Religious Studies (Minor)


At a Glance: program details

Minor Map

Explore religious traditions around the world while also examining human interactions within and among those traditions. Develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of various cultures, both of which will accompany and enrich any degree you are currently pursuing.

Program Description

The minor in religious studies engages students in a comparative exploration of religions and cultures. This exploration leads to a deeper understanding of human nature, religious traditions and the roles that religion plays in a pluralistic and globalizing world.

Students may pursue the minor in religious studies with regional, national, hemispheric, global and a variety of thematic emphases.


Program Requirements

The minor in religious studies consists of 18 credit hours, at least 12 of which must be completed at the upper-division level. At least six upper-division hours must be in courses offered by The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. All courses must be passed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or higher.
Required Course -- 3 credit hours
Electives -- 15 credit hours
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this minor.

Enrollment Requirements

GPA Requirement: None

Incompatible Majors: BA in religious studies; BA in religious studies (religion, culture and public life); BA in religious studies (religion, politics and global affairs)

Other Enrollment Requirements: None

Current ASU undergraduate students may pursue a minor and have it recognized on their ASU transcript at graduation. Minor requirements appear on the degree audit once the minor is added. Certain major and minor combinations may be deemed inappropriate by the college or department of either the major or the minor program. Courses taken for the minor may not count toward both the major and minor.


Career Outlook

Minor programs allow students to develop additional competencies that complement the marketable knowledge and skills they acquire in their majors. A minor in religious studies is of benefit to those who intend to pursue careers in fields such as education, law or journalism.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions.

Community Health Workers


  • Growth: 14.1%
  • Median Salary*: 46190
  Bright Outlook

Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.9%
  • Median Salary*: 80910

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists


  • Growth: 11.4%
  • Median Salary*: 90130
  Bright Outlook

Marriage and Family Therapists


  • Growth: 14.9%
  • Median Salary*: 56570
  Bright Outlook

Mental Health Counselors


  • Growth: 18.4%
  • Median Salary*: 49710
  Bright Outlook

Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 2.7%
  • Median Salary*: 78780

Directors, Religious Activities and Education


  • Growth: -0.2%
  • Median Salary*: 49380

Clergy


  • Growth: 0.6%
  • Median Salary*: 55550

Social and Community Service Managers


  • Growth: 9.1%
  • Median Salary*: 74240
  Bright Outlook

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers


  • Growth: 10.6%
  • Median Salary*: 51240
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).


Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

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