Religious Studies

Religious studies seeks to explore the role of religion as an important part of human history. It is designed to improve understanding religion, not to advocate religious belief or any particular religious tradition. Religious studies students examine the major Eastern and Western religions, their founders and leaders, myths and rituals, theologies, creeds and scriptures, and institutional forms, as well as the relationship between religion and literature, the arts, ethics, science, and psychology. Career opportunities available to religious studies graduates include positions such as university, college, community college, secondary school teacher (graduate study and/or teaching credential required); counselor and social worker (graduate study required); religious education director, rabbi, priest, or minister in a church or synagogue setting (graduate study required); religion reporter or editor for newspaper or magazine; textbook editor. The religious studies program is also excellent background for graduate professional programs in such areas as law, business, and foreign service.