Religious Studies pursues the academic study of religion and its various impacts and influences across various historical time periods and cultures. Courses in Religious Studies introduce students to a wide variety of religious traditions across the world as well as core issues of life/death, race, gender, politics, and more. Students develop life-long skills including how to read sources, write effectively, and critically reflect upon and analyze information. The study of religion is interdisciplinary and uses a variety of methods from sociology, anthropology, history, and other fields. While some people who earn a degree in Religious Studies go into careers in religious organizations, a Religious Studies major or minor will prepare students for many different careers including in education, law, medicine, and non-profit or community organizations. Religious Studies courses would be helpful for those who are curious about other worldviews as well as those who plan to go into careers that will interact with diverse communities.
Want the shortened version of the Religious Studies Program highlights? CLICK HERE!
Major Learning Outcomes (MLOs)
By the completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Synthesize multiple (religious) primary and secondary sources to generate original themes or ideas and/or critique existing theses.
- Integrate religious theory into practical application and/or understanding of society.
- Apply theoretical concepts from Religious Studies to understand and/or expand upon one’s own perspective and the perspectives of others.
GRADUATE OUTCOMES
100% acceptance rate in theological school/seminary
100% placement rate in church education/faith formation and youth ministry positions
100% placement rate for church professionals in youth ministry, lay ministry, or director
of Christian education
Seminaries and graduate schools attended by our graduates include:
Andover-Newton Theological School
Chicago Theological Seminary
Christian Theological School (Disciples of Christ)
Concordia Theological Seminary
Eden Theological Seminary
Harvard University
Lancaster Theological Seminary
Loyola University
Methodist Theological School in Ohio
United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities
United Theological Seminary of Dayton
University of Chicago
University of Dayton
University of Denver
Yale Divinity School
MEET THE FACULTY
Kathryn Phillips, Ph.D.
Kate Davis, Ph.D.
