Careers in Religion
A major or a minor in Religion may not seem like the most practical thing you
could undertake in this life, but appearances are often deceptive.
In a world of constant change, the best way to prepare for the future may be to
develop the skills you will need to understand, interpret, and respond to
changes. And in a world where the entire globe has become our neighborhood, the
best way to prepare for work may be to get to know your neighbors.
The study of religion, as a liberal arts discipline, is ideally suited to these
purposes. Religion is one of the most important forces shaping history, culture,
and personal experience. To understand religion is to understand--and develop a
stance towards--the most pressing concerns in life. Our approach to this study
stresses critical reading and writing skills, a broad base of global
understanding, and reflection on ethical issues.
Given the importance of moral, social, aesthetic, and other value questions in
our lives, religion will expand your educational horizons. It will give you
insight into the human condition as well as an international understanding of
this and other cultures.
EducationWith a degree in religion, one might embark upon a career in education. For
those completing undergraduate degrees in religion, opportunities may be
available at religious-affiliated elementary and secondary schools, preparatory
schools, private, public or religious-affiliated colleges and universities.
Affiliation and experience with organizations such as Schools of Theology would
be beneficial.
Specific positions may include teaching, serving as an administrator, campus
ministry, counseling, religious life programming, research, and other possible
opportunities. Many people who study philosophy and religion at a university
want to spend their lives continuing the studies they began in college. One way
many students do this is by following their passion for either field by earning
mater's and doctorate degrees and then going on to teach as professors of
religion or philosophy. A teaching career allows lovers of philosophy or
religion to immerse themselves in their favorite subject matter for the majority
of their professional lives. Preparing curricula and lesson plans afford
professors a second education in the material they love to study.
Pastoral Ministry
A position within the pastoral ministry demands leadership ability and
self-discipline, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the
possession of high moral and ethical standards. Local churches, religious
organizations, and denominational boards and agencies offer employment positions
for clergy.
Social Services
Social services in religious settings have positions in administration,
advocacy, counseling, programming, public relations, vocational teaching, etc.
Careers can be found within churches and religious organizations,
administration, vocational training, correctional institutions, nonprofit
organizations, nursing homes, shelters, youth organizations and camps, advocacy,
crisis services,and more. Employers include Nonprofit organizations, Religious
hospitals and hospices, Correctional institutions, Shelters, Nursing homes,
Youth organizations and camps, Adoption agencies/Foster care, and Religious
organizations.
Communications
Potential employment in areas of writing, editing, publishing, television/film,
radio, advertising, public relations, etc. Employers may include denominal
boards/agencies, interdenominational organizations, local churches, synagogues
and mosques; denominational publishing houses, secular publishing houses,
secular radio, television, and film industry internships.
Health Welfare Ministries
Position areas include administration, social services, residential living,
religious activities programming, mental health or pastoral counseling.
Employers within this area may be found in hospitals, mental health treatment
facilities, nursing homes, retirement homes, assisted living facilities,
children and youth facilities, the military, and more.
Global and Local Outreach
and Mission Organizations
Employment with missions may be found in church and community development,
metropolitan ministries, community center, etc. Employers include, but are not
limited to the following - Denominational boards or agencies, mission boards,
local churches, religious institutions, and evangelical organizations e.g.
United Methodist General Board of Global Ministry.
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