Overview

The Religious Studies programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides advanced training in the religious dimensions of human culture across various historical periods. This curriculum emphasises a cross-cultural comparative framework, allowing students to examine traditions from around the globe. By integrating diverse academic perspectives, the university ensures a well-rounded understanding of spiritual and social phenomena.

Why Religious Studies at University of California, Santa Barbara?

The department is distinguished by its multi-disciplinary approach, incorporating fields such as anthropology, sociology, philosophy, and philology. Students benefit from a rich academic environment that fosters cultural sensitivity and global perspectives. The university also provides significant support through a combination of fellowship opportunities and paid teaching assistantships for those in the graduate community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

South Asian Religious Studies
Mysticism and Apophasis
Religion and the Question of Subjectivity in Contemporary European Thought
History of Religions
Comparative Literature and Religion
Psychology of Religion
Sociology of Religion

Careers with Religious Studies

Graduates from this programme often pursue professional pathways in education, nonprofit organisations, and grant writing. The analytical and cross-cultural skills gained at the university prepare students for roles in higher education, community centres, and NGOs. Additionally, some alumni find opportunities within legal environments and political science sectors, applying their expertise in ethics and global traditions.

Programme Structure

Courses

Elementary Arabic

Judaism

Persian

Turkish

Islamic Civilization

Islam in America

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Theology and Religious Studies Linguistics View 218 other Masters in Linguistics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

Statement of Purpose
Personal Achievements/Contributions

Resume or Curriculum Vitae

Three letters of recommendation (4th letter optional)

Writing sample

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Religious Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Barbara

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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