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What Is Religious Studies?
Religious Studies is (as the name suggests) the study of world religions, religious traditions and beliefs. This multidisciplinary subject explores various aspects of religions around the world including their history, practices, values and beliefs. Religion has a huge impact on many people’s lives, influencing their cultural identity, personal beliefs and social lives. When you explore the fascinating subject of Religious Studies, you can critically look at religious texts, discover their historical context and how they translate to the contemporary world.
Why Engage in the Study of Religion?
When learning about religious beliefs and the philosophy of religion, you will gain an in-depth understanding of cultures around the globe. Religious Studies is far from a one-dimensional course and incorporates many other humanities and social science elements. Study aspects of philosophy, ethics, history, sociology and psychology through the lens of various religions. Read ancient texts, learn about the teachings of famous religious leaders and philosophers. By the end of the course, you will gain a deep understanding of religions such as Christianity, Jainism, Judaism, Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism.
As well as expanding your knowledge and cultural understanding of world religions, studying Religious Studies comes helps you learn a lot of transferable skills which increases your employability. These are useful in a range of careers, and include skills such as critical thinking, English literature and communication skills, analysing texts, cultural knowledge and social skills.
Careers in Theology and Religious Studies
The study of religion incorporates a lot of skills required in popular careers such as critical thinking and an understanding of different cultures.
- Counsellor
- Mediator
- Chaplain
- Community Development Worker
- Youth Worker
- Writer
- Teacher
Some may think the most relevant careers are those directly related to specific religions, however, that is far from the truth. Although this is certainly an option, at the heart of Religious Studies is an understanding of people and critical thinking which applies to all careers.
Where Can I Enrol on a Religious Studies Course?
Colleges and universities around the world offer Religious Studies courses at all levels. If you have no previous knowledge, beginning at entry-level (GCSE or A-Level) is recommended before moving onto higher education if you wish to. You can study via distance learning or in class at any level, full-time or part-time. As well a standard Religious Studies, you can find courses which focus on specific subject areas such as theology and religious studies.
GCSE: For the beginner, a GCSE course in Religious Studies is recommended. Learn the foundations of different world religions, a broad history of religious texts and the beliefs of major religions around the world. These courses usually do not have any entry requirements besides adequate English language skills.
A Level: Studying at A Level will require a bit more knowledge of religions, however, if you studied religious studies at school or elsewhere you may already meet the entry requirements. This is the perfect entry-level course if you have some knowledge and wish to progress to further study.
Degree and Postgraduate Level: For those who already have UCAS points from GCSE’s and/or A Level’s in religious studies or a similar subject (such as Philosophy) you can study for a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Following this, postgraduate options such as a Master’s are also available for those with substantial experience or a BA in a similar subject. Distance learning is a great option for higher education courses, as tuition fees are often lower and studying is flexible for working students and international students.
