Religious and Theological Studies
Degree programs in religious and theological studies include a number of specializations which can lead to a career as a clergy member, program director or teacher. Continue reading to learn more about career and education options for students who are interested in religion and theology.
<h2 id="section---AreStudiesInReligionAndTheologyForMe">Are Studies in Religion and Theology for Me?</h2>
<h3 id="section---CareerOverview">Career Overview</h3>
<p>As a religious and theological studies student, you'll examine the beliefs and practices of faith, either through a general course of study or a focus on a particular tradition. Undergraduate majors may include <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Ministry_Certificates_and_Degrees_Online_Program_FAQs.html">ministry</a>, <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Bachelor_of_Divinity_Program_FAQs.html">divinity</a> or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Can_You_Do_with_a_Theology_Degree.html">theology</a>. You might also pursue a specialization in <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Religion_Degrees_Online_and_Campus-Based_Program_FAQs.html">religious education</a>, <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Doctorate_in_Pastoral_Counseling_Program_FAQs.html">pastoral counseling</a> or even music. Learning outcomes can vary according to your occupation, but may include the ability to provide moral and spiritual guidance, plan and coordinate religious programs or teach courses in religion and theology.
</p>
<h3 id="section---CareerOptions">Career Options</h3>
<p>An associate or bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study may help you obtain a job as a religious activities or education director. A master's degree is usually required for most clergy positions, and you'll most likely need a graduate degree to teach religion and theology at the postsecondary level. As a qualified graduate of a religious and theological studies program, you could also pursue a career as a military or hospital <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/What_Does_a_Chaplain_Do.html">chaplain</a>.
</p>
<h3 id="section---EmploymentAndSalaryInformation">Employment and Salary Information</h3>
<p>In May 2013, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that the median annual salary for religious workers in general was $28,750. By comparison, the median annual salary for religious activities and education directors was $38,160, while clergy members earned $43,800. As of May 2013, college and university professors who taught philosophy and religion had median annual incomes of $65,540. According to the BLS, average growth in employment was expected for clergy members and religion directors from 2012-2022; postsecondary teachers overall can look forward to a faster-than-average growth in openings of 19% during the same period (<i>www.bls.gov</i>).
</p>
<h2 id="section---HowCanIBecomeAReligiousAndTheologicalStudiesProfessional">How Can I Become a Religious and Theological Studies Professional?</h2>
<h3 id="section---EducationalOptions">Educational Options</h3>
<p>Formal programs in religion and theology can be found both on campus and <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Online_Theology_Schools_Your_Questions_Answered.html">online</a>. Successful completion of a program can lead to an associate degree, a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Core_Courses_of_a_Bachelors_Degree_in_Religion.html">bachelor's degree in religion</a> or a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Masters_Degrees_in_Divinity_Online_and_Campus-Based_Program_FAQs.html">master's degree in divinity studies</a>. Campus and online studies may also culminate in a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/PhD_in_Religion_Online_and_Campus-Based_Program_FAQs.html">Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Religion</a> or a <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Ministry_Certificates_and_Degrees_Online_Program_FAQs.html">certificate or degree in ministry</a>.
</p>
<h3 id="section---Curriculum">Curriculum</h3>
<p>Although your curriculum can vary according to your major or specialization, you may study history, anthropology and philosophy. Some programs allow for an emphasis on Judaic, Islamic or <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/Christian_Studies_Degrees_Online_Program_FAQs.html">Christian studies</a>. Additional program features can include courses in education and counseling or the opportunity to participate in fieldwork. If you're interested in ministry, you should be aware in advance that some states require <a class="external" href="https://learn.org/articles/How_Do_I_Earn_a_Ministers_License.html">ministers to be licensed</a>.</p>