U-REL-AB - Religion (AB)
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Degree Designation
Type
Overview
The Department of Religious Studies offers a broad selection of undergraduate courses to majors, minors, and all interested students on campus. The department engages in different aspects of the study of religion, using a variety of perspectives and methodologies. The major religious traditions of the world—Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, and Taoism—are studied in the ways they manifest themselves in present-day societies and in their historical depth, examining their origins and sacred texts (often in the original languages) as well as their historical developments, rituals, artifacts, practices, material forms, and transformations over time. Beyond the study of individual religious traditions, theories and definitions of religion are also explored. Courses numbered from 100 through 199 include survey or general courses; courses numbered from 200 through 399 include courses on more specific aspects of religion or religious traditions.
Foreign Languages
To prepare for graduate or professional study of religion, the department recommends that students complete at least four courses in college-level study, or the equivalent, of a modern foreign language. Master of arts and doctor of philosophy programs often require examination in one or two modern foreign languages. Those planning to study religious traditions whose documents are in a language other than English should begin appropriate language study as part of their undergraduate preparation.
Departmental Graduation with Distinction
The Department of Religious Studies has a program for Graduation with Distinction. This program is intended for the outstanding religious studies major whose grade point average is at least 3.5 in religious studies (and 3.3 overall) and who has demonstrated the desire and talent to pursue independent research. The student, under the supervision of an advisor, will produce an honors thesis of exceptional quality. The main advisor is normally a faculty member in the department already familiar with the student’s work.