Introduction to Religion
How does tradition inform our society? When you study religion, you’ll learn how individuals and communities understand our past and present.
You could discover ancient literature and languages that inform today’s cultures, and develop your skills in leadership. You could research theories in philosophy or theology, or share your knowledge in the classroom.
Graduates aren’t limited to faith-based careers. Use your religion degree to work in the public sector, museums, schools and universities, and the legal and political systems.
Explore religion courses
Discover religion courses
Online religion subjects and short courses
Dialogue across Cultures and Religions
PostgraduateCUR-CHRE502
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 21 Jul 2025
Enrolments open until 24 Jul
Teaching About Jesus in Catholic Schools
UndergraduateCUR-EDC430
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 1 Dec 2025
Teaching About the Gospels in Catholic Schools
UndergraduateCUR-EDC435
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Teaching About Sacraments in Catholic Schools
UndergraduateCUR-EDC484
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Online religion degrees
Graduate Certificate in Supervision
PostgraduateACU-SUP-GCE
Spiritual supervision skills and knowledge for the helping professions
- Study method
- 100% online
Graduate Certificate in Catholic Leadership
PostgraduateUND-CLS-GCE
Contemporary leadership with dignity and compassion
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
PostgraduateACU-SPI-MAS
Explore the practice of spiritual direction in the Ignatian tradition
- Study method
- 100% online
Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Direction
PostgraduateACU-SPD-GDI
Guide people towards a deeper relationship with God
- Study method
- 100% online
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Religion study FAQs
What will I learn in a religion course?
When you enrol in an online religion course, you’ll enhance your awareness of how others see the world. You’ll connect with ancient and modern cultures. Depending on the course, you could learn about history and archaeology, or how to become a decisive spiritual leader.
Do I need prior knowledge of theology or philosophy to study religion?
Not necessarily. Prior knowledge in these thought-provoking areas may be helpful, but some online religion courses don’t have entry requirements.
Postgraduate religion degrees will have entry requirements, especially if they’re teaching advanced skills including leadership. After selecting an online religion course that inspires you, book a consultation for clarity about its entry requirements.
What careers can I pursue with a background in religious studies?
Passionate about education? Perhaps you’ve already studied education and teaching courses. After completing an online religion course, you’ll have more knowledge to share with your school students. Faith-based careers such as chaplaincy will allow you to dedicate your life to listening, while psychology and mental health courses provide further training for your career supporting others.
With a love of history, an online religion degree could give you insights into the ancient past, informing your future in archaeology, museums, or politics and international relations.
Can I study religion online while working full-time?
Of course. Most of the religion degrees available through Open Universities Australia are 100% online. You can lighten your study load with part-time enrolment while you continue working.
Short online religion courses can also help you strike a balance between study, work and life.
What skills will I gain from studying religion?
After studying an online religion course, you’ll have transferable skills in leadership and beyond.
With a religion degree, you could learn about spiritual guidance, or understand how religion and culture interact through international relations. You could even master an ancient language! Browse online religion courses to choose the skills you’d like to develop.
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