Religion plays a major role in the modern world, from the holy wars of Islamic jihadists to issues about diversity in the workplace. The study of religion is also a study of cultures, which can add considerably to a student’s knowledge and prepare her for a variety of careers outside the typical path of the ministry.
What You’ll Learn
- Before you consider how a degree in religion might be useful in a career, take stock of the skills and knowledge such a degree offers. A religious study major learns critical thinking skills by comparing and contrasting different religions and the cultures to which they belong, according to “The Princeton Review.” Religious studies will help improve your cultural literacy, according to the Why Study Religion website developed by the American Academy of Religion. You’ll learn how to analyze perplexing ethical questions and be trained in data gathering and direct observational skills. Finally, you will learn to value others’ perspectives and develop empathy.
Many Career Options
- Religion majors have entered diverse careers, such as business, counseling, social work, education, journalism, law and medicine. They can be found in the hospitality and service industries, government positions, the Foreign Service, marketing, management, museums and the arts. Louisiana State University reports its students have gone on for graduate study at law school, nursing school and seminaries, and have earned degrees in biblical studies and social work. Other possible careers include community organizer, church administrator and high school teacher.
Start or Finish
- Whether your bachelor’s degree is the last step in your education or the beginning of a longer journey depends on your ultimate goal. If your goal is social work, a bachelor’s degree in religion might be acceptable to some employers. Many teaching positions require only a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, if you want to pursue a doctorate of divinity, you’ll need to go on for a master’s degree and then enter a doctoral program. If your goal is medicine, your bachelor’s degree will allow you to enter medical school as long as you also complete prerequisites such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and English, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Other Considerations
- Education is only part of the picture for many careers. In addition to your bachelor’s degree, you might need other credentials or training to enter some professions, according to the BLS. Some states require social workers to be licensed. Teachers must typically complete a teaching internship to gain experience and must be certified or credentialed by the state in which they work. Physicians need a license and most choose to become board-certified, while lawyers must pass the bar examinations. Contact the governing board or professional association in your state to determine what you might need for the career you choose.
