative approach to the academic study of religion. Core topics include introduction to religious studies, methods in the study of religion, and thematic courses on ethics, ritual, sacred texts and belief. Students typically encounter courses on the world’s major traditions—Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and Hinduism—as well as specialised offerings in American religion, religion and politics, religion and gender, and religion in film and literature.

• Core modules: Introduction to Religious Studies, Research Methods in Religion, Senior Seminar or Capstone.
• Regional and tradition courses: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism.
• Thematic electives: Religion and Ethics, Religion and Politics, Religion and Science, Ritual and Practice, Sacred Texts.
• Applied options: Internship/field experience with local faith-based or community organisations, independent study, and opportunities for research projects.

The programme is structured to combine the university’s general education requirements with major coursework and electives, allowing students to tailor studies through minors or interdisciplinary combinations with anthropology, history, philosophy, sociology or political science. A capstone seminar or senior project synthesises learning and emphasises research and communication skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of North Florida and the Religion major follows the university’s undergraduate admissions process. Typical applicants will present a high school diploma or equivalent and a strong academic record. Standardised tests may be optional according to university policy; applicants should consult UNF admissions for current testing practices.

• Official secondary school transcripts demonstrating completion of college-preparatory curriculum.
• For transfer applicants, official college transcripts showing transferable credit and satisfactory collegiate performance.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide certified credential evaluations as required by the university.
• While not always mandatory, a personal statement and letters of recommendation can strengthen an application, particularly for competitive entry or scholarship consideration.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Religion from UNF develop strong research, writing and critical-analytical skills applicable across many fields. Common career pathways include roles in education, non-profit and community organisations, social services, and cultural institutions. The degree also provides solid preparation for further professional or graduate study.

• Community and social service work with NGOs and faith-based organisations.
• Public policy, advocacy, and roles in government or interfaith initiatives.
• Media, publishing, and communications roles where cultural and ethical literacy are valued.
• Further study in divinity, theology, religious studies or related graduate programmes leading to chaplaincy, pastoral ministry or academia.
• Museum, archival, and heritage sector positions that engage with religious artefacts and public history.

Why study at University of North Florida

UNF offers a close-knit campus environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty mentoring. Located in Jacksonville, the university benefits from a diverse metropolitan setting and a wide range of religious communities and cultural organisations that provide internship and research opportunities.

• Close interaction with faculty who teach both broad survey courses and specialised seminars.
• Practical learning through internships and community partnerships in the Jacksonville area.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities across humanities and social sciences to customise your degree to specific interests.
• Support services including academic advising and career services to help translate the degree into professional opportunities or graduate study.