RELIGIOUS STUDIES

To Analyze & Understand

In the religious studies minor, students take an interdisciplinary approach to the academic study of religion, using methodologies from a variety of disciplines, including English, geography, history, and philosophy as well as religious studies. Students in the minor gain a broad understanding of religion as a human phenomenon and explore the history and contemporary expressions of religious traditions.

A minor in religious studies equips students with intellectual skills and experience that prepare them for any number of possibilities, including graduate study and professional careers in law, medicine, business, journalism, education, social work, and religious service. Many employers appreciate the abilities of religious studies graduates to successfully analyze and solve problems, communicate well, and understand diverse peoples and cultures. 

Religious Studies Minor

Mecca
Tian Tan Buddha
Christ the Redeemer statue
Batu Caves
prayers at the Western Wall

Religious Studies Minor

In the religious studies minor, students take an interdisciplinary approach to the academic study of religion, using methodologies from a variety of disciplines, including English, geography, history, and philosophy as well as religious studies. Students in the minor gain a broad understanding of religion as a human phenomenon and explore the history and contemporary expressions of religious traditions.

Any student graduating with a minor in Religious Studies will be required to earn at least a C in all minor courses.

Required Courses

REL 213 - Religions of the World
REL 308 - Women and Gender in Western Religion also listed as WS 308

Central Topics in Religious Studies (6 Semester Hours)

Select two of the following:
REL 299 - Special Topics in Religion
REL 304 - Philosophy of Religion also listed as PHL 304
REL 327 - The Rise of Islam: The Medieval Middle East also listed as HIS 327
REL 331 - Medieval Christianity also listed as HIS 331
REL 335 - Religion and Politics in Contemporary America also listed as POL 335
REL 355 - The Bible as Literature also listed as EN 355
REL 380 - Native American Literatures and Religions also listed as EN 380
REL 405 - History Of Religion in America also listed as HIS 405
REL 403 - Current Trends in Religion

Associate Courses (6 Semester Hours)

Select two of the following:
PHL 301 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
GEO 306 - Geography of the Muslim World
EN 334 - Ancient Greek and Roman Myth

HIS 328 - Rise of Christianity and the Fall of Rome 200-1000
or
HIS 329 - Kingdoms and Christianity: Medieval Europe 1000-1500