Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies (Optional Co-op)

Application Fees : CAD$ 251

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
   • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
   • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Waterloo are equipped with a diverse skill set that prepares them for a wide range of career paths in various sectors. While some may choose to pursue advanced degrees in religious studies or related fields, many graduates find rewarding opportunities in fields such as education, social services, interfaith dialogue, cultural organizations, and more. The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at the University of Waterloo prepares graduates for diverse career paths in education, social services, interfaith dialogue, cultural organizations, journalism, government, international development, and more. With their deep understanding of religious beliefs, practices, and traditions, as well as their skills in critical thinking, intercultural communication, and ethical reflection, religious studies graduates are well-equipped to contribute to positive social change, promote interfaith understanding, and foster cultural diversity and inclusion in a variety of professional settings.

1. Religious Educator: Graduates may work as religious educators or instructors in educational institutions, religious organizations, or community centers. They may teach courses on religious studies, ethics, theology, or comparative religion to students of all ages. Their expertise in religious traditions and their ability to facilitate interfaith dialogue can enrich students' understanding of diverse cultures and promote religious literacy and tolerance.

2. Clergy or Religious Leader: Some graduates may pursue careers as clergy members or religious leaders within their own faith tradition. They may serve as pastors, priests, ministers, rabbis, imams, or spiritual directors, providing pastoral care, leading worship services, and guiding their communities in matters of faith, morality, and spirituality. They may also engage in community outreach, social justice advocacy, and interfaith collaboration.

3. Non-Profit and Social Services: Graduates may work in non-profit organizations or social services agencies that address issues related to religion, culture, and community development. They may work in roles such as community organizers, program coordinators, or outreach workers, promoting interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and social justice initiatives. They may also provide support services to individuals and families in need, including counseling, advocacy, and resource referral.

4. Interfaith Dialogue and Cultural Exchange: Graduates may work in organizations that promote interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, and cultural exchange. They may work for religious or secular organizations, government agencies, or international NGOs, facilitating dialogue among people of different faiths and cultures, organizing interfaith events and initiatives, and promoting mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation.

5. Museum or Cultural Institution: Graduates may work in museums, cultural institutions, or heritage organizations that focus on religious and cultural diversity. They may work as curators, educators, or program coordinators, developing exhibitions, educational programs, and public events that explore the role of religion in history, art, and society. They may also conduct research, preserve artifacts, and engage with diverse communities to promote cross-cultural understanding.

6. Journalism and Media: Graduates may work in journalism, media, or communications, covering religious issues, cultural events, and interfaith dialogue. They may work as reporters, editors, or producers for newspapers, magazines, radio stations, television networks, or online media outlets, providing informed coverage of religious diversity, religious freedom, and religious communities' contributions to society.

7. Government and Public Policy: Graduates may work in government agencies, policy research institutes, or advocacy groups that address issues related to religion, multiculturalism, and diversity. They may work in roles such as policy analysts, researchers, or community outreach specialists, contributing to the development and implementation of policies that promote religious freedom, cultural pluralism, and social cohesion.

8. International Development and Humanitarian Work: Graduates may work in international development organizations or humanitarian agencies that address issues such as poverty, conflict, and human rights. They may work in roles such as program managers, cultural liaisons, or fieldworkers, collaborating with local communities, religious leaders, and NGOs to promote sustainable development, peacebuilding, and social justice initiatives.