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Appalachian State University

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Religious Studies (BA) - Religion and Public Affairs

Undergraduate Program
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Application Deadlines

Important dates and deadlines for undergraduate admissions

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Location

Boone campus

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Drive meaningful change at the intersection of faith and public service.

App State’s Religious Studies (BA) - Religion and Public Affairs degree program explores the dynamic intersections of faith and the public arena, examining how religious beliefs, cultural values and institutional practices shape public policy, international relations and civic engagement.

The program’s curriculum pairs foundational training in global religions with specialized coursework in social theory, digital culture and the sociology of religion. Through this targeted lens, you will investigate how diverse beliefs intersect with pressing public matters — examining the deep-seated relationships among religious groups, social movements and modern civic life.

Additionally, you will analyze how diverse religious ideologies inform contemporary perspectives on law, economics and even emerging technologies, gaining the critical insight needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.

And you will be equipped with the analytical and communication skills to pursue a variety of careers in law, public or international relations, nonprofit leadership, economic development and community organizing. The program also serves as a strong foundation for graduate or professional study in law, public administration, international affairs, public policy or divinity.

  • Department of Philosophy and Religion

  • College of Arts and Sciences

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R2 for high research activity

App State has earned a Research 2 Carnegie Classification, recognizing the university’s high research activity and doctorate production. Learn more about App State’s R2 status

Top 5 in innovation

U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top five school for innovation for nine consecutive years.

A ‘Best College’ for value

App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2025 best schools for value, according to Money.com.

Learn more about App State’s accolades

Elevate Your Education

Courses

    • Students pursuing this major explore Religion and Contemporary Issues; Religion and Society; Religious Studies in the Digital Age; and more.
    Program of Study
    View the Program of Study

Minors

A minor is required. Some students choose to pursue a minor in Communication, Global Studies, Nonprofit Organizations, Political Science, Public Health or Sociology.

View all minors

Transferring Credits

Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.

Related Program

  • Religious Studies (BA) - General Religious Studies

General Education

With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.

Gen Ed Program Info

Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's

With App State's ABM programs, you can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.

Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Info

Careers

Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.

Careers

  • Attorney
  • Community Organizer
  • Diplomat
  • Foreign Service Officer
  • Lawyer
  • Lobbyist
  • Missionary
  • Nonprofit/NGO Manager
  • Policy Analyst
  • Social Worker

Some of these jobs may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Career information resource

Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.

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Ask a Mountaineer — connect with App State alumni

Need help “opening the door” at a dream company? Want to get feedback on your resume from industry professionals? Not sure how to interview? Access the knowledge and expertise of more than 150,000 App State alumni who are ready to help. All you have to do is ask. Ask a Mountaineer

More to Explore at App State

Fund Your Education

Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.

International Experience

Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.

Real-world Internships

Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more

Find Your Community

Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the Religious Studies Club. Learn more

Honors College

Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.

Apply

Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.

Start Your Application

Admissions questions? Contact us.

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Request More Information

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Program Contact

Dr. Mathew Foust
Department Chair
[email protected]
828-262-4031

College of Arts and Sciences

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Visit Campus

Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.

Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.

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Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.

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