Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education and Community Engagement
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education and Community Engagement at Fort Hays State University prepares students for meaningful work that connects faith, education, and community service. provides a strong academic foundation in religious traditions, Christian doctrine, world religions, and the New Testament, while integrating applied learning in leadership and nonprofit engagement.
Through an interdisciplinary curriculum that includes coursework in religious studies, philosophy, sociology, leadership, and marketing, students develop critical thinking, ethical insight, and practical skills needed to serve in churches, faith-based organizations, and community nonprofits. The program supports professional preparation without requiring ordination, allowing graduates to pursue a variety of community-centered careers.
Courses are offered online and on campus, providing students with flexibility to complete the degree in a way that aligns with their academic and professional goals.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education and Community Engagement at Fort Hays State University?
The B.A. in Religious Education and Community Engagement offers a distinctive, nondenominational approach to the academic study of religion, combined with practical skill development in leadership, sociology, and nonprofit-focused coursework. This structure supports in-depth study without affiliation with a specific religious tradition or ordination requirements.
Students can take courses online or on campus, making it easier to fit the program into their schedule. With affordable tuition and flexible course options, the program is designed to be accessible and a strong value for a wide range of students.
In addition to preparing students for service-oriented careers, the program provides a strong foundation for graduate study, including seminary or other master’s degree pathways. Students graduate equipped with theological knowledge and applied leadership skills, positioning them for continued academic advancement or meaningful work in their communities.
Who is this program for?
This program serves undergraduate students seeking to combine the academic study of religion with practical skills in community engagement. It is especially well-suited for:
- Aspiring religious educators
- Individuals pursuing nonprofit careers
- Learners seeking leadership preparation
- Students planning graduate or seminary study
- Community-focused professionals
Real-World Applications
Students gain practical skills while building a strong foundation in religious education, leadership, and nonprofit management. The curriculum emphasizes applied learning in areas such as marketing, grant writing, and organizational management, helping students translate knowledge of theology, religious traditions, and public life into real-world professional contexts.
Through coursework and projects designed to mirror the responsibilities of churches, community organizations, and religious nonprofits, students gain hands-on experience that reinforces academic learning. The program also develops collaboration, critical thinking, and professional communication skills, preparing graduates to apply theory effectively, adapt to wide-ranging service-oriented roles, and succeed in both career and community leadership settings.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates current research and evolving practices in religious studies and community engagement throughout the curriculum. Students explore topics related to social structures, leadership behavior, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring that learning aligns with contemporary professional expectations. Instruction remains rooted in academic rigor while maintaining relevance to the needs of modern communities.
In addition to foundational religious education, interdisciplinary coursework exposes students to concepts from sociology, philosophy, and leadership studies, fostering adaptability in dynamic professional environments. The curriculum is continually aligned with workforce trends, preparing graduates for meaningful careers and advanced study in graduate or seminary programs.
Hands-on Activities
Experiential learning is a central part of the B.A. in Religious Education and Community Engagement, anchored by a required internship during the final stage of the program. Students are placed in churches or nonprofit organizations, where they gain first-hand experience applying leadership, education, and community engagement skills in real-world settings.
Practical skill development is reinforced through coursework in nonprofit operations and leadership behavior. Applied assignments, collaborative projects, and writing-intensive tasks provide additional hands-on experience. These structured academic and community-based opportunities help students build professional confidence and graduate ready to succeed in service-oriented careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- World religious traditions
- Christian doctrine and biblical study
- Nonprofit organizational skills
- Leadership behavior principles
- Fundamentals of grant writing and marketing
- Strong writing and critical thinking skills
How You’ll Learn:
- Classes available online and on campus
- Supervised internship experience
- Personalized academic advising
- Develop writing and critical thinking skills
- Applied leadership education
- Community-based learning
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in religious studies, leadership, and community engagement. Core courses and electives, along with applied projects, let students tailor their studies, develop practical skills, and align learning with career or graduate goals. This flexible, experience-based approach prepares graduates for professional success and advanced academic opportunities.
PHIL 170: World Religions
This course is a survey of major world religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, examining their histories, core beliefs, and practices. The course also explores contemporary ethical issues and philosophical questions about religion, morality, and the good life.
LDRS 302: Introduction to Leadership Behavior
In this course, students develop foundational leadership skills through practical experience in collaboration, communication, adaptive leadership, conflict resolution, and creative thinking. Students design and apply change strategies for organizations or communities while strengthening personal and organizational leadership abilities.
SOC 680: Nonprofit Organizations
This course examines the management and operations of nonprofit organizations, highlighting similarities and differences with for-profit enterprises. Students explore nonprofit formation, including mission development and tax-exempt status, as well as key areas such as leadership, human resources, strategic planning, financial management, and marketing in mission-driven organizations.
Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education and Community Engagement course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are prepared for careers that combine knowledge of religious education, leadership, and nonprofit management. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and applied learning experiences ensure students are ready to meet the demands of service-oriented professions. Some potential career paths include:
Religious Education Director
Religious education directors lead educational programming within churches and faith-based organizations by developing curricula, supervising volunteers, and providing instructional guidance. Community engagement and teaching are central to this role.
Nonprofit Program Coordinator
Nonprofit program coordinators manage program development, grant writing, and organizational operations. They emphasize collaboration with community partners and stakeholders.
Community Outreach Specialist
Community outreach specialists support public engagement initiatives through education, communication, and leadership activities. Outreach efforts strengthen connections between organizations and the communities they serve.
Church Administrator
Church administrators oversee operations within religious organizations, including financial coordination, organizational leadership, and internal communication. They combine administrative and strategic responsibilities.
Graduate Study Preparation
Graduate study preparation provides a strong academic foundation for entry into master’s degree programs, seminary, or graduate study in counseling, theology, education, or related fields.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the B.A. in Religious Education and Community Engagement, allowing students to expand their knowledge and develop interdisciplinary skills. These programs provide opportunities to explore topics that strengthen professional competencies and broaden career pathways. Students are encouraged to pursue academic exploration beyond their major to support personal and professional growth.
Students interested in forensic science may also consider related programs at Fort Hays State University that offer complementary skills and knowledge. Each program provides distinct pathways to criminal justice, biology, and forensic analysis careers, equipping students with versatile skills applicable across various fields:
- B.A. in History
- B.A./B.S. in Sociology
- B.A./B.S. in Political Science
- B.A./B.S. in Organizational Leadership
This program typically requires 120 credit hours. Time to complete may vary based on enrollment, transfer credits, and course availability. Our academic advisors help students stay on track for timely completion.
The program offers flexible scheduling with online and on-campus courses. Students can enroll in fall, spring, and summer semesters to balance coursework with professional or personal responsibilities.
Yes. The program includes a required internship near the end, placing students in a church or nonprofit organization for supervised, hands-on experience that applies classroom learning to real-world settings.
The religious education curriculum incorporates the study of world religions. It emphasizes comparative academic analysis of spiritual traditions to support a broader understanding of religion in public life. The education revolves around academic research, not doctrinal teaching.
Assigned academic advisors provide guidance related to coursework, degree planning, and graduation requirements. Applicants can also direct program-specific questions to the program director.
Information about the Department of History and Philosophy
The Department of History and Philosophy at FHSU offers a comprehensive educational experience that develops students' critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
The History Programs provide in-depth coursework exploring a wide range of historical periods and cultures, preparing students for careers in education, research, public history, and related fields. The Philosophy Programs challenge students to examine fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and values, fostering strong problem-solving skills and a thoughtful, reflective approach to life.
Together, these programs deliver a well-rounded education that combines historical understanding with philosophical inquiry. Graduates are equipped with the intellectual tools to succeed in diverse career paths and to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Phi Alpha Theta – History Club: This student organization provides a dynamic environment for engaging in intellectual discussions, film analyses, and activities centered on specific historical themes. The club fosters a collaborative and enriching learning experience for students passionate about history.
- Philosophy Club: This club offers students the opportunity to engage in thoughtful philosophical discussions that span multiple disciplines and address real-world issues, fostering meaningful dialogue between peers and faculty.
- Victor E. History Podcast: Hosted by faculty member Hollie Marquess, this podcast showcases research conducted by students, faculty, and alumni within the History Programs, highlighting diverse historical topics and scholarship.
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
- Online
