Religious Studies vs. Theology

Although theology can be an aspect of religious studies and religious studies can be an aspect of theology, these college degrees are distinct in important ways. Whereas religious studies programs explore major world religions, such as Christianity, Judaism and Buddhism, theology maintains a more singular focus on the study of God. 

But the core focus of these programs isn’t the only major difference. Keep reading to learn more about religious studies vs. theology to determine whether a degree in religious studies or theology is right for you. 

What Is Religious Studies?

Over time, cultures develop their own internal sets of values, morality and theories about humankind’s relationships with the Divine and one another. These philosophies are simultaneously ancient and yet vibrantly alive to this day.    

So, what is religious studies? A religious studies major focuses on the founding, evolution and flourishing of major world religions, including: 

• Judaism
• Christianity
• Islam
• Buddhism
• Hinduism
• Taoism

But this academic pursuit doesn’t simply focus on the religions themselves. 

It also covers the foundational scholars who studied religious dogma and developed philosophies out of their findings. This allows you to trace the impact such thoughts had on human notions about morality, human rights, law, and gender relations. From there, you can see how such ideas evolve and change over time.

Through comprehensive coursework, students can gain a deeper understanding of the continuous impact these religions have had in a number of areas, including but not limited to: 

• Economics
• Anthropology
• Diverse cultures
• Sociology
• Legal systems 

By investigating religion, you can gain a better understanding of the underlying motivations for human behavior and our shared history. 

What Does a Religious Studies Major Cover? 

Religious studies coursework will vary depending on the school. At North Central College, for example, religious studies majors begin with introductory courses on the major world religions. From there, students have the freedom to select courses from each of the following areas:

• Biblical studies – Introduces the Bible, both the New and Old Testaments. 
• Theology – Focuses on understanding the nature of a divine creator and the ontological arguments for a creator’s existence.
• Ethics – Studies the concepts of morality, right and wrong, and the codes civilization has developed surrounding such notions. 
• Asian traditions – Covers the three primary philosophies springing from India, China and Japan. 

How Long Does it Take to Earn a Degree in Religious Studies?

Degree requirements vary from school to school, but at some institutions students can earn a bachelor’s degree in religious studies within four years. At North Central College, students are required to take the following courses to graduate:

• A minimum of 32 credit hours of religion courses
• A minimum of 10 credit hours of religious electives 
• A religious capstone class 

During this time, students may also be required to take classes in philosophy, literature, history and foreign language. 

Those looking to pursue a master’s degree in religious studies  will typically need an additional 1-3 years of education. Religious studies majors who want to earn a doctorate in their field (a goal that 67% of religious workers pursue) will need to dedicate another four years (on average) to their coursework and dissertation.

If you’re interested in entering a graduate school for religious studies, North Central College offers a master’s degree program in partnership with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (GETS). This means that North Central undergrad students are eligible to take graduate-level classes that can count either toward their electives or a future master’s degree—whether at GETS or elsewhere.

Career Paths with a Degree in Religious Studies

What can you do with a religious studies degree? Religious studies investigates the fundamental aspects of human society, culture and history. It forces students to think, debate and communicate persuasively. And it prepares young people to have a deeper understanding of the world’s religions and cultures. As a result, it paves the way for several different career branches, including: 

• Education – Whether it’s teaching at a religious or secular school, the in-depth knowledge of history and global studies adequately prepares religious studies majors to teach younger students. It also opens up the possibility of obtaining an advanced degree to teach at a collegiate level or pursue a career in research. 
• Law – Robust critical thinking and communication skills open up the legal world to students interested in law. Lawyers have the freedom to focus their practice as they choose—be it on religious freedom or general legal principles.  
• Religion – Some students that enter religious studies have plans to join the ministry or become a religious leader. Often, religious studies is a precursor to graduate-level religious studies in a seminary school.
• Social work – This field allows religious studies majors to put their knowledge to work. Students can focus on addressing specific issues, making positive changes in society and impacting people’s lives on a personal level.
• Nonprofits – Many of the world’s largest nonprofit organizations are religious-based and seek to influence the world for the better.