B.A. in Religious Studies

Undergraduate Programs Entry requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at OSU must have completed their secondary education or its equivalent with a minimum grade average of 83-86% or above.
   
• English Language Proficiency:  
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 70 on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: A PTE score of 48.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 100.
     
• SAT or ACT: SAT - 500 Verbal (or 560 evidence-based Reading/Writing) or ACT - 21 English/Reading is required.

Oregon State University (OSU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad. 

1. International Cultural Service Program (ICSP) Scholarship: The ICSP scholarship is a competitive scholarship awarded to outstanding international students who demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange. Recipients receive a tuition waiver of up to 15 credits per term and a monthly stipend.

2. Provost's Scholarship for Excellence: This scholarship is available to incoming undergraduate international students who have exceptional academic records and demonstrate leadership potential. The scholarship covers a portion of non-resident tuition fees and is renewable for up to four years.

3. International Achievement Scholarship: The International Achievement Scholarship is open to incoming undergraduate international students with a strong academic background. The scholarship provides partial tuition waivers ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 per year.

4. INTO OSU Scholarships: INTO OSU, the university's international pathway program, offers a range of scholarships to support international students transitioning to OSU. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and can provide substantial tuition reductions.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within Oregon State University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, field of study, or other criteria. Students are encouraged to explore the scholarship opportunities available within their respective colleges.

6. Global Diversity Scholarship: The Global Diversity Scholarship aims to increase access to education for underrepresented international students. The scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate students and provides a partial tuition waiver.

7. Graduate Assistantships: OSU offers graduate assistantships to qualified international students pursuing a master's or doctoral degree. These assistantships provide financial support in the form of a stipend and often include a tuition waiver.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and award amounts may vary from year to year. 

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Religious Studies from Oregon State University (OSU) opens up a diverse range of career opportunities in various sectors that require critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, and interdisciplinary perspectives. The B.A. in Religious Studies program at Oregon State University equips graduates with valuable skills in critical thinking, cultural understanding, and ethical reasoning, preparing them for diverse and meaningful careers in academia, religious institutions, non-profit organizations, media, government, and beyond. With their interdisciplinary training and nuanced understanding of religious diversity, graduates play an essential role in fostering dialogue, promoting social justice, and building bridges across religious and cultural divides in an increasingly interconnected world.

1. Academic Research and Teaching: Graduates may pursue advanced studies in religious studies or related fields and pursue careers as researchers or professors in academia. They may conduct research on religious traditions, sacred texts, or religious phenomena and publish scholarly articles or books. Alternatively, they may teach religious studies courses at colleges, universities, or seminaries, inspiring students to explore the complexities of religion and its impact on societies.

2. Interfaith Dialogue and Community Outreach: Graduates may work in interfaith organizations, religious institutions, or non-profit organizations focused on promoting dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among different religious communities. They may facilitate interfaith dialogues, organize community events, or lead outreach programs that foster mutual respect, tolerance, and collaboration among diverse religious groups.

3. Social Services and Advocacy: Graduates may pursue careers in social services or advocacy organizations that address issues such as poverty, homelessness, or social justice from a religious perspective. They may work for non-profit organizations, faith-based charities, or community development organizations, providing support services, advocating for marginalized communities, and addressing systemic injustices informed by their understanding of religious values and ethics.

4. Religious Leadership and Ministry: Some graduates may choose to pursue religious leadership roles within their own faith traditions or denominations. They may become clergy members, pastoral counselors, or spiritual leaders, guiding congregations, providing pastoral care, and facilitating religious rituals and ceremonies. They may also engage in community outreach, social justice advocacy, and interfaith collaboration as part of their religious leadership roles.

5. Non-Profit and International Organizations: Graduates may work for non-profit organizations or international NGOs that focus on humanitarian relief, development assistance, or peacebuilding efforts with a religious dimension. They may serve as program coordinators, grant writers, or project managers, implementing initiatives that address humanitarian crises, promote sustainable development, or foster peace and reconciliation in conflict-affected regions.

6. Journalism and Media: Graduates with a B.A. in Religious Studies may pursue careers in journalism, media production, or broadcasting, specializing in reporting on religious affairs, spirituality, or religious diversity. They may work as journalists, editors, or producers for newspapers, magazines, television networks, or online media outlets, covering religious events, analyzing religious trends, and providing insights into religious communities and their practices.

7. Cultural and Heritage Preservation: Graduates may work in museums, cultural institutions, or heritage organizations that focus on preserving and promoting religious heritage sites, artifacts, or traditions. They may serve as curators, archivists, or cultural heritage specialists, conducting research, developing exhibitions, and engaging with communities to safeguard and interpret religious heritage for future generations.

8. Government and Public Policy: Graduates may pursue careers in government agencies, think tanks, or policy research organizations, contributing their expertise in religious studies to inform public policies and programs. They may work in roles such as policy analysts, legislative aides, or international affairs specialists, advising policymakers on religious freedom issues, interfaith relations, or religiously motivated conflicts.