Religious Studies

The study of religious traditions explores the religious beliefs, actions, and cultural practices of individuals and communities across the world and throughout history. In the course of their studies, our students gain an inter-cultural literacy and an appreciation for the world views of other peoples and communities, as well as their own. Religious Studies courses approach the study of religion from a variety of disciplinary perspectives. Students are invited to critically consider the spiritual, historical, literary, ethical, doctrinal, psychological, contemplative and social dimensions of religious people and practice. Through engaging the study of religions in an academic context, we seek to generate respect for the religious lives of all traditions. While many students find the study of religion is important for reflecting upon their own religious identity, no particular religious position is privileged or assumed in any of our courses.

Study Away

Students majoring or minoring in Religious Studies will find it especially useful to complement the above courses by a semester of study away. Many institutions in Europe, Asia, and Australia have offerings in religious studies. Among the more valuable are the courses in Hebrew Scripture, Christian Scripture, and Islamic studies at the University of Edinburgh and the Oxford University. For Buddhism, consider the School for International Training (SIT) programs in Thailand; and, for Tibetan studies, the programs offered by SIT in India and Nepal.

Departmental Honors

Requirements:

3.45 cumulative GPA
Highly motivated and accomplished Religious Studies major
Submission of Honors Thesis Proposal
Formation of a Faculty Committee (two members) for the Honors Thesis who will have the opportunity to give feedback at timely intervals of the project
Submission of draft of Honors Thesis by early February, public presentation of the Honors Thesis and final evaluation for granting honors by faculty committee