Religious Studies (RE)
Religious Studies is a truly interdisciplinary undertaking, with deep connections
to art and politics, a serious investment in the critical study of history and media,
and with theoretical concerns shared between anthropology, black studies, gender studies,
queer studies, sociology and psychology. The academic study of religion equips students
with discipline of mind, analytical skills, writing and verbal abilities, and the
ability to synthesize materials from a wide variety of sources. Religious Studies
not only fits well within the broader outline of a liberal arts education, but it
promotes both active citizenship and global awareness. Many majors find that a Religious
Studies major pairs well as a double major, and the vast majority of our students
study abroad.鈥 One simply cannot comprehend our pluralistic and increasingly interconnected
world without knowledge of the various religious traditions that inform cultural identities
and contribute to diversity.
Besides fulfilling the general College requirements, Religious Studies majors complete
nine courses in the discipline. Those courses should include either RE 103 (Understanding
Religion) or 105 (Studying Religion in America), two Theory and Method intensive courses
and RE 375鈥(Research Seminar). One course may be cross-listed with another discipline,
whether taken on campus or while studying abroad. Four courses must be taken at the
300 level (including 375), with at least two of them taken in the senior year. Courses
must total thirty credit hours.
A minor in Religious Studies requires either RE 103 (Understanding Religion) or 105 (Studying Religion in America), plus four other courses in religion designated RE or PR, at least two of which must be at the 300-level.鈥
Recommended courses for a prospective major:
Fall 2025
RE 103 Understanding Religions
RE 105W Studying Religion in America
RE 215R Islam
Spring 2026
RE 103P Understanding Religions
RE 105W Studying Religion in America
RE 221 Buddhism: An Introduction
2nd Floor, Ladd Hall
518-580-5400