Religious Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies provides students with a comprehensive understanding of religious traditions and practices around the world, as well as non-traditional forms of religious expression. The program teaches various methodologies for the academic study of religion and its connection to other aspects of society and culture. Students will gain insights into different cultures and beliefs and a deeper understanding of their own values and beliefs.

The knowledge and skills acquired through the study of religion are applicable in both professional and personal settings. This major features engaging introductory courses, challenging upper-level seminars, knowledgeable instructors, and flexible course requirements. The program emphasizes the examination of religion across cultures and time, and from philosophical, ethical, and theoretical perspectives. It prepares students for a wide range of careers, including education, social sciences, law, medicine, and politics. This major is also highly valued by graduate programs in areas such as public policy, law, business, and medicine.

The Department of Religious Studies offers the two interdepartmental majors. The first, Religious Studies and African American and African Diaspora Studies, has a particular emphasis on the traditions and experiences of people of African descent. The second, Religious Studies and Philosophy, emphasizes careful examination of the history of philosophy and training in contemporary philosophical research. This major offers a unique opportunity to study both philosophy and religion in one major program.