Religious Studies: Religion in Public Life Concentration, B.A.

Mission Statement

Religious studies is the academic socio-historical study of religion on a global scale, traversing a great variety of cultural contexts. As a result, students trained in religious studies possess the analytical skills to understand the role of religion in public and private life, global diversity, social tensions and conflicts, and to analyze many of the most influential texts in history. The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies enables students to acquire a critical, analytical understanding of religion and the manifold forms it has taken throughout the world, past and present.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the requirements for the degree in Religious Studies will be able to do the following:

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key characteristics associated with multiple religious traditions.
2. Articulate concisely key theoretical and historical issues in religious studies through written and oral expression.
3. Analyze critically the role of religion in public life in a variety of contexts.
4. Assess interpretations of and claims made based on religious texts.

The curriculum integrates concepts and methods in religious studies to give students a diverse, well-rounded education. Students must earn a ‘C’ or better in each of the major requirements.