Best Philosophy and Religious Studies institutions in the US, ranked by earnings
Compare 32 U.S. colleges offering Philosophy and Religious Studies by graduate earnings, cost, and outcomes. Federal data across 15 states.
About Philosophy and Religious Studies programs
The Philosophy and Religious Studies program explores the fundamental questions of existence, ethics, and belief systems through a historical and scientific lens. This program is ideal for students interested in understanding diverse religious traditions and philosophical thought, as well as those seeking to engage critically with complex ideas and cultural perspectives.
Students in this program will develop core skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and effective communication. Coursework typically includes topics in philosophy, theology, history, and sociology, equipping students with a broad understanding of human thought and behavior.
Top 1 institutions, ranked by graduate earnings
Earnings = median 1 year after graduation (College Scorecard, predominant credential).
| # | Institution | Grad earnings (1 yr) | Completions | Grad rate | Net price | Median debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | James Madison University Harrisonburg, VA Public · Bachelor's degree | $28,712 | 21 | 80% | — | $24,734 |
Offered across 15 states
The same program, compared state by state. Pick a state for in-state earnings and institutions.
| State | Institutions | Median earnings | Top institution by earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 5 | $28,712 | James Madison University |
| California | 4 | — | — |
| Floridalimited | 2 | — | — |
| Illinoislimited | 2 | — | — |
| Indianalimited | 2 | — | — |
| Iowalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Kansaslimited | 2 | — | — |
| Missouri | 3 | — | — |
| New York | 3 | — | — |
| North Carolinalimited | 2 | — | — |
| Ohiolimited | 1 | — | — |
| Pennsylvanialimited | 1 | — | — |
| South Carolinalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Tennesseelimited | 2 | — | — |
| Utahlimited | 1 | — | — |
Careers & outlook
The payoff after graduation: occupation 25-1126, Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary, and its national outlook.
Graduates of the Philosophy and Religious Studies program may pursue various careers in education, research, and community engagement. The job outlook indicates a growth rate of 0.7% with approximately 2,000 annual openings. The median wage for related positions is $78,050, with many roles requiring a doctoral or professional degree.
Top-paying metros
Related careers
Skills & knowledge in Philosophy and Religious Studies programs
From the U.S. Dept. of Labor for the occupation this program most leads to.
Skills you'll build
Knowledge areas
What graduates do on the job
- Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
- Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
- Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students and the community on topics such as ethics, logic, and contemporary religious thought.
- Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
- Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
- Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
Tools & technology
Concentrations within Philosophy and Religious Studies
Specializations under this field (NCES CIP 2020).
- Philosophy and Religious Studies, OtherCIP 38.9999
Any instructional program in philosophy and religion not listed above.
Common questions
What is the focus of the Philosophy and Religious Studies program?+
The program focuses on the study of religion and philosophy from historical and scientific perspectives.
What skills will I develop in this program?+
You will develop skills in critical thinking, reading comprehension, writing, and effective communication.
What are the career prospects after graduation?+
The program offers a job outlook of 0.7% growth with about 2,000 annual openings.
What level of education is typically required for careers in this field?+
Most careers in this field require a doctoral or professional degree.
Related programs
Other programs in the same field of study.
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