Major in Religious Studies

The Department of Religious Studies offers a large number of courses that enable students to explore the breadth and depth of their interests in the human condition.

Explore a World of Religious Diversity

Students who major in religious studies will complete a minimum of seven courses in the Department of Religious Studies, six of which are not stipulated while the seventh and culminating course is the departmental capstone, REL 490 Senior Seminar. Student majors may—with the advice and consent of their faculty advisor—choose to study a broad array of diverse courses or choose to study courses within a particular focus that address a particular concern.

With the approval of their faculty adviser, students may select courses from the following areas of focus or from any of the other departmental courses.

Religious Studies

History of Religions

Study of Scriptures

Christian Theology

Ethics and Social Justice

Christian Ministry

Serving Society

Student majors in religious studies are encouraged (but not required) to complete a second major and/or minor through other academic departments in topics of their concerns. For example, a major in religious studies easily fits with and corresponds to majors in nursing, business, education, pre-med, psychology or social work. In today’s world, it is more apparent than ever for students to be fully equipped after graduation for meaningful employment or for graduate studies—and double majors do just this!

The Minor

Students who minor in religious studies will successfully complete any four courses of their choosing within the Department of Religious Studies. After they have completed their third course, minors are encouraged but not required to register for the department’s capstone, REL 490 Senior Seminar.