Religion Major (declared before 2009)
The study of religion is designed to give students insight into the meaning of the
religious dimension of human experience by exposing them to different cultural beliefs
and practices and introducing them to the many methodologies in the comparative
study of religion. Course work in religion introduces students to the various historical
and contemporary expressions of the Judeo-Christian heritage as well as to the diverse
religious traditions of humankind.
Many religion majors pursue graduate work in theology or religious studies. In addition,
the religion major or minor is good preparation for seminary students, providing
them with an academic and cross-cultural approach to religion that is often lacking
in seminary training. It also can be beneficial for those seeking church-related
careers. Students often combine and religion major or minor with a major in another
field that is related to their career choice.
Degree Requirements: Bachelor of Arts with a major in religion. (before Fall 2009)
Required courses:
REL 110 Introduction to Religion| An exploration of the many dimensions of religion as a central human experience: self and meaning, religious expression, religious knowledge, religion in its cultural context, and religion and the natural order. |
| This course examines the beliefs and practices of some of the world's major religious traditions and significant religious movements, focusing predominantly on non-Christian or non-European traditions. The course will be oriented topically (ritual, theology, etc.), geographically (India, the Middle East, etc.), or thematically (religion in the modern world, religious encounters in history, etc.) |
| A study of the Hebrew Bible and New Testament and related literature, including its historical and social context. |
One of:
REL 252 Hinduism| An examination of the major religious tradition of India, through its historical development from the oldest culture extent on the subcontinent to the modern world. Students will engage a variety of materials, texts, archaeology, images, and anthropological descriptions, in order to gain a broad understanding of the tradition. |
| A study of the development of Buddhism, including its teaching, practice and influence as one of the great missionary religions. |
and five additional courses in religion, of which at least one must be in 200-level
courses and one in 300-level courses (30 credits).
Note: To be credited for majors or minors in philosophy, cross-listed
courses must be designated as religion courses at registration