Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from LSU Alexandria
Studies major belief systems, spiritual practices, and scriptures across cultures
Develops intercultural understanding, empathy, and critical thinking
Strengthens communication, teamwork, and analytical skills valued by employers
Prepares graduates for careers in ministry, education, journalism, politics, nonprofits, and publishing
Supports pathways to graduate, professional, chaplain, divinity, or counseling programs
Academic, non-denominational approach that encourages independent thought
Students will study the history of religions as well as the practices of religion. In addition, they will also learn about mystics, Sufis, gurus, bodhisattvas, and saints and gain opportunities to explore spiritual practices promoting peace and happiness.
Admissions
Whether you're a first-time freshman or a transfer student, our admissions team is here to support you from day one.
Apply by
Apr 6, 2026
Classes begin
May 11, 2026
I have no college credits
For university acceptance, first-time freshman must meet the following criteria:
- Complete high school Core curriculum for college readiness in place at time of high school graduation
- Not be required to take more than one developmental course
- Have a high school grade point average of at least 2.0
- Meet one of the following:
- Have an ACT composite of 20 or higher
- Have a high school Core grade point average of at least 2.0
I have some college credits
Transfer students to LSUA must meet one of the following sets of criteria:
- Have earned a transferable associate degree or higher
- Have earned at least 18 hours of college-level credit, including a college-level English and college-level mathematics course, with a grade of “C” or higher in each, and an overall GPA of at least 2.0
- Have earned at least 12 hours of college-level credit from LSUE or CLTCC Bridge Program, including a college-level English and college-level mathematics course, with a grade of “C” or higher in each, and an overall GPA of at least 2.0.
- If the above are not met, meet freshman admission requirements and be in good standing with their previous institution
Tuition
LSUA’s online Religious Studies program offers competitive, flat-rate tuition with no out-of-state fees. Plus, you may be able to save even more by transferring up to 75% of previous credits.
Tuition & Fees
- 120 credit hours
- Total credit hours per program
- $3401
- Cost per credit hour
- $10,200
- Total cost with fees and maximum transfer credits
- $40,800
- Total cost with fees
The final cost of this program will be determined once all transfer credits are evaluated. Transfer credits may apply for up to 75% of degree requirements. Your academic advisor will work with you to determine if and how any prior college credits or industry credentials earned will apply toward your LSUA degree. For further information about the approval for transfer credits and other requirements, please visit this site.
Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.
Financial Aid Available
LSUA offers multiple ways to help you fund your education, including financial aid, veteran education benefits, and credit for prior learning.
1 Beginning Fall 1 2026, all LSUA fully online programs are expected to increase by 4% (tuition and fees).
Academics
Our program allows students to study the major belief systems, spiritual practices, and scriptures that have influenced human history and led to profound human experience. This program instills valuable skills of intercultural fluency and empathetic wisdom. It prepares students for successful careers in a wide range of fields.
What Will I Learn?
Students who graduate with an online degree in religious studies will gain an interdisciplinary education that allows them to develop practical and durable skills of intercultural fluency, empathetic wisdom, and effective communication while gaining an understanding of the major religious belief systems and practices.
Student learning outcomes:
- Graduates will write clearly and effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences.
- Graduates will interpret religions critically and academically, taking into account cultural and historical contexts.
Courses
| Courses | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
ENGL 1001 English Composition I |
3 |
ENGL 1002 English Composition II |
3 |
General Education Social Science |
6 |
General Education Math |
6 |
General Education Biology |
3 |
General Education Natural Sciences |
6 |
General Education Communications |
3 |
General Education Philosophy |
3 |
General Education History |
3 |
General Education Fine Arts |
3 |
| Courses | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
RELG 1004 - Old Testament |
3 |
RELG 1005 - Introduction to New Testament |
3 |
RELG 2025 - World Religion |
3 |
RELG 3029 - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam |
3 |
RELG 3030 - Religion in America |
3 |
RELG 4010 - History of Christian Thought to the 16th Century |
3 |
RELG 4027 - Asian Religions |
3 |
Religious Studies Electives |
9 |
| Requirements | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
Foreign Language Electives |
6 |
Free Electives/Completion of Minor |
45 |
Credit for Prior Learning
BA Religious Studies students may earn credit for prior learning through the following military occupations or training:
| Occupation/Training | Credits |
|---|---|
Expeditionary Training for Chaplains |
Up to 3 RELG elective credits |
Religious Affairs Specialist / NCO SLC OR Chaplain Assistant SLC |
Up to 6 RELG elective credits |
Religious Affairs Specialist / NCO ALC Chaplain Assistant ALC |
Up to 3 RELG elective credits |
Operational Religious Support Leader |
Up to 3 RELG elective credits |
Religious Affairs Specialist |
Up to 3 RELG elective credits |
Chaplain Basic Officer Leader (BOLC-A) OR Chaplain Direct Commission |
Up to 6 RELG elective credits |
Important: Credit for prior learning is not guaranteed. Each request is reviewed by faculty and must meet specific requirements established by the academic department. You must be fully admitted and in good academic standing before applying for a PLA. Fees associated with prior learning assessments are set by the campus registrar in accordance with university policy and are non-refundable
Careers
Career Opportunities
- Teacher
- Professor
- Chaplain
- Non-profit or Foundation
- Human Resources
- Religious Charity Office
- Pastor
- Youth Director
- Cultural and Religious Historian
- Missionary
- Communication Director in Organization
