Theology and Religion Major

About our program

Explore deep questions about faith, ethics and human existence while you study ancient texts to understand how these historical and philosophical insights apply to modern-day challenges. As a theology and religion major, you’ll learn how to think critically and reflectively about your own beliefs and those of others in a diverse world.

You’ll engage directly through service learning that connects you with different communities, providing real-world applications of your classroom discussions. Plus, internships that range from nonprofit community organizations to major religious institutions give you a firsthand look at potential careers.

And with the solid grounding in ethical thinking you’ll get at Marquette, you’ll be ready to positively influence society — whether you enter the ministry, academia or another field where understanding and compassion are paramount.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in theology and religion from Marquette?

About half of our theology and religion graduates go on graduate and professional schools, while the other half go directly into the workforce. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed.

  • Leadership roles in Catholic and faith-based organizations (hospitals, nonprofits, parishes, dioceses and more)
  • K–12 teacher
  • Director of religious education for a parish
  • Youth minister
  • Missionary
  • College or seminary professor
  • Catholic priest
  • Social worker

image of building and professor talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Professional experience

As a theology and religion major, you'll have many career options. Help decide the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings in Milwaukee and nationwide. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you.

Discover Arts and Sciences internship opportunities.

Undergraduate research

Here, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside faculty, assisting with their research, or conduct your own independent research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

Our faculty focus their research in four primary areas:

  • Judaism and Christianity in antiquity
  • Historical theology
  • Systematic theology
  • Theological ethics

Read more about theology and religion research at Marquette. 

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too.

Explore our E-Lead program.

Study abroad

Expand your education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for theology and religion students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led research or programs including a popular interreligious course on nonviolence that travels to India.

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

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