Religious Studies >90%
of Valpo graduates have been employed or enrolled in graduate school within nine months of graduation for more than 30 years
40+ Valparaiso University’s religious studies major sparks curiosity of religions globally – illuminating a richer understanding of humanity and providing deeper insight into both personal beliefs and those of others. Students of all backgrounds and beliefs are invited to broaden their perspective of the world through Valpo’s religious studies program. The curriculum spans Christianity and other religious traditions globally, with courses in anthropology, history, philosophy, ethics, sacred texts, and the role of religion across cultures. Guided by expert professors, students are encouraged to explore and engage with religion as a lived, crosscultural, and comparative discipline. Our professors provide individualized
religious studies courses available for undergraduate students, exploring religions globally
C A R E E R P AT H S A degree in religious studies opens doors to careers with religious organizations, nonprofits, and service-driven institutions. It complements majors such as social work, psychology, and education, and prepares students for graduate programs or Christian ministry studies. Our graduates can explore a variety of career paths:
mentorship and get to know each student’s story — supporting them on
• Community Outreach Specialist
their journey to a career filled with meaning and purpose.
• Counselor • Disability Services
A major in religious studies builds critical thinking and intercultural
• Foreign Services
understanding — skills that help you better connect with your neighbors
• Grant Writer
across the street and around the world. By learning about different faiths
• Humanitarian Services Professional
and cultures, Beacons gain not only richer insight into the inner lives of
• Religious Educator
others, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and their own
• Youth or Adult Ministry Leader
beliefs, helping them navigate their unique calling.
Visit valpo.edu/alumni-success for real stories of Valpo graduates making an impact.
OPPORTUNITIES TO LEAD AND SERVE
STUDY ABROAD
Valpo offers many ways for students to grow in leadership, service, and
Learning at Valpo goes far beyond the classroom, with 25+ study abroad programs for Beacons to explore. Religious studies professors have created study abroad trips to places like Volos, Greece, immersing students in Eastern Orthodox history and traditions, and the Holy Land.
faith. Students who are interested in ministry can participate in the weekly Christian Formation and Leadership Symposium and apply for the University’s Allen Scholars Program. Religious studies students are also regularly selected for internships through the Calling and Purpose in Society (CAPS) Fellows Program, organized by Valpo’s Institute for Leadership and Service. These opportunities help students deepen their faith, develop practical skills, and prepare for lives of purpose and leadership.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Students in religious studies at Valpo have rich opportunities for experiential learning, supported by the University’s long-standing foundation of lived faith. With campus partners such as the Division of Calling and Spiritual Life, students are invited to observe different ways of worshiping, leading, and
SCHOL ARSHIPS AND AWARDS For more information on financial aid, visit valpo.edu/aid.
serving. Students visit non-profit organizations and places of worship in the local community, such as a Hindu temple, an Orthodox church, or an Islamic center. Workshops on meditation, prayer, and other religious practices offer insight into religion as a lived experience. Campus programming, including
Be a Beacon Valparaiso University admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. (For a full statement, see valpo.edu.)
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panels and conferences, also provides opportunities for interfaith dialogue.
Take the next step toward your bright future by visiting valpo.edu/religious-studies, or by scanning the QR code.
Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46383 web: valpo.edu email: undergrad.admission@valpo.edu