Theology and Religious Studies
Bachelor of Arts
Introduction
Learn to ask big questions that cut across the entire human experience.
Studying theology and religion helps you understand and respond to the forces that shape modern businesses, international events, and interpersonal relationships.
The Theology and Religious Studies major at John Carroll University will prepare you for any career that involves cross-cultural communication, empathetic client interaction, ethical decision-making, or social advocacy. With its emphasis on writing, research, and critical thinking, a bachelor's degree in theology is also excellent preparation for graduate school.
Our program is firmly grounded in the Jesuit Catholic tradition and radically open to the diversity of faiths that enrich our world.
Experiential Learning
Participate in a service-learning experience with a local nonprofit. Take field trips to synagogues, mosques, churches, and temples. Study abroad for a summer or semester.
Campus Involvement
Get involved with a faith or cultural organization, such as Hillell at JCU or Muslim Student Association. Join a Carroll Faith Community, student-led groups grounded in spirituality and friendship.
Academics
Program Overview & Outcomes
With flexible requirements and an incredibly diverse range of courses available, this versatile major can be customized to fit your academic and professional goals. Many of our students pursue a double major — and choose electives that connect and complement their second area of study.
When you major in theology and religious studies at JCU, you will learn to:
- Critically analyze the religious dimensions of the human experience as expressed in sacred texts, art, ritual practice, ethical commitments, philosophy/theology, and social structures
- Identify ways in which religious or ethical traditions — and the critical study thereof — provide resources for responding to injustice and living ethically
Curriculum: What You Will Learn
You’ll study scripture, Christian theology, world religions, ethics, history, and contemporary religious questions through critical and comparative approaches. Advanced electives and research strengthen your ability to interpret traditions, engage diverse perspectives, and examine how faith shapes individuals and societies.
Related Programs
Still deciding on your program of study at JCU or considering a second major? Here are some other academic areas to explore.
Pathways
Your Path Forward Starts Here
Plan your future from day one. Finish faster with accelerated degrees or secure your spot with early assurance partnerships. What you see below is just the beginning.
4 years
Bachelor of Arts
Explore the Theology & Religious Studies program at John Carroll University, examining diverse religious experiences and preparing for impactful careers.
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Your Inspired Future
Future in Focus
Two degrees in five years—not six. Combine rigorous scholarship with Jesuit values for service, teaching, or ministry.
Lead with Purpose
Future in Focus
5 Years
Two degrees in five years—not six. Combine your theological foundation with business expertise for nonprofit leadership, church administration, or mission-driven work.
Onward
JCU's Distinct Promise
Pathways are just the beginning.
Onward makes them happen.
From your first semester forward, Onward connects your goals with the people, experiences, and support that help you build momentum with purpose.
Complementary Minors
Consider enhancing your studies by expanding your knowledge and skills. These minors may be of particular interest depending on your area of concentration and career focus.
Careers
Where Our Alumni Go
With strong writing, communication, and critical thinking skills — and a solid understanding of the human experience — our alumni flourish in careers of all kinds. Some continue on to law school, divinity school, seminary, or other graduate programs.
