The article examines the principle of determinism as a methodological basis for the study of Religious Studies. The variety of forms of manifestation of religion is systematized on the basis of integrity, interconnection, relative stability and unity of a harmonious combination of secular knowledge and religious beliefs. The philosophical principle of determinism determines the consideration of a wide range of criteria for the classification of religious studies and doctrines according to standard and academic curricula for the study of Religion Studies in higher educational institutions.