Religious studies will often focus on Judaism, Islam, Christianity and Buddhism. Students may develop a deeper understanding of each one, as well as how they have affected social movements, literature, wars, culture and the arts.

Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.

Part-time learning allows one to obtain a degree or qualification even if one cannot attend school on a full-time basis. One can learn at one's own pace, gradually accumulating credits that count towards a final qualification.