Santa Clara University

Bachelor in Religious Studies

Santa Clara, United States Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

Santa Clara University, founded in 1851 and located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across business, engineering, humanities, and the sciences. Home to roughly 8,900 students including an active international community, the university blends rigorous academics with a commitment to ethical leadership rooted in the Jesuit tradition. That combination prepares graduates to contribute responsibly to organizations and communities around the world.

The university emphasizes a holistic education that integrates classroom learning, applied projects, and community engagement. Small class sizes and accessible faculty support close mentorship, while campus career services and corporate connections in the Bay Area facilitate internships and hands-on experience. Santa Clara's program portfolio spans many disciplines and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, entrepreneurial thinking, and socially responsible problem solving.

International students benefit from comprehensive orientation, advising, and a supportive campus culture that promotes inclusion and leadership development. Proximity to major tech and business employers creates strong pathways to internships and employment, and university resources help students navigate visas, work authorization, and professional development. For students seeking a values-driven education with strong industry links in a dynamic region, Santa Clara offers a student-centered experience with practical outcomes.

About the Program

The Bachelor in Religious Studies at Santa Clara University is a degree program for students who want to explore the Catholic faith tradition and other religions. This 4-year program leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree and is taught in English. The main advantage of this program is its broad range of courses in Scripture, history, and Catholic theology.

The curriculum includes courses in Theology, Ethics, and Spirituality, as well as Scripture and Tradition, and Religion and Society. Students develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and research, and learn about different religious traditions and methodologies. The program also offers a minor for those who want to concentrate in theological and religious studies.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Religious Educators, Chaplains, Youth Ministers, or Community Outreach Coordinators. They can work in churches, non-profit organizations, schools, or community centers, helping people understand and practice their faith. With a strong foundation in religious studies, graduates can also go on to graduate school or pursue other professional opportunities.

Tuition in Context

This program's tuition is 95% above the typical bachelor's in the United States.

Median tuition for that cohort is 29,946 USD, across 25,701 programs in our catalog.

Compare United States bachelor's programs

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
Duolingo
85–95
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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