College grads more likely to be religious

AUSTIN, Texas, June 6 (UPI) -- A study has determined U.S. college graduates are more likely to maintain their religious beliefs and practices than those who never attend college.

University of Texas at Austin researchers found four-year college students and college graduates are the least likely to curb church attendance, to say religion is less important in their lives or to completely disassociate from religion. The researchers found young adults who don't pursue a college degree are the most likely to abandon their faith.

"Many people assume college is public enemy No. 1 for religion," Mark Regnerus, assistant professor of sociology, said. "But we found young adults who don't experience college are far more likely to turn away from religion."

Regnerus said the evolution of campus culture might explain the surprising results; as more universities shift attention and resources from liberal arts to professional programs, students are increasingly sheltered from philosophical questions or debates that challenge their beliefs.

Graduate student Jeremy Uecker, lead author of the study, said, "Religion and spirituality are becoming more accepted in higher education, both in intellectual circles and in campus life."

The findings appear in the June issue of the journal Social Forces.