Studying religion abroad

What is religion?

Religion is the study of faith, belief systems, and the ways in which people and societies understand the sacred or spiritual. It explores the origins, practices, and teachings of the world’s major religions, as well as smaller or indigenous traditions. The subject also looks at how religion influences culture, politics, art, morality, and identity.

As a religion student, you will learn to examine beliefs with an open and critical mind. You will study how religious ideas have shaped human history, how different traditions interact, and how faith continues to influence global events. The field draws from philosophy, history, anthropology, and sociology, making it both interdisciplinary and deeply human.

Why study religion abroad?

Studying religion in another country gives you a unique opportunity to see how faith and culture connect in daily life. You might visit ancient temples, historic mosques, or centuries-old cathedrals, experiencing how people express spirituality around the world.

Learning abroad helps you understand religion from multiple cultural perspectives and deepens your appreciation for diversity and tolerance. It can also strengthen your skills in communication, empathy, and global awareness, all of which are valuable in international settings. Many students find that studying religion abroad challenges assumptions and encourages personal growth as well as academic development.

What you will study

Degrees in religion or religious studies often cover a wide range of topics, allowing students to explore many traditions and approaches. Common areas of study include:

• World Religions – examining the teachings, history, and rituals of major religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.
• Philosophy of Religion – exploring questions about faith, existence, and the nature of the divine.
• Ethics and Morality – studying how religions shape moral values and human behaviour.
• Religion and Society – analysing the role of religion in politics, culture, and social movements.
• Sacred Texts – interpreting key writings such as the Bible, Qur’an, or Vedas.
• Comparative Religion – comparing beliefs and practices across different traditions.
• Religion in the Modern World – understanding how globalisation, technology, and secularism affect faith communities today.

Many programmes also include fieldwork, study visits, or internships with cultural or religious organisations, giving students practical insight into how religion operates in contemporary society.

Related subjects you might also like

• Theology
• Philosophy
• Anthropology
• Sociology
• History

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Accreditation

At undergraduate level, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religion, Religious Studies, or Theology. Some programmes may allow you to combine religion with philosophy, history, or cultural studies.

At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Arts (MA) in Religion, Theology, or Comparative Religion. These courses often allow you to specialise in a particular tradition or research theme such as interfaith dialogue, ethics, or religion and politics.

Those who wish to pursue academic or research careers may go on to a PhD in Religious Studies or Theology. Some countries also have professional qualifications for students who plan to work in pastoral care, education, or heritage sectors.

Careers

A degree in religion provides skills that are useful in many professional fields. Graduates often work in education, research, or community engagement, teaching about cultural and religious understanding. Others take roles in non-profit organisations, charities, or interfaith initiatives that promote peace and cooperation.

You could also find opportunities in journalism, international relations, heritage management, or social services. Some graduates go on to work in museums or cultural institutions that explore religion’s influence on art and history.

For those interested in further study or ministry, postgraduate qualifications can lead to roles in counselling, chaplaincy, or theology.

Studying religion abroad encourages curiosity about the world and fosters a deeper understanding of human belief and behaviour. It helps you see how shared values and spiritual traditions continue to shape societies, giving you insights that can benefit both your personal and professional life.

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