Florida International University

What you'll study

The BA in Religion combines historical, anthropological, textual and theoretical approaches to the study of religion. Core topics include introduction to world religions, theories of religion, methods in religious studies and comparative approaches to sacred texts.

• Survey courses in major religious traditions (e.g. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Indigenous and Afro‑Atlantic religions)
• Regional specialisations relevant to FIU’s location, such as Latin American and Caribbean religious traditions, Cuban religiosity and diasporic practices
• Courses on religion and society: religion and politics, religion and migration, religion and gender, and religion in public life
• Textual study: readings in scriptural texts, hermeneutics and religious literature
• Methodology and theory: ethnographic methods, historical approaches, and contemporary theoretical frameworks in religious studies
• Electives from related departments (e.g. Anthropology, History, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Philosophy, Sociology) and language study to support regional research
• Capstone experience such as a research seminar, senior thesis or supervised practicum/internship with a local organisation

Entry requirements

Admission to the BA in Religion follows Florida International University’s undergraduate admissions procedures. Applicants will need a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent, academic transcripts and evidence of proficiency in English if English is not the primary language of instruction.

• Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong performance in humanities and social‑science courses in secondary school.
• Recommended preparation includes coursework in history, social sciences, literature and languages.
• International applicants should provide recognised proof of English proficiency or meet FIU’s exemptions.
• Transfer students should consult FIU for credit‑transfer policies and required documentation for major declaration.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Religion develop critical thinking, research, writing and cross‑cultural communication skills sought by many employers. Career paths commonly taken by alumni include:

• Education and academic support (secondary teaching with appropriate certification, museum education)
• Non‑profit and community organisations, including faith‑based and interfaith initiatives
• Public policy, government and diplomacy roles that require cultural literacy and regional expertise
• Media, journalism and communications with a focus on religion, culture and international affairs
• Chaplaincy, pastoral ministries and other vocational ministry roles (often following professional theological training)
• Further academic study in religious studies, theology, law, social sciences or area studies

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University’s location in Miami offers direct access to a remarkably diverse religious landscape across the US, Latin America and the Caribbean. The university supports interdisciplinary study through connections with programs such as Latin American and Caribbean Studies and through community partnerships across the region.

• Faculty expertise that includes regional specialisms in Latin American, Caribbean and diasporic religious traditions
• Opportunities for internships and practicum placements with local cultural institutions, NGOs and interfaith organisations
• Interdisciplinary curriculum that allows students to pair religious studies with language study, history, anthropology or international relations
• Access to study‑abroad and exchange programmes that facilitate fieldwork and comparative research

Students graduate prepared for both professional careers and further graduate study, informed by close engagement with the cultural and religious diversity of the Miami region and the broader hemisphere.