Religious Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Calgary offers students an in-depth exploration of the diverse religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and cultural impacts around the world. This interdisciplinary program combines historical, philosophical, textual, and sociological perspectives to foster a comprehensive understanding of religion in both historical and contemporary contexts. Students are encouraged to critically examine the role of religion in shaping societies, influencing political systems, and affecting individual identities through a variety of coursework covering major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and indigenous spiritual traditions. The program emphasizes analytical skills, encouraging students to engage with sacred texts, religious art, and ritual practices, while also developing a nuanced awareness of religious diversity, interfaith dialogue, and issues of religious conflict and coexistence. Designed for interested students across disciplines, this program provides the flexibility to tailor coursework to individual interests, whether in history, philosophy, anthropology, or cultural studies. Alongside academic coursework, students are offered opportunities for research projects, internships, and participation in seminars, promoting critical thinking and professional development. Graduates of the Religious Studies program are well-equipped for careers in education, community service, non-profit organizations, government agencies, journalism, and further academic pursuits. The program supports a vibrant intellectual community with experienced faculty members specializing in various religious traditions and related fields, fostering a supportive environment for academic growth and personal development. Whether you seek to deepen your understanding of world religions or explore the profound impact of spirituality in contemporary society, the University of Calgary's Religious Studies program provides an enriching educational experience that prepares students for meaningful engagement in a diverse and interconnected world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive exploration of the diverse beliefs, practices, texts, and histories of religions around the world. This interdisciplinary program aims to foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and an understanding of the role religion plays in shaping societies, politics, and individual identities throughout history and in contemporary contexts. Students will engage in the in-depth study of major religious traditions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Indigenous spiritualities, among others. The curriculum includes courses on religious texts, theological concepts, ritual practices, and the socio-cultural impact of religion across different regions.

Through a combination of lecture-based courses, seminars, and research projects, students develop analytical skills necessary for interpreting religious issues and artifacts. The program emphasizes scholarly methods, textual analysis, ethnographic approaches, and ethical considerations related to religious diversity and pluralism. In addition to core courses, students have opportunities to specialize or take electives aligned with their interests, such as religion and society, philosophy of religion, religious conflict, or spiritual practices.

The program also emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to participate in community projects, internships, or study abroad programs that provide real-world exposure to religious communities and intercultural dialogues. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in education, public service, non-governmental organizations, media, and further academic research. The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Calgary is designed to cultivate an informed and critical perspective on religion’s influence in shaping individual and collective identities in a diverse and globalized world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Calgary requires students to complete a total of approximately 120 credits for graduation. The program provides a comprehensive overview of religious traditions, texts, practices, and theories, preparing students for diverse careers or further academic study. Core requirements include a series of foundational courses that introduce major world religions, such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Indigenous spiritualities, along with courses exploring religious philosophy, ethics, and history. Students must also complete a set of elective courses that allow them to specialize in particular religious traditions, regions, or thematic areas such as religion and society, gender and religion, or religious texts. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness through seminar discussions, written assignments, and research projects. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in community engagement activities or study abroad programs to gain practical experience. A capstone project or thesis may be required for honours students, providing an opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic of their choosing related to religious studies. The program fosters interdisciplinary learning by incorporating insights from history, anthropology, philosophy, and literature. Students are also expected to develop proficiency in at least one relevant language, which may include Latin, Greek, Hebrew, Arabic, Sanskrit, or others, depending on their chosen focus. The curriculum is designed to challenge students to understand the diversity of religious beliefs and practices globally, analyze their social and historical contexts, and reflect on their own perspectives. Graduates of the program are equipped with critical thinking, intercultural competence, and analytical writing skills that are valuable in careers such as education, community service, government, non-profit organizations, or graduate studies. The program usually offers advising and mentorship opportunities to support students in planning their academic pathways and engaging in internships or research experiences. Overall, the Religious Studies program at the University of Calgary aims to cultivate informed and thoughtful individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully to discussions about religion and society.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Calgary offers various funding options and financial aid opportunities for students enrolled in the Religious Studies program. Undergraduate students can access scholarships and awards based on academic achievement, leadership, or financial need. These include faculty-specific awards, general university scholarships, and external bursaries from organizations supporting religious and cultural studies. Graduate students in Religious Studies may be eligible for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and Graduate Entrance Scholarships, which provide financial support during their studies. In addition, students may apply for government funding programs such as student loans and grants, which are administered through provincial and federal agencies. The university also provides work-study opportunities, allowing students to gain income while gaining relevant experience aligned with their academic interests. International students enrolled in Religious Studies can explore specific scholarships aimed at international applicants to support their studies in Canada. The university’s Financial Aid and Awards office provides comprehensive information and guidance on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria for all funding opportunities. It is recommended that students begin researching and applying for funding early, ideally in their first year, to ensure they can maximize their financial support and focus on their academic pursuits. Additionally, students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors or the Department of Religious Studies for personalized advice on funding resources tailored to their specific program and career goals. Overall, the University of Calgary is committed to supporting its students financially to facilitate their academic success and research excellence in Religious Studies.

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the University of Calgary offers students a comprehensive exploration of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions across different cultures and historical periods. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from the Humanities and Social Sciences to provide a nuanced understanding of religion's role in shaping societies, ideologies, and individual lives. Students have the opportunity to study major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Indigenous spiritual traditions, as well as examine contemporary issues related to religion, secularism, and globalization. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for diverse careers in education, community work, public policy, or further academic pursuits. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical and applied courses, allowing students to develop research skills, engage in discussions about ethical and moral questions, and explore the intersection of religion with politics, gender, and environment. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, fieldwork, and study abroad programs to gain practical experience and deepen their understanding of religious diversity. Faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, offering mentorship and guidance throughout the program. The degree also promotes engagement with local religious communities and initiatives, fostering a deeper appreciation of religious pluralism within Canadian society. Graduates of the Religious Studies program at the University of Calgary are equipped to contribute thoughtfully to multicultural dialogues, social justice efforts, and scholarly research in religion and related disciplines. The program aims to cultivate informed, compassionate, and culturally competent individuals who can navigate the complexities of global religious landscapes.