水果派

Major, Minor

Religious Studies

Degree type:
BA
Mode of study:
On-campus
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Build ethical awareness with a B.A. in Religious Studies from Mount Saint Mary's University

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at Mount Saint Mary’s University invites you to explore how religion shapes human dignity, identity and global communities. Through the study of sacred stories, ethical traditions and world spiritualities, you’ll develop the critical tools to engage across differences, foster dialogue and respond to the most pressing challenges facing our world.

Grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition and a commitment to social justice, this program empowers you to reflect on your values, claim your voice and contribute to more inclusive faith and civic communities.

This program is also available fully online through the Mount's Weekend/Evening & Online College.

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The courses teach you how to recognize the dignity of every person,

and now as a faculty member in Religious Studies, I strive to create that same space for students. Cristina Castillo, '09 Political Science and History

Career opportunities and program outcomes for Religious Studies graduates

A degree in Religious Studies prepares graduates for careers that value cultural awareness, ethical leadership, communication and service to others. Students often pursue roles in nonprofit organizations, education, healthcare, ministry and communications, while others continue into graduate or professional programs. Common advanced study paths include social work, counseling, psychology, law, medicine and higher education.

Graduates find career opportunities in local ministries and religious organizations such as churches, synagogues and mosques, where they support worship, outreach and community service. Many also build careers in social services with organizations like the Red Cross, shelters, youth programs, adoption agencies and humanitarian nonprofits. In healthcare settings, Religious Studies graduates may work in hospitals, mental health facilities, nursing homes and youth residential programs, providing support to individuals and families during challenging times. The degree can also lead to teaching positions in religiously affiliated schools, seminaries and colleges, as well as business, media and communications roles within nonprofit and faith-based organizations.

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A liberal arts education for a complex world

Shape your future

At Mount Saint Mary’s University, Religious Studies reflects the core values of a liberal arts education: curiosity, critical thinking and an openness to diverse perspectives. By examining religious traditions across cultures and history, you’ll learn to better understand both yourself and the communities you serve.

Religious Studies degree paths at 水果派

Designed to cultivate critical thinking, ethical reflection, and a deeper understanding of faith traditions and cultures, Mount Saint Mary's University provides in-depth Religious Studies degree options for students.

Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies

The Religious Studies major provides a comprehensive and critical exploration of religion’s role in both personal identity and global systems. Coursework is organized across five core areas:

  • Sacred Stories: Investigate how sacred texts, within their historical and cultural contexts, continue to influence contemporary life.
  • Sacred Thought: Explore theological and philosophical traditions and how sacred thinking shapes human experience across time.
  • Sacred Ethics: Examine moral reasoning and how ethical frameworks inform both individual and collective decision-making.
  • World Spiritualities:  Compare and contrast global spiritual traditions, beliefs and practices through thematic study.
  • Special Offerings: Engage specialized topics that deepen your understanding of religion in historical and contemporary contexts.

Through these areas, students work closely with faculty to analyze, interpret and communicate the complexity of religion while promoting respect for the dignity of every person.

Social Justice and Sexual Diversity Minor

This interdisciplinary minor explores sexual diversity and religious discourse through the lens of social justice within the Catholic intellectual tradition. Students examine the relationship between identity, faith and justice while engaging questions such as:

  • The history and lived experiences of sexually marginalized communities
  • The role of Catholic Social Teaching in supporting human dignity and rights
  • The intersection of religion, identity and inclusion
  • The implications of sexual diversity for community, solidarity and social responsibility

The program emphasizes praxis-based learning and advocacy, preparing students to engage in meaningful work at both local and global levels.

Religious Studies course highlights

Explore a variety of engaging courses that teach you the skills and knowledge to understand humanity, meaning and justice in an interconnected world.

RST 41
21st-Century Ethics in a Dystopian World

Examine what it means to live an ethical life in a complex and often unjust world. This course explores how to respond to issues such as racism, sexism, classism and violence through moral reasoning and action.

RST 70
Who Am I? Spirituality and Self-Discovery

Explore the relationship between spirituality and personal identity while engaging questions about purpose, authenticity and vocation. This course integrates psychological and spiritual perspectives to help students understand themselves and their role in the world.

RST 178
World Spiritualities - Death and Afterlife in World Spiritualities

Investigate how different religious traditions understand death, grief and the afterlife. Through the study of texts, rituals and cultural practices, students build cultural competence and respect for diverse perspectives on life and meaning.

Outstanding religious studies education beyond the classroom

Mount Saint Mary’s University stands at the forefront of experiential education. Your learning experiences can extend beyond the classroom with opportunities on-campus and in the community as you broaden your horizon, expand your skills and prepare to enter your desired profession.

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    Campus Ministry & Spirituality

    Grow spiritually, connect with your community, serve your neighbor and develop your leadership skills through Mount Saint Mary's Campus Ministry & Spirituality organization.

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    Ministries of the Sisters of St. Joseph

    Our Los Angeles location means you have access to many of the Ministries founded by and sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, including Alexandria House, Border Compassion, Get on the Bus, House of Ruth and St. Mary's Academy.