Bachelor in Religion/Religious Studies (Bachelor's)

At Union College, tuition is Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is $63,500..

The programme uses an interdisciplinary academic approach grounded in anthropology, history, literature, philosophy, and political science to study religious beliefs and behaviors. Students analyze religious traditions through critical methods and primary sources. The curriculum emphasizes comparative and historical perspectives on global religious systems. Courses examine specific religious traditions and their cultural expressions.

Focus areas include Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Asian religions, Ancient Mediterranean religions, Religion in culture and society.

The major requires 36 credits distributed across core courses, electives, and a senior thesis or capstone project. Students must complete a minimum of 12 credits in upper-level courses within the major.

Graduates pursue careers in education, public health, law, social work, and religious institutions.

Applicants must meet Union College's general admission requirements. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Submission of transcripts and standardized test scores is expected.

The programme totals about 36 credit hours. On-campus, full-time, four-year programme. For international students, tuition is well above the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 44% of applicants.

Union College's identity is captured in its name: things come together. Liberal arts, engineering and entrepreneurship share the same academic setting, creating opportunities for students to explore different interests and combine areas of study. The college offers more than 62 areas of study, with academic work extending beyond the classroom through research alongside faculty.

Research is part of the experience across majors. Students work with faculty in laboratories, archives, studios and field settings. This hands-on approach applies to a broad range of subjects and gives students opportunities to develop questions, investigate ideas and connect academic learning with practical work. Union also prepares students for life after college through its focus on career outcomes.

The campus is in Schenectady, a New York city with restaurants and cafes, shops and boutiques, theaters and events. Hiking, biking and skiing are available minutes from campus, giving students access to outdoor activities as well as city amenities. More than 130 clubs and organizations cover interests from beekeeping and off-road racing to music festivals and movie nights. International students joining Union enter a community where academic exploration, research, student activities and the surrounding city all form part of daily life.