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Religious Studies (RE)

Religious Studies is a truly interdisciplinary undertaking, with deep connections to art and politics, a serious investment in the critical study of history and media, and with theoretical concerns shared between anthropology, black studies, gender studies, queer studies, sociology and psychology. The academic study of religion equips students with discipline of mind, analytical skills, writing and verbal abilities, and the ability to synthesize materials from a wide variety of sources. Religious Studies not only fits well within the broader outline of a liberal arts education, but it promotes both active citizenship and global awareness. Many majors find that a Religious Studies major pairs well as a double major, and the vast majority of our students study abroad.  One simply cannot comprehend our pluralistic and increasingly interconnected world without knowledge of the various religious traditions that inform cultural identities and contribute to diversity. 
 
Besides fulfilling the general College requirements, Religious Studies majors complete nine courses in the discipline. Those courses should include either RE 103 (Understanding Religion) or 105 (American Gods), two Theory and Method intensive courses and RE 375 (Research Seminar). One course may be cross-listed with another discipline, whether taken on campus or while studying abroad. Four courses must be taken at the 300 level (including 375), with at least two of them taken in the senior year. Courses must total thirty credit hours. 

A minor in Religious Studies requires either RE 103 (Understanding Religion) or 105 (American Gods), plus four other courses in religion designated RE or PR, at least two of which must be at the 300-level.  

Religious Studies Department

2nd Floor, Ladd Hall
518-580-5400