Religious Studies, A.A.
Program Overview:
The Associate of Arts in Religious Studies provides students with a strong foundation in the study of religion, exploring the beliefs, practices, histories, and cultural impact of diverse religious traditions. The program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to pursue courses aligned with their interests while developing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and intercultural understanding. Graduates are prepared for careers in community and nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, public service, or for continued study in the humanities, theology, or related fields. The program also enriches students' personal and intellectual growth by fostering dialogue, respect for diverse perspectives, and an appreciation of the role of religion in shaping societies throughout history and today.
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Demonstrate a substantive knowledge of religious traditions and a critical understanding of the enterprise of the study of religion.
PLO 2: Compare the basic themes of religion and look at issues in the light of evidence and reasonable reflection.
PLO 3: Achieve competence in his or her area of concentration in an overall program of study designed in consultation with the faculty.
PLO 4: Develop a spirit of positive engagement with religions other than their own through class work, research and site visits.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Code | Title | Credits |
| General Education Requirements | 33 |
FS | Understanding College | 1 |
WRI1 | Writing | 3 |
OC1 | Presentation | 3 |
QR1 | Mathematics | 3 |
DL | Digital Literacy | 3 |
ALC | Arts and Literature across Cultures | 3 |
NSS | Natural Sciences | 3 |
EP | Ethics and Philosophy | 3 |
SSS | Social Sciences | 3 |
HGP | Historical and Global Perspectives | 3 |
FS | Personal Wellness | 2 |
RS | Religion | 3 |
| Major Requirements | 27 |
| Select five REL courses 1000 level | 15 |
| Select four REL courses 2000 level | 9 |
PHI-3333 | Philosophical Theology | 3 |
| Total Credits | 60 |
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
• Build a strong foundation in the study of religion through courses exploring diverse religious traditions, beliefs, and practices.
• Customize your academic experience by selecting five introductory (1000-level) and four intermediate (2000-level) Religious Studies courses based on your interests.
• Deepen your understanding of faith, ethics, and philosophy through advanced study in Philosophical Theology.
• Develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and intercultural communication skills applicable to a wide range of professions.
• Explore the historical, cultural, and social influence of religion in local and global contexts.
• Strengthen communication, quantitative reasoning, digital literacy, and analytical skills through a comprehensive general education curriculum.
• Prepare for careers in religious organizations, nonprofit and community service, education, public service, or for continued study in theology, religious studies, or related humanities disciplines.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Graduates with an Associate of Arts in Religious Studies are prepared for entry-level roles in faith-based, nonprofit, educational, and community organizations, as well as for continued study toward a bachelor's degree. Potential career paths include:
• Religious Organization Administrator
• Community Outreach Coordinator
• Nonprofit Program Assistant
• Youth Program Coordinator
• Social Services Assistant
• Community Engagement Specialist
• Ministry or Church Administrative Assistant
• Chaplaincy Support Staff
• Mission and Outreach Coordinator
• Cultural or Museum Education Assistant
• Education Program Assistant
• Human Services Assistant
• Volunteer Coordinator
• Customer and Community Relations Representative
The degree also provides a strong foundation for transfer into bachelor's programs in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Education, Social Work, Counseling, Public Administration, Law, or other humanities and social science disciplines.