Why pursue a religious studies degree at Missouri State?

Missouri State possesses the oldest and largest religious studies program in a state university in Missouri. In our program, you will have access to one of the largest religious studies faculties in the Midwest. Our professors have an impressive range and depth of knowledge in fields including biblical studies, history of Judaism and Christianity, Asian religions, North American religions, and modern religious thought.

Whether you are looking for a program that lets you study the vast array of world religions, or simply want to better understand the powerful impact of religion on people's lives, our program is for you. Our program also offers exceptional preparation for graduate school or seminary, as well as for professional careers in fields such as counseling, non-profits, publishing, and law.

As a religious studies major at Missouri State University, you will have:

• Access to the resources of the largest religious studies programs in Missouri 
• One-on-one attention from expert faculty, many of whom hold doctorates and are nationally known in their field of study
• The opportunity to think critically, write well and learn from a caring, supportive faculty

To see Dr. John Schmalzbauer's presentation, Why Study Religion? Why Study Religion at MSU? - click on the picture, below!

  Image, above, from studyreligion.org (American Academy of Religion)

Expand your critical thinking skills and prepare yourself to work in a religiously diverse world

In this program, you will have the opportunity to explore religion, gain a greater understanding of it and prepare yourself to work among people of all faiths. The analytical and writing skills you gain will benefit you in a variety of careers, as well as in pursuit of further education.

Our Goals for Our Students

1.   Students will recognize and understand diverse manifestations of religion(s).
2.   Students will demonstrate critical and creative cognitive skills while studying religion(s).
3.   Students will demonstrate in both oral and written form their critical analyses and interpretations of religious phenomena.