sciences des religions
feminine, plural
The English phrase "religious studies" is translated into French as sciences des religions.
The term refers to the study of religious beliefs, behaviours and institutions.
Meaning: study of religious beliefs, behaviours and institutions (noun)
Which one should you use?
In French, sciences des religions refers to the objective, academic study of religion, whereas théologie refers to the study of religion from within a specific faith (theology).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions of France and Belgium, Sciences religieuses can be used to convey the idea of 'religious studies'.
Did you know?
- In secular French institutions, the distinction between sciences des religions and any form of religious instruction is strictly protected by laws regarding laïcité.
- The term sciences in this context is not a reference to the hard sciences like physics, but rather to the social sciences, such as sociology and anthropology.
- The plural form religions in sciences des religions is essential because the term implies a comparative study across multiple faith systems rather than a study of 'religion' as a general concept.
Examples in context
- Licence en Études religieusesBachelor's degree in religious studies
- Doctorat en Histoire des religionsDoctorate in the history of religions
- Elle étudie les sciences des religions à l'université.She studies religious studies at the university.
- Il a un doctorat en sciences des religions.He has a doctorate in religious studies.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Chloé are discussing their university courses at a cafe.
- GabrielQu'est-ce que tu étudies cette année, Chloé ?What are you studying this year, Chloé?
- ChloéJe me suis inscrite en sciences des religions.I enrolled in religious studies.
- GabrielC'est un domaine très vaste, n'est-ce pas ?It's a very broad field, isn't it?
- ChloéOui, et c'est très intéressant pour moi.Yes, and it is very interesting for me.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “religious studies” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
