Theology & Religious Studies BA
Study of religious beliefs, practices, texts, and traditions, exploring how religion shapes cultures, ethics, history, and contemporary society across the world.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in religion and philosophy
Enjoy discussion and critical thinking
Like analysing beliefs and ethics
Want a humanities degree
Are open-minded
Popular Career Fields
Education
Charity & NGO Sector
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Spiritually curious
Charity & NGO Sector
Open-minded
Respectful of beliefs
What is it?
What is Theology & Religious Studies?
Theology & Religious Studies is an interdisciplinary humanities degree that examines religions from historical, philosophical, textual, and social perspectives.
You’ll study major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and new religious movements, alongside theology, ethics, and philosophy of religion.
Theology often focuses on beliefs from within a religious tradition, while Religious Studies takes a comparative and critical approach.
The degree suits students interested in big questions about meaning, belief, ethics, and human experience.
Why Study Theology & Religious Studies?
If you’re curious about belief systems, ethics, and cultural diversity, this degree offers depth and intellectual challenge.
It helps you understand:
Sacred texts and religious traditions
The role of religion in history and politics
Ethics, morality, and philosophical debate
Interfaith dialogue and religious diversity
Religion’s impact on contemporary society
The degree encourages open-mindedness, critical thinking, and cultural literacy.
Course Summary
Study of religious beliefs, practices, texts, and traditions, exploring how religion shapes cultures, ethics, history, and contemporary society across the world.
What you'll study
Most degrees include topics such as:
Study of sacred texts and traditions
Comparative religion and belief systems
Philosophy of religion and ethics
Religion, society, and culture
Historical development of religions
Research methods and critical analysis
Skills You'll Gain
A Theology & Religious Studies degree builds strong academic and analytical skills, including:
Critical reading and interpretation – enabling you to analyse complex texts and arguments.
Ethical and philosophical reasoning – helping you engage thoughtfully with moral questions.
Cultural and religious literacy – supporting understanding of global belief systems.
Written and verbal communication – preparing you to present nuanced ideas clearly.
Independent research skills – equipping you to manage extended academic projects.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Education and teaching (with further training)
Community and youth work
Charities and non-profit organisations
Journalism, media, and communications
Public sector and civil service
Religious leadership or ministry (with further training)
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Theology & Religious Studies degrees encourage students to gain experience alongside academic study.
Opportunities may include:
Faith-based or interfaith organisations
Charities and NGOs
Community outreach or social justice projects
Education, youth work, or chaplaincy support
Museums, archives, or cultural institutions
Work experience helps students apply ethical and cultural understanding in real-world settings.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. Religious Studies, Philosophy, History, English Literature, or Classical Civilisation are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show interest in religion, philosophy, ethics, or cultural studies.
Mention relevant reading or discussions that influenced you.
Reflect on why studying belief systems matters today.
Highlight openness, critical thinking, and communication skills.
What to do Next
Read widely across different religious traditions.
Engage respectfully with debates on ethics and belief.
Explore courses with language or interfaith opportunities.
Consider how the degree connects to your long-term goals.
Wider Reading
The World’s Religions – Huston Smith
A classic introduction to major global religious traditions.An Introduction to the Philosophy of Religion – Brian Davies
A clear guide to key philosophical questions about belief.A History of God – Karen Armstrong
A thoughtful exploration of monotheistic traditions.Religion in the Modern World – Steve Bruce
An accessible analysis of religion’s role in contemporary society.