The Religious Studies program educates students in the scholarly interpretation of religion while cultivating an understanding and respect for religious diversity and secular perspectives. Religious Studies students become reflective and informed citizens who constructively engage in broader dialogue and debate on the role of religion in our communities and the world. This program provides an esse
ntial background for students pursuing graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences and sciences, and professional programs in business, law and foreign service. Religious Studies prepares future teachers, business leaders, social workers, healthcare professionals, journalists, artists and citizens to reflectively situate religion in their own lives and appreciate the complexities of religious differences in a pluralistic society and world. What are the requirements for a minor in Religious Studies? The Religious Studies minor is open to ALL students, including those majoring in Engineering, Business Studies or Nursing. To earn a minor, students are required to take a total of 18 credits, consisting of 2 core courses plus electives. This is in addition to the requirements of the major. The Religious Studies Courses and Faculty pages provide specific information about the courses listed below. Religious Studies minor core courses:
REL 201: Introduction to Religious Studies
REL 395: World Religions and Spirituality
In these two courses, students:
Engage in the academic exploration of different disciplinary approaches to the study of religion (historical, social, political, intellectual, philosophical, scientific, literary, and artistic). Learn about the variety of methods employed to understand religion. Study different religious traditions, analyzing the continuities and changes within religious traditions and the operation of religions in particular social contexts. Religious Studies Elective Courses
Students receive personal advising as to choices of elective courses from different disciplines that reflect their individual interests and academic goals. Anthropology
REL 308/ANT 308 Religion in Social & Cultural Contexts
ANT 348/SOC 348 Catholic Culture in America
ANT 366/SOC 366 Religion & Music in the African Diaspora
History
HST 302 History of Religion in America I
HST 303 History of Religion in America II
HST 393 Western Man & the Cosmos I
HST 394 Western Man & the Cosmos II
HST (329-proposed #) Early Middle Ages
HST (330-proposed #) Late Middle Ages
HST 332 The Reformation
HST 357 Empires of Central Asia
HST 359 History of Terrorism in the Middle East
HST 397 A History of Christianity to the Reformation
HST 402 Seminar: Science and Religion: Historical Perspectives
Philosophy
PHL 325 Philosophy of Religion
Political Science
PSC 366 Islam and Politics
Special Topics Courses:
REL 300/ANT 350 Jews and Judaism
REL 300 The Bible and Its Influence
REL 300/PHL 300 Israel in the Religious Imagination
REL Religious and Ethical Responses to the Holocaust
REL 300 Women and the Bible
REL 300 Religion and Human Rights
PHL 300 Buddhism
HST 300 History of Islam
How do I enroll in the Religious Studies minor program? First, contact the program director to schedule your required advisement meeting. Pontbriand, Ph.D. Director of Religious Studies
History Department
Email: [email protected]
Email link: Religious Studies Director. Office: LARTS 331
Phone: 508-999-8602
