Religious Studies, B.A.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at St. Francis College offers students the opportunity to explore the rich history, traditions, and cultural influence of the world’s religions. Through the study of diverse religious beliefs and practices, students gain new perspectives on global events, cultural traditions, and the role religion plays in shaping societies both locally and around the world. The program prepares students for graduate study as well as careers in fields such as psychology, history, literature, philosophy, art, political science, international affairs, law, and the social sciences.
Rooted in the Franciscan tradition of kindness, generosity, tolerance, and respect, the Religious Studies program emphasizes the importance of understanding religious traditions beyond one’s own. Students are encouraged to explore the diversity of religious thought and practice while developing a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural contexts in which religions evolve.
The B.A. in Religious Studies is supported by St. Francis College’s strong General Education Program, the cornerstone of the College’s academic mission. This interdisciplinary foundation helps students become well-rounded, thoughtful individuals prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to a more culturally aware and interconnected New York City and global community.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Understanding College
Writing and Presentation
Mathematics
Information Literacy, Media, and Research
Creative Voices across Cultures
Science at Work
Ethics, Reality and Logic
Individual and Societies
Our World, Past and Present
Personal Wellness
Religion and Culture
Survey of the World's Religions
Religious Studies Major
Select two foreign language courses in sequence
Select one of the following courses:
Introduction to Hebrew Bible
Introduction to the New Testament
Select two of the following courses:
The Christian Tradition
Judaism
Islam
Buddhism
Approaches to the Study of Religion
Thesis Direction
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.
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
The Religious Studies B.A. curriculum combines a strong liberal arts foundation with in-depth study of global religious traditions, historical developments, and contemporary religious thought. Students begin with the College’s General Education Program, which includes courses such as Understanding College, Writing and Presentation, Mathematics, Information Literacy, Media, and Research, Creative Voices across Cultures, Science at Work, Ethics, Reality and Logic, Individual and Societies, Our World, Past and Present, Personal Wellness, and Religion and Culture. Students also take Survey of the World’s Religions, which introduces the beliefs, practices, and historical development of major religious traditions.
Within the Religious Studies major, students deepen their understanding of religious traditions through the study of sacred texts and global religious practices. Students complete two foreign language courses in sequence and choose between Introduction to the Hebrew Bible or Introduction to the New Testament. Additional courses explore major traditions such as Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism, while advanced coursework such as Approaches to the Study of Religion and Thesis Direction encourages critical analysis and independent research. Students further broaden their perspective by selecting additional Religious Studies courses and interdisciplinary electives from fields such as history, international and cultural studies, political science, psychology, and sociology, allowing them to develop a concentration aligned with their academic and professional interests.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
🌍 International Relations & Global Affairs
You will analyze cultural and religious perspectives that shape global politics, diplomacy, and international cooperation.
🏫 Education & Academic Research
You will teach, conduct research, or support educational programs focused on religion, culture, and history.
⚖️ Law & Public Policy
You will apply ethical reasoning and cultural understanding in careers related to law, public service, and policy analysis.
🤝 Nonprofit & Community Organizations
You will work with organizations that promote social justice, interfaith dialogue, community development, and humanitarian initiatives.
📰 Journalism & Cultural Media
You will research and communicate about religious traditions, cultural issues, and global social developments.
🎓 Graduate & Professional Study
You will build a strong foundation for advanced study in religious studies, theology, law, history, international relations, education, or the social sciences.