The Program in Religion

Program Description

The discipline of religion investigates the religious dimension of human existence throughout history and across cultures. Courses in religion acquaint students with the world's major religious traditions, texts, and figures. Students learn the many ways of studying religion and engage in critical discussion of diverse themes and issues. The small size of the religion program permits personal attention. The major in religion offers a high degree of flexibility, and individual interests are encouraged.

A degree in religion equips students with the tools of a liberal arts education necessary for many careers. Religion graduates enter the world beyond college with a broad cultural awareness and an ability to engage in dialogue discerningly. They are trained to conduct research, to think critically, and to write and express ideas persuasively. Religion majors have gone on to pursue careers in such fields as public relations, journalism, teaching, service organizations, business, and the arts. The B.A. in Religion also prepares students for graduate school or seminary study in religion, as well as for graduate programs in other fields such as law and social work.

Honors are awarded in religion on the basis of excellence in religion major course work and in writing a senior thesis in Religion 401-Guided Research. Internships are available to qualified students. Various courses in other disciplines are accepted towards the religion major which allows students to have an interdisciplinary approach in the formation of their major. Various religion offerings also complement work in American studies, anthropology, classics, drama, English, history, international affairs, philosophy, psychology, and Russian studies, among other disciplines.

Requirements for the Major in Religion

Thirty (30) credits including Religion 101; one course from Religion 103, 117, 201, or 206; one course from Religion 210, 283, 284, or 285; Religion 401; and 18 additional credits chosen from religion courses or Classics-Philosophy-Religion 299, Philosophy 301, Sociology 422. Nine of the additional credits (3 courses) must be at the 300- or 400- level, and two of these must be religion courses (excluding 499).

Faculty

Distinguished Professor David Cain
Christian theology, Kierkegaard

Professor James Goehring
Christian Beginnings, Coptic Studies

Associate Professor Mehdi Aminrazavi
Islam, World Religions

Associate Professor David Ambuel
Buddhism, Hinduism, Greek Philosophy