In a vein similar to philosophy, study in religion encompasses ancient and modern traditions, examination of ethical and moral issues, an influences of and differences between Western and non-Western beliefs and practices.

Many of our students are drawn to religious studies simply because they are interested in the religious dimensions of human experience, past or present. Others choose to major or minor in the department as a foundation for further study of religion in seminary or graduate school

By planning your program with your adviser, you may pursue an individualized program that combines a religion major with another subject area. Though your options are open, common linkages between subject areas are religion and art, religion and literature, religion and philosophy, and religion and sociology.

Degrees offered
B.A.: Religion
Minor: Religion

Requirements B.A. in Religion: Students must take eight 4-semester-hour courses of which at least three must be at the 300 level; participate in the Junior Colloquium on Approaches to the Study of Religion; and complete a Senior Essay. Students select at least three courses in different religious traditions under the historical and textual division and at least three courses (with at least one other than ethics) under the systematic division. The Department also expects its majors to work in both Western and non-Western traditions.

B.A. in Religion combined with another subject: Students normally take five 4-semester-hour courses of which at least three must be at the 300 level and three 4-semester-hour courses from other departments. Students taking this option are exempt from the distribution requirements but must participate in the Junior Colloquium on Approaches to the Study of Religion and complete a Senior Essay. Individualized programs must be planned with the advisor and approved by the department.

Minor: Students must take five 4-semester-hour courses including at least two in the different religious traditions under the historical and textual division, one course under the systematic division, and one course at the 300 level.