Majoring in religious studies provides an opportunity to explore and analyze the great written and oral traditions of the world's religions:
- African religions
- Buddhism
- Christianity
- Contemporary groups in the U.S.
- Hinduism
- Islam
- Judaism
The Program
The major introduces students to the academic study of religion. The religious studies major offers a broad choice of courses, including: history, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, American studies, classics, and medieval studies. For some students, religious studies is an appropriate second major and might combine well with anything from philosophy to international agricultural development, from history to international relations.
Student Learning Objectives
The Religious Studies major will enable students to:
- Engage in critical, analytical thinking about religion
- Understand how to use and contextualize primary source materials
- Examine and interpret religion from a diversity of viewpoints
- Develop reflective understanding of the practices and practitioners of religion
- Discuss the relations between religion and ethics
- Present complex and original ideas in written and oral formats
Career Options
The emphasis in religious studies courses on developing analytical thinking skills and clear written expression is an asset for many career goals. As a strong liberal arts program, the major can lead to research and/or teaching on all levels, as well as careers in related areas such as the ministry, counseling, social work, and other helping professions. Because the major integrates so many academic areas, it is also an excellent background for graduate programs, especially in the humanities, and for professional schools including law, business, and foreign service.