Program Overview

Pacific Lutheran University Religion Program

The Religion program at Pacific Lutheran University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the history, thought, and practice of various religious traditions. The program aims to equip students with critical, contextual, and creative thinking skills, as well as ethical decision-making abilities, to prepare them for careers in fields such as law, education, healthcare, and social services.

About the Program

The Religion program at PLU is recognized as one of the best in the Pacific Northwest, offering a balanced and creative curriculum that includes classes in environmental ethics, feminist theology, and Native American traditions. Students can also participate in study away programs in countries such as Greece, China, and Namibia.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Religion program at PLU have gone on to pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Secondary Science Teacher, Peace Corps
• Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Licensed Geologist, Project Manager, Antea Group
• Director of Youth and Family Ministry, Christ Lutheran Church
• IT Support Technician, Amazon
• Administrative Assistant, Mt. Cross Ministries
• High School Social Studies Teacher, Issaquah School District
• Case Aide, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
• HRIS Coordinator, American Airlines

Graduate Programs

Many graduates of the Religion program at PLU have also gone on to pursue graduate studies at institutions such as:

• Emory University School of Theology
• University of Puget Sound
• Yale Divinity School
• Princeton Theological Seminary
• Vanderbilt University
• Southern New Hampshire University
• Pacific Lutheran University
• Lesley University
• Drew University

Related Programs

The Religion program at PLU is related to other programs in the fields of:

• Anthropology
• Biology
• Chinese and Chinese Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Environmental Studies
• French and Francophone Studies
• Gender, Sexuality, and Race Studies
• Global Studies
• Hispanic and Latino Studies
• History
• Holocaust and Genocide Studies
• Peace Corps Prep
• Philosophy
• Psychology
• Social Work
• Sociology

Student Testimonials

Studying religion at PLU has broadened students' worldviews and improved their ability to relate to and understand people from diverse backgrounds. Many students have also appreciated the opportunity to double major and pursue multiple interests, distinguishing themselves as more knowledgeable in the job market.