B.S. 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 Science (B.S.) in Religious Studies from Oregon State University (OSU) opens up a variety of career opportunities in diverse sectors where an understanding of religion and intercultural competence is valued. The B.S. in Religious Studies program at Oregon State University equips graduates with critical thinking skills, intercultural competence, and a deep understanding of religious traditions, preparing them for diverse and meaningful careers in education, advocacy, media, social services, and academia. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, critical analysis, and cultural sensitivity, the program empowers students to navigate the complexities of religious diversity and contribute to building more inclusive and equitable societies.

1. Religious Educator: Graduates may pursue careers as religious educators, working in schools, religious institutions, or community organizations. They develop and teach courses on religious traditions, ethics, and spirituality, fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse religious perspectives among students and community members.

2. Interfaith Coordinator: Some graduates work as interfaith coordinators or facilitators, promoting dialogue, collaboration, and understanding among individuals from different religious backgrounds. They organize interfaith events, facilitate discussions on religious diversity and tolerance, and work to build bridges of understanding and cooperation within diverse communities.

3. Nonprofit Administrator: Graduates may work in nonprofit organizations focused on religious freedom, social justice, humanitarian aid, or community development. They may serve as program managers, fundraisers, or community outreach coordinators, advocating for religious tolerance, promoting social change, and addressing societal challenges through grassroots initiatives and community-based projects.

4. Cultural Liaison: Some graduates pursue careers as cultural liaisons or diversity coordinators in businesses, government agencies, or educational institutions. They help organizations navigate cultural and religious diversity, develop inclusive policies and practices, and promote intercultural competence among employees, students, and community stakeholders.

5. Journalist or Media Specialist: Graduates with a B.S. in Religious Studies may work as journalists, writers, or media specialists covering religious issues and trends. They report on religious events, analyze religious movements and controversies, and contribute to informed public discourse on religion and its role in society through print, broadcast, or digital media platforms.

6. Social Worker: Graduates may pursue careers in social work, serving diverse populations and addressing social issues from a religious and cultural perspective. They may work in hospitals, schools, or social service agencies, providing counseling, advocacy, and support services to individuals and families facing challenges related to religion, spirituality, or cultural identity.

7. Community Organizer: Some graduates work as community organizers or activists, mobilizing grassroots movements around religious and social justice issues. They engage in advocacy campaigns, coalition-building efforts, and grassroots organizing initiatives aimed at promoting religious freedom, human rights, and social equality in local communities and beyond.

8. Graduate Studies and Research: Graduates interested in pursuing advanced studies may choose to enroll in graduate programs in religious studies, theology, or related fields. They may pursue careers as scholars, researchers, or professors, conducting original research, publishing academic papers, and teaching courses in higher education institutions.