The Department of Religious Studies offers over fifty undergraduate courses, all of which are taught from a nonsectarian perspective. The courses cover such topics as world religions, religious thought, comparative religious ethics, women and religion, and the history of religions.
Courses in religious studies contribute to a student's understanding of the beliefs and actions of diverse peoples and cultures. They also contribute to the student's self-understanding through uncovering and exploring major tenets of his or her own culture. The major in religious studies is designed to provide a rich grounding in the liberal arts and is particularly appropriate for those students considering careers in government, health, law, education, international business, social work, the ministry, or media. The major provides plentiful opportunities for students to work one-on-one with award winning faculty through doing such things as writing an Honors thesis and conducting field-research as part of the Pluralism Project.
The major consists of 24 semester hours of coursework in Religious Studies at the 3000-level or above. There are two required courses--Rels 3050 and Rels 3270--but the major allows for a great deal of flexibility. (See Requirements) Students majoring in religious studies have the opportunity to take and have counted toward their major select courses in other departments/schools/institutes in the College of Arts and Sciences including anthropology, history, music and sociology. It is often appropriate to consider Religious Studies for a double major, and the major is designed to make double majoring easy.
Prospective majors are urged to consult with Dr. Jonathan Herman, Director of Undergraduate Studies, or any other member of the faculty in order to prepare the course of study most appropriate to their individual interests and needs. All majors planning to attend graduate school should consult closely with their advisers concerning courses appropriate for their anticipated graduate programs.
All religious studies majors must subscribe to the religious studies listserv.
Students who wish to minor in religious studies must take at least 15 hours in courses in the specific area, including at least 9 semester hours at the 3000 level or above. Students taking more than 15 hours in courses in the specific area may count the additional hours toward their electives or may consider completing a double major. A grade of "C" or better is required in all courses counting toward the minor.