Doane University

What you'll study

The Religion major at Doane combines historical, textual and theoretical approaches to religion within a liberal-arts curriculum. Core work introduces methods of religious studies and biblical/theological inquiry alongside courses that situate religion in social, ethical and cultural contexts.

• Introductory courses — Introduction to Religious Studies; Biblical Literature or New Testament/Old Testament survey; World Religions.
• Theology and Christian Studies — Historical Christianity; Systematic Theology; Contemporary Christian Thought.
• Historical and cultural courses — History of Christianity in America; Religion and Society; Religion and Culture.
• Specialist electives — Ethics and Theology, Religion and Politics, Gender and Religion, Comparative Mysticism, African/Asian religious traditions (availability varies by year).
• Research and skills — Methods in Religious Studies, Seminar in Religious Studies, senior capstone or thesis, and opportunities for internships or supervised field experience in congregations, non-profits or campus ministries.

Students often combine the major with minors such as Philosophy, History, Psychology or Education. Small-class discussion, faculty mentoring and opportunities for community-engaged learning are typical features of the programme.

Entry requirements

Doane evaluates applicants holistically. Typical expectations for undergraduate admission include a completed secondary school diploma (high school diploma), official transcripts showing strong academic performance, and a personal statement or essay that describes academic interests and goals.

• Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional; check the current admissions policy for whether these are required or recommended.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, clergy or community leaders can strengthen an application, especially for candidates seeking appointment to leadership programmes or ministry tracks.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; placement and advanced standing may be granted for previous coursework or experiential learning.
• International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements and submit equivalent academic documentation as specified by Doane’s admissions office.

Career prospects

A Bachelor’s in Religion from Doane prepares graduates for a range of careers that value critical thinking, ethical reasoning and intercultural awareness. Many graduates move into roles that directly engage with faith communities, while others apply their skills in secular settings.

• Ministry and pastoral work — positions in congregational leadership, youth ministry or chaplaincy (often supplemented by graduate theological education or denominational formation).
• Education and teaching — secondary-school teaching (with appropriate certification) or roles in religious education and curriculum development.
• Non-profit and community organisations — program coordination, community outreach, advocacy and development roles that require cultural literacy and ethical leadership.
• Counselling and social services — work in pastoral counselling or social care settings (often requiring additional graduate training or professional licensure).
• Further study — many graduates pursue graduate degrees in theology, divinity, religious studies, law or social sciences.
• Media, publishing and public service — religious journalism, publishing, museum work, or roles in government and diplomacy that value understanding of belief systems and cultural dynamics.

Why study at Doane University

Doane offers a liberal-arts setting with small classes and close faculty-student mentorship, which is particularly valuable in a field that relies on discussion, textual analysis and ethical reflection. The university’s Christian heritage provides resources for those interested in Christian theology while the curriculum also foregrounds comparative and interdisciplinary approaches to religion.

• Personalised mentorship — faculty advisers guide students through course selection, research projects and vocation discernment.
• Experiential learning — internships, campus ministry roles and community partnerships provide practical experience alongside classroom study.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities — ready access to related departments (Philosophy, History, Psychology, Education) supports tailored double-majors or minors.
• Campus community and support — small-campus environment in Crete (with additional learning sites) offers close-knit academic and social support structures for developing leadership and service skills.

Overall, Doane’s Religion programme is well suited to students seeking rigorous liberal-arts training in religion with clear pathways to ministry, service, teaching and further academic study.