Religious and Theological Studies Major

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Religious and Theological Studies

Get a competitive edge in the job market with a semester-long service project at a hospice, religious center or school.

Take a deep dive into the world of religious and theological studies, exploring multiple religions and understanding their effects on our world. 

Religious and Theological Studies Degree at a Glance

Program Type

Major

Mode of Study

On Campus

Internship

Guaranteed

Est. Time

4 Years

Start Terms

Fall, Spring

Accreditation

NECHE

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The Religious and Theological Studies Major

Merrimack’s religious and theological studies major is designed to provide you with an education that is equal parts enlightening, engaging and empowering.

What You'll Study

Gain a deeper understanding of the impact religion has on our everyday lives – from ethics and morals to research and cultural influence.

World Religions
Life of St. Augustine
Christianity in Context
Quest for Meaning
Art of the Middle Ages
Renaissance
Music and Spirituality
Asian Philosophy

Skills You'll Learn

Gain skills that are not only valuable for theology-related careers but also for personal development and many other professional paths!

Critical Thinking
Cultural Awareness
Ethical Reasoning
Interpersonal Skills
Collegiate Church of Christ the Teacher Stained Glass Window

Religious and Theological Studies Courses You'll Take

WORLD
RELIGIONS

RTS 1010

This course is an introduction to a variety of the world’s religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Indigenous Traditions, Christianity, Islam, and Taoism. We examine origins, beliefs, practices and sacred texts as well as historical and cultural aspects. 

QUEST
FOR MEANING

RTS 1050

What is the meaning of life? Why am I here? What is my purpose? What constitutes a life well lived? Questions like these have plagued human beings for centuries. This course will examine a variety answers to the question “What is the meaning of life?”

MUSIC
AND SPIRITUALITY

MUS 3100

This course uses musical activity as a lens to explore the multifarious ways in which music participants seek to connect with the sacred world. We will investigate a variety of compositions from many different cultures that directly address the divine.

See All Courses & Options Available to Religious and Theological Studies Majors

Religious and Theological Studies Major Requirements

General Education Requirements

In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.
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Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide

Wondering when you’ll take certain courses? Use the Curriculum Guide—a sample four-year schedule—to get a sense of what your path to graduation looks like.

Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in Religious and Theological Studies?

Our program is designed to provide you with a variety of skills and real-world experience for both theological and other related career paths!

AUGUSTINIAN APPROACH

Follow in the footsteps of St. Augustine and how to apply valid rules of ethical reasoning in order to make sound moral decisions.

VERSATILITY

The skills you'll learn through this degree will reinforce your journey into any career pathway you may choose.

UNDERSTANDING

Gain a deeper understanding of how religious ideologies are the backbones to every society.

Career Outlook: Where Can a Religious and Theological Studies Degree Take You?

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Career Outcomes Rate

94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.

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Experiential Learning

90% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack. 

Graduate School

Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.

Jobs with a Religious and Theological Studies Degree

Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in religious and theological studies and related disciplines. Positions may include:

  • Religious Leader
  • Theology Professor
  • Religious Writer
  • Missionary
  • Nonprofit Worker
  • Social Worker
  • Community Organizer
  • Ethics Consultant

Beyond the Classroom

See for Yourself

Programs Related to the Religious and Theological Studies Major

Explore other areas and where they can take you.

Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)

At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!

Upcoming Events

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Info Session & Campus Tour

Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays

Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.

Merrimack College Awards & Recognition

U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)

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