Humanities and arts - Religion and philosophy

Display Title
Religion and philosophy
Slug
religion-philosophy
interest area reference

Online Exploratory Humanities, Fine Arts and Design

In the exploratory study program, you are able to immerse yourself in a variety of courses that interest you before selecting a major. You’ll fulfill general education requirements to stay on track for graduation, while exploring your passions within your selected topic area.

Once you’ve selected an area of interest, you may remain in your exploratory program up until you’ve completed 45 credit hours. Your academic advisor will be there to guide you along the way, helping you narrow down degree options until you are confident in your major selection.

As you continue along your chosen track, you’ll gain knowledge and skills that will ensure you a timely and seamless transition into your major and future career. However, if you find your interests change, you can switch from humanities, fine arts and design to another exploratory track. Additional tracks include:

Is the art and humanities track right for me?

Humanities, fine arts and design covers a broad range of topics focused on creating new things and better understanding the world around you. Your exploratory studies will offer you valuable career skills, such as self-expression, cultural sensitivity, collaboration, innovative and out-of-the-box thinking.

Students who graduate with art- and humanities-related degrees have the knowledge and skills needed for a wide range of careers, such as:

  • Anthropology.
  • Digital media literacy.
  • Education.
  • English or literature.
  • Global studies or social policy.
  • Graphic design.
  • History or art history.
  • Philosophy.
Program Field of Study
Exploratory Humanities, Fine Arts and Design
Program Focus
Fine Arts and Design
Program Name Abbreviation
Exploratory Humanities, Fine Arts and Design
Program Category
Degree Image
A humanities, fine arts and design student cooks in the kitchen.
Program Description Intro

Do you enjoy learning about and creating new things? Are you curious about art, language, innovation and self-expression? In the humanities, fine arts and design exploratory track, you can explore your interests by taking a variety of art and humanities courses before choosing your perfect major.

Plan Code
UCHUFAEXPL
Program code
UGUC
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

In your exploratory study track, you’ll take a variety of art and humanities courses, as well as a series of individualized courses created to teach you about yourself and help you ascertain your career interests. Courses may include:

Total Classes
15
Total Credit Hours
45
Program Fee Code
University College - Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Humanities, fine arts and design track courses
Program start date manual
Title
Experience first-rate teaching from award-winning faculty
Description

Our award-winning faculty are accomplished across industries and locations around the world. They include researchers, authors, artists and more. No matter where you study, you’ll take courses from the same faculty who teach on campus. Learn side-by-side with faculty dedicated to your success as you participate in research opportunities and attend virtual office hours.

Learn more about our faculty

Accolade title
Study at one of the top-ranked universities in the nation
Accolade Description

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online bachelor’s programs.

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

best global universities.

Accolades Title
80%
Accolades Description

of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Admission requirement item
Title
Competency requirements
Description

To be admitted to ASU, you must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed at least 14 of the following courses.

  • Four years of math.
  • Four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses).
  • Three years of lab sciences (One year each from biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences or physics).
  • Two years of social sciences (including one year of American history).
  • Two years of the same second language.
  • One year of fine arts or career and technical education.

Note: You cannot have course deficiencies in both math and lab sciences competencies.

Title
Additional admission requirements
Description

Applicants must meet at least one of the following:

  • Top 25% in your high school graduating class.
  • 3.00 GPA in competency courses (4.00 = A).
  • ACT score of 22 for Arizona residents (24 nonresidents) or SAT Reasoning score of 1120 for Arizona residents (1180 nonresidents).*

*Additional information about ACT / SAT:

  • ASU doesn’t require the writing portion of these tests.
  • ACT or SAT scores are not required for admission but may be submitted for ASU course placement.
Title
High school equivalency
Description

Besides a high school diploma, applicants may also meet undergraduate admission requirements through one of the following:

  • GED*
    • 50 or above for tests completed before 2002.
    • 500 or above for tests completed between 2002 and 2013.
    • 170 or above for tests completed after 2013.
  • HiSet*
    • Total score of 75.
  • TASC (Test Assessing Secondary Completion)*
    • A minimum total score of 2700.
    • A minimum score of 500 on each of the five content areas.
    • A score of two or above on the essay.
  • California High School Proficiency Examination
    • Please contact your enrollment coach at 866-277-6589 if you’ve completed the California High School Proficiency Examination or other high school equivalency diplomas.

*Some higher requirement programs require ACT/SAT scores or additional coursework to satisfy aptitude and/or course competency requirements.

Title
Homeschool
Description

Homeschool applicants must meet all general admission requirements for ASU. You may also need to provide additional documentation after you submit your application. If needed, you'll be notified after we receive your transcript.

Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO205
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO205
Program Description Title
What is the exploratory study program?
override admission requirement
On
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
exploratory-humanities-arts-design
Program Generated Code
UGUC-UCHUFAEXPL
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program features

Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies – Religion, Politics and Global Affairs

Religious studies is rooted in the humanities and fosters an appreciation for how humans express themselves through religious beliefs, practices and traditions. The academic study of religion can illuminate the complex relationships between religion, social structures, political power and globalization. 

Many degrees in religious studies focus on Christianity, with an emphasis upon preparation for Christian ministry. Differently, ASU’s religious studies degrees are global and comparative, examining multiple traditions, religions, practices and beliefs, including but not limited to Christianity. 

As a religious studies major, you’ll analyze how the study of religion has shaped the modern world. You’ll learn how religion influences political culture, communal formation, nationalism and citizenship in local and global contexts. You’ll also gain theoretical training and research skills needed to analyze the role religion has in shaping political values, social movements and communal norms.

Is the religion, politics and global affairs concentration right for me?

If you’re interested in exploring religion’s impact on all aspects of life, this program may be a great fit. Throughout this program, you’ll examine cultural diversity and investigate issues from different perspectives. Your coursework may cover a variety of themes, such as bodily norms, dietary practices and the rites marking life transitions.

ASU Online also offers a BA in religious studies with a concentration in religion, culture and public life. While both concentrations analyze the impact of religion in society, the religion, politics and global affairs concentration provides a broader and more contemporary analysis of political movements, international relations and ethical trends across societies. In comparison, the religion, culture and public life concentration focuses on in-depth examinations of specific places and times, as well as particular religious traditions, such as Buddhism, Islam and Christianity.

Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Religious Studies
Program Name Abbreviation
Religious Studies – Religion, Politics and Global Affairs (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
ASU instructor John Carlson lectures students on the study of religion.
Program Description Intro

Are you passionate about exploring how humans have answered life’s big questions? Arizona State University's Bachelor of Arts in religious studies with a concentration in religion, politics and global affairs examines how religious communities, traditions and beliefs impact and are impacted by globalization and world events. Upon graduation, you’ll understand how to observe and analyze religion’s complex roles in conflict, peacebuilding, health care and politics.

Plan Code
LARELPGBA
Program code
UGLA
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Courses focus on religion’s impact on the modern world and 20 and 21st century topics and issues. You’ll learn about religions around the world, such as African American religion, modern Buddhism and Islam. You’ll also take courses on nationalism, ethnic conflict and moral issues.

Total Classes
40
Total Credit Hours
120
Program Fee Code
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Courses for this religious studies major
Title
Learn from experienced faculty in religious studies
Description

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members. Our religious studies faculty have received fellowships at the National Humanities Center and research grants from the ACLS, Luce Foundation, Templeton Religion Trust and National Endowment for the Humanities. Our faculty also include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.
Accolade title
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
Accolade Description

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
31,572
Accolades Description

students enrolled as of fall 2024

Accolades Title
$161 million
Accolades Description

in research expenditures in FY23

Accolades Title
21
Accolades Description

interdisciplinary schools and departments

Accolades Title
100+
Accolades Description

undergraduate degrees

Accolades Title
150+
Accolades Description

graduate degrees

Accolades Title
Top 9
Accolades Description

for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO201
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO201
Program Description Title
What you’ll learn as a religious studies major
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
religious-studies-major
Program Generated Code
UGLA-LARELPGBA
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program Features

Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies – Religion, Culture and Public Life

In this program, you’ll analyze the impact of religion on societies throughout the world, with an emphasis on how it influences everyday life and its portrayal in art and media. By exploring religious depictions in popular culture, literature, film and more, you’ll develop an understanding of how belief systems are perceived and shared. 

The curriculum includes an emphasis on analyzing how different religions inform decision-making in aspects of human life, ranging from appearance to attitudes about mortality and sexuality. Through your coursework, you’ll learn how religious understanding shapes:

  • Communication.
  • Entertainment.
  • Reasoning.
  • Socialization.
  • Work.

The skills you’ll develop in a bachelor’s of religious studies

Throughout this religious studies degree, you’ll develop professional skills, such as analysis, writing, speaking, critical thinking and reasoning. As you advance your understanding of the impact of religion on societies, you’ll build a familiarity with diverse cultural practices, which are transferable in a variety of workplace settings and advanced degree studies. The topics covered in the curriculum can support careers in many industries, including:

  • Counseling.
  • Education.
  • Government agencies.
  • Human resources.
  • Nonprofit organizations.
  • Publishing.

Which religious studies degree is right for me?

The bachelor’s degree in religious studies may be a good fit if you’re interested in learning about how religion impacts society in cultures around the world. In pursuit of this degree, you’ll expand your knowledge about religious traditions and take a magnified look at practices concerning diet, rites marking life traditions and more. This religious studies degree is applicable whether you’re already working in a related field or you’re passionate about exploring world religions.

ASU Online also offers a Bachelor of Arts in religious studies program with a concentration in religion, politics and global affairs. Instead of examining particular places and times, the religion, politics and global affairs concentration explores broader political movements, international relations and ethical trends across societies.

Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Religious Studies (Religion, Culture and Public Life)
Program Name Abbreviation
Religious Studies – Religion, Culture and Public Life (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
Statues of several sitting figures are depicted in front of an orange sky.
Program Description Intro

Are you interested in learning how societies have attempted to answer life’s biggest questions? Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in religious studies with a concentration in religion, culture and public life explores areas of human life, such as conflict, peacebuilding, healthcare and politics, to advance your understanding of how religions develop across cultures.

Plan Code
LARELCPBA
Program code
UGLA
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Courses offer explorations of domestic and global religions in a cultural context. You also have the opportunity to choose courses that focus on your areas of interest, ranging from Hinduism and the New Testament to the impact of race and gender on religion.

Total Classes
40
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Class number may be less for transfer students.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Religious studies courses
CIP code
38.02
Title
Widely recognized scholars in the field
Description

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members. Our religious studies faculty have received fellowships at the National Humanities Center and research grants from the ACLS, Luce Foundation, Templeton Religion Trust and National Endowment for the Humanities. Our faculty also include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.
Accolade title
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
Accolade Description

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
31,572
Accolades Description

students enrolled as of fall 2024

Accolades Title
$161 million
Accolades Description

in research expenditures in FY23

Accolades Title
21
Accolades Description

interdisciplinary schools and departments

Accolades Title
100+
Accolades Description

undergraduate degrees

Accolades Title
150+
Accolades Description

graduate degrees

Accolades Title
Top 9
Accolades Description

for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO201
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO201
Program Description Title
What you’ll learn in this religious studies degree
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
religious-studies-religion-culture-and-public-life-ba
Program Generated Code
UGLA-LARELCPBA
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program Features

Online Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy – Morality, Politics and Law

Morality and politics are foundational elements of philosophy, deeply influencing key concepts like liberty, equality and justice. Moral philosophy plays a vital role in legal systems and is closely connected to political theory. This program enables you to understand how ethical reasoning shapes both classical and modern interpretations of the law.

As one of the first schools to offer a bachelor’s with a concentration in morality, politics and law, this program teaches modern skills in social and political philosophy. It’s ideal for students pursuing careers in law, policy or politics and serves as a strong foundation for law school.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

Through coursework, you’ll refine your ability to form arguments, analyze information and communicate effectively. These skills are complemented by training in analytical reasoning and advanced writing, preparing you to engage thoughtfully with complex legal and political issues. You’ll also explore:

  • Ethical reasoning.
  • Central philosophical issues in law and jurisprudence.
  • The meaning and application of foundational political values, such as equality, liberty and justice.
Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Philosophy (Morality, Politics and Law) (BA)
Program Name Abbreviation
Philosophy (Morality, Politics and Law) (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
An ASU Online philosophy degree student studies philosophy of law next to a statue of Lady Justice.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in philosophy with a concentration in morality, politics and law program online blends foundational philosophical analysis with a focus on moral issues in political theory and legal systems. This program is designed for students interested in exploring ethical challenges in governance and legislation, making it an excellent pathway if you’re planning to advance into postgraduate work in law, policy or politics.

Plan Code
LAPHIMPBA
Program code
UGLA
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

This program emphasizes ethical theory and the philosophy of law, offering a deep exploration of the principles that shape morality, politics and legal systems. Beyond the core coursework, you can choose from a variety of philosophy electives, allowing you to expand your knowledge and tailor your learning experience to your interests.

Total Classes
39
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Class number may be less for transfer students.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Philosophy courses with a focus on morality, politics and law
CIP code
38.01
Title
Renowned faculty in morality, politics and the philosophy of law
Description

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.
Accolade title
An innovative educational institution for developing critical thinking
Accolade Description

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
31,572
Accolades Description

students enrolled as of fall 2024

Accolades Title
$161 million
Accolades Description

in research expenditures in FY23

Accolades Title
21
Accolades Description

interdisciplinary schools and departments

Accolades Title
100+
Accolades Description

undergraduate degrees

Accolades Title
150+
Accolades Description

graduate degrees

Accolades Title
Top 9
Accolades Description

for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO201
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO201
Program Description Title
A philosophy degree that explores the nature of morality, political theory and legal theory
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
philosophy-morality-politics-and-law-ba
Program Generated Code
UGLA-LAPHIMPBA
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program Features

Online Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

Contrary to the misconception that a bachelor's in philosophy only prepares you for graduate studies, this degree equips you with transferable skills that lay the foundation for both personal and professional success, including:

  • Argument structure and interpretation.
  • Effective and structured communication, both orally and in writing.
  • Logic and reasoning.
  • Situation analysis.

While many philosophical texts are complex, you'll also learn how to read, comprehend and summarize this challenging material, training you to become a better, clearer thinker. Coursework includes major subfields, such as metaphysics, epistemology and ethics, along with electives that connect philosophy to other areas of inquiry and highlight its social relevance. These skills and competencies are highly valued across various fields, including business and government, preparing you for success in a range of professional environments.

Why philosophy pairs well with second majors and minors

A bachelor's in philosophy pairs exceptionally well with second majors or minors in a variety of disciplines, such as biological sciences, communication, political science, justice studies and psychology. By combining philosophy with another degree or minor, you can focus on a specific career path while still developing broadly applicable skills. Potential second majors include, but aren’t limited to:

Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Arts
Program Focus
Philosophy
Program Name Abbreviation
Philosophy (BA)
Program Category
Degree Image
A philosophy major works in an office.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in philosophy online hones your communication skills and enhances your ability to think clearly and critically. By studying philosophical theories from around the world, you'll gain a deeper understanding of complex ideas and perspectives. You’ll also develop the ability to read and interpret intricate texts, opening doors to diverse professional paths.

Plan Code
LAPHIBA
Program code
UGLA
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Throughout this program, you'll engage with courses that cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills. The curriculum features core topics, such as metaphysics, epistemology, ethics and a second language, complemented by electives that connect philosophy to other disciplines. Additionally, you'll have the chance to participate in an undergraduate research experience, working closely with faculty on their research projects to further enrich your learning and practical application of philosophical concepts.

Total Classes
39
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Class number may be less for transfer students.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Humanities and Social Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Online philosophy degree courses
CIP code
38.01
Title
Leaders in critical thought, analysis and contextualization
Description

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.
Accolade title
A college that supports philosophical thought and reasoning
Accolade Description

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
31,572
Accolades Description

students enrolled as of fall 2024

Accolades Title
$161 million
Accolades Description

in research expenditures in FY23

Accolades Title
21
Accolades Description

interdisciplinary schools and departments

Accolades Title
100+
Accolades Description

undergraduate degrees

Accolades Title
150+
Accolades Description

graduate degrees

Accolades Title
Top 9
Accolades Description

for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO201
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO201
Program Description Title
Develop skills that lay the foundation for personal and professional success
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
bachelor-arts-philosophy
Program Generated Code
UGLA-LAPHIBA
Title
Will my diploma say 'online'?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program highlights
Program Features