If you’ve always been the type of person who is interested in life’s deeper mysteries, and what higher power might be up there keeping an eye on all of us, then getting a religion associate degree might be for you.

Now, getting a religion associate degree is definitely “out of the box” for most people.  They simply can’t fathom spending two years studying things like philosophy and world religions.  But for others, this degree choice is right up their alley.

So, how do you know if getting a religion associate degree is right for you?  Well, it’s a tough question.  Most people that go to school for this have always been interested in religion and spirituality.  With a religion associate degree you will probably be able to choose your own area of study, so if you’re interested in Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, or Hindu religions you’ll be able to focus more in that area.

A lot depends, however, on the school you chose.  Some schools offer religion associate degrees that focus solely on Christianity, so make sure you’re clear about what you want to study before you enroll.

It’s also important to point out that most people do not get a religion associate degree because they want to make a lot of money.  Many people use their religion associate degree as a stepping-stone to a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology or Philosophy.  Some students are already involved in a religious institution, as a volunteer or group leader, and want to further their knowledge about religion.  So, if you have aims for big bucks one day, then this degree might not be for you.

It’s hard to say just how much you can make with a religion associate degree.  Group Leaders in religious institutions generally make $40,000 per year or less.  Pastors and other religious leaders almost always have higher degrees, but they don’t necessarily make more money.  Religion is something you study because you love it, not because you want to make a lot of money.

Now, there is one exception to this rule and that’s if you have aims at law or medical school.  Many people who are interested in religious studies will get their religion associate degree, and even perhaps their Bachelor’s degree, and then go on to law or medical school.  So, if you have plans like this then know that it’s not an uncommon course.

You can also use your religion associate degree to be a news analyst.  If you’re interested in becoming a journalist or working as a television anchor, having a background in religious studies could give you a major edge over the competition.  You’d be assigned to any religious stories to help write about and discuss the topic in detail.  Having a broad understanding of religion will definitely help with this.

Although getting a religion associate degree is a bit “outside the box”, it can be an incredibly rewarding and interesting path to take if you’re interested in religion and spirituality.