The answer to this question will depend on the university and the religion. Some universities with religious affiliations can be just as secular as public universities. Others will incorporate the sponsoring religion's beliefs and morality into its curricula and policies. For example I have heard of some religious universities that you would not recognize as such from the way their people behave and the things that are taught. On the other hand, my alma maitre has a code of behavior for the student, faculty, and staff that reflected the values of the sponsoring religion. One other thing about religious universities is that you can bring up religious topics in class. For example, a discussion of the debate of creationism verses evolution is a standard part of the Historical Geology class I took. However, it is not permissible for faculty at either of the public colleges where I have taught to bring up such a discussion. In this respect, one actually has more academic freedom at a religious school than one does at a public school. ************** "samuel911: Thanks -- how can I find out if a certain University incorporates the sponsoring religion's beliefs and morality into its curricula and policies?" That I don't know. The only experience that I actually have with religious schools is with my alma maitre, Brigham Young University. At BYU, the students, faculty, and staff are required to submit an ecclesiastical endorsement every year. This endorsement states that the person is attending his church services regularly (does not have to be LDS services) and is abiding by the conduct standards set out in the Honor Code. The Honor Code basically states that the people associated with the school are to follow the standard of morality set out by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. So, the only thing that can think of tell you as to how to tell if a school talks is religious sponsor seriously is to look at the school's application materials. See if there is something that requires a visit with a religious leader. Also, look for something like an honor code and see if is goes beyond academic behavior. Another thing that you can do is look at the course catalogue and the general education course requirements. See if you are required to take religion classes. One last thing, when I was looking for work at a junior college, I did look at a couple of religious colleges, one of them would have actually required me to convert to their brand of Christianity and a representative of the other one stated to me that they probably would not hire someone of my religious affiliation for the job opening. I don't remember the names of these schools, but they were two that took their religious obligations seriously. I respect them for that even if I don't agree with their overly strict policies. So, here are some things for which you can look. I won't guarantee that they will be good indicators of the religious nature of the school, but they should give you an idea. I am just curious though. Are you looking for a school that is fairly strict in this respect or one that is not?

My experience at Villanova University(Catholic) in the early 80's was overall positive. I was raised Catholic yet not religious. I experienced a quality education without any implied religious influence.

it might make it a good college