Religious Studies, Minor
Program Overview:
The Religious Studies minor consists of 15 credits and is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across cultures and historical periods. Students complete two required foundational courses that introduce key concepts, methods, and themes in the academic study of religion, along with three elective Religious Studies courses that allow them to explore areas of personal interest in greater depth. Elective offerings may include courses in world religions, ethics, theology, spirituality, philosophy of religion, scripture, religion and society, and interfaith dialogue. The minor complements a wide range of majors by encouraging critical thinking, cultural awareness, ethical reflection, and an appreciation for the role of religion in shaping human experience and global communities.
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 |
REL-1101 | Survey of the World's Religions | 3 |
| Select one of the following courses |
|
REL-1301 | Introduction to Hebrew Bible |
|
REL-1302 | Introduction to the New Testament |
|
| Select three REL courses | 9 |
| Total credits | 15 |
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
The Religious Studies minor offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of religious traditions, sacred texts, ethical questions, and the role of religion in contemporary society. The curriculum begins with REL-1101 Survey of the World’s Religions, which introduces students to the beliefs, practices, histories, and cultural impact of major world religions. This foundational course encourages students to develop a global perspective and a deeper understanding of religious diversity and interfaith dialogue.
Students then strengthen their knowledge of biblical traditions through a choice of either REL-1301 Introduction to the Hebrew Bible or REL-1302 Introduction to the New Testament. These courses provide historical, literary, and theological perspectives on sacred texts that have shaped cultures, moral traditions, and intellectual history. In addition, students select three elective Religious Studies courses, allowing them to tailor the minor to their interests in areas such as ethics, spirituality, philosophy of religion, social justice, theology, or religion and culture. Together, the curriculum promotes critical thinking, cultural literacy, ethical reflection, and an appreciation for the enduring influence of religion in the modern world.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Career opportunities and related fields may include:
• Education and teaching
• Nonprofit and community organizations
• Social services and counseling support
• Law and public policy
• Ministry and pastoral work
• Healthcare and patient advocacy
• Human resources and diversity initiatives
• Journalism, writing, and communications
• International relations and diplomacy
• Public administration and government service
• Museum, archival, and cultural institutions
• Ethics and corporate responsibility roles
The minor also provides strong preparation for graduate studies in:
• Theology or Divinity
• Law
• Counseling and Social Work
• Education
• Public Administration
• Philosophy or Ethics
• History and Cultural Studies