Academic school/college: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Religious Studies. This program offers a comprehensive and academic study of diverse religious traditions, beliefs, practices, and their profound impact on human societies. Students gain a cross-cultural perspective on religion globally, from ancient origins to contemporary movements. The curriculum examines religious phenomena through historical, philosophical, sociological, anthropological, and literary lenses, focusing on the history and philosophy of religions, including their origins, sacred texts, rituals, practices, beliefs, and subgroups. Students develop strong analytical, critical reading, and writing skills. The program offers both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) option. The BA requires second-year proficiency in a second language, while the BS requires a minimum of 15 credits in science, computer science, and quantitative studies. The department also offers opportunities for undergraduate research and study abroad programs in locations like Jerusalem, Bali, Jordan, and Nepal.

Graduates develop highly valuable transferable skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, cross-cultural understanding, ethical awareness, and strong communication skills (both written and oral). These abilities are highly sought after across a wide range of professional fields. Career options include: Law (with further training), Medicine (with further training), Journalism and Publishing, Social Service Organizations, Non-profit and Humanitarian Services, Education (teaching, academic research), Government, Public Relations, Human Resources, International Relations, Ministry/Clergy, Counseling, Communications, Archival work. The skills honed in this major—critical reading, analytical thinking, and writing—along with knowledge of global religious traditions, serve them well in whatever career path they choose. Students have access to the UO Career Center and opportunities for internships to gain real-world experience.

The University of Oregon is a leading public research university with high levels of student research involvement, offering students opportunities to work with faculty. It is Oregon's only member of the exclusive Association of American Universities, recognizing its comprehensive and distinguished research programs. The university offers an unbeatable quality of life in Eugene, a top 50 "college town" on the West Coast, known for its beautiful environment and community. The College of Arts and Sciences is the University of Oregon’s intellectual hub, with nearly 800 faculty members providing a diverse curriculum. The Religious Studies department offers courses that reflect the research expertise of its award-winning faculty and provides small seminar sizes for deep exploration of material.