Religious Studies Department

Programs of Study

The Religious Studies major consists of 10 courses, including one introductory course, four courses in a specialized field, two integrative courses, two elective courses outside the specialized field, and a senior seminar and thesis.

Language study appropriate to the specialized and a period of study abroad when possible are strongly encouraged.

Specialized Fields of Study

The following fields of specialized study are offered to Religious Studies students. Abbreviations used in the course listing (see the Courses page) are indicated in parentheses.

Historical Religious Traditions I, Asian (HRT I): courses numbered 10-19 (introductory) and 100-119 (intermediate/advanced).

Historical Religious Traditions II, Western (HRT II): courses numbered 20-39 (introductory) and 120-139 (intermediate/advanced).

Philosophy of Religion, Theology, and Ethics (PRT): courses numbered 40-59 (introductory) and 140-159 (intermediate/advanced).

Contemporary and Women's Studies in Religion (CWS): courses numbered 60-79 (introductory) and 160-179 (intermediate/advanced).

Requirements for the Major in Religious Studies

The Religious Studies major encompasses both breadth and depth of study. Major requirements are:

1. One introductory course selected from Religious Studies 10, 20, 40; CMC 41, 42, or SC 60.

2. Four courses in a specialized field at intermediate and advanced levels.

3. Two integrative courses: Religious Studies 180 and Religious Studies 190. Religious Studies 180 must be completed prior to the senior year.

4. Two elective courses in Religious Studies outside the specialized field.

5. Religion 191 Senior Thesis.

Requirements for a Minor in Religious Studies

To complete a minor, a student must complete three courses in one of the specialized fields; two courses in a second specialized field (only one of these five courses may be at the introductory level); and Religious Studies 180 or 181.