Religious Studies University of California, Riverside

Overview

The Religious Studies programme at the University of California, Riverside provides a rigorous academic framework for exploring the complex role of faith in human society. Students engage with a broad spectrum of global traditions to understand how religious thought influences cultural, social, and historical developments across the globe.

The curriculum is designed to foster deep analytical skills by examining the texts, symbols, and myths of various belief systems. By studying these diverse perspectives, learners gain a nuanced understanding of the values and ideas that drive different communities, preparing them for a variety of professional and academic paths.

Why Religious Studies at the University of California, Riverside?

The department is distinguished by its commitment to a cross-cultural approach, allowing students to study a vast array of traditions including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. This breadth ensures a truly global education that covers Chinese, African, and Native American religious contexts.

Students benefit from a vibrant academic environment supported by the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. The institution hosts specialised research groups and endowed faculty chairs, such as the Maimonides Chair and the Dr. Jasbir Singh Saini Chair, which enhance the depth of expertise available to undergraduates.

The learning experience is further enriched by the presence of affiliated programmes and fellowships, including the Holstein Dissertation Fellowship and dedicated centres for Jain Studies. These resources provide a unique platform for students to engage with high-level research and participate in a diverse intellectual community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 12005 per semester
• National fee: USD 12005 per semester
• Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Judaism
• Christianity
• Islam
• Hinduism
• Sikhism
• Buddhism
• Jainism
• Chinese Religions
• African Religions
• Native American Religions
• Religious Texts
• Symbols and Myths
• Rituals and Ideas
• Ethical Systems

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme are equipped with versatile skills in critical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and analytical writing. These competencies are highly valued across numerous sectors, including education, international relations, social services, and non-profit management.

The department supports career development through various events and conversations focused on diverse professional paths. Recent discussions have highlighted opportunities in museum fundraising and academic research, demonstrating the broad range of roles available to those who study early modern women and global religions.

Many alumni pursue further study at the master's or doctoral level, while others find success in roles that require a deep understanding of cultural diversity and ethical frameworks. The ability to navigate complex global perspectives makes graduates strong candidates for positions in community outreach and policy analysis.